Your Vet Wants You to Know

**Originally published December, 2021** This time of year, there are more and more questions about reindeer, especially from fascinated children. We sat down with Dr. Josh Link of the North Pole Veterinary Hospital and asked questions submitted by some of our littlest audience members all about reindeer. Check out this special holiday episode of Your Vet Wants You to Know with your kids and whole family to learn more about these magic creatures.    Episode page with reindeer and musk ox pictures: https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/reindeer/ North Pole Veterinary Hospital: https://northpolevet.com  University of Alaska Fairbanks Large Animal Research Station: https://uaf.edu/lars/   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

August is Itchy Pet Awareness Month. When it comes to itchy cats and dogs, the pets are not the only ones suffering. Caregiver burden is directly related to treatment complexity and treating allergies can be very complex. Dr. Meagan Painter, veterinary dermatologist, founder of The Allergic Dog and The Allergic Cat, and pet owner of her own allergic cat, talks about Stella and how managing her cat's allergies has been a learning process for them both. Webpage with transcript and images: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/stellasstory   The Allergic Dog and The Allergic Cat: https://www.theallergidog.com   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

August is Itchy Pet Awareness month. Many pet owners are not aware of veterinary dermatologists who can help. There are about 300 board certified veterinary dermatologists in the American College of Veterinary Dermatology who have undergone extensive training and completed research after veterinary school in order to specialize in the study of skin and ear disease, as well as allergies, immunology, and internal medicine. Petra Lee, of the Dog Allergies Information and Support Group, joins us to talk about how she discovered a veterinary dermatologist for her dog, Olive, and how she is advocating partnership between owners of allergic dogs and veterinarians.   Webpage with transcript and images: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/olivesstory   Dog Allergies Information and Support Group:   This is Love Podcast: https://thisislovepodcast.com   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

No, it's not actually a worm. This fungal infection of the skin is most commonly seen in young kittens and puppies. Certain breeds, such as Yorkshire Terriers and Persian cats, and older animals whose immune systems are compromised can be at risk for ringworm. This infection can be spread to people who come in contact with these animals. Join Dr. Nellie Choi, veterinary dermatologist, to find out more about this skin infection, including what to watch for, how your veterinarian might test for it, and what they can do to treat it.    Webpage with transcript and images: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/ringworm   Follow Dr. Choi on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/dermvethk/   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

When Dr. Jess Torok traveled to Tanzania with Mission Rabies in 2017, she wanted to help underserved communities by providing much needed veterinary care. But on day 3 of her mission, an unexpected health crisis changed everything. Listen to our first installment of Vet Stories, where we take our experts out of the clinic and take you into their lives.  

Rabies is a deadly disease that can affect all mammals, including humans and their companion dogs and cats. While rabies deaths are rare in the United States, tens of thousands of people die each year from rabies, primarily in Africa and Asia. Almost 99% of rabies cases in humans are transmitted by dogs. The rabies vaccine is safe and effective against this fatal virus. In this episode, Dr. Jess Torok joins us to discuss this preventable disease in pets and her work with Mission Rabies in Tanzania.    Webpage with transcript and images: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/rabies   Learn more about Mission Rabies (donate, volunteer) https://missionrabies.com/get-involved/ Sea Turtle Conservancy https://conserveturtles.org/ Urban Veterinary Associates in Westmont, IL https://urbanpetvet.net   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

It's our 50th episode!! If you've learned something from this show, please take a moment to leave a review and let us know.  Need a refresher on how to leave a review? Here's a quick tutorial: https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/review/    Tiny kittens bring big smiles to our faces. If you have a new cat at home, vaccines are important for keeping them healthy for many years with your family. In this episode, Dr. Alina Barland, family veterinarian, discusses core vaccines for kittens and common questions from new kitten owners.  Episode page with pictures and video: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/kitten-vaccines   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Congratulations on your new puppy! To make sure you enjoy a happy, healthy best friend for many years to come, it's time to talk to your veterinarian about which vaccines they recommend to protect your bouncing ball of tail wags against preventable diseases. Join Dr. Alina Barland, family veterinarian, to discuss core vaccines for dogs and common vaccine questions from pet owners.    Episode page with pictures and video: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/puppy-vaccines American Animal Hospital Association Vaccination Guidelines: https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/vaccination-canine-configuration/vaccination-recommendations-for-general-practice/ Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Sometimes, despite a veterinarian's best efforts to clear an ear infection with medicated drops and cleaners, the infection will stubbornly persist. When a veterinarian is worried about conditions such as a long-term ear infection, a mass in the ear canal, material like matted hair, a foxtail, or trapped ear wax, or a deep infection in the middle ear on the other side of the ear drum, a video otoscopy and deep ear cleaning may be recommended. Join veterinary dermatologists and ear specialists Dr. Austin Richman and Dr. Brittany Lancellotti as they discuss the video otoscopy procedure, why they recommend it, the benefits and risks, and questions to discuss with your veterinarian for your dog or cat.     Episode page with pictures and video: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/videootoscopy   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

