Q: Can a dog cough up a whipworm? - Betty M., Budd Lake, NJ
A: The answer to your question is no as “coughing up” implies coming from the lungs while whip worms live in the intestinal tract.
Dogs can and frequently do throw up parasites (worms). The dog parasite people see and recognize in the throw up is the common round worm. They are usually curled, white and generally are between 2 to 6 inches long. When there are a lot of them, they resemble “spaghetti”. Dogs and cats that are heavily parasitized throw up more as the worms normally live in the small intestines and when overcrowding forces them into the stomach, they are quickly expelled. Occasionally dogs will throw up a tape worms, again when heavily parasitized.
Parasites are usually endemic to a particular species and frequently they can be picked up by the wrong species. Certain parasites of a related species such as a fox or raccoon do not survive long in a dog and are expelled, frequently in the vomit. The above parasites generally live in the small intestines, while the whipworm, on the other hand, lives mostly in the colon, and is not likely to be brought up. Whipworms are much smaller and when passed in the stool, are easily overlooked.
Robert R. Blease, DVM
Dr Robert R Blease is the founder and principal veterinarian for Common Sense for Animals
Q: My grandmother recently had to move into a nursing home, and and she had to leave behind her 12 year old cat. Currently, we are caring for the cat at her house, but we are interested in moving the cat to our house. My concern is that we already have two cats (around 5 years of age)--one of which is very territorial and one that is scared of everything. There is no one else to care for this cat, and my grandmother loves it very much. Any tips on how to make this a success? Thank you so much for your time.
- Rebecca K., Washington, NJ
A: Nursing homes are necessary, however they affect more than the person going and the immediate family. The loyal house pet is frequently euthanized, forgotten or ignored. Pets, like people, have feelings, have separation anxiety and they mourn their losses. Sometimes the person admitted to a nursing home or any other home where pets are not welcome, have an equally hard time coping with their new life, and I have empathy for both the person and the pet. I am very pleased to see that your family has taken custody of grandma’s cat and recognize how much it means to her.
In your circumstances the worst thing to do is to try to force a reconciliation. Time, with a little effort frequently brings the results you want. I would separate the cats. They will talk to each other under the doors, and they will be aware of each other. This communication often goes on during the still of the night or when the house is empty of people. Cats frequently hide for days on end until they feel comfortable.
Cats recognize each other by smell. A little trick is to rub one cat and then without washing your hands, rub the other. This makes them smell similar to each other and can hasten the process. A small amount of perfume applied to all three may also help. I would not leave the cats all together and leave the premises until you are satisfied they will all get along. For now, find a room where grandma’s cat can get plenty of human attention, while the other cats get used to her being in the house. Good luck and be patient.
Robert R. Blease, DVM
Dr Robert R Blease is the founder and principal veterinarian for Common Sense for Animals
Q: We adopted a dog from Common Sense this past February. When we first apopted him, it became obvious he that he was abandoned and possibly abused as he was so timid and shy. He has changed so much but now has become very attached to me. He won't go outside for any other family members, and he will not eat unless I am close by. If I have to leave the house, he does not interact with the family until I return. Is there a way we can help him to be happy even when Mommy" isn't home? Thank you.
- Deb D., Washington, NJ
A: Thank you for adopting. There are literally millions of wonderful pets that go unclaimed and many end up being euthanized. The people who adopt are special but on the other hand, they take a certain amount of risk. Most often, medical history, habits and personalities are unknown. Dogs like people, can suffer from insecurity and lack of trust. Sometimes these traits can be un- intentionally made worse by the owners.
There are several approaches that may help you, your family and the dog. When you leave the house or arrive, never make a fuss over your pet. Too often when leaving owners say “don’t worry, Mommy will be right back” attempting to make them feel better. The same thing happens when returning, “Mommy’s home”. Now they do worry and they tend not to go to others until you do return. Your coming and going should be natural, quiet and expected by your pet. You might have other family members give him treats, feed him, take him for walks, car rides and play, especially when you are not home. If he hides when strangers come, have them offer him treats and never lock him away from guests. If you do, it is only natural for your dog to be suspicious.
If you are still having trouble, I recommend your locate a trainer that specializes in “positive motivation” and working in small groups with other dogs and children. Never let anyone be rough or shout at your pet and always have everone be liberal with small treats, praise and a pat on the back. People and dogs have a lot in common and respond to the family situations. Good luck.
Robert R. Blease, DVM
Dr Robert R Blease is the founder and principal veterinarian for Common Sense for Animals
Q: On Thanksgiving day our beloved dog Dino passed away at only 5 years old from complications due to an autoimmune disease. Our other dog, Midnight (6 years old) has been very 'clingy' since Dino passed. She won't leave our side when we're home. We are out at work during the day and are concerned that she may feel lonely without her brother. We are considering adopting another dog so Midnight won't feel so lonely. What is your opinion on bringing another dog into the family for a companion for Midnight? Midnight is a pure bred Labrador Retriever as was her brother Dino. Thank you. - Patty M.,
Stroudsburg, PA, 12/13/2008
A: Dogs mourn for their lost mates and friends just as we do. It is not uncommon for pets to continually search the house, lay where their counterpart slept, to cling to family members in fear that they may go away and some will lay on the grave of the missing one. It is not uncommon for dogs to be severely depressed when their owner or an immediate family member passes. Some older pets just seem to give up when their owner dies, just as some people do. Closure is not easy for animals or people. Both people and animals live by their lifelong habits. Like people, dogs and cats are not always ready to immediately accept another critter into their domain, while others immediately accept another companion. Generally, but not always, kittens and puppies are more readily accepted than older pets as they are perceived as being less threatening and needing being cared for.
