Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Vial of Potentially Deadly Virus Missing from Texas lab

As if we don't have enough to worry about already.......

 

Vial Of Potentially Deadly Virus Missing From Texas Lab

1
Posted: March 25, 2013
Vial Of Potentially Deadly Virus Missing From Texas Lab
A vial containing a potentially harmful strain of a virus disappeared from a laboratory in the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston early last week. Officials are now notifying the public as a precaution. The vial had been locked inside a bio-hazard freezer within the UTMB campus.

The missing vial contained a strain of Guanarito virus. The virus is an arenavirus, one that can infect rodents and then be transferred to humans. The zoonotic disease, first identified in 1989, is responsible for Venezuelan hemorrhagic fever (VHF), which was most prevalent in rural areas of central Venezuela from 1989 to 2006 when it presented with 618 cases.

The disease is spread through inhaling aerosolized droplets of saliva, urine, respiratory secretions, and blood from infected rodents. The most common natural hosts were short-tailed cane mice.
Guanarito virus is one of the diseases derived from the family Arenaviruses, which can vary in severity in subgroups of Old World and New World viruses. All types of viral hemorrhagic fevers are characterized by fever and bleeding disorders. All can progress to high fever, shock, and death. There can be milder cases of the condition.

The virus does not pose a great public threat as it is rare for the disease to pass from human-to-human contact. However, it is still concerning a virus can go missing from a secure laboratory environment.

Once lab officials at the UTMB realized one of the five stored vials was missing they contacted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Texas facility did not appear to have a breach or break-in, nor have any other materials gone missing under suspicious circumstances.

They do not believe at this time that the vial was stolen but assume it was likely misplaced. Officials also surmise the virus was likely destroyed during the normal laboratory decontamination and cleaning process, but the investigation is ongoing. This is the first time any vial containing a select agent has been unaccounted for at UTMB.

Friday, March 22, 2013

The Death Penalty for Famous Groundhog Punxsutawney Phil

Some tongue in cheek news........

Ohio Prosecutor Seeks Death Penalty for Famous Groundhog

Should Punxsutawney Phil pay the ultimate price for predicting an early spring?

March 21, 2013

Groundhog Club co-handler Ron Ploucha holds Punxsutawney Phil after the club said Phil did not see his shadow and there will be an early spring, on Groundhog Day, Feb. 2, 2013, in Punxsutawney, Pa. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)

Six weeks after weather-predicting groundhog Punxsutawney Phil signaled that spring would arrive early, much of the country remains in the throes of winter, with more storms on the way.

Yes, Phil blew his big forecast - big time.

And while some might just shrug off the mistake, officials in Butler County, Ohio, won't let it go that easily.

On March 21, the county's prosecuting attorney Michael Gmoser indicted the groundhog, alleging that Phil "did purposely, and with prior calculation and design, cause the people to believe that Spring would come early."

The indictment
continues:
Contrary to the Groundhog Day report, a snowstorm and record low temperatures have been and are predicted to continue in the near future, which constitutes the offense of MISREPRESENTATION OF EARLY SPRING.
What's more, Gmoser alleges that Phil committed an unclassified felony, and he believes the rodent deserves the death penalty. In the words of the indictment:
The people further find and specify that due to the aggravating circumstances and misrepresentation to the people that the death penalty be implemented to the defendant, Punxsutawney Phil.
Gmoser needn't look far for support. Internet users far and wide lashed out at the groundhog in recent days, calling him a liar and calling for his head.

The humorous newspaper "The Onion" even got in on the action, publishing a story on March 18 entitled, "Punxsutawney Phil Beheaded for Inaccurate Prediction on Annual Groundhog Slaughtering Day."

So, does Gmoser really want to see Phil pay the ultimate price for his failed forecast?

Not exactly. Regarding any potential litigation, the prosecutor told The Washington Post, "I hope everyone understands it's tongue-in-cheek..."

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Big Time Food Recall - Natura Pet Products

Another food recall due to Salmonella contamination....from the FDA

Natura Pet Issues Voluntary Recall of Specialized Dry Pet Foods Due to Possible Health Risk


Contact
Consumer
800-224-6123

Media
Jason Taylor
513-622-3205

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -March 18, 2013 - Natura Pet Products is voluntarily recalling specific lots of dry pet food because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. No Salmonella-related illnesses have been reported.

Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

These products were made in a single production facility during a two week window in December 2012. Routine testing by the Michigan Department of Agriculture collected from a single retail location tested positive for the presence of Salmonella. As a precautionary measure, Natura is voluntarily recalling all products from this production window.

The affected products are sold in bags through veterinary clinics, select pet specialty retailers, and online in the United States, Canada, Korea, Malaysia, Japan, Hong Kong, and Costa Rica. Product expiration dates range from 12/17/2013 – 1/2/2014. Product was distributed by Natura Pet Products between December 18, 2012 through March 15, 2013. No other dry food, canned food, biscuits, bars or treats are affected by this announcement.

