Salmonella Infection in Dogs and Cats

    Today CNBC reported that Nature’s Recipe announced a voluntary recall of their product, Nature’s Recipe Oven Baked Biscuits with Real Chicken due to possible salmonella contamination.  So far, there have been no cases of animal or human illness caused by this product.  Because of all the recent recalls, I thought it would be a good idea to …

Soldier Hollow Classic Sheepdog Trial Championship

Over Labor day, I attended the Soldier Hollow Classic Sheepdog Trial Championship in Heber Valley, Utah.  Wow, I had so much fun watching the Border Collies herd wild range sheep.  One by one, a dog teamed up with their handler to bring two groups of sheep down the mountain.  After steering the sheep through a …

You Make The Diagnosis: Dermatitis on a Dog’s Rear End

Recently, I saw a male/neutered dog who suddenly started licking his rear end.  His family noticed a lump on the left side of the anus three days before they brought him in.  Now the lump is gone but the dog is still licking.  They did not notice any other abnormal behavior.  He is eating, drinking, urinating …

You Make The Diagnosis: Intestinal Disease of Humans and Irish Setters

Irish Setters are a wonderful breed with a zest for life.  In my experience, they live life to the fullest with an boundless sense of curiosity.  Unfortunately, this breed is known for suffering from an intestinal disease that is becoming more and more prevalent in humans.  The clinical signs for both dogs and people are …

FDA Expands Jerky Probe to Include Duck and Sweet Potato Treats

After receiving complaints from the public, the Food and Drug Administration has expanded the chicken jerky investigation to include duck and sweet potato treats.  All of the products were either made in or have ingredients from China.  The FDA warns people who use these products to watch their pets for: VomitingDiarrheaBloatIncreased thirstIncreased urinationAnorexiaLethargy The FDA has published more information on …

Feeding Dogs and Cats Based on Physiology

Recently, I read an interesting study regarding the evolutionary basis for dog and cat feeding behaviors.  The author, John Bradshaw studied the physical adaptations of dogs and cats relative to their diets.  Here is a summary of what he found:  1) Teeth – Cats have highly specialized teeth that are perfect for catching and eating prey.  …