PetTales

MESSENGER POST MEDIA

SPRING EDITION Advertising supplement for March 28, 2019

2 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019

OPEN MEMORIAL DAY

 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019 3

What happens IN THE BACK?

Have you ever wondered why your pet
is taken to the back during their visits
to the veterinarian? In most cases,
taking a pet “to the back” means that
the pet is going to be brought into the
treatment room of the hospital. This
is usually a larger, central area of the
hospital that is equipped with tools
and instruments needed to perform a
number of procedures. It is also an area
that is usually staffed with additional
Carolyn Fisher, DVM technicians and animal care assistants.
Suburban Animal Hospital There are a couple of reasons why your
Monroe Veterinary Associates pet might need to go to the treatment
room. The first and most important is
the safety of the patient, owner and veterinary staff. Some animals
are better behaved away from their owner or they are protective of
their owner in the exam room. Others may need additional trained staff
members to help safely hold the pet so that necessary procedures can
be performed. As an owner, it may be hard to believe that a beloved pet
would ever bite, but the veterinary office can be a stressful environment
for even the most well-behaved pet. We want to minimize injuries
wherever possible.
There are times when the procedure that needs to be performed is
unpleasant to experience. One example of this is the expression of
anal glands. This procedure, while usually not painful for the pet, is
unpleasant for the owner because of the foul odor from the glands.
Some people are unable to experience things like this without getting
sick themselves. Every veterinarian can tell a story of an owner who
passed out in an exam room when their pet was being treated in front
One final reason why your veterinarian might take your pet “to the back” to have blood
of them. We want to minimize these incidents as much as possible.
drawn or vaccines given is to have a few minutes of one-on-one time with you to review
Sometimes a patient goes to the treatment room simply because the your pet’s health without the distraction of an anxious pet.
staff and equipment needed to perform a task is located in this area. For
Rest assured that your pet is in good hands when he or she is away from you. If you are not
example, if a pet has a wound that needs to be cleaned, it is much easier
sure why your pet needs to go into the treatment room, please ask the veterinary team
to bring the pet to the treatment area for care rather than bringing the
members. They should be able to explain what is going to happen and the reason for the
clippers, cleansers, bandage materials and a technician into the exam
trip to the treatment area.
room. Usually these are all conveniently located in the treatment room.
Sometimes a trip to the treatment room is needed simply because the Dr. Carolyn Fisher is currently the hospital director of Suburban Animal Hospital. A general
equipment is better suited to the task at hand. More space to work, practitioner, Dr. Fisher has cared for pets at Suburban since 1997. She enjoys all aspects of
better lighting and wet tables for messy clean up jobs are just a few veterinary medicine and particularly likes observing and experiencing the special bonds people
examples of this. and their pets share.

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4 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019

