Do spayed dogs get hot flashes?

I wrote this up on my personal blog, so in the art of being lazy I am going to copy it here as a Saturday funny-haha-post.

Our first dog, Maggie, was about 6 months old when we adopted her from Capital Area Humane Society. When we adopted her she was intact, but when we picked her up, as we knew would happen, she had been spayed. For the first couple years of her life she slept in a crate at night. But slowly she made her way into our bed. First she took naps, then when I came home from my mastectomy surgery, she slept at my feet (due to the type of surgery I had I had to keep my knees bent so I used her as a way to keep my knees up), and eventually she slept all nights with us. We always made fun of how wish-washy she was about being under the covers one minute, then out and panting, then back under the covers . . . this would go on through the night. When Sasha came into our lives, we noticed that she too, moved in and out of the covers through the night.

I had hot flashes when I started chemo, and they never completely went away though they did lessen with time. Recently, I had my ovaries removed as part of ongoing prevention and also as a way to finalize the decision not to have children. As fully expected, my hot flashes increased both in frequency and intensity. And I noticed that my nightly temperature fluctuations seemed eerily similar to those of Sasha's.

And so I began to wonder...do spayed dogs get hot flashes? (okay I just got a crazy vibe as I read back through this ending with the question that this post sounds like something out of 'Sex and the City'. I can almost hear SJP's voice in my head as I re-read it!).

I have done some preliminary online research and I am not the first to ask this question. However the answers are incredibly unsatisfactory because they mostly fall into a "no they don't because we are removing their ovaries so no estrogen left to go through menopause." Oh yeah? Because let me tell you, my ovaries are completely gone and I have RAGING hot flashes. So this answer just doesn't cut it.

And how would one know? You can't survey a dog. I discussed this with Dr. Mandi here at HELP FIDO , and she immediately had some good questions one could ask a dog: "Do you find yourself trying to lay on cold tile floors? Do you want to hang your head out the window inappropriately in the winter?"
I asked my mother-in-law about her current spayed female, Belle, and her previous spayed female, Chloe (RIP) and she agreed - both dogs exhibited signs consistent with running hot and cold. And neither of her male dogs have.
I don't quite know where I am going with this other that to say that I find it fascinating!

Senior Dogs - Part 2

Well here it is...Part 2 of my discussion on our aging furry friends. This time we will talk about things that should prompt a phone call to your local doggie doctor when it comes to your aging pups.

Regular veterinary examinations (generally every 6 months for wellness exams) are important for dogs of any age. Many people think annual examinations are sufficient, but more frequent exams may been needed based on your pet's health. If you think about things in terms of human versus dog years, dogs age an average of 7 years for every one human year. Taking a dog to the vet only once a year is about equivalent to a human going to a physician every 7 years. This is certainly not frequent enough to make sure our pets are in tip top shape, especially aging pets.

As a dog ages, signs of potentially serious health problems are commonly overlooked by pet owners as "normal for an old dog". It is much better to err on the side of caution and have anything new or unusual in your dog checked out as soon as possible by your veterinarian. Timing is critical for older pets and as such, it is important to report any changes in appetite, behavior, elimination or any new symptoms as soon as they occur.

Arthritis pain - As previously mentioned in Senior Dogs Part 1, there are many medications and treatments available today to help ease the pain and discomfort of arthritis. There are also certain pharmaceuticals that can help prolong the onset of more serious arthritis pain and discomfort. If your dog is exhibiting problems rising, moving around, getting up/down stairs, limping, or chewing at their joints contact your veterinarian.

Bad breath, bleeding gums - Good dental health is important not only for the teeth, mouth and gums, but overall general health as well! As a dog ages, tartar, gum disease (periodontal disease), and tooth loss are all potential problems. Oral cancers, infections, metabolic diseases (kidney disease, Diabetes Mellitus) are also potential causes for bad breath and oral health problems. Certain disease processes like heart disease/failure, kidney disease and diabetes can actually become more serious as a result of bacteria building up in the blood from dental/mouth infections and disease. It is important to take care of your dog's teeth at any age, but it becomes even more of a serious health risk as they age if their teeth are in poor shape.

Sudden blindness, hearing loss, head tilt / staggering - These signs can be seen with a variety of causes such as infection (nervous system, ears, sinuses), poisoning/toxins, age-related vestibular disease (problems with balance/equilibrium), cancer, etc. If you notice any of these signs in your aging pet you should consult your veterinarian as soon as possible so a diagnosis can be made and treatment can be started as soon as possible. Sudden blindness could be a result of cataracts that develop as a result of diabetes. Cataracts can develop very quickly (over a few days) and you might see very acute changes in your dog's sight.

