In This Issue

● Mutts vs. Purebreds: Who’s Healthier?
● Cushing’s Disease
● Risk To Beach-Loving Pups
● What Your Dog’s Bark Is Telling You
● Heartworm Testing 101
● Expert Water Safety Tips

Recent Food Recalls

6/12/20 – Carnivora Fresh Frozen Patties
3/23/20 – IcelandicPlus Fish Treats
2/14/20 – Aunt Jeni’s Frozen Raw Pet Food
2/07/20 – UK Happy Hounds Frozen Raw Dog Food
1/16/20 – Black Hawk Dry Dog Food

HEALTH ALERT #1

Mutts vs. Purebreds: Who’s Healthier?

When it comes to the mutts vs. purebreds debate, it seems everyone has an opinion as to which are inherently healthier. Some argue that purebreds are more susceptible to genetic disorders, while others claim mutts are more likely to be strays, and therefore prone to parasites and infections.

In a massive study by UC Davis, researchers scoured the veterinary records of 90,000 purebred, mixed breed, and designer dogs (like Puggles and Goldendoodles) for genetic disorders.

Find out what they discovered, and how misconceptions about shelter dogs affect mixed breeds.

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Even unlit fireworks can be dangerous to your dog. Many contain toxic substances like potassium nitrate, arsenic and other heavy metals.

HAPPY, HEALTHY MUST HAVES

What’s The Deal With Dog Water Additives & Dental Rinses?

Most humans brush their teeth twice a day and go for annual or bi-annual dental cleanings. In contrast, only 2% of dog parents tend to their pups’ teeth on a daily basis.

Home dental care for dogs often falls by the wayside because it is difficult and time-consuming. That’s where treats, chews, and dental rinses come in. These products provide a convenient alternative to daily brushing.

Happy, Healthy™️ Mint-Flavored Dental Rinse is added directly to your dog’s water, helping to reduce bad breath, plaque, tartar, and disease-causing bacteria.

QUIZ OF THE WEEK

An in-clinic heartworm test detects the presence of ___.

1. Microfilaria
2. Adult heartworms
3. Only adult female heartworms

Not sure? Read on to find the answer!

HEALTH ALERT #2

Cushing’s Disease: What You Need To Know To Protect Your Dog

Every year, roughly 100,000 dogs are diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease or hyperadrenocorticism. The disease is characterized by the overproduction of cortisol in the adrenal glands.

Cushing’s tends to appear in senior dogs, and is most common in Beagles, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Dachshunds, and Poodles. If left untreated, it can be life-threatening.

Learn the causes, symptoms, and treatments of Cushing’s Disease so you can better protect your pup.

IN THE NEWS

Vet Warns Of Risk To Beach-Loving Pups

If you live in a coastal region where clams, mussels, and other shellfish are common, you have likely heard of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP). The condition comes from harmful toxins in algae blooms that infect shellfish.

Anyone who has experienced PSP can attest it is frightening, painful, and potentially life-threatening. And it turns out it can affect shellfish-loving dogs as well as humans.

Veterinarian, Dr. Toccoa Wolf recently treated a puppy with PSP. She shares the signs to watch for and precautions to take with beach-going dogs this summer.

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Avoid taking your dog along to 4th of July fireworks displays. The only truly safe place for them is in a quiet, sheltered, escape-proof area AT HOME!

BEHAVIOR & TRAINING

6 Things Your Dog Is Trying To Tell You With His Bark

Dogs never bark just to hear the sound of their own voice. Sometimes they are simply trying to get your attention, but other times they may really have something important to say.

As Orhan Pamuk once said, “dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.”

Here are 6 messages your dog may be trying to convey to you through his bark.

VET CORNER

What Does A Heartworm Test Really Do?

by Dr. Kathryn Primm

It’s a highly recommended part of every dog’s annual visit: the veterinary technician takes a blood sample for a heartworm test, and by the time you leave the office, they have the results.

But what does a heartworm test really do – and how does it do it?

Dr. Kathryn Primm of Applebrook Animal Hospital in Ooltewah, Tennessee explains the ins and outs of heartworm testing and the importance of protecting your dog from this deadly disease.

TIS THE SEASON

Water Safety Tips: The Experts Weigh In

Some dogs prefer to stay on dry land, but for those that love to swim, it is an absolute obsession! While we would never recommend depriving your pooch of this summertime joy, there are several hazards he may face out on the water.

Dr. Denise Petryk, Trupanion Pet Insurance’s director of veterinary services, shares her top safety tips for keeping dogs safe by the pool or on the open water.

We also check in with a dog trainer, a travel agent, and a professional surfer/inventor to get their first-hand advice on some of the lesser known risks your dog may face while swimming or boating.

Do you have a question or topic you’d like The Healthy Hound to address in an upcoming newsletter? Click here to let us know!

Quiz Answer:

3. Only adult female heartworms. As Dr. Primm explains, “the specific antigen detected by the test kit is one produced by the ovary of the female.”

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