5 Heartworm Facts You Need To Know

by Kate Barrington

Published: April 2nd, 2015

April is Heartworm Awareness Month, and we wanted to start it off with these interesting heartworm facts that all pet parents should know.

Heartworm is a serious disease that affects both dogs and cats. This disease is extremely dangerous and, if it is not treated properly, it is often fatal. You may already know the basics about this disease but the more you know, the better equipped you will be to prevent it or, in the worst case scenario, fight it. Here are just a few interesting heartworm facts that you may not know.

1. Heartworm can ONLY be transmitted by mosquitoes. When a mosquito bites a dog or cat that is already infected with heartworm, it picks up some of the baby worms – these microscopic worms are called microfilaria. Over a period of 10 to 14 days, then, the microfilaria develop into larvae – this is the infective stage of the disease. After this point, if the mosquito bites a dog or cat, it will transfer some of the infective larvae and the larvae will develop over the next six months into adult heartworms.

2. Different mosquitoes carry heartworm at different times of year. There are 22 species of mosquito in the United States that have been identified which can carry heartworm. These species of mosquito are active at different times of day and during different times of the year, so your dog is at risk for contracting heartworm all year round, not just during the spring and summer when mosquitos are most active.

3. Your dog could test negative for heartworm but still carry the disease. It takes about six months after a heartworm-carrying mosquito bites your dog for the infective larvae to develop into adults. During that time, the larvae travel through your dog’s blood stream to the heart and lungs where they develop and mature – at this point they will also start reproducing which means that your dog could begin infecting other dogs.

4. There is only ONE approved treatment for heartworm in dogs and none for cats. The only approved treatment for heartworm is a drug called Immiticide. This drug is arsenic-based and it must be given via injection two or three times to kill adult heartworms living in the blood vessels of the infected dog. This treatment also requires extensive X-rays, blood work, and other tests to determine the severity of the infection. Treatments can cost anywhere between $300 and $1,000.

5. Treating heartworm is 15x MORE EXPENSIVE than preventing it. Heartworm prevention is as simple as giving your dog a monthly pill, but treatment can be much more difficult. Dogs should be tested for heartworm once a year and they must be tested before starting heartworm prevention pills. Puppies younger than seven months can be started on a heartworm pill without being tested but they should be tested six months later.

Having learned a little bit more about this disease from our heartworm facts list, you should now be able to appreciate how serious it is. Unfortunately, many dogs that are infected with heartworm fail to show clinical signs until the disease has progressed into a very serious state. To keep your dog healthy, make sure to have him tested once a year and keep up with your monthly heartworm preventive pills.

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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5 Things You Need to Know About Dog Growls

We all back off when we see a dog growling. But there are a few reasons why a dog may be growling at you – here’s what you need to know about this behavior. As much as you may wish he could, your dog can’t just open his mouth and tell you how he’s feeling. The majority of communication between dogs is done nonverbally but there are times when your dog makes his voice heard. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about dog growls – what causes them, what they mean, and whether they are cause for concern. Dogs Growl for a Reason If your dog growls at another dog, your first instinct might be to yank on the leash or to tell him to stop it. Before you do, however, think for a moment about what would happen if your dog stopped growling. Growling is a warning signal for dogs – a way for your dog to tell you or another dog that he is feeling unhappy or uncomfortable. If you take away that early warning system, your dog could react in a more volatile way – a way that puts you or another dog in danger. Related: Top 10 Yappy Dog Breeds A Growl Doesn’t Always Mean a Dog is Angry When your dog growls, it doesn’t necessarily mean he is angry – it’s just another means of communication. When a dog growls, he is saying that something is wrong. Maybe your dog is unhappy or maybe he’s uncomfortable, scared even. It may be an expression of territorial aggression or it might even be a response to pain. Growling is a Natural Behavior Many people who have been bit by a dog claim that the dog didn’t give any warning or that he attacked without reason. The truth is, however, that dogs always give warning, even if it’s something as simple as a low growl. If a dog’s growling is accompanied by aggressive body language, watch out. Related: How To Stop A Dog From Barking There are Different Types of Growl Dogs always growl for a reason but that reason may vary. Aside from threat growling – a verbal response to fear or aggression – dogs also growl during play or as a request for attention. Dogs may also growl when they are feeling frustrated. The key to understanding why your dog is growling is to take a look at the body language that accompanies it. If your dog is not shying away, flattening his ears, or tensing his body, the growl isn’t intended as a threat. Don’t Punish Your Dog for Growling Your dog growls for many different reasons, so it doesn’t make sense for your response to be the same in each instance. While your first instinct might be to punish your dog for growling, all you will be doing is curbing your dog’s behavior – you won’t actually be addressing the cause for the behavior. Plus, if you punish your dog for growling often enough he may stop doing it entirely and you won’t have any warning if he actually becomes upset and is about to act out. The better response to a dog growl is to examine the situation to determine whether the growl is meant as a threat and, if so, what is the cause. Dogs exhibit a wide variety of verbal and nonverbal cues that may seem complex but, if you take just a moment to think about them, they are actually fairly easy to interpret. The most important thing to remember about dog behavior is that your dog does everything for a reason. Rather than punishing your dog for a behavior you deem undesirable, take the time to examine and understand the behavior and then come to a resolution.

