|
HEALTH AND NUTRITION TIPS
|
Watch for lead in dog toys
This past fall, there were a series of recalls involving over 1.5 million Fisher-Price children's toys made in china with lead based. I'll try to answer some of the most common questions that I got.
Is Lead Toxic?
Yes. Lead is a metal that can be toxic. Old paint contained lead and the paint, paint chips and paint dust from homes being renovated are a possible source of lead that can cause lead toxicity. This was a problem in paints produced prior to 1977 contain high lead levels. The paint is perfectly safe while it's on the walls, but once you start scraping and disturbing the paint, you may have a problem. Some companies are still using it to paint children's and pet products.
What are Common Signs of Lead Poisoning?
Common signs of lead poisoning may include vomiting and diarrhea that may progress to symptoms that involves the nervous system such as seizures or abnormal behavior. Lead toxicity can also cause anemia which can cause lethargy and weakness. Hundreds of pets are poisoned each year. For more information about the exposure to lead, diagnosis and treatment of lead poisoning, go to www.petplace.com and read about Lead toxicity in Dogs.
Does Anyone Test Animal Toys to Determine Safety?
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) checks the safety of all toys intended for humans. Unfortunately, there are no organizations regularly testing animal toys, and there are no federal standards regarding lead in pet toys. The CPSC enforces a federal standard for lead in paint on children's toys. This standard is 600 parts per million (ppm).
Are Pet Toys Toxic?
In the wake of the lead scare, two laboratories have conducted independent tests on randomly selected pet items. These very qualified laboratories include Trace Laboratories, Inc. in Illinois and ExperTox Analytical Laboratories in Texas. Both labs **have** found lead and other toxic heavy metals in pet items purchased from American stores.
ExperTox Analytical Laboratories tested a Chinese-made, Wal-Mart marketed cat toy and dog toy. Both were packaged in a clear plastic wrapping with a cardboard label and no brand name.
The dog toy, a latex, green monster, contained high levels of lead and chromium (a cancer-causing heavy metal) and smaller amounts of other toxic materials. The cat toy contained very high levels of the toxic heavy metal, cadmium.
The lab determined these toxins were easily accessed and could be acquired from the toy with a simple lick of the dog's or cat's tongue.
Trace Laboratories tested Paws 'N Claws tennis balls purchased at a dollar-type store. They found an astounding 27,200 ppm lead levels in the ink on the balls. They also tested a ceramic food dish and found lead levels at 2,890 ppm. The lead levels in both these items far exceeded the limit set for human toys.
Should You Be Concerned?
There are conflicting opinions regarding the severity of these levels of lead and other heavy metals in pet products. Because of the lack of federal regulation at this time, it is up to you, the pet owner, to determine your level of concern.
An interesting bit of information to consider: Wal-Mart actually recalled children's toys which are quite similar to their lead-containing pet toys. These Chinese-made, Wal-Mart children's toys are sold at a similar price, without a brand, in packaging very similar to that containing their toxic pet toys. If these toys are not safe enough for your children, should your pet be playing with them?
What Can You Do?
How can you protect your pet? Talk to your veterinarian. Do your research. Check with the manufacturers of your pet's toys; ask for proof of their safety testing. Strongly consider discarding your pet's current products which are made in China. When buying new products, look for items made in the United States. Also, avoid toys made of latex, as they are more likely to contain lead. Above all, be proactive and don't take chances with the health of your pet.
|
Eclampsia or Milk Fever
Eclampsia is actually a glandular problem in which the parathyroid gland does not secrete sufficient calcium-releasing hormone. When it does occur, this problem happens just before or within 3-4 weeks after welping. Milk fever is an acute, life-threatening condition. It is most common in small breeds with large litters. Mother dogs become disoriented, stiff, nervous and restless. They loose interest in her puppies. In severe cases they will have muscle spasms, seizures and be unable to walk. The mother may run a fever and have a rapid heart rate. . This problem results from low blood calcium as the mother’s body prepares to produce calcium-rich milk. I treat it by administering intravenous 10% calcium gluconate at 0.25-0.75ml/pound/hour. Affected dogs return to normal in fifteen minutes or less. Then I either wean the puppies or place the mother on a calcium supplement for the remainder of their lactation. Giving calcium supplements during pregnancy is not helpful and may actually cause the problem to reoccur during future pregnancies.
Mastitis or Breast Infection
The normal canine breasts of mother dogs are soft, warm and enlarged. They should never be red, hot, painful and hard. Hard painful breasts are signs of infection. Dogs with this condition are reluctant to let the puppies nurse and when they do little milk is produced. As soon as I identify a dog with this condition I remove the puppies and hand feed them. Hot packs on the affected breasts help draw down the infection. I place the mother dog on antibiotics and limit her water supply to dry up her milk as quickly as possible. Hypoglycemia or Low Blood Sugar:
This condition is easily confused with eclampsia. It is primarily a problem in small breeds. The signs are disorientation, weakness, subnormal temperature and low blood sugar analysis. I treat it by administering intravenous dextrose solution. Recovery is very rapid. I often give some dextrose at the same time I treat with intravenous calcium for eclampsia since the two problems often occur together.
|
Brushing
The Bullmastiff requires to be brushed once a week to remove dust and dead hair. When he is molting you will find that he sheds more hair than normal.They usually molt during autumn and spring. Worn areas on the elbows and hocks can be avoided by using raised platforms in kennel areas.
Ear Cleaning
You must check your pet's ears regularly to prevent ear mites and allergies. Cotton buds are good for cleaning, but the cleaning product you use should not leave moisture in the ear. It will cause yeast and bacterial infections to grow. Any inflammation or infections should be treated immediately.Signs of ear problem in your dog: Scratching, shaking of the head, redness and odor.
|
CLICK ON THE DOG TO GO TO NUTRITION
| |
|