A complete list of products in the scope of this recall are listed at the end of this release. Additional information on these products can be found at disclaimer icon www.naturapet.com.

Consumers who have purchased the specific dry pet foods listed should discard them.

For further information or a product replacement or refund call Natura toll-free at 800-224-6123. (Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM CST).

Please see the Table of Affected Products.
BRANDDESCRIPTIONSIZEBAG UPCAll Lot Numbers
CALIFORNIA NATURALDOG KANGAROO & RED LENTILS GRAIN FREE4oz7 51485 15987 42362A70004
CALIFORNIA NATURALDOG KANGAROO & RED LENTILS GRAIN FREE30LB7 51485 39940 92362A70001
CALIFORNIA NATURALDOG KANGAROO & RED LENTILS GRAIN FREE15LB7 51485 39941 62362A70002
CALIFORNIA NATURALDOG KANGAROO & RED LENTILS GRAIN FREE5LB7 51485 39942 32362A70003
CALIFORNIA NATURALDOG KANGAROO & RED LENTILS GRAIN FREE - BILINGUAL30 LB7 51485 12564 03015A70001
EVOCAT & KITTEN TURKEY & CHICKEN FORMULA4oz7 51485 15250 92355A70004,2366A70004
EVOCAT & KITTEN TURKEY & CHICKEN FORMULA15.4LB7 51485 41400 32356A70002,2366A70002
EVOCAT & KITTEN TURKEY & CHICKEN FORMULA6.6LB7 51485 41401 02355A70003,2356A70003,3001A70003,3002
EVOCAT & KITTEN TURKEY & CHICKEN FORMULA2.2LB7 51485 41402 72355A70004,2356A70004,2366A70004
EVOCAT HERRING & SALMON FORMULA4oz7 51485 15251 62357A70004,2361A70004
EVOCAT HERRING & SALMON FORMULA15.4LB7 51485 41410 22361A70002
EVOCAT HERRING & SALMON FORMULA6.6LB7 51485 41411 92361A70003,2362A70003
EVOCAT HERRING & SALMON FORMULA2.2LB7 51485 41412 62361A70004
EVODOG RED MEAT FORMULA LARGE BITE28.6LB7 51485 12675 32363A70001
EVODOG RED MEAT FORMULA LARGE BITE13.2LB7 51485 12676 02363A70002
EVODOG RED MEAT FORMULA LARGE BITE6.6LB7 51485 12677 72363A70003
EVODOG TURKEY & CHICKEN FORMULA4oz7 51485 15255 42356A70004
EVODOG TURKEY & CHICKEN SENIOR FORMULA28.6LB7 51485 12685 22356A70001
EVODOG TURKEY & CHICKEN SENIOR FORMULA13.2LB7 51485 12686 92356A70002
EVODOG TURKEY & CHICKEN SENIOR FORMULA6.6LB7 51485 12687 62356A70003
EVODOG TURKEY & CHICKEN WEIGHT MANAGEMENT FORMULA28.6LB7 51485 12616 62366A70001
EVODOG TURKEY & CHICKEN WEIGHT MANAGEMENT FORMULA13.2LB7 51485 12617 32364A70002
EVODOG TURKEY & CHICKEN WEIGHT MANAGEMENT FORMULA6.6LB7 51485 12618 02366A70003
EVODOG TURKEY & CHICKEN WEIGHT MANAGEMENT FORMULA4oz7 51485 15205 92366A70004
EVOFERRET FOOD TURKEY & CHICKEN FORMULA6.6LB7 51485 42101 82355A70003,3002A70003
HEALTHWISEDOG CHICKEN MEAL & OATMEAL WEIGHT CONTROL FORMULA4oz7 51485 15442 82362A70004
HEALTHWISEDOG CHICKEN MEAL & OATMEAL WEIGHT CONTROL FORMULA35LB7 51485 70720 42361A70001
HEALTHWISEDOG CHICKEN MEAL & OATMEAL WEIGHT CONTROL FORMULA17.5LB7 51485 70721 12361A70002
HEALTHWISEDOG CHICKEN MEAL & OATMEAL WEIGHT CONTROL FORMULA5LB7 51485 70722 82362A70003
HEALTHWISEDOG LAMB MEAL & OATMEAL FORMULA4oz7 51485 15444 22362A70004
HEALTHWISEDOG LAMB MEAL & OATMEAL FORMULA35LB7 51485 70740 22361A70001,2362A70001
HEALTHWISEDOG LAMB MEAL & OATMEAL FORMULA17.5LB7 51485 70741 92361A70002,2362A70002
HEALTHWISEDOG LAMB MEAL & OATMEAL FORMULA5LB7 51485 70742 62362A70003
HEALTHWISEPUPPY CHICKEN MEAL & BROWN RICE FORMULA4oz7 51485 15443 52362A70004
HEALTHWISEPUPPY CHICKEN MEAL & BROWN RICE FORMULA35LB7 51485 70730 32362A70001
HEALTHWISEPUPPY CHICKEN MEAL & BROWN RICE FORMULA17.5LB7 51485 70731 02362A70002
HEALTHWISEPUPPY CHICKEN MEAL & BROWN RICE FORMULA5LB7 51485 70732 72353A70003,2362A70003
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN FORMULA4oz7 51485 15995 92363A70004
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN FORMULA2.2LB7 51485 41387 72363A70004
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN FORMULA15LB7 51485 41392 12362A70002,2363A70002
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN FORMULA6LB7 51485 41393 82362A70003,2363A70003
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN SENIOR 8 PLUS FORMULA4oz7 51485 15998 02353A70004
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN SENIOR 8 PLUS FORMULA4oz7 51485 15998 02353A70004
