Pets risk developing different types of cancer, just as humans do, and it is commonly seen in cats and dogs. Certain breeds of dogs have a higher risk of developing cancer at a young age, but most often, cancer is diagnosed in middle-aged and senior pets. Up to 70% of ferrets over the age of three will develop insulinoma, lymphoma, and/or adrenal cancer. Rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, and birds are also at risk but are excellent masters of disguise; the cancer is likely to have already spread when they start showing signs of illness.

Over 100 types of cancers affect our animal companions. Some types of cancers diagnosed in pets are the same as those in humans, including mammary gland cancer and lymphoma; leukemia is the most common cancer diagnosed in cats.

Some common types of cancers diagnosed in companion pets are:

• Blood and lymphatic cancers (lymphoma and leukemia)
• Skin cancer
• Mammary gland (breast) tumors (in unspayed females)
• Mast cell tumors
• Bone cancers
• Oral cancers
• Abdominal organ cancer (e.g., spleen, liver)

The cause of many pet cancers is unknown, making prevention difficult; however, certain cancers can be prevented. Taking the following steps can reduce the incidence of certain cancers:

• Spaying reduces the risk of mammary gland and uterine cancer in female cats, dogs, rabbits, and other small mammals.
• Neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer in cats, dogs, rabbits, and other small mammals.
• Keeping your pet out of the sun, especially between 10 am and 4 pm, reduces the risk of some forms of skin cancer.
• Vaccinating your cat with the feline leukemia vaccine prevents infection with the feline leukemia virus.
• Avoid smoking inside—secondhand smoke can cause cancer in pets, too.

Early detection and treatment are the best ways to increase the life expectancy of a pet with cancer. The warning signs of cancer in pets are similar to those in humans. Sometimes there are no obvious signs, so whenever your pet appears unwell or something is unusual, check with your veterinarian. Some warning signs to look for include the following:

• General malaise and lethargy
• Lumps, bumps, or discolored skin
• Wounds that do not heal
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Unexplained lameness or swelling of joints and bones
• Bleeding from the mouth, nose, or any other opening
• Difficulty eating
• Persistent diarrhea or vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss

Many of the above signs can be seen with conditions unrelated to cancer but still need prompt attention. If any of the above signs are observed in your pet, see your veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment plan. Annual or bi-annual routine health checks can help your veterinarian detect subtle signs before you notice them. For small mammals and birds, routine health checks twice yearly are especially important!

Although frightening, a cancer diagnosis does not necessarily mean your pet won’t survive. In many cases, pets can be treated successfully, especially if caught early. The goal of treatment is to slow the growth or eliminate it entirely while still giving your pet a good quality of life. Cancer treatments for pets don’t have the same degree of side effects as those for humans, so don’t let the word “chemotherapy” scare you.

Take your pet to your veterinarian for regular wellness checks. Get into the habit of checking your pet over at home between check-ups – this way, you know what is normal for your pet, allowing you to seek veterinary care sooner if you notice something unusual.

LifeLearn News

Note: This article, written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written permission of Lifelearn. Please note that the news information presented here is NOT a substitute for a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian.

It seems impossible to imagine our pets serving as these unsung heroes did—that’s because these brave animals changed how we viewed and treated them after their service. Tomorrow is Remembrance Day; let’s take a moment to acknowledge WWI’s furry and feathered soldiers and what connects them to our family pets.

How these animals served the war effort

Equine
Horses, donkeys, and mules represented the most significant animal contribution to the war effort by far—it’s estimated that 5-6 million served in WWI.

Horses are best known for their service in the cavalry, galloping into battle on the front lines. Most notable, however, was their draught work—pulling heavy wagons of artillery, supplies, lumber, and injured soldiers. Heavy and light horses were used for different roles, but the Percheron exemplified the ideal draught horse for its strong neck and quarters, shorter legs and back, and intelligent, calm nature.

Mules are horse-donkey hybrids. Compared with horses, their hybrid qualities make them capable of doing more work on less food and more resilient against disease and injury. Mules were valued for their ability to traverse rough terrains, such as mountains and cliffsides.

Like mules, donkeys were also helpful in the mountains but could tolerate higher temperatures, and because of their smaller stature, they were commonly used in the trenches.

Canine
Large breed dogs were also used for draught work; for example, the Belgian Mastiff, known for its superior strength, and the Maremma Sheepdog, capable of working in freezing cold mountains. German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, and Airedale Terriers were famous for carrying messages and medical supplies. Their superior senses of smell and hearing made them essential in search and rescue endeavors.