5 Cool Cat Facts You Didn’t Know

Amaze and stump your friends with strange cat-nerd trivia facts.Felines are definitely interesting creatures who always keep us guessing. And each cat has his own unique personality and preferences. But even though you may have shared your home with cats for many years, and even if you have spent many hours as a volunteer in a cat shelter, there are probably still many facts about this species that you were never aware of. Continue reading to learn about some of the most fun facts about felines that will make you love and appreciate them even more than you already do.1. Purring Starts at One Week of Age, and It’s Really a MysteryWhen kittens are a mere one week old, they learn how to purr. And what is really neat about their purring is their ability to continue to purr nonstop while inhaling and exhaling, never missing a beat. While they are young, cats purr in monotone. But once they get older, they can purr in two to three different tones to switch things up.Cats will typically purr when they are content, but they may also use this as a means to comfort themselves when they are not feeling well or when they are in pain. Therefore, do not always assume that a purring feline is a happy one. Look for other signs in the kitty’s demeanor that would alert you to pain or health issues.Scientists and feline experts have yet to figure out where the purr actually comes from, though. Some believe it may come from the throat, while others think it may actually start in the cardiovascular system.Did you know? Cats purr at a healing frequency, too! That’s right: another fascinating fact about purring is that its frequency can be healing. The frequency range is 20-150Hz, so kitties may use purring to heal their bones and soft tissues. This might be another reason why felines purr after they are stressed or when they need to rest and restore their body, not just when they are happy and relaxed. If you are familiar with the use of healing frequencies that can help humans, this probably immediately makes a lot of sense to you. And this might mean that, if you sit or lie down next to a purring kitty, you might benefit from the frequencies as well. But even if that is not the case, one thing is certain: a content and relaxed cat that’s purring in your lap or right next to you is likely going to help you relax and feel loved too. 2. Cats Really Do DreamYou may have noticed your kitty making strange sounds or twitching his limbs while he sleeps, and you may have wondered if it is possible that he is dreaming. Or, you might have seen your cat wake up suddenly and appear startled, as if waking from a bad dream just like people do sometimes. This, too, might have got you thinking about the possibility that your kitty might be having a variety of dreams, including those that can be scary. Well, as it turns out, cats are very much like humans in the sense that they, too, can dream. The same brain waves that humans produce when they enter into a deep sleep (i.e., when they are in the REM, or rapid eye movement, stage of sleep) are produced by cats when they are really relaxed and sleeping deeply rather than just taking a short nap. Note: If you think that your cat is dreaming, even if you believe he’s having a nightmare, there’s probably no need to wake him up, as doing so might just end up startling him.  3. Cats Can Tolerate Hot Temperatures, and They SweatThe domestic cat’s ancestors were desert-dwelling felines who got very used to being in hot, dry climates. This is why your kitty prefers a warm environment over a cold one. 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But, in addition to using body language, such as the position of his tail, his overall posture, or even the way his eyes look, your cat also tries to communicate his feelings through various  vocalizations.When they want to communicate with their human guardians, cats will revert back to their “kitten voice,” or the vocal stylings they used when they were babies to get their mother’s attention. On the other hand, when they communicate with fellow felines, their voice is different because they stick with different sounds to talk to other cats.Felines are also known for using various voices to manipulate their owners into giving them what they want. As a cat owner, you might know when your cat wants to play versus when he is begging for food, simply based upon the sound of his voice. Clever, huh?5. They Don’t Need to Chew Their FoodHave you ever watched your kitty eating and realized that he doesn’t really chew his food much? Maybe you’ve seen him swallowing pieces of food whole. And this might have made you wonder if that’s normal. Well, it turns out that it is. Cats have the ability to swallow chunks of food without chewing it, and their bodies will digest the food just fine. This explains why you might find whole pieces of meat or dry food on the floor when your cat throws up. Rest assured that this is normal feline behavior, even though it doesn’t make much sense to humans.Side note: If you start to notice changes in your cat’s eating habits, such as how much he eats or even the way he bites, chews, and swallows his food, it is a good idea to try examining his mouth. Difficulty biting and chewing his food might be a sign that his teeth and gums aren’t as healthy as they should be or there might be another oral health concern that needs to be addressed. Consulting with a vet you trust can help you get the answers you need.  Use These Facts to Know Your Cat BetterNow that you know some neat facts about cats, you might have an even deeper appreciation for your one-of-a-kind feline companion. And by understanding your pet better, you could take additional steps to ensure he has everything that he needs to be well and to feel loved. 

Heartworm Treatment: What Are Your Options?