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN SENIOR 8 PLUS FORMULA2.2LB7 51485 41603 82353A70004
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN SENIOR 8 PLUS FORMULA15LB7 51485 41607 62353A70002
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN SENIOR 8 PLUS FORMULA6LB7 51485 41608 32353A70003
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN WEIGHT MANAGEMENT FORMULA4oz7 51485 15988 12354A70004,2363A70004,2364A70004
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN WEIGHT MANAGEMENT FORMULA15LB7 51485 41389 12354A70002,2362A70001,2363A70001
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN WEIGHT MANAGEMENT FORMULA6LB7 51485 41390 72354A70003,2364A70003
INNOVACAT TURKEY AND CHICKEN WEIGHT MANAGEMENT FORMULA2.2LB7 51485 41391 42354A70004,2363A70004
INNOVADOG PRIME GRAIN FREE BEEF AND LAMB MEAL FORMULA25LB7 51485 12730 92361A70001
INNOVADOG PRIME GRAIN FREE BEEF AND LAMB MEAL FORMULA12LB7 51485 12731 62361A70001
INNOVADOG PRIME GRAIN FREE BEEF AND LAMB MEAL FORMULA5LB7 51485 12732 32361A70003
INNOVADOG PRIME GRAIN FREE HERRING AND SALMON FORMULA4oz7 51485 12365 32362A70004
INNOVADOG PRIME GRAIN FREE HERRING AND SALMON FORMULA25LB7 51485 12727 92366A70001,3001A70001,3038A70001
INNOVADOG PRIME GRAIN FREE HERRING AND SALMON FORMULA12LB7 51485 12728 62363A70002,2364A70002
INNOVADOG PRIME GRAIN FREE HERRING AND SALMON FORMULA5LB7 51485 12729 32363A70003,2364A70003
INNOVADOG PRIME GRAIN FREE HERRING AND SALMON FORMULA4oz7 51485 15313 12364A70004
INNOVADOG SALMON AND HERRING FORMULA25LB7 51485 12362 22357A70001,2361A70001,2363A70002
INNOVADOG SALMON AND HERRING FORMULA12LB7 51485 12363 92361A70002
INNOVADOG SALMON AND HERRING FORMULA5LB7 51485 12364 62363A70003
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BITE FORMULA30LB7 51485 12320 22354A70002,2355A70001,2355A70002,2363A70001,2364A70001
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BITE FORMULA15LB7 51485 12321 92354A70002,2355A70002,2363A70002
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BITE FORMULA6LB7 51485 12322 62354A70003
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BITE FORMULA2.2LB7 51485 12376 92354A70004
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BITE FORMULA4oz7 51485 15990 42354A70004
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BITE FORMULA-BILINGUAL30 LB7 51485 12552 73015A70001
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BREED FORMULA30LB7 51485 12704 02353A70001,2354A70001
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BREED FORMULA15LB7 51485 12705 72354A70002
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BREED FORMULA4oz7 51485 15300 12354A70004
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BREED FORMULA-BILINGUAL30 LB7 51485 125543015A70001
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN SENIOR PLUS 11 PLUS FORMULA30LB7 51485 12326 42352A70001,2353A70001
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN SENIOR PLUS 11 PLUS FORMULA15LB7 51485 12327 12352A70002,2353A70002
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN SENIOR PLUS 11 PLUS FORMULA6LB7 51485 12328 82353A70003
INNOVADOG TURKEY AND CHICKEN SENIOR PLUS 11 PLUS FORMULA4oz7 51485 15310 02353A70004
INNOVAPUPPY TURKEY AND CHICKEN FORMULA30LB7 51485 12332 52356A70001
INNOVAPUPPY TURKEY AND CHICKEN FORMULA15LB7 51485 12333 22356A70002
INNOVAPUPPY TURKEY AND CHICKEN FORMULA6LB7 51485 12334 92356A70003
INNOVAPUPPY TURKEY AND CHICKEN FORMULA4oz7 51485 15994 22356A70004
INNOVAPUPPY TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BREED FORMULA30LB7 51485 12740 82356A70001
INNOVAPUPPY TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BREED FORMULA15LB7 51485 12741 52356A70002
INNOVAPUPPY TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BREED FORMULA6LB7 51485 12742 22356A70003
INNOVAPUPPY TURKEY AND CHICKEN LARGE BREED FORMULA4oz7 51485 15302 52356A70004

Top 10 Safest Cars for Your Pets

Very interesting article from Edmunds.com.