An aural hematoma is a painful swelling of a pet's ear from buildup of fluid when the ear flap is damaged. It is not uncommon for ear infections to cause a pet to shake its head back and forth, leading to a swollen ear flap, also known as an aural hematoma. Golden retrievers, labrador retrievers, and dogs with allergies are at a higher risk for developing one or even multiple aural hematomas. Since these can be treated with several different methods, Dr. Brittany Lancellotti, veterinary dermatologist, discusses the risks and benefits to treatment options based on recent studies.    Episode page with pictures and video: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/hematoma   No Flap Ear Wrap: https://www.noflapearwrap.com   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

“My pet smells like yeast!” Many diseases can cause an animal to “smell like yeast.” In this episode, Dr. Ashley Bourgeois, veterinary dermatologist and host of The Derm Vet podcast, joins Dr. Brittany Lancellotti to explain how cytology can help us figure out if the stink is really from yeast, or if there are other infections or diseases causing skin problems in your dog or cat. If your pet has ever had a skin or ear problem, allergies, or itching, this episode will help you understand why cytology is so helpful to your veterinarian.    https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/cytology   Aqua Paws Slow Treater to help with bathing: https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/aquapaw   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Itchy, smelly ears can be incredibly uncomfortable for dogs and cats with ear infections. Diego had such horrible ear infections, he was living in constant pain. This episode's guest, veterinary dermatologist Dr. Meagan Painter, joins Dr. Brittany Lancellotti to discuss common tests, such as ear exams, cytology, and culture and what these tests tell your veterinarian. They describe common treatments, such as oral and topical medications, and how these treatments allowed Diego to live his best life, no longer in pain. Visit the website for images: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/ear-infections-part-2 Connect with Your Vet! Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow   The Allergic Dog - Courses and community for veterinarians who treat allergic dogs: https://www.theallergicdog.com

If you have ever woken up in the middle of the night to your pet shaking its head and scratching its ears, you know how uncomfortable a pet can be when they have an ear infection. Ear infections have many causes. The key to treating the infection and stopping it from returning is understanding the primary, secondary, perpetuating and predisposing causes of ear infections. Join dermatologists Dr. Meagan Painter and Dr. Brittany Lancellotti to help you understand why your dog or cat is getting ear infections and how to stop them in their tracks so you can keep your animal happy and healthy. Visit the website for images: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/ear-infections-part-1 Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Are your kids pressuring you to add a pet rock to the family? Are they promising to feed it and turn it over every twelve hours so it doesn't collect moss? Do you fear that you'll be the one left holding the rock long after the kids have gone to college?  If you are considering bringing this loving and often overlooked pet into your family join me and self proclaimed rock expert Dave Gladstone for a very special episode of Your Vet Wants You to Know. Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Skin infections with bacteria and yeast can make dogs and cats very itchy. Veterinarians often treat with topical therapy, like medicated bathing or spray. Sometimes the infection is too deep or severe for topicals. In this episode, veterinary dermatologist Dr. Alicia Webb Milum discusses how skin infections are diagnosed and when sets decide to reach for oral or injectable medications to treat those infections. If you have an itchy dog or cat, this episode is packed with information to improve your pet's health. https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/skin-infections-part-2   Aqua Paws Slow Treater to help with bathing: https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/aquapaw Make your own Monarch waystation at www.monarchwatch.org   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