Cornerstones to a longer, healthier, happier

life for your pet
Your pets are members of the family. They are the source of some of
your best memories, they are travel companions, confidantes and
your evening snuggle partners. You love them and you want them
to live the longest, healthiest and happiest life possible.
Like it is for you, achieving the healthiest, happiest life for your pet
is directly tied to the cornerstones of preventive care, nutrition and
exercise. To provide insight into how each of these can benefit your
pet, Dr. Kurt Venator, chief veterinary officer for Purina, offers this
advice:
Regular veterinary exams
Your veterinarian and his/her team are the experts when it comes to
the health and well-being of your pet. Prevention is a key component
of regular vet visits; the earlier a potential problem is identified,
the easier it is to treat and the greater the chance of success. The
physical examination, routine diagnostics, vaccinations, heartworm
prevention and parasite control will help keep your pet in tip-top
shape. You can also work with your veterinarian to create a tailored
health plan for your pet that takes into account their age, activity
level and any medical considerations.
Nutrition
In a recent Purina survey, three in five dog and cat owners (60 percent)
would consult their veterinarian for food safety and quality advice,
while just about half refer to their pet food companies’ websites.
Furthermore, when it comes to nutrition, it is important to work
with your veterinarian to select the ideal diet for your pet that is
appropriate for their life stage (i.e., puppy vs. adult) and lifestyle Where is the food produced? Does the company own their manufacturing facilities? At Purina,
(couch potato vs. sporting dog). It is also important to look beyond 99 percent of our food sold in the U.S. is made in our own facilities.
just the ingredient list and marketing claims on the bag. Exercise and enrichment
The nutrients inside should also meet or exceed AAFCO, USDA and An appropriate amount of daily exercise can help reduce the incidence of common behavioral
FDA standards. Many pet owners are unaware of the rigorous process problems in pets. This includes excessive barking, inappropriate chewing and general hyperactivity.
that goes into ensuring quality and safety in pet food, with three in In addition, exercise — combined with appropriate diet quality and quantity — can reduce
five pet owners admitting they didn’t know about the process after the incidence of obesity and associated health conditions, such as osteoarthritis in dogs and
learning more about what goes into the pet food quality-checking diabetes in cats.
process. For pet owners, it’s also important to take the time to look Physical exercise can take on a variety of forms, from leash walks to ball fetch to playtime at
at the company’s manufacturing reputation, along with safety and the local dog park. For those dogs with a predilection for the water, swimming can offer a fun
quality standards. Ask these key questions when evaluating different and effective alternative. And don’t forget that mental exercise is just as important as physical
pet foods: exercise. Obedience training, food puzzle toys, chew toys and trick training — such as roll over
Who formulates the food and what are their credentials? Look or paw — are all beneficial for pets.
for brands with nutritionists and veterinarians on staff to formulate Before starting any exercise regimen with your pet, be sure to consult with your veterinarian to
the diets. Purina has over 500 pet experts globally, including find answers to your questions and learn what activities would best support your pet based on
nutritionists, veterinarians, behaviorists and immunologists who their breed, age and needs.
use their expertise to improve pet nutrition and care.
Taking steps to improve your pet’s health today
What are the company’s quality and safety standards? Purina
conducts more than 30,000 quality checks involving ingredients, Your pet gives you so much and you naturally want to return the favor. You can do so by following
packaging, receiving, processing and packing in a typical 24-hour the three simple suggestions above. Do so and you and your pet will be able to live a longer,
production period. healthier, and happier life together.

“No one appreciates the very special genius of your conversation as much as the dog does.”
—Christopher Morley
 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019 5

Could your pet have ALLERGIES?

Allergies in a pet can be one of the
most challenging and frustrating
situations experienced by both
veterinarians and pet owners. When
thinking about allergies and their
effects on the body, most people
think of seasonal allergies in people,
which cause the common symptoms
of runny, itchy eyes, sneezing and
sinus congestion. This is usually not
the case in our furry friends; cats and
Sarah Gebbie, DVM dogs experiencing allergic reactions
Bayview Animal Hospital typically show signs of skin irritation
Monroe Veterinary Associates and pruritis (itchiness).
Allergic dogs are often seen licking
their paws, scratching their sides, or digging at their ears. Cats
with allergies also become itchy, especially around their face, but
their symptoms can also be as subtle as some scabbing of the skin
without any noticeable itchiness. In general, we can divide pet allergies
into three broad categories: flea allergy, food allergies, and atopy
(seasonal/inhalant allergies).
Flea Allergy
Of all the allergies pets can experience, flea allergy or flea allergy
dermatitis is the easiest to treat and prevent. While some animals can
contract fleas and have fleas on their body without much evidence
or itchiness, some unfortunate pets are actually allergic to the flea’s that the pet has been eating for years. Common symptoms of food allergy are itchiness of the
saliva. This means when a flea bites these cats or dogs, they develop face, neck and feet, as well as recurrent ear infections. Affected animals may also have hair loss
a body-wide allergic reaction resulting in severe itchiness, causing and rashes secondary to scratching.
secondary skin infection and hair loss. The most common pattern of
flea allergy dermatitis is hair loss and scabbing over the lumbar back, If your veterinarian suspects a food allergy, they may recommend starting what is called a
tail base, and/or thighs. It is very common for owners to see their pets hypoallergenic food trial which involves starting the pet on a 6 to 8 week course of a new food
scratching and not see fleas; this is partly because fleas are incredibly that contains ingredients they have never before experienced. Over-the-counter diets can be
adept at hiding (which is why even the keen-eyed veterinarian is lucky used but may be less effective as more and more ingredients that were once considered rare
to find them on an exam!) and because it does not take many fleas to have become more commonplace in regular pet foods (i.e. lamb, rice, fish, potato, etc.). A more
cause this reaction in the flea allergic pet. definitive way to conduct a food trial is often utilizing a prescription food that is either made with
extra rare ingredients (i.e. duck, oats, kangaroo, etc.) or with hydrolyzed proteins (molecules
Treatment of this condition includes both the application of a topical that have been broken down into pieces too small for the immune system to recognize).
flea preventative prescribed by a veterinarian, as well as temporary
medications to relieve the current allergic reaction, such as oral steroids Home-cooked diets can also be an effective option. The key to performing an accurate
or antibiotics. If your pet has this condition, it is imperative to apply a hypoallergenic food trial is making sure that the pet is not fed any other items besides the
prescribed topical flea preventative every month to prevent recurrence. food, as even one stray potato chip or dinner scrap can void the trial! If your pet’s itchiness is
Two things that are important to remember when it comes to fleas are improved by the end of the trial, a decision can be made to stay on the food used for the trial
that our pets can get fleas all year round, no matter what the weather permanently, or to make a change to a more convenient diet with similar ingredients.
(remember, fleas are parasites and direct contact with another flea- Atopy
infested pet or critter can happen even in the dead of winter), and it Atopy or atopic dermatitis is diagnosed when a pet is suspected to be allergic to environmental or
is important to always choose a flea preventative recommended by seasonal allergens (sometimes this diagnosis is made by first ruling out flea and food allergies).
your veterinarian, as many over-the-counter flea topicals are not only Common offenders in cats and dogs include pollens, dander, grasses, trees and fabrics, but
poorly effective, but can come with serious side-effects. the list is nearly endless. The allergy may start off as seasonal, but over a period of years can
Food Allergy become year-round.
Food allergies occur in dogs and cats when the body decides that Atopic dogs often have itchiness of the feet, face, belly and rear end. Cats with this condition
a certain ingredient in the food is a foreign “invader,” causing the can have itchiness of the face but may also simply have areas of hair loss or scabbing (especially
immune system to go on the attack. Because this process can take along the back). Pets with atopy are often so itchy that they traumatize their own skin, causing
time to develop, the allergic ingredient can potentially be something Continued on page 6...