By the time you see the symptoms of this potentially dangerous disease, it’s already too late. Don’t procrastinate – get the 411 on heartworm treatments available for your dog. Heartworm is a dangerous and deadly disease that is transmitted to dogs and cats by mosquitos. This disease progresses slowly and, unfortunately, most infected animals do not show symptoms of the disease for a full six months after the infection when the disease has progressed to the final stages. Heartworm is easy to prevent by simply having your dog tested annually and by giving him monthly heartworm preventive pills. If you fail to protect your dog and he gets heartworm, your treatment options are few and, depending on the severity of the disease, they may not even be effective. Related: How Do Dogs Get Heartworm? Symptoms of Heartworm As it has already been mentioned, dogs that contract heartworm typically don’t show any clinical signs until the disease has already progressed. Why? Because the moment of infection occurs when a heartworm-carrying mosquito transfers infective larvae into the dog’s blood stream. It takes about 6 months for those larvae to travel through the dog’s blood stream to the heart and lungs where they develop into adults and then begin reproducing. It isn’t until the heartworms begin reproducing that a blood test will pick up the infection – it is also at this point that the dog may begin showing symptoms. Related: 5 Heartworm Facts You Need To Know Symptoms of heartworm are related to the clogging of the heart and its major blood vessels. As a result of this clogging, blood flow to other major organs is compromised and those organs may eventually begin to fail. Some of the most common signs of heartworm include a dry cough, difficulty breathing, weakness or listlessness, unexplained weight loss, and loss of exercise tolerance. In very severe cases, the dog’s legs and abdomen may swell from excess fluid and the dog may go into congestive heart failure. Options for Heartworm Treatment If your dog tests positive for heartworm there is a certain protocol you should follow. Your first step is to stabilize your dog – this may involve treating some of the symptoms of the disease that have begun to manifest. You should also restrict your dog’s level of exercise because physical exertion will only increase the rate at which the heartworm causes damage to the dog’s already damaged lungs and heart. After your dog has been stabilized your veterinarian will begin treatment. The only approved treatment for heartworm is an arsenic-based drug called Immiticide. Given in two or three injections, this drug will kill the adult heartworms residing in the blood vessels of the heart. Though Immiticide is the fastest and most effective method of treatment, there is another option. For less severe infections, it may be adequate to treat the dog with a combination of Ivermectin and Doxycycline. This method works more slowly than Immiticide, serving to weaken the heartworm so it cannot reproduce. This treatment method can last for up to 33 weeks, whereas the Immiticide method can work quickly and your dog may test negative for heartworm after six months. Each case of heartworm is different, however, so it will be up to you and your veterinarian to choose the option that is right for your dog.

Warning: 6 Deadly Heartworm Myths

The truth about heartworm is out there – you just need to know the difference between fact and fiction. Here are 6 heartworm myths you shouldn’t be fooled by. You may already know the basics about heartworm including the fact that it is a serious and potentially deadly disease. Unfortunately, many pet parents are undereducated about this issue and many of them fall prey to myths that are simply untrue. To make sure you understand the facts about this disease, make sure you haven’t fallen prey to these common and hazardous myths about heartworm. Related: How Do Dogs Get Heartworm? Heartworm only happens in the southern states where it is warm all year. While it is true that more cases of heartworm occur in the southern states, heartworm has been diagnosed in all 50 states – including Alaska and Hawaii.A dog with heartworm can pass it to another dog. The only way heartworm can be transmitted is by mosquito. When a mosquito bites an infected dog, it takes in some of the baby heartworms, called microfilaria, which then develop into infective larvae over the following 10 to 14 days. At that point, the mosquito can bite another dog and pass some of the larvae into its blood stream. Those larvae will then develop over the next six months into adults at which point the dog will test positive for heartworm. Related: 5 Heartworm Facts You Need To Know If my dog is up to date with vaccines, I don’t need to use a heartworm preventive. There is no vaccine for heartworm. The only way to protect your dog from heartworm is to have him tested yearly and to give him monthly heartworm preventive pills. Your dog can’t start on a preventive program, however, unless he has been tested, so get your pup tested ASAP.The mosquitos carrying heartworm are only active during the summer. There are 22 different species of mosquito that have been shown to carry heartworm. These species are not only active at different times of year, but different times of the day as well. This means that your dog is literally at risk for contracting heart worm all year long.Dogs that get heartworm will always show symptoms. Unfortunately, clinical signs of heartworm often do not develop until the later stages of the disease. It takes 6 months after a dog has been infected with heartworm larvae for those larvae to travel to the heart and lungs where they develop as adults and begin reproducing. At this stage, dogs may develop symptoms like coughing, unexplained weight loss, difficulty breathing, and fatigue after moderate activity.Heartworm is rarely fatal in dogs. Heartworm is an incredibly serious disease, made even more dangerous by the fact that dogs typically don’t develop symptoms until the disease has progressed to the final stages. If left untreated, a single heartworm can multiply up to 100 times. A dog can have as many as 250 heartworms in his body at one time and those heartworms can grow up to 12 inches long and live up to seven years. By educating yourself about this deadly disease you can help to prevent your dog from getting it. The key to preventing heartworm lies not only in testing your dog annually and giving him monthly heartworm preventives, but in understanding the risks of the disease and helping others to understand them as well. What other heartworm myths have you heard? If we missed one, be sure to tell us in the comment section below.

How Do Dogs Get Heartworm?