I would recommend getting another dog to keep yours company. If you introduce an older dog, I would try it on a trial basis. Many shelters will work with you with older pets, and you generally know within a few days if it is going to work. Refrain from getting a dog that wants to be the alpha dog. Labs are great family dogs and often accept other adult dogs quicker than some other more aggressive breeds. If the adult doesn’t work, get a puppy.
- Robert R. Blease, DVM
Dr Robert R Blease is the founder and principal veterinarian for Common Sense for Animals
Q: We got a 12 week old American Bulldog last week. The past few days he has been acting funny. He is very tired, and not eating much. Do you think there is something wrong with him? - April L., Washington, NJ 12/05/2008
A: Your puppy definitely sounds like he needs veterinary attention and I would call your vet for an immediate appointment. Young puppies are frequently exposed to many diseases, especially if they come from a pet shop, puppy mill or shelter. Some diseases, like parvo or distemper can be devastating with high mortality if not treated immediately. Some puppies have very little body weight and quickly succumb to hypoglycemia ( low blood sugar). Your puppy has classic signs of early disease. Healthy puppies want to play, eat, get attention and sleep. They do not act funny, act tired and not eat much, nor should they have diarrhea. Call your vet.
- Robert R. Blease, DVM
Dr Robert R Blease is the founder and principal veterinarian for Common Sense for Animals
Q: My neighbor's lab was a shy puppy. I met her on her first day home and she seems to have imprinted on me. Now she has grown up to be an uncontrollable 9 month old who is so desperate to see me that she mauls me, making it very hard to play with her. She has even broken down a door to run to me. How can my neighbor and I work together to make her dog happy, calm and less obsessive? - Kimberly P., Raritan, NJ, 12/05/2008
A: It is painfully obvious that the puppy in question is lonely, out of control and destructive. I would not be at all surprised to find out that he has destroyed more than the door. I’m sure besides a lack of proper training at the right time, this puppy suffers from being lonely and separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is often caused by the owner, not out of ignoring the situation, but by the owners inappropriate actions when both coming and going.
Frequently when owners leave they will pet and kiss excessively, promising the puppy they love him, that they will be back as soon as possible and not to worry. Now the puppy is worried and if the owner is a few minutes late, off comes the molding from the door or the couch is attacked out of frustration. Many dogs will begin to pace and whine 15 minutes prior to the expected rival of his owner. The second part of separation begins when the owner arrives home and makes a big fuss upon seeing their pup and professing how much they missed him during the day. The puppy has now been taught to both worry and to show exuberance upon his owners arrival.
The point is that whenever a household person leaves or arrives they should not make a scene. People should come and go as if it were totally natural and expected. People can leave and arrive by various doors without involving the pet. It is obvious that this nine month old puppy has included you within the group of people he has been taught to worry about.
The first step is to get some professional training. I would only choose a trainer that uses treats and positive motivation. Puppy classes usually start as soon as possible after getting a pet. The entire family, including young children, should be encouraged to attend. The object of puppy training is not to teach the new pet tricks, but to teach him his name, to come when called and to look to the family for guidance. The second part is to train the family what to do and perhaps more importantly, what not to do.
The owners of the puppy must get him under control before you will be able to come and go in peace. You should suggest to the owner about professional training and the importance of discipline. I strongly recommend you to attend them as part of the puppy’s family as you are now part of the problem.
- Robert R. Blease, DVM
Dr Robert R Blease is the founder and principal veterinarian for Common Sense for Animals
Q: "What is the truth about declawing cats?" - Bonnie H., Stewartsville, NJ, 10/30/2008
A: There are few subjects in veterinary medicine that generates more controversy, more emotion and more misinformation than the practice of declawing cats. The truth of the matter is very simple. If there is no reason to declaw, then don’t, however if there are reasons why it should be, then do not hesitate.
From the perspective of an animal shelter, many animals are brought in needlessly because the owner did not want to “hurt” their cat, yet on the other hand they have condemned their pet to needless anxiety, loss of their home and frequently death. Others have left their cat along a lonely stretch of road or mall parking lot.
From the perspective of a practicing veterinarian, I and most every other small animal veterinarian have been asked to euthanize the family pet because of damage or perceived damage to furniture or fear of children or seniors being scratched. Older persons with varicose veins and diabetes are particularly worried, and sometimes with good cause.
Declawing, when performed properly and with pain medicine is not the traumatic process perceived by those opposed to declawing. Those persons with antiques, fine furniture, children and medically challenged family should not hesitate to protect the family pet relationship by declawing their cat. If they suspect there may be a problem, cats/kittens should be declawed early in their life, as they heal much quicker. If a kitten is going to be declawed I recommend it be done as soon as they finish their initial kitten care and vaccines (around 16 weeks of age) or when they are spayed or neutered. Generally speaking, declawing the front feet is all that is necessary. Any cat at any age can be successively declawed.
Declawed cats can go outside, they can climb trees and they can defend themselves. Cats are very unique animals and can take care of themselves and can use their hind claws on adversaries. They can easily be taught to come into the house every evening by training them with treats and special foods of their liking at night. It is generally recommended that cats that are declawed be made house cats, but sometimes there are cats that refuse to stay indoors. In all cases it is recommended that you speak to your veterinarian and explain the situation, your concerns and ask what are your options.
- Robert R. Blease, DVM
Dr Robert R Blease is the founder and principal veterinarian for Common Sense for Animals
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