I’d like to have a first aid kit for my pets just in case. What should I put in it?

It’s nice that you’ve remembered your furry family members in your home safety plan! Some basics to have on hand are clean gauze and betadine to clean wounds, a pair of tweezers or hemostats to remove ticks, Dawn dish detergent in case your pet needs to have anything oil-based removed from his coat, hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting in case of toxin ingestion (but not to clean wounds — betadine is better), an ace bandage to wrap gauze on a bleeding laceration and of course, our phone number.

Can my pet iguana give any diseases to my dog?

Reptiles very commonly carry salmonella and while it often doesn’t make them sick, they can give it to other animals, including people. The pets in the house should not be allowed to interact directly with the iguana (not to mention that it may be stressful for the iguana). After the owner handles the reptile, she should wash her hands..

Is it normal for some dogs and cats to have two different colored eyes?

If they are born that way, then yes. It is hereditary and does not affect vision. This is common in dogs with a red or blue merle colored coat. In cats, it is mostly seen with white coats. If a pet’s eye color changes as an adult, however, there may be an eye disease such as uveitis (inflammation of the iris which can make the eye appear lighter) or an iris melanoma which makes it appear darker. Any change like that warrants a trip to your veterinarian.

Do animals see in black and white or in color?

It depends on the animal. Dogs, cats, horses and most other domestic mammals see primarily black and white. Birds and primates, on the other hand, see color quite well. The reason for this is located in the retina. There are two major cell types for vision in the retina — rods and cones. Cones detect color and rods detect light. Birds and people have both rods and cones while most mammals have primarily rods.

Why do bulls go after the red cape when the matador waves it?

As you probably have already guessed after the previoius question, it’s not the color that is annoying the bull, but the motion. If you have ever been around bulls, they don’t like anybody waving anything in their personal space (which is quite substantial). Incidentally, the violent sport of bullfighting is thankfully becoming less acceptable and less common worldwide.

We have a real Christmas tree. Are pine trees toxic?

No, they are not. However, pets (especially cats) have been known to knock them down so it is wise to use wire to anchor it to the wall or ceiling.

Is it true that horses can’t vomit?

Yes, it is. That is why part of treating horses which have eaten toxic plants or which are colicking is to pass a stomach tube and pump out the stomach. Incidentally, rabbits are incapable of vomiting also.

With all the rain and flooding, we have black mold in our basement. Will it hurt my pets?

Possibly. If it bothers you, it will bother your pet. Some molds can cause respiratory problems and some pets are also allergic to molds. Bleaching will help kill the mold, but be sure to protect yourself with a mask and gloves and keep your pets out of the area.

I found an injured squirrel and I want to keep it until it’s better. What should I feed it?

You should contact a local wildlife rehabber and let her handle the squirrel. It is illegal in NJ to keep wildlife without a special license. Also, a rehabber is best equipped and educated to give wildlife the best chance at survival.

I want to microchip my pet but I’ve heard the chips cause cancer. What should I do?

There is no evidence that the microchips cause cancer. Although they are indeed foreign objects we are putting into the body, they have an inert plastic coating that only stimulate local scar tissue so they stay in place. It is definitely worthwhile to have a microchip implanted so you can recover your pet if he ever gets lost.

Do dogs and cats sweat?

They can only sweat from their paw pads (hence the little footprints they sometimes leave on our exam table). Dogs dissipate heat primarily by panting. Cats pant also, but it is usually from stress rather than heat.

My child got pinworms and I’m afraid he contracted them from our dog. What can I do to prevent this?

Dogs and cats do not get pinworms. Children often contract them after playing in a sandbox or dirt where an infected child has been. Your pediatrician can prescribe appropriate treatment.

Help! I found a bat in my house — what do I do?

You should call the Health Department to see if there is concern about human exposure. Generally, if there is an infant or mentally disabled person in the house who may not be able to report contact with the bat, they will be worried. If you have the bat, do not touch it, but use gloves to capture it and then it can be tested for rabies. Most bats do not have it but some certainly do. This also emphasizes the importance of vaccinating even indoor cats for rabies. In addition, you may want to call an exterminator to inspect your house to see if any are living in it.

I know dogs and cats are color-blind, but how about birds?

Dogs and cats are not completely color-blind. They do see some color but not nearly as much as humans. Birds, on the other hand, have excellent color vision. That is one reason they are so brightly colored.

My daughter wants a pet rat. Is this a good idea?

Rats actually make great pets. They are generally friendly and have a lot of personality. The disadvantage is that they are nocturnal, so they tend to like to get on their wheel at 3 am. But overall, they are pretty easy to take care of.

I’ve read all the James Herriot books — are they really true and is there really a James Herriot?

Yes to both. James Herriot is a pseudonym. His real name was James Alfred Wight and he really did practice in the Yorkshire Dales. His novels are a must-read for animal lovers and aspiring veterinarians. A little piece of trivia — his titles are taken from the refrain of an old church hymn “All Things Bright and Beautiful.”

I’ve seen ads for a “safer” antifreeze. Is it better?

