Halloween Chocolate Dog Poisoning

It is Halloween and veterinary clinics always have at least one case of chocolate poisoning .

The chocolate that dog's eat only gives them an upset stomach, because candy bars contain little chocolate.

But with the increasing emphasis on treats with dark chocolate, more and more poisonings are being seen, and in some case even a small amount can be serious.

That being said, for most dogs it's only a minor stomach upset. If you happen to have a pet who often has  digestive issues, then one of the things to help your pet is with a good quality probiotic supplement.

The veterinarians are seeing increasing number of dogs with chocolate toxicity as more of us are eating the  healthy dark chocolate. Your dog only needs to eat small amounts of dark chocolate to become seriously ill. To keep your pet healthy stay away from giving them any chocolate. 

Remember chocolate is not a dog food.

TOXIC PARTS of CHOCOLATE

The toxic components in chocolate are caffeine and theobromine. 

The theobromine is found in high concentrations in chocolate, and causes most of the clinical signs in dogs. Theobromine affects your dog’s intestinal system, nervous system (brain), cardiovascular system (heart and lungs), and the kidneys.

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of chocolate poisoning in dogs depend on the amount of chocolate eaten, the type of chocolate, and the time since it was ingested. The most common sign after your dogs eat chocolate are gastro-intestinal.Stomach upset, bloating, vomiting and diarrhea. Often you may see hyperactivity, restlessness, elevated heart rate and increased drinking and urinating. The most serious signs are when the nervous system is affected; these may show up as tremors, seizures, increased breathing rate, high body temperature ( hyperthermia) and coma.

TOXIC DOSES

The toxic and potentially fatal dose of chocolate is 60mg/kg- so a 5kg dog only needs to consume 300mg of chocolate. Clinical Signs can be seen as low as 20mg/kg- meaning a small 5kg dog only needs to consume 100mg to have problems. Severe signs are seen at 40mg/kg- or consuming 200mg of chocolate for a 5kg  dog.

Let’s look at how much theobromine is in certain types of chocolate, then we can best know if you need to be concerned about chocolate poisoning in your dog if he has eaten some. A 5oz milk chocolate bar contains 250mg of theobromine, a dark chocolate bar contains 600 mg. Unsweetened baking chocolate contains 400mg theobromine per square, Semisweet chocolate chips (30 chips), 250mg. Dry cocoa powder contains 700 mg of theobromine per ounce.

A poodle weighing 5 kg can be fatally poisoned by as little as one milk chocolate bar containing 250mg of theobromine. A 75lb larger breed dog, such as a Golden Retriever, would need to eat to eat 8 milk chocolate bars to become seriously ill. On the other hand, the dark chocolate and bakers chocolate are far more toxic; the 75lb Golden only needs to consume 3 of the dark chocolate bars to be seriously poisoned.

What Should You Do 

If your dog eats any amount of chocolate, the first thing is to figure out how much has been consumed. Then based on the type of chocolate, determine if your pet has eaten a potentially toxic amount. If the dose of chocolate is 20mg per kg of theobromine or higher, you should be seeing your veterinarian and inducing vomiting, or doing this at home. So this means that if your 5kg poodle eats a milk chocolate bar, then induce vomiting as he has eaten more than 200mg of theobromine. I have calculated this dose by multiplying the poodle’s weight of 5kg times the toxic dose amount of 20mg/kg giving a level of 200mg.

INDUCE VOMITING

The method I prefer to induce vomiting is by giving hydrogen peroxide at 1 teaspoon per 5kg  of body weight. If your pet doesn’t vomit in 10 minutes, repeat again. I advise to never do more than 2 treatments of peroxide. If you are unable to induce vomiting, if your dog is showing any serious signs such as tremors, seizures, excessive vomiting, diarrhea, or you are at all unsure please see your veterinarian.

IF it's just an UPSET STOMACH

Here are a few options to consider for the vomiting:

A CUP OF TEA. Peppermint Tea is an old remedy used for upset stomachs in people. Brew up a strong cup of tea, but allow it to cool before offering it. Give your dog 1/4 cup per 5 kg of body weight three times daily, give your cat 1 tablespoon three times daily.

Written by Imrana Sljivo DVM🐾

Advice About How to Treat a Dog with Cushing’s Disease

In my previous article I talked about Cushing’s Syndrome  in general,also I mentioned some conventional treatments and possibilities .

Today i want to say more about natural remedies and  healthy food that you can give to your pet to help them overcome more easily the issue.

Some people say that poor-quality commercial food diet  including diets high in fats and low in proteins can also contribute to Cushing’s in dogs.In some cases especially if your dog has mild pituitary-dependent Cushing’s maybe the conventional treatment is not really urgent 

 

Dogs with mild pituitary-dependent Cushing’s should be closely monitored .Some veterinarians recommend a natural, anti-inflammatory diet and herbal therapy for treatment 

What You should Consider Before Taking Any Step to Treat your Pet’s condition 

• Talk to your veterinarian before you change your dog’s diet.
• Notify your veterinarian before you start your dog on any herbal or natural supplements.
• If you choose not to treat your dog immediately, closely monitor for any worsening symptoms

What Are Natural Treatments for Dogs with Cushing’s?