It’s a potentially deadly disease that can be prevented… but how do dogs get heartworm? Personally, it’ll be one more reason to hate those little blood suckers! According to the American Heartworm Society (AHS), only about 55 percent of dogs in the United States are currently protected by a heartworm preventive – that leaves more than 27 million dogs at risk for contracting this deadly disease. Unfortunately, many pet owners do not realize the danger of heartworm and don’t even understand the way a dog can become infected. So how do dogs get heartworm? Take the time to learn the basics about heartworm – including the ways dogs can become infected – and you will take the necessary steps to protect your pet. Related: 5 Heartworm Facts You Need To Know How Do Dogs Get Heartworm? There is only one way a dog can become infected with heartworm – if it is bitten by an infected mosquito. The process through which a mosquito becomes infected, however, is a little bit more complicated. First, the mosquito must bite a dog that is already infected with adult heartworms that have begun reproducing. In order to produce heartworms, the dog must be infected with at least one male and one female heartworm. A dog can be infected with up to 250 heartworms at a time, so where there is one heartworm there are typically multiple. Related: Naturally Safe Mosquito Repellent For Dogs When the mosquito bites the infected dog and sucks its blood, it takes into its own body some of the heartworm babies – called microfilariae. Once these microfilariae are inside the mosquito, they develop into larvae over a period of 10 to 14 days at which point they become infective. Then, when the mosquito bites another dog it transfers some of those infective larvae into the dog’s bloodstream. A dog does not immediately become infected with heartworm the moment it is bit by an infected mosquito – it isn’t until the larvae develop into adult heartworms and begin reproducing that the dog will actually test positive for heartworm. It generally takes about 6 months for the infective heartworm larvae to travel through the dog’s bloodstream to the heart and lungs where they begin to reproduce. Because it takes so long for the larvae to develop, dogs typically do not show any symptoms of heartworm until the adults begin reproducing. How to Protect Your Dog Nearly 100 percent of dogs that are exposed to the infective larvae of heartworms become infected with the disease. Once infected, the expected lifespan of the dog drops severely to an average of five to seven years. The heartworm disease is incredibly dangerous and deadly, but it is also easy to prevent. Giving your dog a monthly heartworm preventive takes only a few seconds but it could provide your dog with a full 30 days of protection. In order to start your dog on a heartworm preventive program, however, you must first have him tested for the disease. Puppies under six months of age can be started on a preventive without being tested because it takes the disease six months to develop, but they should be tested within another 6 months after starting the preventive. The mosquitoes known to carry the heartworm disease can be found in all 50 states during any time of year, so your dog’s risk for contracting heartworm is ever-present. Because preventing heartworm is so easy, however, there is no reason for you not to do it. The cost of preventing heartworm is significantly lower than the cost of treating it and it will save your dog a great deal of pain and suffering if he never contracts the disease to begin with. If you haven’t already started your dog on a heartworm preventive program, talk to your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Vet School Aims to Dispel Misinformation About Mysterious Illness

News about a mysterious illness has been making dog parents across the country nervous as they seek out available information. While there have been reported advances made in understanding the cause of the illness, many of the details are still vague, and a lot of “data” being shared by the mainstream media seems to be contradicting. How do you know what to believe?To help clarify the sea of information, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine has published an educational hub on their website with information about the illness, Atypical Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (aCIRDC).This hub is divided into several categories: Prevalence, Clinical Signs, Pathogenesis, Screening, Treatment, Prevention, Travel, and News. The goal is to share reliable and actionable information for pet parents that will help them make smart, knowledge-driven decisions about their pet’s health, especially as we head into a busy time of travel during the holiday season.Reported Cases of IllnessAccording to the hub, there are currently reported cases of “a chronic respiratory disease with characteristics of aCIRDC” in 16 different states, including:CaliforniaColoradoFloridaGeorgiaIdahoIllinoisIndianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsNew HampshireNevadaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandVermontWashingtonOne of the most important things to note is the wording used by LSU Vet Med. This list is based on reported respiratory illnesses that have characteristics of the mystery illness, but it does not mean that the disease itself has been confirmed. Many respiratory infections and ailments present with very similar symptoms, including Canine Influenza and Bordatella.How to Prevent Illness in Your Dog This Holiday SeasonWhile there is no guarantee that the above states pose a higher risk of aCIRDC, veterinarians and other professionals recommend that pet parents take precautions to keep their pets safe. This is especially important as many of us plan to travel and visit family for the holidays. The following recommendations (as outlined by LSU Vet Med) will help to prevent your dog(s) from getting sick from any respiratory ailment, not just aCIRDC.Ensure Vaccinations are Up to DateWe currently don’t have enough understanding of aCIRDC for a preventative vaccination, but there are vaccinations for some respiratory illnesses. Check with your veterinarian that your dog is current on all routine vaccinations.Limit Exposure (Where Possible)If possible, avoid or limit bringing your dog to areas that put them at a higher risk of contracting a respiratory illness. This includes dog parks or shelter environments. Have a conversation with boarding and training facilities where dogs socialize to better understand their preventative measures, including cleaning and sanitization efforts. You should also ask about the vaccine requirements for dogs in their care and their plan for handling animals that show signs of being ill.Isolate Dogs with Signs of IllnessIs your dog showing signs that they may be ill? If so, isolation is critical. Don’t bring a potentially sick dog to public spaces, and do your best to keep them safely isolated from any other unaffected dogs in your home.