Pet safety for furry passengers has been a popular news topic over the past year, with New Jersey considering mandatory seat belts for dogs and cats, and Subaru partnering with the Center for Pet Safety to fund testing of car safety restraints for pets.

Now Edmunds.com, a site that provides consumers with automotive information and shopping advice, has released its list of the 10 safest vehicles for pets.

The vehicles on the list have pet-friendly features and are all priced starting below $35,000, said Edmunds.com Automotive Content Editor Warren Clarke.

The vehicles that made the list are, in alphabetical order:
  • Dodge Journey - Pet-safe features include a rearview camera that prevents drivers from backing over pets; an in-dash cooler that can be used to store beverages, medicine or pet food; and steering-wheel-mounted controls that can decrease driver distraction.
  • Ford Flex - According to Edmunds.com, the Ford Flex boasts a roomy interior and wide door openings that allow pets to easily climb in and out.
  • GMC Acadia - The Acadia offers advanced climate control so pets can stay cool in the back seat, as well as fold-flat seats in the rear that offer more room for pets and their crates to travel.
  • Hyundai Tucson - The Tucson features rear fold-flat seats, privacy glass that keeps temperatures low for pets, and remote keyless entry to help pet owners load their pets when their hands are full.
  • Jeep Liberty - The Jeep Liberty is highly specialized for pets, offering pet owners the choice of crates, carriers, and even a ramp that can help arthritic or elderly dogs enter the vehicle.
  • Kia Soul - The Soul can be purchased with side curtain airbags that protect pets and their owners, as well as privacy glass that lowers temperatures to keep pets cool and comfortable, according to Edmunds.com.
  • Mazda 5 - The Mazda 5 features sliding rear doors, which make it especially easy for people to load their pets into the car. The minivan also has tethers and anchors to assist with secure attachment of pet safety seats.
  • Mitsubishi Outlander - The Outlander includes fold-flat seating and stowable third-row seats to ensure plenty of space for transporting pets.
  • Subaru Tribeca - Edmunds.com recommends the Tribeca for pet owners due to its steering-wheel-mounted auxiliary controls and rear back-up camera.
  • Volvo XC70 - The XC70 comes with an optional pet barrier that Volvo designed to keep pets safe and secure in the event of a collision. It also comes with a blind spot warning system that can be helpful if pets impede the driver's vision.

Friday, March 15, 2013

The Top Pet Toxins of 2012

From the ASPCA....

What’s Poisoning Our Pets: The Top Pet Toxins of 2012

Thursday, March 14, 2013 -
White puppy with spots being held
In 2012, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) in Urbana, Illinois, handled more than 180,000 cases about pets possibly exposed to poisonous substances—and some breeds seemed to make up a lot more of those calls than others.

Nearly 14,000 of APCC’s 2012 calls were from worried pet parents of Labradors. Domestic shorthair cats were involved in approximately 10,000 cases (the second-most popular breed involved in APCC calls). Mixed-breed dogs (8,000 cases), Chihuahuas (4,833 cases), Golden Retrievers (4,819 cases) and Yorkshire Terriers (3,800 cases) rounded out the top six.

No matter what kind of pets they had, thousands of pet parents called us about the same products last year. Here were the top five poisons that caused pet parents to call APCC for help in 2012:

1. Prescription Human Medications
APCC handled 25,000 cases regarding human prescription medications in 2012. The top three types of medications that animals were exposed to were: heart medications (blood pressure pills), antidepressants and pain medications (opioids and prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

2. Insecticides
While just 11% of all calls to the APCC are about insecticides, more than 50% of the calls to APCC involving cats pertain to felines exposed to insecticides.

3. Over-the-Counter Human Medications
This group contains acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen as well as herbal and nutraceutical products (fish oil, joint supplements).

4. Veterinary Products and Medications
Veterinary products made up nearly 6% of APCC’s case volume for 2012. Both OTC and prescription veterinary products are included in this group. Watch out for flavored tablets!

5. Household Products
APCC fielded more than 10,000 calls about household products in 2012. Household toxins can range from fire logs to cleaning products.

6. People Food

More than 5% of our cases in 2012 were related to the ingestion of people food. One particularly common food accidentally ingested by pets is xylitol (the sugar substitute). Xylitol can cause seizures and liver failure in dogs.