What's that smell? Dogs and cats with allergies or hormonal diseases can often develop infections on their skin with bacteria and yeast. These infections can cause itching, redness, scabs, and discomfort. In this episode, veterinary dermatologist Dr. Alicia Webb-Milum joins follow dermatologist Dr. Brittany Lancellotti to talk about why skin infections occur and the types of bacteria and yeast most often involved with the infection. They will also discuss how topical therapy, such as medicated bathing, can be an excellent treatment, and what to discuss with your veterinarian if you are having difficulty with topical therapy.    https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/skin-infections-part-1   Aqua Paws Slow Treater to help with bathing: https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/aquapaw Katmai National Park Brown Bear webcam: https://explore.org/livecams/brown-bears/brooks-falls-brown-bears-low Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Canine papillomavirus can cause small wart-like growths, most often on the lips and in the mouths of growing puppies. This virus can be spread between dogs who come in contact with infected dogs at places such as the dog park, doggy daycare, or grooming. Older dogs or dogs whose immune systems are compromised from other diseases or from medications are also at risk for developing growths from papillomvirus. Dr. Matt Levinson, board certified veterinary dermatologist, joins Dr. Lancellotti to discuss canine papillomavirus and what treatments are available. Episode page with images: https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/canine-papillomavirus Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Great Barrier Reef Foundation: barrierreef.org

Are you scratching your head wondering why your cat has destroyed your furniture? Cat scratching is a natural behavior that many pet owners find frustrating. This episode discusses why cats scratch, the evidence and misconceptions about declawing, and ways you can train your cats to scratch where you prefer. Dr. Gwennyth Stair of High Ridge Animal Hospital shares her tricks for using nail caps to protect your sofa and your skin. Helpful Links: Episode Page: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/cat-scratching https://www.softpaws.com/ https://pawproject.org https://www.jacksongalaxy.com/blog/ Connect with Your Vet Wants You to Know: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Guinea pigs are a great companion animal for any home, especially with children or as classroom pets. Dr. Nancy Alperson shares her knowledge on how to provide proper veterinary care to these small animals, including Vitamin C, foot care, and understanding night poops.  https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/guinea-pigs https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/guinea-pigs-feeding https://lafeber.com/vet/basic-information-for-guinea-pigs/ Swim Saves Lives: https://www.usms.org/clubs?q=&c=sslf&pt=&l=&r=50&placeText=&zipcode=&lat=&long= Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Just like people, pets can develop arthritis following injury or simply due to age-related changes. Arthritis can cause discomfort and pain, slowing an animal down, making them seem older and less able to enjoy their favorite activities. In this episode, veterinarian and Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner, Dr. Jennifer Fletcher, discusses how to recognize signs of arthritis in dogs and cats, how your veterinarian might diagnose arthritis, and what treatment options are available. Episode page: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/arthritis Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Resources mentioned:  Rehabvets.org  caninerehabinstitute.com  University of Tennessee CCRP program- utvetce.com CARE – canine arthritis resources and education; caninearthritis.org

This time of year, there are more and more questions about reindeer, especially from fascinated children. We sat down with Dr. Josh Link of the North Pole Veterinary Hospital and asked questions submitted by some of our littlest audience members all about reindeer. Check out this special holiday episode of Your Vet Wants You to Know with your kids and whole family to learn more about these magic creatures.    Episode page with reindeer and musk ox pictures: https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/reindeer/ North Pole Veterinary Hospital: https://northpolevet.com  University of Alaska Fairbanks Large Animal Research Station: https://uaf.edu/lars/   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Email audio and video of your family reacting to the episode here: info@yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com

Canine influenza is a respiratory virus that can be transmitted between dogs. The Los Angeles Public Health Veterinarians suspect that between July and October, 2021, there were over 1,000 cases, the largest outbreak ever in LA County. In this episode, Dr. Durocher-Babek, veterinary internal medicine specialist, talks about canine influenza. She provides prevention tips to help keep your pet safe, using many of the same methods being used for SARS-CoV2, such as vaccination, disinfecting surfaces, and isolating when an animal might be ill.     Resources: Episode page and transcript: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/dog-flu Dr. Lawren Durocher-Babek website with pet owner handouts: https://www.drlawrenvet.com Los Angeles County Public Health Department Leptospirosis alert: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/influenzacanineh3n2.htm   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

October 17-23rd, 2021 is National Veterinary Technician Week. This week, we take the time to recognize the hard work our veterinary technicians do every day to improve the lives of people and animals they encounter and celebrate their skills and contributions to the success of the entire veterinary healthcare team. Veterinary technicians are responsible for communicating with pet owners, obtaining blood, running anesthesia in surgery, nursing sick pets in the hospital, preparing and administering medications, and so much more. This episode highlights the training veterinary technicians receive, their wide range of professional roles, and the gratitude we feel for all the hard work they do.    Resources mentioned in the episode: Join the discussion on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Join the discussion on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow   Check out resources offered by NAVTA for vet tech week: https://www.navta.net/page/nat_vet_tech