“Cats have it all — admiration, an endless sleep, and company only when they want it.” —Rod McKuen
6 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019

Atlas: A Tail of Hope

PROVIDED BY ROCHESTER HOPE FOR PETS
When Atlas was eight weeks old, he was adopted from a local shelter
by Erica. He was missing one leg due to birthing complications, but
that only made Erica love him more. She modified her apartment so
it was easier for him to get around — steps where he couldn’t jump
high enough and rugs on the floor so he didn’t slip. Atlas fit right into
his new life.
Less than a year after adoption, Atlas began struggling to urinate and
lost his appetite. After a week of taking him to and from the vet’s office,
on Sunday, Erica knew she had to take him to Veterinary Specialists &
Emergency Services. There he was diagnosed with a urinary blockage;
if left untreated, Atlas would die. Despite having other bills and not
knowing how she would pay for the surgery, Erica elected to have it
done — Atlas is part of her family. A friend encouraged her to apply
to Rochester Hope for Pets, and in the end, she was awarded funds to
help pay the bill.
Afterwards, Erica said, “I know it sounds cliche, but I truly think that
Atlas is the one who rescued me.”

Established in 2008, we are a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization funded by the generosity of private
donors. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for pets living in the Greater Rochester area. We do this
by: Offering financial assistance toward veterinary care costs to pet owners during times of need; Assisting
veterinary healthcare teams with continuing education and technology, while allowing them to use the most
up-to-date veterinary medicine techniques, including the most current reference literature for veterinary health
professionals who practice in Monroe and surrounding counties; Enhancing the care and treatment of Pets at
facilities in our region; And partnering with other animal related non-profit organizations.
We encourage you to learn more about our organization through our website, especially our Tails of Hope section,
where we share stories of pets we have been able to help. Sign up to become a volunteer brand enthusiast, and
help us to enhance the care, support, and education in the greater Rochester area.
Rochester Hope for Pets • 524 White Spruce Blvd. • Rochester, NY 14623 • 585-271-2733 x189 • rochesterhopeforpets.org