7. Chocolate 

Chocolate is still the number one people food that pets ingest (we received over 8,500 calls last year). Too much chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, high heart rate and seizures.

8. Plants

More than 7,000 cases in 2012 were pet parents calling about their animals eating plants. This is one category that cats lead dogs in the number of exposures. Lilies can cause kidney failure and death in cats. Please see our list of toxic/non-toxic plants for more information. 

9. Rodenticides

When putting out baits to kill mice and rats, never underestimate the resourcefulness of your pet. Nearly 4% of calls to the APCC in 2012 were related to baits. Depending on the type of rodenticide, ingestion can cause internal bleeding, kidney failure or seizures.

10. Lawn and Garden Products

Fertilizers, which can be made of dried blood, poultry manure and bone meal, are very attractive to pets, so it is not surprising that we get many calls (almost 3,600 in 2012) on lawn and garden items.

Think you know your poisons? Take the ASPCA’s I Can’t Believe It’s Poisonous Quiz on Facebook!

And remember: If you have any reason to suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435.

Thursday, March 14, 2013

Bravo! Raw Food Diet Recalled for Possible Salmonella Contamination

Another day, another recall....lots of Salmonella in pet foods recently.

Bravo! Raw Food Diet Pet Food Recalled for Possible Salmonella

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is telling consumers to avoid feeding or handling Bravo! Raw Food Diet Chicken Blend for Dogs and Cats because it may be contaminated with Salmonella bacteria. This is a frozen pet food product. There are no reports of human or animal illnesses associated with the consumption or handling of this product.

Pets with Salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Infected but healthy pets can infect other animals or people if they are untreated. If your pet ate this product and is unwell, contact your veterinarian immediately.

The recalled product is for the 2 pound size of Bravo! Chicken Blend with best if used by date of 6/12/14 only. The production code is 06/14/12, located on the white tag on the end of the package and the product code is 21-102. No other products, sizes, or production dates are involved. Consumers are asked to discard any of these products they may have. For questions, contact the company at 1-866-922-9222.
BravoPet

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

The Story of Reggie - A Black Lab

Got this from a friend of mine in an email. A supposedly true story....if it is it is bittersweet....May God Bless our Troops.

Reggie – A Black Lab
Take the time to read this (and every American needs to), be sure to read it through to the end including the final quote!!!
 
 
 
 
A Really Great (and true) Story Well Worth the Reading!
 
They told me the big black Lab's name was Reggie,
as I looked at him lying in his pen.
The shelter was clean, no-kill,
and the people really friendly.
I'd only been in the area for six months, but
everywhere I went in the small college town, people
were welcoming and open. Everyone waves
when you pass them on the street.

But something was still missing as I attempted to settle
in to my new life here, and I thought a dog couldn't hurt.
Give me someone to talk to. And I had just seen
Reggie's advertisement on the local news. The shelter
said they had received numerous calls right after,
but they said the people who had come down
to see him just didn't look like "Lab people,"
whatever that meant. They must've thought I did.

But at first, I thought the shelter had misjudged me
in giving me Reggie and his things, which consisted
of a dog pad, bag of toys almost all of which were
brand new tennis balls, his dishes and
a sealed letter from his previous owner.
See, Reggie and I didn't really hit it off when we got home.
We struggled for two weeks (which is how long the shelter
told me to give him to adjust to his new home). Maybe it
was the fact that I was trying to adjust, too.
Maybe we were too much alike.
I saw the sealed envelope. I had completely forgotten
about that. "Okay, Reggie," I said out loud, "let's see
if your previous owner has any advice."
____________________
To Whomever Gets My Dog:
Well, I can't say that I'm happy you're reading this,
a letter I told the shelter could only be opened by
Reggie's new owner. I'm not even happy writing it.
He knew something was different.
So let me tell you about my Lab in the hopes
that it will help you bond with him and he with you.
First, he loves tennis balls. The more the merrier.
Sometimes I think he's part squirrel, the way he hoards them.
He usually always has two in his mouth, and he tries to get
a third in there. Hasn't done it yet. Doesn't matter where
you throw them, he'll bound after them, so be careful.
Don't do it by any roads.
Next, commands. Reggie knows the
obvious ones ---"sit," "stay," "come," "heel."
He knows hand signals, too: He knows "ball"
and "food" and "bone" and "treat" like nobody's business.
Feeding schedule: twice a day, regular
store-bought stuff; the shelter has the brand.
He's up on his shots. Be forewarned: Reggie hates the vet.
Good luck getting him in the car. I don't know how he
knows when it's time to go to the vet, but he knows.
Finally, give him some time. It's only been Reggie and
me for his whole life. He's gone everywhere with me,
so please include him on your daily car rides if you can.
He sits well in the backseat, and he doesn't bark
or complain. He just loves to be around people,
and me most especially.
And that's why I need to share one more bit of info with you...
His name's not Reggie. He's a smart dog, he'll get used to it
and will respond to it, of that I have no doubt. But I just couldn't
bear to give them his real name. But if someone is reading this ...
well it means that his new owner should know his real name.
His real name is "Tank." Because, that is what I drive.
I told the shelter that they couldn't make "Reggie" available
for adoption until they received word from my company commander.
You see, my parents are gone, I have no siblings, no one I could've
left Tank with ... and it was my only real request of the Army upon my deployment to Iraq, that they make one phone call to the shelter ...
in the "event" ... to tell them that Tank could be put up for adoption.
Luckily, my CO is a dog-guy, too, and he knew where my platoon
was headed. He said he'd do it personally. And if you're reading this,
then he made good on his word.
Tank has been my family for the last six years, almost as long
as the Army has been my family. And now I hope and pray that
you make him part of your family, too, and that he will adjust
and come to love you the same way he loved me.
If I have to give up Tank to keep those terrible people from coming
to the US I am glad to have done so. He is my example of service and
of love. I hope I honored him by my service to my country and comrades.
All right, that's enough. I deploy this evening and have to drop this letter
off at the shelter. Maybe I'll peek in on him and see if he finally got
that third tennis ball in his mouth.
Good luck with Tank. Give him a good home, and
give him an extra kiss goodnight - every night - from me.
Thank you,
Paul Mallory
_____________________
I folded the letter and slipped it back in the envelope. Sure,
I had heard of Paul Mallory, everyone in town knew him,
even new people like me. Local kid, killed in Iraq a few
months ago and posthumously earning the Silver Star
when he gave his life to save three buddies.
Flags had been at half-mast all summer.
I leaned forward in my chair and rested my
elbows on my knees, staring at the dog.
"Hey, Tank," I said quietly.
The dog's head whipped up, his ears
cocked and his eyes bright.
"C'mere boy."