Dog Rescued After Surviving a 60-foot Fall from Michigan Cliff

A family’s trip to one of Michigan’s most beautiful landmarks almost ended tragically, when their dog took a tumble from a cliff. The adventurous dog, named Dancer, was rescued after surviving a 60-foot fall from a cliff and spending a freezing night alone in the wilderness. The three-year-old pooch had escaped her leash and plunged off a steep cliff near Miners Castle, in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area in Munising, Michigan. The lakeshore runs alongside Lake Superior and is located in Michigan’s Upper Penninsula. The National Park Service (NPS) shared in a news release that Dancer fell 60 feet off a cliff to a ledge below. The dog’s owners spent hours searching the area but were unable to find the dog and were convinced that she didn’t survive the fall. Rangers at the nearby Pictured Rocks Park received a message about the lost pooch and decided to enlist the help of Superior High Angle Rescue Professionals (SHARP), a local rope rescue team, to search for the dog. The following morning SHARP members Erik Olsen, Westley Shaffer, and Tyler Davis went to the area and were able to find Dancer, who was cold, but alive. “Though she has spent the night trying to keep warm, she was excited to see the rescuers,” the service wrote. Dancer, who was described as a “professional troublemaker” didn’t have any reported injuries. The lucky pooch has since been reunited with her family and is recovering well after spending the night alone in the wilderness. The park service noted that Dancer was extremely lucky and although her story has a happy ending, her fall should serve as a reminder to everyone that areas of Pictured Rocks can get very cold and extremely slippery.“With this year’s mild start to winter, many areas of Pictured Rocks are more accessible than they are most years,” Chief Ranger Joe Hughes explained. “It is still important to remember to be prepared for slippery, cold conditions that can change quickly.”Whether you’re planning to hit a local trail with your pooch or are planning a trip to a state park, keep your pooch on a leash. Make sure that your pup’s harness is fitted properly so that your pooch can’t wiggle out of it, even if it tries. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Blue Ridge Beef, one of the foremost pet food companies in North Carolina, decided to recall their 2-pound kitten and puppy food because of a serious potential threat of listeria and salmonella in their kibble. The pet food in question was distributed to locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.Unfortunately, North Carolina Department of Agriculture discovered a serious issue when analyzing their product, realizing that one lot of each of the food products was positive for salmonella and listeria, on December 15th. This included kitten food lots “N24 1114-N24 1224”, of 2-lb logs of “Kitten Grind” (UPC 8 54298 00101 6), and “Kitten Mix” (UPC UPC 8 54298 00143 6). Also included was the “Puppy Mix” (UPC 8 54298 00169 6).The action was swift to pull these products from the shelves, as both listeria and salmonella can be very dangerous to pets who consume the contaminated food. It can also be harmful to humans who touch the food as well, especially pregnant women and children. Pets who get infected can suffer from vomiting, fever, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite, so if you notice any of these symptoms and your pet has been eating the food that is now recalled, make sure to take them to a vet for treatment ASAP.Luckily, the Blue Ridge Beef company announced that so far it has not received any reports of illnesses that are connected to this recall of food. Likewise, the company is not facing any legal action because of the recall. Pet owners who purchased this food are encouraged to contact Blue Ridge Beef company at  blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com for a full refund. Consumers can also get in touch with Steven Lea, from 8 am. to 5:30 pm. ET Monday-Friday at (704) 880-4500. 

Study Shows These Dog Breeds Most Likely To Have an Extra Row of Teeth

Is your pooch more likely to sport a second row of teeth? The so-called “Shark Teeth” is a little-known dental condition that can affect up to 7% of doggos around the world. The “disorder” is officially known as persistent deciduous teeth (PDT) and it means that instead of falling out as you’d expect, baby teeth remain in the gums when adult teeth come through. The condition is not particularly dangerous, but even so, it can be odd or cause slight discomfort to a dog. Recent studies revealed that the dog breeds most likely to suffer from PDT are the Toy Poodle, the Yorkshire Terrier, the Maltese, and the Chihuahua. What exactly is PTD? And what does it cause? The disorder causes  malocclusion, or - in simpler terms - a misaligned bite. In the long run, this can cause your pet’s mouth to bleed, and also increase the risk of periodontal disease, which is considered a serious gum infection.The research team at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute in Leicestershire, led by Corrin Wallis, released their new study that focuses on PDT specifically. “Dogs use their teeth for a multitude of tasks and, as such, it is vital for their health and wellbeing that their oral health is maintained,” Wallis and colleagues  say.  “Persistent deciduous teeth (PDT), those that fail to fall out at the appropriate time, are associated with malocclusion (misaligned bite), soft tissue trauma and increased risk of periodontal disease.”In the course of their extensive study, which has been published in the journal  Research in Veterinary Science, the team from Leicestershire examined medical records from up to 2.8 million dogs in the US, in just a span of five years, from January 2010 to December 2014. The study itself was a major undertaking. Ultimately, it was revealed that the prevalence of PDT was 7%. When it comes to individual breeds, it was revealed that the highest prevalence is amongst the Yorkshire Terriers with 25.1%, followed by the Maltese and the Poodle, both with 14.8%.On the lower end of that spectrum, the lowest prevalence was with the Greyhound, with 0.1%, followed by the Rhodesian Ridgeback with 0.2%. Amongst those breeds with lower percentages were also the English Bulldog, the Boxer, and the Great Dane, with 0.4%. All of this reveals that the smaller the breed, the higher the percentage. The team is not certain why smaller breeds have a higher percentage, but it could be linked to their genetics. The team said that it was crucial for owners of smaller breeds to have a thorough oral examination at around six months of age. This can help them identify and remove PDT in its early stages. “Once identified, PDT can be removed and if this is carried out by six months of age, the chances of problems associated with PDT, such as the development of periodontal disease or malocclusion, can likely be greatly reduced,” they said. 

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Between 2019 and 2023, dogs and cats identified as cause for missing jewelry, broken electronics, and property damage.