Choosing a pet food for your dog or cat can feel overwhelming with the amount of variety and products available. In this episode, veterinary nutritionist, Dr. Dan Su, goes through the WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee Guidelines on Selecting Pet Foods. These guidelines give pet owners the tools to decide whether a pet food company is investing in science and nutrition when formulating their diets, or if the company is simply investing in marketing to sell the food.   Follow the guidelines here as you listen along: https://wsava.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Selecting-a-pet-food-for-your-pet-updated-2021_WSAVA-Global-Nutrition-Toolkit.pdf   Check out the website for more information: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/choosingapetfood   Connect with Your Vet Wants You to Know! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Rodents, like rats and mice, can make pets and their owners sick from a bacterial infection called leptospirosis, or lepto for short. Urine from infected rodents can be found in puddles in the city and in rural areas. Finding out a pet has lepto as early in the disease as possible is crucial for recovery. Talk to your family veterinarian about vaccinating your dog against this infection. Listen to this episode to find out what to watch for and how to protect your pet and yourself from this life-threatening disease.    Resources: Episode page and transcript: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/lepto Dr. Lawren Durocher-Babek website with pet owner handouts: https://www.drlawrenvet.com Los Angeles County Public Health Department Leptospirosis alert: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/Leptospirosis2021.htm   Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Are you interested in adding pet fish to your home? Dive into this fun-filled episode with Dr. Ashley Emanuele, certified aquatic veterinarian, and you'll be up to the gills with information on how to care for these finned aquarium friends. Learn how bacteria are necessary to keep your fish swimming along, what's wrong with Elmo's fish tank, and how giving a fish a pea will not fix everything. This is a fascinating episode that will have you hooked, even if fish don't float your boat. Episode page: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/pet-fish   Dr. Emanuele's Oak City Aquatics: https://www.oakcityaquaticsvet.com Oak City Aquatics Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OakCityAquatics/   Find an Aquatic Veterinarian: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/resource   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Bee and wasp allergies can be life threatening to pets. Animals who have had an anaphylactic reaction to a sting are at risk for worsening reactions with each future sting. In this episode, Dr. Trenton Ewing joins Dr. Lancellotti to discuss a life-saving therapy in which pets are desensitized to bee and wasp allergies. 85% of animals who have gone through this therapy will have a reduction in the severity of their reactions if they are stung in the future. This therapy saves lives. Have a listen and tell your friends. Episode Page: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/bee-wasp-desensitization Outfox Field Guard: https://outfoxfordogs.com "Scratching the Itch" Reducing hole for cat video: https://youtu.be/5Cdv932eoU0  

Dental chews? Raw hides? Bully sticks? Greenies? The selection of items marketed towards keeping your pets' teeth healthy can be overwhelming. In this episode, Dr. Nicky Diaz discusses the Veterinary Oral Health Council recommendations for dental products that, combined with regular dental care with your veterinarian, can help keep your pets teeth healthy throughout their lives. Transcript and images: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/dentalproducts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Pawkit Vet Dental Kit: https://pawkitvet.com/products/dental-kit    

Has your vet ever asked you to brush your pet's teeth? This episode's guest, Veterinary Dentist, Dr. Amy Thomson, breaks down why toothbrushing is important, answers common questions about dental disease, and walks you through a step by step approach to help set up your toothbrushing routine for success and long term dental health.    Episode page: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/toothbrushing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Connect with Dr. Thomson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Toothy.Thomson More resources available on Dr. Thomson's website: https://ToothyThomson.ca  

Thinking of hitting the road with your pup? This episode is filled with planning and packing info to make adventuring with your dog as fun as possible while keeping everyone safe. Get your free packing checklist at https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888) 426-4435 Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 ASPCA First Aid checklist: https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/how-make-pet-first-aid-kit Cooling vests-can be soaked with water and allow for evaporation:  https://ruffwear.com/products/swamp-cooler-dog-cooling-vest