He was instantly on his feet, his nails clicking on the hardwood floor.
He sat in front of me, his head tilted, searching for the name
he hadn't heard in months. "Tank," I whispered.
His tail swished.

I kept whispering his name, over and over, and each time,
his ears lowered, his eyes softened, and his posture relaxed
as a wave of contentment just seemed to flood him. I stroked
his ears, rubbed his shoulders, buried my face into
his scruff and hugged him.

"It's me now, Tank, just you and me. Your old pal gave you to me."
Tank reached up and licked my cheek.

"So whatdaya say we play some ball?"
His ears perked again.

"Yeah? Ball? You like that? Ball?"

Tank tore from my hands and disappeared into the next room.
And when he came back, he had three tennis balls in his mouth.
If you can read this without getting a lump in your
throat or a tear in your eye, you just ain't right.
 
===========================================================================
"The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in
front of him, but because he loves what is behind him."
G. K. Chesterton
 
The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail instead of his tongue.
-Anonymous
There is no psychiatrist in

the world like a puppy licking your face. 

-Ben Williams
A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.
-Josh Billings

Monday, March 11, 2013

Niles Animal Hospital Named Niles Business of the Year

We are honored.....Niles Animal Hospital and Bird Medical Center was named the Business of the Year by the Niles Chamber of Commerce today. There will be the award ceremony at a dinner April 27th. Thanks to our staff and clients who have, over the years, made our practice something of which we are very proud.

Niles Animal Hospital was founded in 1949 by the noted veterinarian, Dr. T.J. Lafeber. Dr. Lafeber was a pioneer in many aspects of veterinary medicine, the utilization of veterinary assistants, in-house laboratory diagnostics, and became renowned as an avian veterinarian.

Dr. Peter Sakas began as a veterinary extern at Niles Animal Hospital in 1980, became a staff veterinarian in 1983, and bought the practice in 1985. He has continued in the tradition of Dr. Lafeber, remaining innovative and on the cutting edge of veterinary medicine. We have an extensive in-house laboratory, digital radiography, laser surgery and laser therapy, fully equipped bird hospital, see all varieties of pets (dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, reptiles, wildlife), perform a wide variety of surgical procedures, along with many other features of our practice.

We have been an American Animal Hospital Accredited Practice since 1953, one of only 3,000 in the US and Canada. Our accreditation by AAHA means we have gone through a rigorous evaluation process to ensure we comply with strict standards in patient care, pain management, surgery, and many other areas. It is a guarantee that pets will receive the highest quality care available.

We give back to the community by being involved in various civic activities, career day programs, student mentoring, lectures/programs to a wide range of groups, charitable pursuits, and others. We support local shelters/rescues for dogs, cats, small mammals, and birds.

We take pride in the legacy of Niles Animal Hospital which began so long ago with Dr. Lafeber and strive to maintain it. We sincerely appreciate the recognition by the Niles Chamber of Commerce.

Thursday, March 7, 2013

The Dangers of Rat Poison to Dogs and Cats

As March is Poison Prevention Awareness Month, another article discussing a commonly seen toxicosis in pets.