There is an antifreeze on the market which contains propylene glycol as opposed to ethylene glycol. It is somewhat less toxic but can still be dangerous, especially in cats.

Can pets get frostbite?

They certainly can, although they do seem somewhat more resistant than people. In dogs and cats, the ear tips are the most affected. Offering a shelter to protect them from direct exposure to the elements will help prevent it. Or better yet, keep them inside during the harsh weather.

If I clip my bird’s wings, will she ever be able to fly again?

When we clip the wings, we are really just trimming some of the primary flight feathers — the long ones on the edge of the wings. They grow back as the bird molts, so she absolutely would be able to fly again. It usually has to be done about every six months or so.

My rabbit seems to have trouble eating and she drools. Is she sick?

She may have overgrown teeth. Rabbits are not rodents (they are lagomorphs), but they are similar in that their teeth continue to grow throughout their lifetime. If the teeth get too long, they may have difficulty eating. She should be seen by your veterinarian right away to determine if her teeth need to be trimmed down.

My daughter was diagnosed with pinworms from her doctor — did she get it from my dog?

No. Human pinworms are from other people. Dogs get whipworms, and the eggs do look similar under the microscope, but people do not get whipworms. Cats do not, either.

I’ve heard that I shouldn’t cook food near my bird — why is that?

It’s not the cooking that’s a problem — the issues occur if you use a Teflon pan and it burns on the stove. The fumes that are produced from the hot Teflon is toxic to birds and can be fatal.

Do you see fish?

I have actually seen a couple of fish (one had a swim bladder infection and one got burned on the heater in the tank). Fish medicine is a whole different ball game and in fact there are aquatic vets — they mainly deal with fish production farms.

Last month, you said my pet can’t get swine flu, but I just read about a cat that died from it. What gives?

I’m only partly guilty of inaccuracy on this one. When the question was originally posed, there had not been any reported cases of pets getting H1N1 from a person. However, shortly after that, there was a case of a cat which did indeed die from confirmed H1N1 infection after being exposed to the owner who had it. So now the recommendation is if you are sick, stay away from your pets as well as your other family members.

Since it’s getting colder outside, can I stop my pet’s flea and tick preventative?

Don’t stop yet. Believe it or not, fall is the worst time of year for ticks. While consistent frost brings the end of fleas for the season, ticks will still be around. Even in very cold weather, they will be hanging out in sheltered areas like wood and brush piles. I’ve pulled ticks off dogs on twenty-degree days. Also, if you have had fleas in the house, it is important to continue treating the pets well into the winter. Since no new fleas will be coming in from the outside, it’s the perfect time to get the problem under control. It is perfectly safe to these products year-round.

Can my pet get the flu from me?

Generally, speaking, no. Most viruses are species-specific. However, ferrets do get human influenza, so if you are sick, don’t sneeze on your ferret. H1N1 (swine flu) is also not spread from people to pets or vice-versa.

I’ve been told my pet needs an MRI. Where do I go?

MRI equipment is extremely expensive and is only available at referral hospitals where not only can the MRI itself be performed, but also interpreted by a specialist. We can make recommendations of some excellent facilities.

I’ve thought about getting a monkey as a pet — they are just so cute and clever. What do you think?

Monkeys and other primates do not make good pets. Bear in mind that these are not domestic animals. Even small monkeys are very strong for their size. They can deliver a damaging bite and can transmit a number of diseases that people can get.

I’m going to be taking my pet on an airplane. What do I need?

You need to check with your airline, but usually pets need a health certificate issued within ten days of travel and he has to be current on his distemper and rabies vaccines. Small animals can travel in the cabin with you, which is definitely safer. Larger animals need to go into the cargo section. There are new regulations in place to try to make this safer, but you should contact us for details.

I found a turtle in the road — should I help it cross?

Yes, if you do it the right way. This time of year, there a lot of females are getting ready to lay eggs and they are heading to their nesting places. Move the turtle off the road in the direction she was headed. If you put her back where she came from, she’ll just try to cross again. Caution, though, if it’s a snapping turtle, use a shovel, not your hands!

I found a baby deer hiding in the bushes — what should I do?

The short answer is nothing. Mom is probably close by. The fawns will lay hidden by instinct to keep themselves safe from predators. And also remember — if a deer runs across the road, she may have a fawn or two in tow, so stop and wait a few seconds before continuing to drive.

I found a baby squirrel — what should I feed it?

It is illegal to keep wildlife, so instead of trying to feed it yourself, you should contact a licensed wildlife rehabber. We have a list of local volunteers who have a thorough knowledge of small mammals, birds, reptiles and deer and who are best equipped to help them.

My rabbit has fleas — can I apply my cat’s Frontline to him?

No, you can’t. Frontline is not safe for rabbits. There are several products which are, including Revolution. It is important to remember never to use any medication or other product on any animal other than the one it was prescribed for.

Can my pets get swine flu?