Dog-Killing Flatworm Discovered in California

Fleas and ticks aren’t the only parasites that dog owners have to fear in southern California this summer. Scientists from the University of California, Riverside, are warning dog owners to keep their pooches out of the water this summer after they have discovered a potentially deadly parasite.A deadly flatworm species that has previously only existed in Texas and other Golf Coast states, has made its way to the west coast and is now present in the portion of the Colorado River that runs through California. The worm, Heterobilharzia americana, is a flatworm commonly known as the liver fluke. The parasite can cause canine schistosomiasis, an illness that affects the liver and intestine of dogs. Although treatment options are available once the dog becomes infected, they aren’t always effective leaving vets no other option than to euthanize the dog. “Dogs can die from this infection, so we are hoping to raise public awareness that it’s there,” said Adler Dillman, a nematology professor at the University of California, Riverside. “If you’re swimming in the Colorado River with them, your pets are in peril.” After learning about several cases of infection in local dogs, professor Dillman and his research team headed to Blythe, a border town in Riverside County. All of the sick dogs have spent time there, swimming in the river.Since snails are responsible for transmitting the infection, researchers collected more than 2,000 along the banks of the Colorado River. The team used DNA testing to identify the snails and the flatworm.The team was astonished to find not one, but two species of snail that can carry the parasite!“We actually found two species of snail that can support H. americana in the river in Blythe and we found both snails actively shedding this worm,” said Dillman, according to UC Riverside News. “Not only was it a surprise to find H. americana, we also didn’t know that the snails were present here.”The flatworm first makes its way into the snail's body, traveling through its system. Once transformed, it moves out to find a mammal host to infect. Without a host, the parasite can’t survive more than 24 hours on its own. Dogs and raccoons are particularly susceptible to becoming infected after coming into contact with water, whether from drinking or swimming in it. The worm gets inside the veins of the intestinal lining, where it develops into an adult and mates. The presence of adults in the veins isn’t as problematic as the eggs that get into the lungs, spleen, liver, and heart. The dog’s immune system reacts by forming clusters of cells, called granulomas. In time, the organ tissues stop functioning.It may take several months for a dog to show any signs of the infection. Symptoms start slowly and include loss of appetite, and progress to vomiting, diarrhea, profound weight loss, and signs of liver disease. “If your dog has these symptoms after swimming in the Colorado River, it’s a good precaution to ask your veterinarian for a simple fecal test,” said Emily Beeler, a veterinarian with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. “Treatment typically involves use of multiple medications and close monitoring of the dog by a veterinarian.”Although potentially deadly for our canine companions, this parasite can’t cause the same issues in humans. “ It can cause swimmers itch, a red rash where it penetrates human skin. But it’s not able to cause an infection,” Dillman explained.Steer clear of bodies of water that could contain infected snails to prevent your pooch from catching flatworms. If your pooch can’t resist taking a dip, monitor them for symptoms of flatworm infection in the weeks afterward. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Bengal Cats Really That Wild? Here's What Science Has to Say.

Bengal cats are a truly stunning feline breed, in many ways. According to the International Cat Association (TICA), they hold the title of being the most popular cat breed globally, and it doesn’t really come as a surprise. Their unique and exotic appearance, their unavoidable charm, and their slender physique are certainly the reason for this prestigious title. But even though they are popular, Bengal cats are a relatively new breed in the field of domesticated cats. While most ordinary domestic cat breeds have been around for thousands of years, Bengal cats have been around for less than a century, which comes as a stark contrast. They are a hybrid breed as well, having been created in the 1960s. They came about from the crossing of the domestic cat (Felis Catus), and the Asian Leopard cats (Prionailurus Bengalensis), which are a small, spotted, wild cat species living in Asia. What makes the combination unique is the fact that these two cat species had a common ancestor about 6 million years ago, which means that the genetic differences between them are incredible. The differences are even greater than between humans and chimpanzees!The resulting breed is the Bengal cat, and it is adored for its exotic appearance. It has special spots, just like ocelots or leopards. But most folks ascribe the unique coloration and patterns of these felines to the DNA they received from their wild and distantly related ancestors. And that’s why scientific folks paid special attention to the ancestry of Bengal cats. Greg Barsh, MD, Ph.D., Faculty Investigator at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology and Professor of Genetics at Stanford University,  himself an expert in the genetics of feline coat coloration and patterning is a key figure in the research process of Bengal ancestry. Together with his team, which is led by Chris Kaelin, Ph.D., and Kelly McGowan, MD, Ph.D., Mr. Barsh is working hard towards unraveling Bengal ancestry through the genetics of popular color traits."Cats are wonderful companions," he explains for  Phys.org, "but our interests go beyond their beautiful and exotic appearance. Like the amazing variation among different dog breeds, artificial selection can be a very powerful engine to create morphologic diversity. What's different about Bengal cats from dogs is the raw genetic material–dogs trace their heritage to wolves from tens of thousands of years ago.""In contrast, Bengal cats trace their heritage to completely different species from millions of years ago. Understanding how these distantly related genomes interact is a general question that applies to any situation when different species exchange genes, from crops to aquaculture to humans and Neandertals."And even though this is a relatively new breed, started about 60 years ago by a few cat enthusiasts, it has grown incredibly during this time. Today, there are hundreds of thousands of registered Bengal cats, which are produced by about 2,000 breeders. Chris Kaelin, the leader of the Bengal cat DNA study, said “Cat fanciers and breeders are very interested in the research, in part because they want to know more about the science behind artificial selection, and in part, because they want to know if our results can help them produce cats with rosettes, stripes, or other exotic markings.” He also added "This is a great example of citizen science–our work has been enabled by the willingness of breeders to participate, and we share our results with the community."One of the surprising discoveries that was produced from the study is that Asian Leopard DNA contributes no more than a few percent to the overall Bengal Cat DNA. In fact, it is revealed that there isn’t one or even a few Asian leopard genes that are causing the unique spotted Bengal appearance. "One of the original motivations for bringing together DNA from the two species was to select for Asian leopard DNA that would recapitulate the appearance of an exotic wild cat in a companion animal," said Kaelin. "It turns out that some of the most striking examples of selection in the breed are for traits that were already present, but very rare, in domestic cats."So, the study reveals that the Bengals are in many ways totally unique. Mixing the two very unique breeds resulted in a cat that is exotic, elegant, charming, and above all loveable. And now, the results published are providing valuable information to all the enthusiasts in love with the Bengal breed. 