The dangers of rat poison to dogs and cats

When purging your home of pests, keep your pets in mind

Posted May 04, 2012 in Pet Health
Most of us will agree: rats are the most repugnant of pests, especially when they rival the size of our cats. However, if you find yourself scrambling to stifle a rat infestation by using poison, you’ll need to be extra careful with your pets.
 
There are a number of chemicals commonly found in rat and mouse poisons that are very toxic to dogs and cats. One of those chemicals is bromethalin, which kills animals by poisoning the central nervous system. Brodifacoum is another and, as an anti-coagulant, falls in with a group of chemicals that keep blood from clotting, leading to spontaneous and uncontrollable bleeding.

These chemicals can be deadly for dogs and cats, and poisoning can take place directly or indirectly, such as when your pet nibbles on a rodent killed by the poison.

Signs and Symptoms
If your pet is unlucky enough to ingest rat poison containing either of these chemicals, the consequences can be dire, especially if not diagnosed in time.

In particular, bromethalin causes neurological problems because it spurs an increase in the pressure of cerebrospinal fluid (the liquid in the skull that surrounds the brain) and cerebral edema, or excess water in the brain. As a result, there are several neurological symptoms of bromethalin ingestion:
  • Muscle tremors
  • Seizures
  • Impaired movement
  • Lethargy
  • Anorexia (loss of appetite)
While these clinical signs may develop within 2-7 days, ingestion of extremely high doses can cause sudden onset of symptoms, usually muscle tremors but sometimes seizures as well.

As for brodifacoum, symptoms generally involve internal or external bleeding and include:
  • Blood in urine, vomit, or feces
  • Bleeding from rectum, nose, eyes, ears, or even gums
  • Weakness and instability
  • Bruises
  • Difficulty breathing due to blood in the lungs
  • Swollen belly due to blood accumulation in the abdomen
Symptoms of brodifacoum typically take 2-5 days to appear. But while pets that have mild poisoning will not show signs for several days, it is important to get your pet to a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested rat poison. Internal bleeding can be fatal if not diagnosed in time.

Diagnosis
If bromethalin toxicosis is suspected, your veterinarian will recommend:
  • A urinalysis to determine whether the chemical is in the system
  • Brain imaging, particularly an MRI or CT scan to look for excess fluid in the brain
These tests will also allow your veterinarian to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as similar neurological syndromes, contact with other toxic chemicals or infections agents, or tumor growth.

If brodifacoum toxicosis is suspected, your veterinarian will recommend:
  • A complete blood profile to determine presence of the chemical
  • An analysis of your pet’s vomit or stool. It is especially helpful if you are able to bring samples along for your veterinary visit.
Treatment
Treatment for poisoning for these two chemicals is very different. With bromethalin, your vet will want to purge your pet’s digestive tract as soon as possible and might also find it necessary to prescribe medications to control muscle spasms and seizures. In addition, because there are some prolonged effects of bromethalin poisoning, most notably anorexia and loss of appetite. Your pet may be given nutritional supplements and monitored by your vet. Your vet will prescribe the best treatment plan he/she can, and because it can take several weeks to recover, your vet will want to monitor any continuing symptoms.

On the other hand, treatment for brodifacoum poisoning involves administering Vitamin K, which is necessary for normal blood clotting. Usually, this is done by repeated injections under the skin of your pet, and is sometimes given orally, until blood clotting returns to normal. Depending on the severity of poison, recovery can take anywhere between a week to a month.

Prevention
Prevention is simple: while it’s understandable to want to rid your home of rats and mice, it’s important to make sure your pet does not have access to rat poison. If you choose to use products containing dangerous chemicals like bromethalin or brodifacoum, you will want to be diligent about discarding dead rodents and keeping your pets away from the poison.

Monday, March 4, 2013

Pet Toxins in Your Home

From the AVMA Pet SmartBrief.....

Pet Talk: Your home could be housing a whole host of pet toxins








We think that our indoor pets are safe from predators, cars and disease, but our homes may be exposing our pets – and ourselves – to risks of a different realm.

Everything from the mattresses we sleep on to the motes of dust on the shelves may contain flame retardants or other chemicals, says Laurel Standley, an environmental consultant and author of “#ToxinsTweet: 140 Easy Tips to Reduce Your Family’s Exposure to Environmental Toxins.”

Standley began studying the effects of household toxins in pets after she, her mother and sister all lost pet cats to cancer.

She grieved the losses but Standley, who earned a doctoral degree in chemical oceanography, also grew concerned about what made them sick in the first place.

She worries about the prevalence of chemical flame retardants known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) found in many electronics, polyurethane foams, carpet padding, furniture, mattresses and other common household items.

“Each time we sit down on couches with foam cushions, dust particles fly out and fill our homes with dust containing flame retardant chemicals,” Standley says.