Medium breeds, such as Collies, carried messages and supplies and aided in search and rescue. Border Collies, for example, are very trainable, fast, and athletic, and because their coats are mostly black, they are almost invisible at night. When surrounded by the enemy, the Border Collie could escape and carry messages for help.

Rats were everywhere in the trenches, spreading disease and destroying supplies. The US Army utilized small mix-breed terriers as “ratters”, using their hunting nature to remove rodents from the trenches. Additionally, they provided much-needed companionship to the exhausted and overwhelmed men who would stay in the trenches for up to six days at a time.

Avian
Telephone communication wasn’t always possible during WWI, so pigeons stepped up as the next best thing. Pigeons can fly about 75mph and cover about 300 miles in a single trip. They were essential in carrying messages between command centers, the battlefield, and troops at sea. European and American forces employed an estimated 100,000 pigeons—their delivery success rate was 95%!

Ever heard the phrase “canary in a coal mine”? Canaries are 15 times more sensitive to gas than humans and, during WWI, were used to warn troops of the presence of gas before it could cause any adverse effects. Canaries and other songbirds were also often kept by soldiers as morale-boosting pets with their uplifting melodies.

Other animals served in the First World War, including cats, goats, and non-working dog breeds. Many of these animals were homeless, often displaced strays, and adopted by soldiers. Some performed tasks, but most were valued for their companionship, many becoming mascots.

How the animals of war serve the animals of today
For thousands of years, most domestic animals were used for work and war and were often considered disposable. Veterinary care was available but not regularly sought for sick and injured animals. The animals who served in WWI were so vital to the war effort that they were widely identified as indispensable. Animal welfare organizations, such as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) and the Blue Cross, were essential in caring for sick and injured war animals and, in doing so, raised public awareness of animal suffering in the press. Advantageously, this:

• Improved fundraising efforts to support the animals at war
• Inspired people to adopt animal survivors when their service ended
• Made people reconsider how animals should be treated (providing resources and veterinary care, the concept of companionship, etc.)

“My prayer is that what we have gone through (World War One) will startle the world into some new realization of the sanctity of life, animal as well as human.” – Christopher Morley, author of the poem, On Vimy Ridge

LifeLearn News

Note: This article, written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written permission of Lifelearn. Please note that the news information presented here is NOT a substitute for a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian.

Sure, puppies and kittens are cute, but adopting puppies and kittens can be a lot more work: ‘accident’ clean-ups, crazy midnight play sessions, and training to name a few.

There are many advantages to adopting an older cat or dog. Here are five great reasons to consider a senior pet:

1. They’re trained. Older dogs are typically house-trained and understand important commands like ‘sit’ and ‘stay’. You will save yourself a lot of time and money usually needed to train a puppy, and you will be able to jump right into enjoying long walks and playing fetch. If you choose to add additional tricks to your pet’s repertoire, you can teach an old cat or dog new tricks! Older pets typically learn tricks more easily because they have longer attention spans than younger ones.
2. What you see is what you get. Because the pet is fully grown, there are no mysteries about what size the pet will be, the pet’s personality, how thick the coat will be, or the level of care he will need. You can also find out if the pet lived with children and other pets and how compatible they were. Senior pets often come to you with medical history – if he has a medical condition, you will know what that condition is and how it’s treated right from day one. Most shelters will continue or begin treatment before the pet is adopted.
3. They’re less destructive. Puppies can be destructive. Because they have all their adult teeth (or may be missing a couple), senior pets tend not to chew on table legs, shoes, couches, and everything else within their reach. Senior pets are often thought of as ‘problem pets’ but as outlined above, they usually lose their home for reasons other than their behavior or personality.
4. They’re calmer. Older pets have already gone through their ‘need-to-burn-off-energy-like-there’s-no-tomorrow’ phase of life. They are usually much more relaxed and have established their personality and character. By asking shelter employees about the pet’s character, you will know if the pet will fit into your household and lifestyle. These lower-energy pets are great for senior citizens looking for a companion pet, young families with children or families who have had the “puppy or kitten experience” and are looking for an older pet that comes without training needs.
5. You are a hero. For one reason or another, many senior pets in shelters have been separated from their lifelong companions and way of life, which can be really hard for them. Adopting a senior pet provides a loving home for the pet to live out his or her golden years.

If you are thinking of adopting a pet, consider adopting a senior pet looking for a loving family!

LifeLearn News

Note: This article, written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written permission of Lifelearn. Please note that the news information presented here is NOT a substitute for a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian.

December 2nd is National Mutt Day, a day to celebrate all the wonderful mixed-breed dogs out there. And while the name “mutt” and “mongrel” may seem like bad words, owners of mix-breed dogs think of these terms of badges of honor.