Drug That Could Extend Lifespan of Senior Dogs Enters Clinical Trial

A new and revolutionary drug that could possibly extend the lifespan of healthy, senior dogs, is now entering a major clinical trial. It also has a first patient - an 11-year-old Whippet named Boo. Going by the codename LOY-002, this drug is designed to provide a few more years to senior dogs of most sizes. It is the product of a startup biotech company called  Loyal and is the fruit of their hard work and arduous research. Celine Halioua, the founder and CEO of Loyal, said that the company is working hard to develop several products aimed at the longevity of dogs. One of their initial projects, the LOY-001, was a drug aimed to extend the lifespan of giant and large dog breeds. In November of 2023, this project received the support of the FDA, paving the way for the company's further successes. The underlying mechanisms of aging were the first focus of the company as it developed LOY-001. The drug works by reducing IGF-1, an insulin-like growth factor that is a key biomarker hormone that drives cell growth. It is believed that this reduced the lifespan of extra-large dogs. Similarly, the LOY-002 project aims to extend the lifespan of normal-sized dogs, by improving their metabolic health and thus delaying the onset and the impact of diseases that come with old age. “LOY-002 is a slightly different mechanism [than LOY-001] for senior lifespan extension. It’s a little bit more of a reversal mechanism. It’s not going to make a 10-year-old dog a puppy, but we’ve seen a rescuing in age-related functional decline in dogs that have been treated with this drug,” said Halioua in an interview with  dvm360.The newest study for LOY-002 is expected to last 4 years, and include one thousand enrolled dogs. “It will be one of the largest veterinary clinical studies that, as far as we know, has ever been run,” added Halioua.The first ever receiver of the drug, Boo, was enrolled into the program in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, at the Animal Hospital of Dauphin County. There, an associate veterinary and STAY study investigator, Coby Rudakewiz, became a part of the program for the first time, witnessing its incredible potential. “I’m genuinely excited to be able to share what we’ve seen as a life-changing product to dogs of all sizes,” he said.“This is what it’s all about - keeping dogs feeling their best to enjoy a long life with their owners who love them.”“The launch of this study brings us one step closer to helping senior dogs have more, healthier years with their families…The scale and complexity of STAY reflect Loyal’s commitment to creating demonstrably effective and safe products,” Halioua added. “This is a massive undertaking that wouldn’t be possible without the partnership of the many veterinarians and technicians operating the study in their clinics, and the participating dogs and owners helping advance therapies for all dogs.”For the time being, the company is working hard to receive conditional approval for its revolutionary drug. This would allow them to begin offering it through veterinarians as soon as 2025. This could mean a world of difference for many senior doggos and their families. Seeing your senior doggo enjoy a few extra years without the issues common to old age is nothing short of true happiness, and would mean that the company’s hard efforts were not in vain. Ultimately, this innovative drug gives us hope for the future and makes us wonder what other ground-breaking drugs could we see in the years ahead.

Half of Americans Believe Pets Steal the Spotlight During Holidays

A survey revealed that nearly half of Americans (43%) think their loved ones are more excited to see their pets on the holidays than they are to see them. This survey involved 2,000 cat and dog owners and was conducted by One Poll on behalf of Nulo. According to results, 32% of surveyed owners admit they are more delighted to see a friend’s or family member’s pet than they are to see them. Surprisingly, 20% of dog owners think their pets love the holiday season more than they do.What’s not so surprising, is that almost half of respondents (48%) do something special for their pet during the happiest time of year. This includes buying custom ornaments or decorations (64%), dressing their pets in holiday clothing or pajamas (60%), getting their pet their own Christmas tree (49%), and stocking (47%).Half of pet owners like to give their four-legged companions extra treats during the holiday season, and 45% admit they dole out more treats to their pets at Christmas than during any other time of the year. In addition to extra treats, more than two-thirds of pets are likely to be treated with a special holiday meal. This survey also found that the majority of pet parents believe that their pets enjoy the hustle and bustle of holidays and are looking forward to the influx of visitors during the holiday season. Begging for attention, welcoming guests, and playing with a new holiday toy are some of the ways owners know that their pets are in the festive mood.Nearly half of responders give their pets gifts for Christmas. Those owners, on average, spend more than $100 on three gifts for their pets.Most owners decide to gift their pet toys (61%), clothes (59%), and treats (56%).Interestingly, this survey also looked at which family members are the most likely to spoil the pet. The results showed that the owner’s brother is the most likely to buy a present for the pet, followed by the owner’s parents. Surprisingly, 36% of grandfathers buy gifts for their four-legged grandchildren, compared to 34% of grandmothers. “Healthy treats and special occasion meals are a great way to involve your dog or cat in fun holiday moments - and can add a nutritional boost as a bonus,” said Heather Mendoza, Nulo’s Director of Research & Development, according to New York Post. It’s great to see that pet owners are offering their pets special meals that mimic their own holiday feasts. The holiday season provides the opportunity for quality time and special experiences with our families, including finding more ways to show love and affection to our furballs, she added.In addition to gifts, more cuddles, and treats, pets are also spoiled more during the holiday season by having their special person at home with them. Nearly half of respondents admit to going on more walks and adventures with their pets during the holidays. Interestingly, 40% of owners report that their pets also get to sleep more.Considering that almost all American pet owners consider their pets a part of the family, it’s no surprise that pets partake in holiday traditions. The majority of owners bring their pets to celebrations at other people’s homes. Pets are also involved in “opening the presents” and even go to meet the Santa. “Results showed that 40% of respondents believe Christmas is their pet’s favorite holiday - far ahead of the second favorite (New Year’s Day) at 19%,” said Mendoza. And if you still haven’t found a perfect gift for your pet, don’t despair! Check out our detailed holiday gift guide for cats and dogs to find the best holiday present for your four-legged companion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