The products are being phased out after growing concern about their health effects. Last month, California Gov. Jerry Brown proposed new standards to reduce use of fire-retardant chemicals in furniture and baby products.

Some studies have associated hyperthyroidism in cats to the presence of PBDEs, including one published in February 2012 in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health.

“Proving cause and effect is extremely difficult,” Standley says, “But that’s not an excuse to not protect our pets.”

Plastics also contain harmful chemicals, including bisphenol A and phthalates that have been associated with reproductive and other endocrine effects.

Some of these chemicals have been restricted from children’s products (such as the Multnomah County ban on sippy cups and baby bottles made with BPA).

“The same chemicals haven’t been regulated for dog or cat toys,” says Jennifer Coleman, outreach director at Oregon Environmental Council. “They could still have an impact on endocrine systems.”

Like infants, pets are also smaller than adults, metabolize more quickly and are closer to the ground. This makes them more vulnerable to harm from many of the products humans use, she says.

One way to reduce their exposure is by replacing plastic food bowls with those made from stainless steel, ceramic or glass instead, Standley suggests.

The fish in those food dishes can also be toxic; fish living in polluted streams can accumulate toxic substances in their systems, she says.

Even the plastic liner of the cans they come in may leach BPA.

Pigments and dyes are also likely to contain chemicals, so look for toys without a lot of color or bleaching, Coleman advises.

“My strategy with my own dog is to do the simple things that make the most sense to me,” she says.
She avoids vinyl and PVC plastic and opts instead for those made from rubber or fabric, such as tug ropes and stuffing-free toys. Even tennis balls can be toxic; the ones designed for dogs often contain lead.

Of course, some toxins will make your pet sick sooner rather than later.

At DoveLewis, veterinarians see some toxins more often than others. Metaldehyde slug bait ingestion can cause major muscle tremors that can be fatal, as well as liver problems, says staff veterinarian Dr. MeiMei Welker.

The emergency animal hospital also sees a fair number of dogs sick from marijuana ingestion, while rodenticide toxicity - suspected in the death of a prize-winning Samoyed recently- is a near-daily occurrence.
There are several kinds of rat bait, but the anticoagulant rodenticides are slower to act and allow more of a window of time to administer the antidote.

If your pet consumes poison of some sort, it’s best to bring the packaging to the veterinarian so he or she can treat it most effectively.

Other common toxins seen at DoveLewis include raisins and grapes; the sugar substitute Xylitol; Easter lilies; chocolate; ibuprofen and naproxen (Aleve); and acetaminophen.

The canary in the kitchen
Birds are uniquely sensitive to their environment; there’s a reason the phrase “canary in a coal mine” became so popular.

They’re very sensitive to aerosols, and their respiratory systems are very different than ours, says Dr. Marli Lintner of the Avian Medical Center.

Bird lungs are designed to breathe in very clean, thin air, so breathing in some toxic inhalants can kill them immediately or make them very sick.

“Any sort of fume that makes your nose tingle or your eyes water is bad news for the birds,” Lintner says.
Fumes from nonstick pans pose one of the biggest threats to our feathered friends.

Once the pans overheat – usually when the temperature reaches above 530 degrees Farenheit - a gas called polytetrafluoroethylene is released, says Dr. Deborah Sheaffer, staff veterinarian at the Audubon Society of Portland.

They can die very quickly, so if you see your bird panting or having trouble breathing, you should take it to the veterinarian immediately.

Lead poses another common avian household hazard. Paint, stained glass window frames, curtain weights, costume jewelry; foil from champagne bottles; and old bird cages can all be toxic.

“When people have pet birds, they really need to be cognizant of what’s around them,” Sheaffer says. “They’re curious and inquisitive and they like to chew on things.”

This may be a lot of information for you to chew on too. Just remember that making your home safer for your pets makes it safer for humans as well.

Offering your pet toys made from fabric or natural rubber instead of vinyl and PVC plastic can help reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals.
  
How to help reduce toxins in your home
  • Vacuum frequently, preferably with a cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter, even on tile or wood floors (the goal is to not sweep dust up from the floor).
  • Eliminate carpet wherever possible; the less carpet you have, the easier it is to control dust.
  • Use rugs made of natural fabrics, such as cotton, wool or jute.
  • Vacuum your couch regularly.
  • Dust with a simple damp rag. Dry dusting can stir dust back into the air.
  • Replace plastic food dishes with those made from stainless steel, ceramic or glass instead.
  • If you have birds, avoid using nonstick pans whenever possible.
  • Don’t expose birds to smoke or household aerosol products such as harsh cleaners, perfumes, hairspray, etc.
  • Keep pets off the countertops and secure medications and other toxins safely in cupboards.
  • If you’re afraid your pet ingested something he shouldn’t have, call the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680 (consultations cost $39).
  • Don’t try to make your pet vomit; in some cases it could make the situation worse.