Continued from page 5...
infections and excoriations. It can be an incredibly frustrating problem for pets
and their owners.
There are generally two paths we can take in treating the atopic pet. The first is
working toward identifying what the pet is allergic to and treating specifically
for that allergen. This may involve blood tests or skin allergy testing (typically
performed by a dermatologist) that identifies if your pet is allergic to a number of
common allergens in the area in which you live. Once this is determined, a series
of allergy shots are designed specifically for your pet. These shots are often given
by the owner at home and are intended to desensitize the pet’s immune system
to the specific allergens. An average of about 80 percent of pets receiving allergy
shots will experience some degree of diminished itchiness within 6 to 12 months.
It is possible for a pet to be allergic to multiple allergens, some of which are not
covered by the shots (i.e. a food allergy), which can contribute to the less than 100
percent response rate. However, even if a pet’s itchiness is lessened by 50 percent,
the remaining itchiness can be manageable with different types of medications.
The second path in treating atopic pets involves utilizing medical management
to control itchiness and prevent secondary infection, regardless of the offending
allergen. Common medications used include medicated shampoos, antihistamines,
fish oil supplements, antibiotics, antifungal agents, and corticosteroids. The goal in
medically treating the allergic pet should always be to heal any current secondary
skin infections and to achieve and maintain a “manageable” itch that will not result
in infection.
As with all types of medical conditions, our pets need us to help them receive
the treatment they require. Whatever medical path is chosen to manage or treat
a specific disease, the most important thing is that our pets are able to live a
comfortable life, free of irritation and pain. Allergies are no exception; there are
many forms of help that your veterinarian can provide to keep your allergic pet
healthy and happy!
Dr. Sarah Ann Gebbie has cared for pets as a general practitioner since 2007. Although
a Pittsford native, she grew up in California. Dr. Gebbie attended the University of
Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and was awarded her Doctorate of Veterinary
Medicine in 2006. Soft tissue surgery is just one of her many professional interests.
She also enjoys working with more species than cats and dogs; she regularly sees
exotic and pocket pets, including rabbits, ferrets, chinchillas, guinea pigs and rodents.
 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019 7

Rochester
Hope for Pets’
Explorer
Program
BY ABI VAN NOSTRAND
MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS
COORDINATOR
MONROE VETERINARY ASSOCIATES
Rochester Hope for Pets has partnered with Scouts of
America for another year to bring a veterinary career
exploration program to local students.
Participating students spend one Thursday per month
with Dr. Carolyn Fisher and CSR/ACA Supervisor, Steph
Gilbert, from Suburban Animal Hospital learning about
the animal care field. Although these two ladies are
already busy with the day-to-day workload of their
Fear Free Certified Practice, they happily make time to
volunteer and help educate these young people about June. Students learn about pet CPR, different roles in a veterinary hospital, and take trips to other animal care
the profession they’ve come to love. facilities like Lollypop Farm. Visit www.senecawaterways.org to learn more about exploring programs. Rochester
Hope for Pets is a non-profit providing financial help to pet owners faced with overwhelming veterinary bills. Learn
So — why do they do it? more at rochesterhopeforpets.org.
Dr. Fisher answered, “I love teaching people about
veterinary medicine ... Everyone should ‘give back’ to
their community and Explorers was a way that I could
do that with my skill set. I also saw it as an opportunity
7TH ANNUAL
CHICKEN BAR-B-Q!
to showcase our profession to the community.”
The importance of these programs is highlighted in Dr.
Fisher’s own experience. She participated in a similar
program: “I was a Zoo Explorer when I was young. It For Rochester Hope for Pets!
was run by Dr. Jeff Wyatt who was the zoo veterinarian
at the time. I loved it! I learned a lot about the zoo Hosted by
animals and how they were cared for.”
This experience helped shape her career, and is one
Compassionate care... for life!
of the reasons she is now involved with running an
explorer program herself. All proceeds benefit
Rochester HOPE for Pets!
APRIL 13
Steph Gilbert had a similar experience, “when the
opportunity came to be a part of the Veterinary Helping pets and pet owners
Explorers, I jumped at the chance to work with faced with overwhelming
students.” Also having participated in a Zoo Explorer 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM and unexpected
program when she was young, she said, “It [the veterinary bills.
Explorer’s Program] gave me an opportunity to learn
more about the role that zoos play in conservation At Runnings of Canandaigua
and care for a variety of animals. It made me realize
that I wanted a career that would allow me to work
MEALS ARE $10
with animals.” Meals include half a chicken, coleslaw
or mac salad, dessert and a drink
This program began in September and runs through
8 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019
 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019 9