This episode is a must listen for anyone with a dog and provides the tools you need to prevent and save your dog's life from heat stroke. For a pet left in a car when the temperature outside is 72 to 96°F, the temperature inside the car rises an average of 41°F within 30 minutes. 80% of that increase takes place within the first 5 minutes. Cracking the windows makes no significant difference, even on breezy days. Pre-cooling with air conditioning makes no significant difference. Dogs cannot cool themselves as efficiently as humans can, and the panic they experience trapped alone in rising temperatures worsens the already excessive panting. Certain breeds, like English Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boxers, or overweight dogs, are at a higher risk. Bringing your pet to an emergency vet as fast as possible will help save their life.    Episode page: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/heat-stroke Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Cooling vests-can be soaked with water and allow for evaporation:  https://ruffwear.com/products/swamp-cooler-dog-cooling-vest Cooling beds-can be soaked with water, dogs can lay on it.  https://www.amazon.com/Manufacturing-Cool-Large-32-Inch-44-Inch/dp/B003KK60R4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=k9ofmine-20&linkId=fc8cbc4d1b3bde8465928c8276c05bfb&language=en_US

Warfarin is an anti-coagulant rodenticide that causes rodents to bleed excessively and die. In this week's episode, Dr. Monica Sterk, emergency veterinarian and Regional Operations Director with Veterinary Emergency Group, describes the risks behind rat bait toxicity and what to expect if your dog does get into this poison. Hear what happened when one of her patients swallowed a dead rat and there was a concern the rat had been killed by rat bait.  https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/warfarin https://www.veterinaryemergencygroup.com https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow  

Green is not always good. In this week's episode, Dr. Amanda Zetwo recounts her experience with her two dogs, Faith and Moses, when they happened to eat something they weren't supposed to while out at a park one winter's evening. Hear Dr. Zetwo's harrowing tale of Vitamin D (cholecalciferol) toxicosis and what she went through to save Faith and Moses's lives from this newer form of rat bait. Learn what you can do to protect your pets from this potentially fatal toxin. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888) 426-4435   Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 Episode page with images and additional resources: Https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/vitamin-D Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

We often think of dogs when it comes to pets eating something that can make them ill, but cats are at risk of becoming sick from exposure to toxic substances also. In part 2 of our series on common cat toxins, Dr. Christine Klippen, emergency veterinarian, gives pet owners advice on household dangers for cats to avoid, including essential oils, certain houseplants, over the counter cold medicines and more.    ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888) 426-4435 Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 Episode page with images and additional resources: Https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/cat-toxins-part-2

Kitty cats can be sneakier than dogs when it comes to getting into something they are not supposed to eat. Their bodies have unique enzymes that may not be able to process common medications with which people and dogs have no problem. Certain plants, like lilies, are beautiful, but dangers to have in homes with cats. Dr. Christine Klippen discusses ways to keep your cat healthy by avoiding these common household toxins for cats in the first of this two part series in order to keep your cat out of the emergency room. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888) 426-4435 Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 Episode page with images and additional resources: Https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/cat-toxins-part-1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow  

Do you ever wonder what toxic substances you should prevent your dog from getting into? This week’s episode continues the discussion of common dog poisons with emergency veterinarian, Dr. Christine Klippen. Listen to find out why you should keep your dog away from rat bait, antidepressants or ADHD medications, your other pets’ medications, and gardening supplies, as well as what to look for if you think your dog has gotten into them.    ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888) 426-4435 Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661   Episode page with images and additional resources: Https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/dog-toxins-part-2 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Ingestion of toxic substances is a common reason for emergency room visits for dogs. One of the best ways for pet owners to prevent pet health emergencies is to be knowledgeable about common toxins in and around the home. Emergency veterinarian Dr. Christine Klippen discusses some of the most common toxins for dogs in part one of this two part episode.  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888) 426-4435 Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 Episode page with images and additional resources: Https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/dog-toxins-part-1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com

Common myths about dog and cat allergies can lead well-intentioned pet owners astray when it comes to getting relief for their itchy pet. In this episode, veterinary dermatologist Dr. Nellie Choi joins Dr. Brittany Lancellotti to dispel some common misconceptions they hear regarding allergic skin and ear disease in pets including: Why antihistamines are not very helpful Why ear infections don’t just happen in floppy ear dogs Why fleas are still important to prevent even if your pet is indoor only and you’ve never seen a flea Why there isn’t such a thing as hypoallergenic dog breeds Why allergy immunotherapy should be an early treatment option and not a last resort Plus, don’t miss rapid-fire mythbusters at the end of the episode regarding blood tests for food allergies, grain free diets, and coconut oil!   Website with images and transcript: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/allergy-mythbusters Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com