Many vets and owners have found natural treatments that can help with Cushing’s symptoms. Most of the natural treatments are herbal or dietary supplements, including:

• Fish oil
• Dandelion
• Magnolia bark
• Si Miao San
• Ginkgo biloba
• Melatonin
• Nettle
• Rosehips
• Clover
• Burdock
• Milk thistle
• Homeopathic pituitary extract
• Homeopathic formic acid
• Kelp
• Clover
• Garlic
• Apple cider vinegar
• Phosphatidylserine supplements 
• Dog food for Cushing’s

For dogs with food-induced Cushing’s, some experts recommend adrenal enzyme blockers, taken a few hours before meals.

Some also recommend acupuncture, which can help regulate the endocrine system and thus help Cushing’s symptoms.

Dietary Changes for Dogs with Cushing’s Disease

Certain dietary changes can also help reduce your dog’s Cushing’s symptoms. They include:

• Food high in protein
• Food low in fat
• Food low in fiber
• Food  with low purine levels (avoid organ meats)
• Food low in carbohydrates
• Food low in calcium
• Food rich in lignins (including whole grains, nuts and seeds, legumes, fruits, and vegetables)

Specific Food that is Good for Dogs with Cushing’s

carrots -peas -green beans -potatoes -broccoli -celery -lettuce -bok choy -spinach -brussels sprouts -mushrooms -green peas -zucchini
beef -chicken without skin or bones -fish (except sardines) -shellfish -salmon -kidneys -liver -eggs

Raw Diet for Dogs with Cushing’s

Many believe that feeding a dog a raw diet can help with a number of health problems, including Cushing’s disease symptoms. Since your dog’s natural ancestral diet before domestication included raw protein, he is carnivore and he already has the enzymes to break down the bacteria, and you may find general health improvements.

Advantages of a raw diet include:

• Increased energy levels.
• Improved skin and coat.
• Stronger teeth and bones.
• Improved muscle strength.
• Better digestion.

Of course there are always some cones 

Concerns of a raw diet could be :

• Additional supplementation may be necessary, to ensure that your dog’s diet is balanced over the long term specifically calcium and phosphorous.
• Bacteria in raw meat can get your dog sick if their body doesn’t properly protect against it (in some cases, a dog may not build up the immunity).
• Proper cleaning after feeding your dog to avoid contamination.
• Two studies led by a team at the University of Bristol have found dogs who are fed on a diet of raw meat were more likely to excrete antibiotic-resistant bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) in their poop . Previous research has shown that there is the potential for bacteria to be shared between dogs and their owners through everyday interaction, leading the researchers to suggest that raw feeding is not the safest dietary choice, and that, if chosen, owners should take extra precautions when handling raw meat and be especially careful to clean up after their dog. 

While a raw diet may not significantly affect Cushing’s symptom ,it can help health overall. In particular, high protein in a raw diet might be  helpful for dogs in danger of losing muscle mass .

What other food You should Give If Your Dog Is on a Raw Diet

If you have your dog on a raw diet, you should follow certain recommendations to help him maintain his health, such as:

• Introduce a raw diet step by step , so his body has a chance to build up the needed enzymes to destroy bacteria in raw meat.
• Include raw vegetables, eggs, and small amounts of fruit and starches.
• Stick to only high-quality meat and proteins.
• Feed your dog small amounts of dairy products, including possibly a probiotic yogurt with active cultures.

Written by Imrana Sljivo DVM 🐾

Resources 

Evidence that faecal carriage of resistant Escherichia coli by 16-week-old dogs in the United Kingdom is associated with raw feeding' by Oliver Mounsey, Kezia Wareham, Matthew B. Avison, Kristen K. Reyher et al. in One Health

My dog stepped on a bee

 Your dog has been stung by a bee or wasp what you should do?

michellegibson/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

First You can notice following symptoms 

1. Whining
2. Holding up a paw 
3. Limping
4. Biting where the sting went in
5. Drooling
6. Pawing at the face or mouth
7. Swelling
8. Hives (red, swollen, itchy skin)

What to do 

First you need to remain calm ,then you try to scrape out the sting using a stiff material or card ,pull it out below the poison sac. Do not squeeze  the sting because that could force more of the poison into your dog’s body.

Wash the area with clean water.

Applying ice can help too. Make sure the cold temperature is not uncomfortable for your dog.

Closely monitor your pet for signs of an allergic reaction.Probably you should give an antihistamine to your dog. But be careful,don’t give them on your own or humans. Some of the humans antihistamine are actually good for dogs ,but very important is to give right dose,also there are some of them that are very harmful for dogs can be even fatal.You have to chose the right one and the right dose.My advice is to call your vet .