These Dog Foods Are Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination

Owners should always be careful about the food that they give to their pet – and it’s only natural that every caring owner will naturally want the best for their pet. But sometimes, even getting the best of the best is not a guarantee as accidents can happen anytime. In this case, the issue is that several popular dog food brands got potentially contaminated with salmonellla. Recently, owners had been shocked to find out that three brands of pet food were recalled - having tested positive for salmonella. And in fact, the past year saw at least seven recalls of dog food brands that were either contaminated with this nasty bacteria, or had harmful elevated levels of vitamins. And, to make matters worse, 2019 saw several dogs get seriously ill after consuming the food. And our dear four-legged friends are not the only ones at risk - handling the contaminated dog food, we too are exposed to salmonella. In 2012, up to 49 people in the United States and Canada fell ill after an outbreak of salmonella that was traced to dry dog food. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10 persons were so ill that hospitalization was required.According to the CDC, the pesky salmonella bacteria causes “an estimated 1.3 million infections in Americans every year, resulting in 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths.”As for the latest recalls, a notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, released on October 30th, includes the following foods: “one by Mid America Pet Food of Mount Pleasant, Texas, involving three lots of Victor Super Premium Dog Food, Select Beef Meal & Brown Rice Formula after random sampling found salmonella, which can sicken pets as well as people who come in contact with it.” Furthermore, it is stated that the food was “Sold by retailers across the U.S., the recalled products come in five-pound, 15-pound and 40-pound bags with a best-by-date of June 12, 2024, and contain one of the following three lot numbers on the back of the products: 1000016890, 1000016891, 1000016892.”The second recall involves TFP Nutrition of Nacogdoches, and their Retriever All Life Stages Mini Chunk Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, in 50lbs bags, with best-by-dates of October 2024 and production codes of either 3277 TFP or 3278 TFP. Lastly, the third recall in the latest wave is Blue Ridge Beef of Statesville, North Carolina, which is recalling Breeders Choice dog food with the UPC code 8 54298 00193 1 due to possible salmonella contamination.In case you suspect your pet has eaten any potentially infected foods, it is important to know the  symptoms of salmonella poisoning in pets: they can be lethargic, listless, or have diarrhea that is followed by fever and vomiting. If you recognise these in your pet, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. And, if you suspect that the dog food you have is contaminated, make sure to destroy it in a way that children, animals, or people cannot get in contact with it.

Adopter Visits a Dog Every Day for 2 Months to Earn the Pet's Trust

Alva, a fearful dog who spent over 500 days at Austin Pets Alive! shelter has found a loving home thanks to an adopter who believed in her. According to Dr. Ellen Jefferson, a veterinarian and the CEO and president of Austin Pets Alive! (APA!), Alva first arrived at the shelter in 2019, as a puppy. Alva was transferred to APA! from another shelter after it was discovered that she had cerebellar hypoplasia. This congenital neurological condition affects the part of the brain that controls movement, leading to mobility issues. “We’re a shelter that generally takes animals from other shelters when they can’t afford long-term medical treatment,” said Jefferson, according to PEOPLE. The shelter quickly found a home for the young puppy, but problems emerged as Alva grew up.A common issue for dogs with severe mobility problems is that they don’t get out as much as healthy dogs. They spend most of their time inside a loving home with people who take good care of them. Unfortunately, these dogs miss a vital part of socialization as they aren’t exposed to new people, animals, and situations during puppyhood. As the home Alva grew up in became busier, she attempted to bite the people who came over for a visit. This type of fear aggression is common for dogs with mobility issues because they can’t get away. Sadly, Alva ended up back in the shelter because she became territorial, defensive, and fearful. While the shelter looked for a perfect adopter for Alva, the behavioral support team and volunteers worked with the pooch daily. “She got the best care she possibly could, with so many people taking her out every day,” Jefferson shared. “She had a wheelchair made for her.”Although Alva made immense progress with her mobility and behavioral issues, no one showed interest in adopting her for more than 500 days. Luckily, Alva wasn’t destined to stay in the shelter forever! Alva’s future changed when Joe Rotunda saw her on Instagram in July. Although he wasn’t looking for a new pet at that time, he immediately knew that he wanted to give Alva a loving home. “She shined. She had this almost tangible will,” Rotunda said. “I saw all these videos of Alva running, playing, and falling down. And every time she fell, she pulled herself back up. Every time a challenge presented itself, she did not go around it; she went over it. And I was very inspired.”It was love at first sight! Rotunda didn’t hesitate for a second, instead, he drove to APA! to schedule a meeting with Alva. “She was very wary of me. She was very nervous, concerned, and anxious,” said Rotunda about Alva’s initial reaction to him. “But, you could tell she was so loving and affectionate around the people that she knew.”To earn Alva’s trust, Rotunda kept coming back. That meant visiting the shelter every day for two months! “She needed someone who would not give up on her. And I never questioned that decision,” he explained.Over time, Alva who lounged and nipped at him at first, started to approach Rotunda and feel safe in his company. By October the APA! and Rotunda agreed it was time for Alva to spend the night outside the shelter.Before Alva arrived, Rotunda transformed his home to make it inviting and as comfortable as possible. He blocked a large section of the living room to make a private play area and added several crates to give Alva room to decompress.Alva arrived on Friday night, and when the APA! caretaker came to collect her the next day, it was obvious the dog wanted to stay. “She did not want to leave the house. She did not want to go back to APA. And she’s been here ever since.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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