On many of our episodes, we have talked about the teamwork that's required between pet owners and veterinarians, as far as managing their animal, figuring out what's going on, and coming up with a plan together. This episode takes a deeper dive into how exactly to build that relationship, giving you some actionable tips for what you can do to talk to your veterinarian in a way that helps create a really successful team, so that you can get the best care for your pet possible. Dr. Curtis Plowgian joins us again to talk a little bit about what that communication looks like. Website with transcript: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com Not One More Vet - Https://www.nomv.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Scared pets at the vet are displaying perfectly normal fear responses, but it doesn't have to be like this. Pre-visit medications can be part of a plan to minimize fear, anxiety and stress when your dog or cat needs veterinary medical care. Fear Free certified veterinarian, Dr. Hope Jankunas joins us in this week's episode, which focuses on how pre-visit medications, such as pheromones, gabapentin, and trazodone, may help make your pet's trip to the vet as pleasant as it could be. Blog posts written by Dr. Jankunas: No More Scaredy Cats- https://companionpethospital.com/2018/08/01/springtime-2-2/ Fear Free Visits Promote Better Veterinary Care-https://companionpethospital.com/2017/03/13/fear-free-visits-promote-better-veterinary-care/ Website with images and transcript: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/previsit-medications Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com

Some pet owners may feel dread when thinking about bringing their pet to the vet. Fear, anxiety, and stress can be major barriers to bringing dogs, and especially cats, in for much needed medical care. Stress can cause major obstacles to providing the highest medical care once the animal is at the vet. A relaxed, happy vet visit starts at home by decreasing anxiety before your pet reaches the vet’s office. Listen to this week’s episode for valuable, actionable tools on decreasing stress, including: Making a cozy cat carrier your pet’s favorite place in the house so they don’t run when it comes out from hiding in the closet. Carriers that allow easy access and examination without moving your cat out of its favorite snuggle spot.  Music therapy and pheromones to create a spa-like atmosphere in your car. Bringing your pet in hungry and with its favorite treats. Securing your pet in the car so it feels safe.  Keeping yourself relaxed, speaking in a calm voice, and not rushing.  Communicating with your veterinary team. Episode page, including images and links: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/decreasingstress

The only test to determine if a pet has allergies to food is an 8 week diet trial. No blood test has been shown to be accurate. If you’ve listened to episode 2 on Food Allergies and want more information on how to successfully perform a diet trial, then check out this week’s episode with Dr. Meagan Painter, board certified veterinary dermatologist, as she discusses her tips and tricks for setting pet owners up to get an A+ on this crucial diagnostic test for the treatment of allergic dogs and cats.    Episode transcript, images, references: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/diettrial Microchip feeder to keep your food allergic dog out of the cat’s food: https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/chipfeeder Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow How to do a paired choice assessment to determine your pet’s favorite treat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ics_eF8r0ig Scratching the Itch - MSPCA Angell Community Outreach Program: https://www.mspca.org/animal_care/community-outreach/

Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) and urinary obstructions (UO) are common medical reasons for cats to visit the veterinarian. FLUTD can be chronic and frustrating for cat owners. Urinary obstructions can be life threatening if the obstruction is not removed. In this week’s episode, emergency veterinarian Dr. Christine Klippin talks about what to watch for at home and how your veterinarian can help your pet. Resources mentioned: Feliway feline pheromones: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/feliway Episode page: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/FLUTD Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Cornell University: https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-lower-urinary-tract-disease The Indoor Pet Initiative at Ohio State: https://indoorpet.osu.edu/cats American Veterinary Medical Association: https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/feline-lower-urinary-tract-disease

Cats who pee outside the litter box are 2-6 times more likely to be relinquished to a shelter. In today's episode, Dr. Lauren Harris talks about inappropriate elimination and the significant damage to the human animal bond. Restoring that bond requires appropriate diagnosis, which is obtained by partnering with the veterinarian to evaluate for underlying medical conditions. If no medical reason can be found, behavioral assessment can help determine a cat’s aversions and preferences to help get them going where they should.    Resources: Indoor Hunting Cat Feeder: https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/CatFeeder Feliway Feline Pheromones: https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/Feliway Feline House Soiling Brochure: https://catfriendly.com/brochures/house-soiling.pdf House Soiling Cat Owner Questionnaire: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/1098612X14539092/suppl_file/Cat_owner_questionnaire.pdf Instructions for Cat Owners: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/1098612X14539092/suppl_file/Take_home_instructions_for_cat_owners.pdf Indoor Pet Initiative: https://indoorpet.osu.edu/home “Scratching the Itch”: Elephant Rescue https://www.npr.org/2020/12/05/942214125/he-will-be-a-happier-elephant-vet-describes-what-it-was-like-to-rescue-kaavan