FELINE PARASITES screening, prevention and treatment

Parasites are organisms that live in, with,
or on another organism and depend upon
them for existence or support. Parasites
can cause disease themselves or transfer
diseases to other species, including cats
and people. Our feline companions need to
be provided with appropriate internal and
external parasite control to help protect
them and create a safer environment for
our families and communities. Internal
parasites can invade different areas of the
Joanne Hach, DVM body. For example, there are parasites
Cats & Critters found primarily in the intestines (including
Monroe Veterinary Associates roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms)
and parasites found primarily in the blood
(including heartworm). External parasites live on the skin of the animal or
person. Fleas and ticks are examples of external parasites.
Cats can be exposed to and become infected with intestinal parasites in
a variety of situations. Signs of intestinal parasites can range from no
signs to vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, decreased appetite, or enlarged times per year — even indoor only cats. Strategic or routine deworming may also
abdomens (pot bellies). Heavy infestations can be fatal in young kittens. be recommended in adult cats based on their lifestyle and risk of exposure to these
Roundworms can be passed from the mother cat to young kittens through parasites.
the milk. Many indoor-outdoor cats are exposed through consuming In a multi-cat household it may be rather difficult to obtain individual stool samples.
infected prey or by grooming infective eggs off of their fur or feet. Human Therefore a representative sample can be obtained from the litter box. If a problem
infection can occur when infective eggs are accidentally ingested from the is identified, all cats in the household will need to be treated. Treatment depends on
environment such as while gardening or children playing in contaminated the type of parasite found or suspected. There are many safe and effective parasite
sandboxes. prevention and treatment options available.
Hookworms can be acquired in cats through ingestion of infected prey Heartworm disease is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. The mosquito
or infective larvae. Hookworm larvae can also burrow directly through carries heartworm larvae which are injected into the tissue at the bite wound site. As
the skin of cats and people. Diseases in people, as a result of round or the larvae develop they can enter the blood vessels and be carried to the arteries in the
hookworm exposure, can be devastating due to larval migration and lungs. In cats the larvae induce an intense inflammatory response in the blood vessels
damage in the eye, brain or other organ systems. and tissues of the lungs. Many of the immature worms may die at this stage however
Tapeworms depend on an intermediate host to be transferred to and infect severe damage likely has already occurred in the lung blood vessels. Adult heartworms
cats’ intestinal tracts. For example cats become infected by consuming may survive in the cat’s body for one to two plus years. Death of the adult heartworm
a prey animal infected with larvae or grooming and consuming a flea can also induce an inflammatory response and acute lung injury.
carrying larvae off their bodies. There are a wide range of clinical signs that may be observed in cats with a heartworm
Screening for intestinal parasites is generally performed by fecal analysis. infection — coughing, difficulty breathing, intermittent vomiting, sudden death,
In some cases specialized tests or multiple fecal exams are needed to make weight loss, lethargy and diarrhea. Cats do not need adult heartworms to exhibit
a diagnosis. Kittens should have a fecal analysis and strategic deworming clinical signs as it is the larvae that are the main cause of problems. Definitive diagnosis
performed 2-4 times in the first year of life because they are at a higher of heartworm disease in cats can be difficult as there may be a low number of adult
risk for intestinal parasites. Adult cats should have a fecal analysis 1-2 Continued on Page 12...

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Complete kit with base and tunnel. $39.99, www.
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10 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019
 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019 11

Spring time
safety

BY ABI VAN NOSTRAND | MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR | MONROE VETERINARY ASSOCIATES

Ahh, Spring. Spring brings about much regrowth, warmth, and light. This
is certainly needed after a long Rochester winter, but It can also bring about many
dangers for our beloved pets. While you enjoy this changing season, make sure to
stay aware of impending threats to our pets.
Flowers
Springtime means we can look forward to beautiful flowers re-appearing all around
us. Although beautiful and welcome after many cold months and several feet of
bitter snow, they can pose massive threats to our furry family members. Make sure
you take inventory of the foliage and floral growth that exists in your yard. Pets
might get curious and eat something toxic such as lilies, azaleas, daffodils, tulips
and many other plants.
Tick Bloom
Spring brings about the first of two large annual tick blooms (the other occurs in the
fall, around November). Ticks are an especially large threat in our area. To protect
your pet, make sure they are up-to-date on tick preventative and Lyme vaccines.
Easter
Although Easter is a fun and celebratory time for many, it brings many risks into
your home. Be especially careful of ribbon and plastic Easter grass, as cats tend to
nibble on these items playfully and may ingest by accident. Candy is also a major
threat, especially anything containing chocolate or xylitol (artificial sweetener).
Around Easter, you may also have an urge to bring a sweet little bunny or chick
into your family — resist this urge. These pets are cute, but they grow into adult
animals that can be quite the responsibility.
On the Go
The sun is out, and that means it’s time to venture back out into the world. Enjoy
going on trips and long walks with your fur-friend, but keep their safety in mind.
Although it is cute when a pup has their head out the car window and their ears
flapping in the wind — but please think twice about allowing this behavior. This is
a perfect time for a bug or other debris to fly into your pet’s eye and cause damage.
Pets should ideally be buckled into a pet car seat or use pet specific seatbelts.
Walks + Trips = Microchips!
Make sure your pet has the proper identification in the forms of both microchip
and ID tag. Your pet may get lost in the bustle of outdoor activities, and you’ll want
to make sure they are safe.