When The Stung By a Bee Can Be Very Dangerous

If your dog has been stung by a bee or wasp  in their mouth ,as the swelling can block their airway and stop them from breathing ,that could be very dangerous .Multiple stings can be also very serious  and some dogs might have an allergic reaction.

Call your veterinarian immediately if you’re worried that your dog has been stung and it looks very serious .

Signs that your dog is having an allergic reaction

1. Hardly breathing
2. Swelling of the mouth, throat, eyes or ears
3. Vomiting or diarrhoea
4. Collapsing
5. Weakness
6. Drooling 
7. Having a fit 

If you notice one or more of the signs of an allergic reaction you better run to emergency or call your vet

Other insect bites

As well as bees and wasps, your dog might be bitten by:

1. Ticks 
2. Mosquitos
3. Ants
4. Flies

Most are harmless but, if you’re not sure what type of insect has bitten or stung your dog, monitor them to be sure if they are not showing any signs of allergies .

Written by Imrana Sljivo DVM

 

EYE DISORDER IN DOGS And natural home remedies

Your pet's eyes are one of the more important and sensitive parts of their anatomy. There are a number of different eye disorders.

Common eye disorders

Conjunctivitis (red eye or pinkeye),

Epiphora(excessive tearing)

Uveitis 

KCS (dry eye)

Glaucoma

Cataract 

Corneal ulceration and PRA (progressive retinal atrophy).

Eyelid or eyelash abnormalities

Conjunctivitis 

Conjunctivitis, also called pink eye, is a common condition in dogs. 

It is defined as inflammation of the red, conjunctival tissue around your pet's eye. It is the most common cause of red eye in dogs and cats.

The most common causes of conjunctivitis are bacterial conjunctivitis, bacterial infection of the tissue around the eye, and allergie .Other more serious causes include glaucoma (swelling in the eye) or an ulcer on the cornea (erosion on the surface of the eye).

Sings When You Need To Run To The Veterinarian 

1. Pet’s eye infection is painful, with your pet rubbing an eye;
2. if the cornea appears to be indented  or layered; 
3. and if the entire eye becomes cloudy;

Treatment of Conjunctivitis in Dogs 

Treatment depends on  cause of the conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis is most commonly treated with eye drops  containing steroids. Sometimes oral steroids and antihistamines are also recommended if there is systemic inflammation. Prevention is most important with allergic conjunctivitis, so it’s best avoid allergens affecting your dog. Allergic skin testing, flea preventatives, environmental changes, and food trials may be recommended by your veterinarian.  

Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with topical antibiotics, though sometimes oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications may also be used depending on how serious is an infection. Viral conjunctivitis is often treated with time and oral antioxidants to boost the immune system, and sometimes with either oral or topical anti-viral medications.  

Dogs diagnosed with eyelid or eyelash abnormalities will require surgical correction Dogs diagnosed with chronic dry eye will require lifelong medications to stimulate tear production. Dogs with immune-mediated medical issues will need medications that affect the immune system both orally and topically, for their entire life.

Home Remedies 

There are many home remedies for conjunctivitis 

EYE, TEARS. The lubricated eye tears used for people can be effective for minor infections . First wipe any discharge away from the eyes with clean sterile cloth apply two to three drops in the affected eye three times a day 

TEA -has tannins ,it is anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial . Cup of strong black tea ,place three to four drops in the affected eye three times a day . It should be made fresh every day.Could be used also Camomile and Green tea for topical eye infection .

HONEY is as an effective antibacterial, and a good home remedy to combine with the tea.  Local, organic honey, mixing in 1 teaspoon of honey with 1 cup of black, green or chamomile tea. Apply 3-5 drops to affected eye 3 -4 times daily. 

• In my professional opinion when it comes to minor topical eye infections , i found this  very helpful.It’s ok to try out some natural remedies first ,before you run to the veterinarian.

As you can see also dr. Johns recommended that natural treatments ,he showed on video the procedure how to make that remedy at home 

https://youtube.com/shorts/_mddkg8y-10?si=uqAf4yqZIp-SLFWI

How Long Does Conjunctivitis in Dogs Last

Some forms of-conjunctivitis can resolve on their own in dogs with  healthy immune systems. Dogs usually need therapy to avoid chronic changes.

The duration of clinical signs depends on the cause. With good treatment, bacterial conjunctivitis is usually resolved within 5 to 7 days. Viral conjunctivitis can take up to 3 to 4 weeks for full resolution.   

Allergic conjunctivitis will stay until the underlying allergen is eliminated. Chronic dry eye and immune-mediated disorders are often lifelong and need continued therapy. 

Written by Imrana Sljivo DVM

Resources: 

https://www.petmd.com

https://beyondpets.com/pet-health-plus/conjunctivitis-in-dogs/