If you're itching to know more about one of our pets' most pesky parasites, this episode is for you. Scabies, or sarcoptic mange, is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. This mite burrows into the skin and makes the animal intensely itchy! Scabies can be confused for allergies because of redness, hair loss, crusting and scratching. Dogs commonly contract scabies mites from wildlife, including foxes, and can cause skin disease and intense itching in pet owners as well. Listen to this week’s episode with special guest Dr. Curtis Plowgian, who has saved many miserable families from these mites. Check out the images and video on the website, www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Join the Facebook Group

Demodex mites are a common cause of hair loss, redness and crusting in young dogs whose immune systems are still developing, as well as older dogs and cats with an underlying immune abnormality. Listen to this week’s episode to hear where these mites come from, what problems they cause, how they can be treated, and why they are Dr. Lancellotti’s favorite parasite. Links mentioned in the episode: Your Vet Wants You to Know Website: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Best Friends Animal Sanctuary: bestfriends.org/sanctuary Angels Rest: bestfriends.org/…/angels-rest-and-memorials

One of the gifts we can give our pets is the comfort of a peaceful end of life goodbye. But how do you know when it’s time? Having conversations about what brings your pet its quality of life early helps lessen the burden of grief when making the decision of euthanasia. Listen to Dr. Donny Consla tell us Avett's story while he discusses “The 5 Things” and how he and his family knew it was time to say goodbye.    Links mentioned in the episode: Lap of Love at home euthanasia: https://www.lapoflove.com Episode page for pictures of Avett and Dr. Consla enjoying the great outdoors: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/whenitstime Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Silly kitten video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOHNEOfVKKE&feature=youtu.be

In our final installment in the series on Cushing’s disease in dogs, special guest Dr. Amy Oberstadt, veterinary internal medicine specialist, discusses the process of treatment, including the common medications used, as well as recommendations for monitoring, to make sure your pet is getting that “just right” dose.  Images, transcript, and references: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Join the Facebook group and show us your dogs with Cushing’s Disease: https://www.facebook.com/groups/YourVetWantsYoutoKnow “Scratching the Itch” - Storyteller by MHN app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/storyteller-by-mhn/id1436937935

In part two of our three part series on Cushing’s disease in dogs, special guest Dr. Amy Oberstadt, veterinary internal medicine specialist, discusses the different tests available for Cushing’s disease and what pet owners should communicate with their veterinarian.  Images, transcript, and references: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/ Follow us on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Join the Facebook group and show us your dogs with Cushing’s Disease: https://www.facebook.com/groups/YourVetWantsYoutoKnow "Scratching the Itch" - Dr. Julie Buzby’s Toe Grips - www.toegrips.com

Russell Sprout, our mascot, not only has allergies, but was also recently diagnosed with Cushing’s disease, which is an overproduction of the body’s natural steroid hormone. Dogs with Cushing’s disease have a wide range of signs, including infections, increased thirst, urinary accidents, and many more. Join special guest Dr. Amy Oberstadt, veterinary internal medicine specialist, in the first of our three part series on Cushing’s disease to learn more about this hormonal disease that can cause major quality of life issues in our pets.  Listen now: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/applepodcast Images, transcript, and references: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/ Join the Facebook group and show us your dogs with Cushing’s Disease: https://www.facebook.com/groups/YourVetWantsYoutoKnow "Scratching the Itch" - “Where Will You Go, Ricky Jo?” https://yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/rickyjo This link is an affiliate link. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

Immunotherapy with allergy shots or drops is the only therapy which can reverse underlying environmental allergies. If your allergic dog or allergic cat has received symptomatic medications like Apoquel, Cytopoint, steroids, Atopica or antibiotics, check out this week’s episode to learn all about allergy testing and desensitization for long term management of allergies to be able to reduce the need for other anti-itch and antibiotic medications.