Rescue comes in unexpected ways for one man and his dog in this moving and
redemptive novel. Cooper Harrison, a member of the Boston K-9 unit, never
thought he would ever go back to his hometown, Harmony Farms. But when his
faithful canine partner, Argos, is killed in the line of duty, Cooper finds himself
mired in grief. Jobless, on the verge of a divorce, and in a self-destructive rut,
Cooper has little choice but to accept an offer for the position of animal control
officer in Harmony Farms. And so he finds himself back where he started. Cooper
does his job with deliberate detachment, refusing to get emotionally invested
in another dog the way he had with Argos. Until he finds himself trying to
rescue a wounded and gun-shy yellow Lab gone feral.
Cooper never thought he’d find himself going back in order to move forward, yet
Harmony Farms is the one place where Cooper must learn to forgive and, only
The Dog Who Saved Me then, to heal. All with the help of a yellow dog, who has a history-and secrets-
by Susan Wilson that Cooper must uncover. $6.98, www.barnesandnoble.com.
12 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019
Continued from Page 9...
heartworms or single sex population of heartworm. In addition, the clinical disease
may be observed after the larvae have died off and/or in the absence of adult
heartworms.
Screening for heartworm is generally recommended on an individual basis —
especially if a patient is symptomatic for heartworm disease. Unfortunately, there
is no specific safe treatment to eradicate adult heartworm in cats. Even though
heartworm disease is quite harmful and potentially fatal to cats, it is also very
preventable with regular administration of heartworm preventative products.
Fleas, ticks and mites are external parasites that can become a nuisance and
harbor disease for cats and their human families. The most common flea on both
cats and dogs is Ctenocephalides felis (the cat flea). The adult flea lives almost
exclusively on the host (our feline and canine companions) for up to 3 to 4 months.
The environment readily becomes contaminated and infested with the flea eggs,
larvae and pupae. The flea generally completes its life cycle in 3 to 4 weeks but
it can also lie dormant in the pupae stage for up to 6 months awaiting another
host. This can lead to the perception of poor response to treatment as additional
fleas hatch 1-2 months post initial treatment. Eradicating fleas requires consistent
monthly parasite control (for a minimum of 3 to 4 months consecutively) and
diligent cleaning of the pet’s home environment.
The presence of fleas on a cat can be detected with a flea comb and looking for
flea dirt (dried excreted blood from the fleas) or live fleas. Some cats may not
demonstrate any signs of fleas, however most cats will have a range of flea-
induced skin conditions such as itchiness, over grooming, hair loss and scabs. A
subpopulation of cats can develop more intense reactions (flea allergy dermatitis)
due to a hypersensitivity to flea salvia. In addition to skin problems, flea
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infestation can lead to significant blood loss in a young kitten or debilitated
cat. Transmission of specific blood borne infections, including Mycoplasma
haemofelis, that can cause hemolytic anemia (destruction of red blood cells) in
cats may be associated with fleas. Flea infestation not only can be an irritation
to the pet but can serve as vector of disease including bubonic plague, typhus
and bartonella for people, too.
Ticks are parasitic invertebrates that can live for years in our outdoor (and
indoor) environments. Ticks can be a cause for itchiness, blood loss and painful
wounds with the potential for secondary bacterial infections. The prevalence
and type of ticks vary in different parts of the country and our communities.
They can also carry and transmit diseases including ehrlichiosis, haemotropic
mycoplasmas, hepatozoonosis and cytauxzoonosis to our feline companions
and our families.
Proper parasite control should begin with a complete physical exam every 6
to 12 months depending on the age of the cat and include a discussion with
your veterinarian regarding your cat’s risk factors. Questions to discuss may
include travel away from home, other pets in the home, boarding and lifestyle
(indoor only vs. indoor/outdoor). Every cat, whether indoor only or indoor-
outdoor, should be provided with routine screening, prevention and treatment
for internal (heartworm, intestinal worms) and external (fleas, ticks, mites)
parasites. Indoor cats can be exposed to similar parasites as indoor-outdoor
cats through companion pets in household, boarding facilities, insects and
human traffic in the home.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC), Companion Animal Parasite Council
(CAPC) and the American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists (AAVP)
has compiled a set of recommendations to guide veterinarians in making
appropriate decisions for your cat. There are many effective parasite prevention
products available to help protect our feline companions. Discuss the options
with your veterinarian to determine which is best for your cat/kitten.
Flea prevention is recommended year round for all cats as we have certainly
seen indoor cats with flea infestations in the middle of winter. These products
can be started as soon as the products allow in young kittens and continued
for the life of the cat.
Tick prevention may be needed depending on the outdoor environment in
which your cat explores and hunts. It is also recommended to provide year
round broad spectrum prevention for heartworm and intestinal parasites
for all cats and kittens. Another level of prevention for our cats and against
potential zoonotics for people is provided by feeding only cooked or prepared
foods to our feline companions, practicing general good hygiene and daily
cleaning of the litter box. Unfortunately, there is less control over the diet of
indoor-outdoor cats and greater potential for exposure to internal and external
parasites.
For many of us, feline companions are an important part of our daily lives. They
can bring us great joy and comfort and deserve the appropriate attention and
care to keep them safe and healthy. In turn we help to maintain our homes and
communities making a safer place for everyone. Remember to consult your
veterinarian on a routine basis regarding your cat’s needs in terms of general
wellness, vaccinations, dietary information and parasite control.
Dr. Joanne Hach is the hospital director at Cats & Critters Veterinary Hospital,
where she has cared for animals since 2002. A native of Randolph, NJ, Dr. Hach
attended Bucknell University and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry.
Following her undergraduate studies, she completed a Master’s Degree program
in Biochemistry at the University of Pennsylvania. She went on to attend the New
York State College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University and was awarded
her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2001. Dr. Hach is a member of the
American Association of Feline Practitioners, New York State Veterinary Medical
Society and the American Veterinary Medical Association.
 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019 13

Prevent
pet poisoning

BY ABI VAN NOSTRAND | MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR | MONROE VETERINARY ASSOCIATES

DYK: March is pet poison prevention awareness month. Let’s take the time
to educate ourselves and others about how to prevent our pets from encountering
toxic substances. Some of the most common toxins treated by veterinarian are:
Garden Products
Herbicides, fungicides and fertilizers are the main culprits here. Assume that if your
pet can get to it, they will ingest it. Refrain from using these products in any area
that your pet may roam unsupervised (i.e. fenced in areas).
Plants
Many plants are harmful to pets including lilies, crocuses, azaleas, daffodils, tulips
and many more. Keep gardens and pets separated as much as possible, and when
you have fresh cut flowers indoors, make sure they are out of reach. Lilies are an
especially large threat for kitties, as they get particularly curious when the sweet
smelling flowers show up on their turf.
Food
Although it may feel fun and special to slip a bit of food to Fido under the table —
be cautious. Not only does this encourage poor begging behavior, but many foods
can be toxic or contain risks. Grapes, chocolate, artificial sweetener (specifically
xylitol), garlic and alcohol are just a few of the things you should be worried about.
Animal bones can be deadly to animals if accidentally swallowed. Your best bet is
to keep human food for the humans, and pet food for your pets.
Household items
Cleaners, paints, glue and other household substances can be deadly to pets. Even
if something claims to be “all natural” it can still be harmful. Make sure to keep
them out of the way and securely closed.
Veterinary Products
Veterinary products are becoming much more advanced and efficient to give to pets.
Human medications
Pets all too often get into their human’s pills and medications. Whether it’s
prescription or over the counter, make sure you are keeping it away from your
pets and that they are secure. When filling pill boxes or taking medications, you
should stay in an area away from pets in case of spills.