Established in 2005 and celebrated twice a year, National Mutt Day was created to raise awareness for all the dogs in shelters hoping to be placed in loving homes. This day also serves to educate the public about how wonderful mixed-breed dogs can be.

Most dogs (around 75%) that end up in shelters, humane societies, and rescue facilities are mixed-breed dogs. They are also the largest percent euthanized. Mixed breed dogs, or ‘mutts’, can make for a pet every bit as wonderful as a purebred dog. As we can see by the booming trend of designer dog breeds (the breeds that are mixed purposefully to create puppies with the desired traits of two breeds), sometimes you can have the best of both worlds with mixed-breed dogs.

There are many other reasons to choose a mixed-breed dog.

• Mixed breeds tend to be healthier than purebred dogs. Many purebred breeds are prone to breed-specific genetic conditions. Mixed-breed dogs come from a more diverse gene pool, so they tend to be healthier and heartier, with genes from one breed able to overcome disease-prone ones from another breed.
• Mixed breed dogs are often easy-going and well-behaved once properly trained and socialized. Many shelter animals can have behavioral issues, either ones that caused their owners to give them up in the first place or those that develop during their time in shelters. You should be prepared to put in the time and effort to train and socialize a rescue dog. That being said, purebreds can often have breed-specific behavioral extremes and temperaments; however, just like the wider gene pool can make mixed-breeds healthier, it can also give them a more even-keeled temperament, especially with a committed owner.
• Mixed breeds also tend to live longer lives. This follows from the healthier nature of mixed-breed dogs. Most purebred breeds have an established life expectancy, usually influenced by those conditions the breed is predisposed to. With mixed-breed dogs, healthier genes can lead to a much longer life expectancy.

It is usually cheaper to adopt from a shelter than to buy from a breeder. Purebred dogs can sell for staggeringly high costs, depending on the breed and breeder. While all dogs cost money on an ongoing basis, for food, toys, vet care, etc., the upfront costs of adopting from a shelter are usually much less. Often shelters will spay or neuter the dog and make sure its shots are up to date before they go home with you.

If you are not ready or able to adopt a mixed breed from a shelter, you can still contribute or get involved locally! Donate money to your local animal shelter, or give food, toys, and other supplies that are always needed. You can also volunteer your time to walk dogs and help out in the shelter. No matter how small your contribution, the mixed breed dogs of the world will thank you!

LifeLearn News

Note: This article, written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written permission of Lifelearn. Please note that the news information presented here is NOT a substitute for a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian.

Everyone enjoys giving gifts during the holidays. For pet owners, the same is true in giving gifts to our furry friends. But, it’s easy to break the bank when it comes to gift giving, so take a moment and think about what your pet really needs…and then splurge with a couple of small, special treats!

Beds. Check your pet’s bed – is it a frayed or worn out? A soft new bed might be appreciated by your pup or kitty.

Toys. Toys wear out, get chewed apart, or simply become boring. Consider adding a couple of new toys to your pet’s repertoire. A bonus with new toys is that your pets will be distracted from all the temptations of Christmas decorations, gift wrap and ribbon.

Grooming Tools. Grooming is great way to spend quality time with your pet on a daily basis. Try a new grooming mitt or glove to remove shedding hair from your cat, or new bottles of dog shampoo and conditioner for a special spa day with your dog.

Toothbrush. Consider purchasing a new toothbrush for your furry friend. Your pet may not thank you, but your pocketbook will if your pet’s teeth stay healthy and sparkling clean!

Collar, Harness, or Leash. Has your pet’s collar, harness, or leash seen better days? Maybe a festive collar is in order to include your pet in holiday fun!

Treats. The holidays would not be complete without a few treats for your pet! Make sure they are healthy treats and don’t overindulge by adding too many calories to your pet’s diet. As a double bonus, look for treats that will be healthy for your pet’s teeth by looking for the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s seal of approval.

Time and Cuddles. During the hustle and bustle of the holidays, pets can be overlooked as we dash out to visit family and friends leaving our furry friends behind. Set aside some quiet time each day to pamper your cat or dog. Consider a long walk, an extended play session, and extra cuddle time with your pets.

And don’t feel guilty if your pet’s gift is actually something that makes YOUR life easier. For example, a self-cleaning litterbox or raised food/water dishes that prevent spillage. Remember, a gift given is a gift received, even for our pets!

LifeLearn News

Note: This article, written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written permission of Lifelearn. Please note that the news information presented here is NOT a substitute for a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian.