Dr. Damron's pet articles from the Stockton Record

Heartworm shouldn't be ignored

Canines and felines are now more at risk for Heartworm than ever before. The recent change in rainfall patterns has allowed mosquitoes to flourish in our area. On average Sierra Veterinary clinic diagnoses 6-7 cases of canine Heartworm per year. It is only May, and we have already identified this deadly disease in 5 dogs. In the past, many of the pets had traveled outside of California; now most of the patients are just local inhabitants. Please protect your cherished companions with routine preventatives.

Heart-worm is a deadly disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes. Even indoor pets can be exposed to mosquitoes, and it only takes one bite by an infected mosquito to create a problem.

Intervertebral disc disease in animals

Any dog can develop intervertebral disc disease. In between each back bone there is a soft material that cushions the space between each vertebra, allowing for movement, and preventing the bones from rubbing against each other. As the body ages, the pad of fibrocartilage tissue becomes much harder, making the disc more prone to rupture.

Some dog breeds, especially Dachshunds, Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus, Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Pekingeses, and Doberman Pinchers are prone to this problem. The discs in the Dachshund age prematurely due to water loss, cellular necrosis, and calcification. As a result, making the material becomes more brittle and prone to breaking apart. When material oozes out of the discs, it can put pressure on the spinal cord causing a wide range of problems from limited activity, stiffness, pain, hunched back, crying out, inability to urinate or defecate, paresis-partial loss of movement, to paralysis-loss of muscle function, full loss of movement. This problem also occurs in felines; but is much less common.

Dogs can benefit from using a treadmill

Exercise is important for dogs, just like it is in people. Increasing your canine’s activity level is not only a good way to maintain a healthy weight; but it can help to prevent joint and bone disease, improve heart health, and protect against diabetes. Treadmills also have the advantage that they can be used regardless of the weather, light, or time of day. This is also a great option for pet owners who are not physically able to walk their companions. Aquatic, or water filled tanks with a treadmill at the bottom are now more commonly used for physical therapy in patients that are recovering from bone or joint surgeries, as well as others who are covering from trauma.

Draft horses can do a lot more than pull carts

Draft horses can do a lot more than pull carts or heavy equipment. With practice, they can be just as agile as other horses for trail riding, dressage, and other equine activities. A local Draft Horse Quadrille Drill Team has been recently formed. This group was co-founded by Anita Dayton, the owner/trainer of K.I.S.S. Horse Center home to the rescue group Hope for Horses in Galt, CA; and Rebecca Brackney owner of Brackney Pet Services and photography studios in Rio Linda, CA.

Last October I wrote a pet column that featured Anita Dayton, a long time equestrian, trainer, horse rescuer, and owner of K.I.S.S. Horse Center. She is now in the process of creating a non-profit called Hope for Horses. This group is dedicated to caring for and rehoming horses in need.

Common Skin Conditions in Animals

Skin conditions are a frequent problem for animals. On a daily basis veterniarians treat patients for rashes, hair loss, and itchiness. These symptoms can occur individually or together; and can be caused by several underlying health issues. Sometimes multiple factors can be contributing to a problem. This can complicate a diagnosis, and extend treatment times. Depending on the underlying cause, some conditions require life long therapy or prevention. This article is meant to be an overview of the most common skin conditions in dogs and cats, and is in no way meant to include all of the many skin conditions that can occur in these species.