Dogs have three eyelids. The third lid, called a
nictitating membrane or “haw,” keeps the eye
lubricated and protected.
Dogs have a wet nose to collect more of the tiny
droplets of smelling chemicals in the air.
Dogs like sweets a lot more than cats do. While cats
have around 473 taste buds, dogs have about 1,700
taste buds. Humans have approximately 9,000.
The smallest dog on record was a matchbox-size
Yorkshire Terrier. It was 2.5” tall at the shoulder, 3.5”
from nose tip to tail, and weighed only 4 ounces.
Dogs have lived with humans for over 14,000 years.
Cats have lived with people for only 7,000 years.
During the Middle Ages, Great Danes and Mastiffs
were sometimes suited with armor and spiked
collars to enter a battle or to defend supply
caravans.
Greyhounds appear to be the most ancient dog
breed. “Greyhound” comes from a mistake in
translating the early German name Greishund,
which means “old (or ancient) dog,” not from the
color gray.
14 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019

Ask a Vet...
My dog is avoiding his food and water dishes. Why?
Dogs may shy away or stop using a food or water dish for a number
of reasons. It is important to clean and disinfect the bowls routinely.
Foul odors can turn your pet away from the bowl.
Check your pet’s collar. Metal tags or collar decor may be clanking
against the bowl making a scary noise. This can cause your pet to
become anxious about using the bowl.
Make sure the bowl is not located next to a machine that suddenly
kicks on or cycles and makes a noise while your pet eats. This may
frighten him/her from the dish. For example: a dishwasher, air
purifier, dehumidifier, washer, dryer or furnace.
Dental pain may be another cause. If your pet has a toothache he/she
may associate the pain with eating from a bowl and refuse to eat from
it. Your veterinarian can identify the many causes of mouth pain.
If you have more than one pet, evaluate your pets’ interactions.
Sometimes one pet may intimidate another around food sources. It
may be just a look the dominant pet gives the other. The submissive
pet may not approach the bowl if the other pet is in the room. Try
feeding them separately.
Another reason could be that your pet is experiencing neck pain or a
neurological problem that makes it painful for your pet to bend over
the food bowl. Elevate the bowl by placing it on a low table or a couple
of phone books, or purchase a pet bowl stand for this purpose.
Any sudden change in behavior, such as differences in eating patterns,
warrants a trip to the veterinary hospital. Your dog is trying to tell you
tumors).
Various types of viral, bacterial and parasitic infections can all cause
vomiting, as can inflammatory diseases of the stomach and intestines
(otherwise known as inflammatory bowel disease). Toxins found in
certain drugs, plants or chemicals can also irritate the stomach and
result in vomiting.
Non-GI disease can also cause vomiting. The build-up of toxins in
the blood stream can stimulate a part of the brain to induce vomiting.
Disease elsewhere in the belly can also impact the normal functions
of the stomach.
Any case of on-going vomiting is always worth a visit to the
veterinarian. Your vet will begin by taking a thorough history of
your cat and the issue, including asking you about the frequency and
timing of vomiting, what and how much your cat has been eating, any
current medications/supplements you are giving, and general health
questions. Your vet will also perform a full physical exam, including
an assessment of your cat’s body condition and abdominal palpation.
It is very likely that further diagnostic tests may be needed. Imaging
tests like abdominal radiographs (x-rays) and an abdominal
ultrasound can look for foreign material or obstructions, assess
stomach and intestinal wall thickness and examine other abdominal
organs, such as the liver, pancreas, kidneys and bladder (all of which
can play a role in vomiting). Laboratory tests like blood work and
urinalysis are also very helpful in ruling out many causes of vomiting,
such as kidney and liver disease.
As you can see, many, many things can cause vomiting — some quite
serious, others more benign. I wish you and your kitty the best as you
continue to investigate this problem.
Katie Fish, DVM
Perinton Veterinary Hospital
Cat have
you curious?

Pooch have
that something is wrong.
Dr. Kathryn O’Neill

you puzzled?
Irondequoit Animal Hospital

My 11-year-old cat has been vomiting up water. Why?

Many issues can cause vomiting in cats.
Want answers to your questions?
First, we need to determine if the problem is originating in the
gastrointestinal (GI) tract (the stomach and intestines) or if the Email your questions to
problem lies elsewhere. GI tract problems can include obstructions marketing@monroevets.com
that block the normal movement of solids and liquids. These can be
caused by foreign objects, such as toys and strings, or masses (e.g.
 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 2019 15

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