Change in weight or appetite - Weight loss or gain should be kept track of, as well as any changes in diet or eating habits. Dogs should be fed a diet appropriate for their age and general health. Generally a "senior" type dog food is ok for an aging pet. These diets usually have a lower amount of sodium and protein to keep up with your older dog's changing metabolism and kidney function. Your veterinarian may prescribe a special diet to help treat certain disease processes like kidney, liver or heart disease.

Change in urine output and thirst - Dogs should not drink more water simply because they are old, it's hot out, or they are nervous. The most common causes of increased water intake are diabetes and kidney problems. Urine leakage or having uncontrolled "accidents" also signal problems, either with infection, loss of bladder control, or other underlying disease.
Many of these problems can be treated successfully with medications once they are properly diagnosed by your veterinarian.

Cognitive Dysfunction - Dogs, like humans, can experience age-related dementia. You may see your dog wandering aimlessly through the house, standing in corners or barking/whining at inappropriate times (like in the middle of the night). There are certain medications that can help some dogs with these problems. Consult your veterinarian to see if there is a treatment appropriate for your dog.

Hair loss, itchy skin - This can occur at any age, and should not be ignored whether your dog is 12 days or 12 years old. Dogs can do a lot of damage to their skin by licking, scratching, biting and chewing and can suffer from extreme discomfort as a result of dermatological problems. Some dogs suffer from endocrine (hormonal) diseases including hypothyroidism (discussed in Senior Dogs Part 1) that can cause skin/coat problems. Dogs can also get fleas and ticks at any age. It is important to make an appointment at your veterinarian's office as soon as you discover your dog has a skin problem.

This list is just the tip of the iceberg as far as the problems your older furry friend may experience. There are many, many more things that I see on a daily basis, but these are the most common things you should look for. Generally, if your dog is "not himself or herself" in any way, or if you are seeing anything out of the ordinary, then it is time for a check up at the veterinary clinic! Regular checkups and communication with your vet will ensure that you are doing all you can to help your pet to live comfortably and enjoy his or her senior years.

That's all for now!!

4th of July Safety Tips

Hello all! Dr. Mandi here with some 4th of July safety tips for our furry canine friends. Independence Day celebrations can be great fun for us humans, but the noise, visual stimulation and multitude of BBQ leftovers and table scraps can be traumatic and harmful for dogs. By being aware and following a few simple tips, EVERYONE can have a wonderful holiday experience.

DOGS DO NOT LIKE FIREWORKS - Simple enough! Bangs, explosions, bright and flashing lights, screams of delighted children and other 4th of July noises can create confusion and fear for our furry friends. Dogs can occasionally run away from home during these festivities because they are fearful. A dogs sense of hearing is much more acute than a humans - more than 10 times as sensitive! So imagine how scary fireworks can be for them. Also, there is the possibility that some dogs could mistake fireworks for toys and attempt to run after them causing them serious injury. So it is important to KEEP DOGS INSIDE during the festivities for their protection.

KEEP DOGS AWAY FROM DOORS - Because dogs can be under significant stress during this time of year they could possibly cause unnecessary injury to visitors and could also dart out of the door and get lost. Also make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations (especially Rabies) and has a current tag or license on his/her collar, or are microchipped in case any of these situations occur.

CREATE A SPECIAL AREA WHERE YOUR DOG FEELS SAFE - Dogs are den animals. This means they will feel safe in a kennel (dog crate) or small enclosed area like under the bed. This is why dogs hide in places like this when they are frightened. Introducing your dog to a kennel (crate) will create a feeling of safety for them and calm them. I know that my dogs feel much better during the 4th of July or thunderstorms when they are in their kennels with their toys and some fresh water. Also, it is important to try to not make a big deal about the fireworks/noise. When you treat your dog differently during these events you inadvertently reinforce fearful behavior.

KEEP TV OR RADIO ON - This will reduce the noise and bright flashes from scaring your dog.

NO TABLE SCRAPS/BONES - Although it may be tempting to share our Independence Day goodies with our furry friends this can cause some serious harm to them. Bones area ALWAYS a no-no as they can puncture internal organs or cause intestinal obstruction which can lead to serious illness or death. Any type of "human food" treats that are outside a dog's usual diet can cause vomiting and diarrhea which can lead to dehydration, low blood sugar and other serious complications, especially in small dogs. Keep a handful of your dogs treats nearby to give him/her instead of table treats.

CALL YOUR VETERINARIAN - If your dog is so fearful that he is causing himself injury or becoming ill, please call your veterinarian. Your vet may want to prescribe medication/sedative to help your dog cope with their fearfulness.

Following these simple steps can help everyone to have a safe and happy Independence Day. Everyone have a wonderful 4th of July!!

Canine Heartworm Disease

The mosquitoes are here! Unfortunately, that means that Heartworm disease is here too. And since I have had the displeasure of having to treat a patient for the disease just this past week, I thought it would be a pertinent topic to discuss.

What is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease (dirofilaiasis) is a serious and potentially fatal disease in dogs and is transmitted by mosquitoes. Contrary to what many individuals believe, just because a dog spends most of the day indoors does NOT mean he/she cannot get heartworm disease. Mosquitoes get into the house....I know this all to well as I am attacked by the critters regularly! It is also a disease that threatens dogs (and cats) throughout all seasons and in all parts of these United States and Canada, especially in warm weather regions.

Heartworms are found in the heart and blood vessels of the lungs (namely the pulmonary arteries) of infected dogs. They live up to 5 years and during this time a female worm can produce millions of offspring (microfilaria). These immature worms cannot complete their life cycle in the dog. This is where our friend the mosquito comes in. The female mosquito bites an infected dog and ingests these immature worms. The worms then develop in the mosquito and are now called infective larvae. They are injected into another unsuspecting dog when the mosquito takes a meal and develop into adult heartworms. After maturing in about 2-3 months they will start reproducing. The disease cannot be spread directly from an infected dog to a healthy dog without the mosquito.

What do Heartworms do to the dog?
Adult heartworms can cause disease by clogging the heart and major blood vessels leading from the heart. They interfere with the motion/action of heart valves. Blood supply to other organs is reduced, mostly in the lungs, liver and kidneys leading to malfunction and failure.

Many infected dogs may not show signs of disease for as long as 2 years, but usually by the time these signs are seed the disease is well advanced. Signs can vary depending on number of worms, where they are and how long they have been present. The most obvious signs are a soft, dry cough, shortness of breath, weakness, restlessness, lethargy, and exercise intolerance. All signs are most obvious after exercise. Some dogs may even faint. Severely infected dogs can die suddenly during exercise or excitement.

Young heartworms circulate through the body in smaller blood vessels and can block blood flow and deprive oxygen and nutrients to organs. Mostly the liver and lungs are affected.

How is Heartworm Disease diagnosed?
In most cases diagnosis can be made via a simple blood test that can many times be run right at your local veterinary office or can be sent to a veterinary laboratory. Other diagnostic tests are essential to determine if an infected dog can tolerate heartworm treatment. Further blood tests to check for young heartworms, check liver, kidney and other organ function, radiographs (x-rays) of the heart and lungs, Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) to check for abnormal heart rhythm and Echocardiogram (ultrasound of the dog's heart) to look at heart chambers and even see worms in the heart are a very important of diagnosis and treatment in the infected dog.

How is Heartworm Disease treated?
There is some risk involved in treating dogs with heartworms, although fatalities are now more rare then they used to be. One older drug used to treat heartworms contained arsenic, so toxic effects and reactions were more common. A newer drug is now available that does not have such harmful side effects, so we can now successfully treat about 90% of heartworm cases. This drug is given by injection twice, 24 hours apart. It kills adult worms. In more serious infections these injections may be given 30 days apart. Your veterinarian can discuss in more detail the follow up instructions once an infected dog is treated as well as side effects that may occur. Other drugs may need to be given to these dogs to treat additional symptoms of heartworm disease. Some dogs have lifelong problems with heart disease and failure even after the worms are gone.

Dogs that are far advanced in the disease usually cannot be successfully treated and usually succumb to organ failure within a few weeks or months.

How can Heartworm Disease be prevented?
There are many effective and safe heartworm prevention products available through your veterinarian. Most of them are chewable tablets or are in beefy treat form. There is also a topical form that can be applied. Generics are even now available providing a cost effective way to prevent this disease from affecting your best friend! Monthly administration is very important and most veterinarians recommend giving the prevention year-round. Even if given year round it is still important that your dog be tested periodically as advised by your veterinarian because no medication is 100% effective. Dogs that are only on prevention during warm weather months must be tested every 6-12 months before re-starting the medication. Re-starting medication without testing can be harmful or even deadly to a dog that is unknowingly infected, so it is very important to call your veterinarian if you have skipped even one month of prevention. Puppies are usually started on prevention without testing first because their potential for exposure prior to giving medication is very low.

So PLEASE everyone....,make sure your best friend is protected from this deadly disease. Get your dog tested and on prevention!! Dang those pesky mosquitoes!!

Summer Safety Tips

Hello all! Dr. Mandi here again announcing that Summer is upon us!! Along with the warm sunny weather and fun times outdoors comes some special risks for man's (and woman's) best friend. As the temperature rises keep some of these safety concerns and tips to keep your dog cool in mind.

Heat Hazards - If your dog is outside on a hot day, make sure he has a shady spot to rest in. Doghouses are not ideal shelter during the summer as they can trap heat. You may want to fill a child's wading pool with fresh water for your dog to cool off in. Placing ice cubes in a water bowl is also a good way to keep dogs cool and sometimes you'll even catch them "bobbing" for them!

Never leave your dog in a closed vehicle on a hot day. The temperature inside a car can rise to over 120 degrees in a matter of minutes.

Always provide plenty of cool, fresh water indoors and out.

Avoid strenuous exercise on extremely hot days. Take walks in the early mornings or evenings, when the sun's heat is less intense. Try to avoid prolonged exposure to hot asphalt or sand, which can burn your dog's paws.

Dogs that are brachycephalic (short-faced), such as Bulldogs, Boxers, Pugs and Pekingese, have an especially hard time in the heat because they do not pant as efficiently as longer-faced dogs. They can very quickly suffer from heat stroke which can be life threatening. Keep your brachycephalic dog inside with air-conditioning.

General Health - Make sure your dog's vaccinations are up to date, especially since dogs tend to stay outdoors longer and come into contact with other animals more during the summer months.

Keep dogs off of lawns that have been chemically treated or fertilized for 24 hours (or according to package instructions), and away from potentially toxic plants and flowers. If you are at all in question regarding a lawn product call your local veterinarian or Animal Poison Control Center.

Fleas and ticks, and the mosquitos which carry heartworm disease, are more prevalent in warmer months. Ask your veterinarian for an effective preventive to keep these parasites off your dog.

Beach Tips - Make sure your dog has a shady spot to rest in and plenty of fresh water. (I cannot stress the importance of cool, fresh water enough!)

Dogs, especially those with short hair, white fur, and pink skin, can sunburn. Limit your dog's exposure during the day and apply sunblock to his ears and nose 30 minutes before going outside. Be careful to apply in areas where your dog cannot lick the product off!

Running on the sand is strenuous exercise. A dog that is out of shape can easily pull a tendon or ligament, so keep a check on your dog's activity.

Salt and other minerals in ocean water can damage your dog's coat, so rinse him off at the end of the day. Make sure you dry your dog's ears inside and out to prevent ear infections. Also, don't allow them to drink sea water as it can make them sick.

Water Safety - If you're swimming for the first time with your dog, start in shallow water and coax him in by calling his name. Encourage him with toys or treats. Or, let him follow another experienced dog he is friendly with.

Never throw your dog into the water.

Don't let your dog overdo it; swimming is very hard work and he may tire quickly. It is a good idea to fit your dog with a lifepreserver.

If you have your own pool, make sure your dog knows where the stairs or ladder are located. Be sure that pool covers are firmly in place; dogs have been known to slip in under openings in the covers and drown. Never leave your dog unattended in water.

Travel By Air - Many airlines will not ship animals during summer months due to dangers caused by hot weather. Some will only allow dogs to fly in the early morning or in the evening.

Check with your airlines for specific rules, including health certificates and vaccine requirements.
Check for regulations regarding pets in the main cabin of the plane as far as pet carrier size, how many pets allowed to fly per plane and additional fees.

Travel By Car - Keep your dog cool in the car by putting icepacks in his crate. Make sure the crate is well ventilated. Put a sunshade on your car windows.Bring along fresh water and a bowl, and a tarp or tent so you can set up a shady spot when you stop. Keep a spray bottle filled with water to spritz on your dog to cool him down.

Never, ever leave a dog unattended in a vehicle in the summer months. Heatstroke and death can occur within minutes in warm temperatures.

Heatstroke - Heatstroke can be the serious and often fatal result of a dog's prolonged exposure to excessive heat. Below are the signs of heatstroke and the actions you should take if your dog is overcome.

Early Stages:
-Heavy panting, rapid breathing, excessive drooling, bright red gums and tongue.
-Standing 4-square, posting or spreading out in an attempt to maintain balance.

Advanced Stages:
-White or blue gums.
-Lethargy, unwillingness to move.-Uncontrollable urination or defecation.-Labored, noisy breathing. -Shock.

If your dog begins to exhibit signs of heatstroke, you should immediately try to cool the dog down and get to your veterinarian as soon as possible:

-Apply rubbing alcohol to the dog's paw pads.
-Apply ice packs to the groin area.
-Hose down with water.
-Allow the dog to lick ice chips or drink a small amount of water.
-Offer Pedialyte to restore electrolytes.

Boarding/Pet Sitting - When boarding your dog or leaving him with a pet sitter make sure you leave detailed instructions especially if your dog needs special care like taking daily medication.

Make sure your dog is up to date on all vaccinations.

Lastly, and this is the most important tip I can give as a veterinarian, leave a signed letter with your boarding facility or sitter specifically giving them the power to make medical decisions for your dog in case an emergency arises and you cannot be reached.

Hooray for summer!! Make it a safe and happy one for man and beast!