Not unless your pet is a pig (don’t laugh — I’ve seen a number of pet pigs). The human influenza that is spreading rapidly in the US, Mexico and other countries right now is a mutant form of swine and avian influenza. However, it is very unlikely it will be able to infect dogs or cats. So if you’re feeling sick, go to your doctor and keep your friends and family away, but feel free to cuddle up in bed with your pet to keep you company. We get regular updates from the State Department of Health, so if this changes, we will know right away.

I’ve been reading about the salmonella outbreak caused by contaminated peanuts. Can my pet get food poisoning?

Absolutely. Dogs and cats are not immune to the same poisoning we get. Salmonella, staph and e.coli are all things our pets can get. Raw chicken and eggs especially can contain salmonella. Spoiled food can breed staph and raw or undercooked beef can harbor e.coli. Vomiting and diarrhea are the signs, just like in people.

Can my dog give my cat any diseases (and vice-versa)?

Not too many, really. Parasites such as fleas and worms can be spread between species. Rabies can also. Most of the bacterial and viral diseases cannot, although cats can get one of the forms of “kennel cough”. Cat distemper and dog distemper are also two completely different diseases and are not transmissible between dogs and cats.

What diseases can I get from my pet?

People can get roundworms, hookworms and giardia, which are intestinal parasites, toxoplasmosis (from cats), which is a problem for women in their first trimester of pregnancy, cat scratch disease , rabies, ringworm (which is actually a fungus, not a worm), salmonella (from reptiles) and psitticosis (from birds). It is not common for people to get these diseases, but it can happen.

Do all ticks carry lyme disease?

No, in fact the only species of tick in this area of the country that carries lyme is the deer tick and not every deer tick carries lyme. However, if you are seeing dog and wood ticks, there are probably deer ticks, too, but they can be so small, they are difficult to find.

I’ve heard about vaccines causing cancer — should I stop vaccinating my pet?

The answer to that is a resounding NO. There is a tumor called a fibrsarcoma that has been associated with certain vaccines in cats. It occurs at the site of the vaccination. It is extremely rare, and realistically, your cat is more prone to getting the disease the vaccine is made to protect against than the tumor. Much research has gone into this and newer vaccines and vaccine protocols are available now to decrease this risk. If you have questions about this, please feel free to discuss it at your next appointment.

I just got a pet rabbit. Does it need any shots?

We do not routinely vaccinate rabbits, but it is a good idea to have a physical exam and fecal sample run on your new bunny. We can then discuss basic care and make sure he is healthy.

Is there any advantage to getting my pet spayed or neutered besides not having to worry about puppies and kittens?

Absolutely yes. Spaying a female dog or cat before the first heat (usually 6-9 months of age) decreases the risk of breast cancer by 95%. Spaying before the second heat decreases the risk 85%. Male dogs are less likely to get prostate infections and enlargement as well as anal gland tumors. Spayed females obviously can’t get cancer of the uterus and ovaries because they are removed and the same goes for testicular cancer in male dogs.

What can I do to stop my pet from shedding?

Shedding is a normal loss of the winter coat in the spring, but also occurs all year round as the hair goes through its regular growth cycle. You can’t stop normal shedding. If your pet is shedding abnormally because his coat is dry, adding a fatty acid supplement such as 3v Caps, can help. Frequent grooming will at least control where the hair goes. A shedding blade, available at most pet supply stores, works well to pull out the dead undercoat. Many cats don’t like being brushed, but may accept a grooming mitt.

I have heard that sugarless gum is toxic to pets — is that true?

Yes it is. In fact, it can be extremely toxic. The toxin is called xylitol (it will be on the label) and is an ingredient in many sugarless foods, candies and gum. It can cause a dangerous decrease in blood sugar and liver failure and can be fatal. Just one piece of xylitol-containing gum can cause serious effects in a 20-lb dog. If you suspect your dog has eaten any or suddenly starts vomiting and becomes very lethargic and you have sugarless products in the home, you should call immediately.

I read an article in the paper about some people getting very sick from eating wild mushrooms. Can this happen to my pet?

Absolutely. Dogs and cats are not immune to toxins by any means. The people you read about in the paper ate mushrooms that caused liver disease and in one of them, liver failure. Poisonous and nonpoisonous mushrooms look very similar, so try and keep them out of your yard as much as possible. If you think your pet has eaten any or starts acting sick suddenly, call us right away.

My pet tends to lose his collar outside. How will someone know he is mine if he doesn’t have his tags?

You can have your pet microchipped! This small chip is injected under the skin between the shoulder blades. A great time to do it is when your pet is here to be spayed or neutered, but it can also be done during any office visit. It is encoded with a unique number that can be picked up by a scanner. Most shelters, pounds and veterinarians across the country have the scanners. We scan the chip, call the company and they give us your information so we can get your pet back to you as soon as possible.

My dog likes to pick up toads in his mouth. Are they poisonous?

Toads are toxic, but luckily the types we see around here aren't the really bad ones. The Bufo toads, huge species found mostly along the gulf coast, are very toxic and licking them can cause sudden death. They secrete a toxin that causes heart problems almost immediately. They do not have to be eaten, just licked or held in their mouth. Since toads taste really bad, most dogs spit them out pretty quickly and rinsing out their mouths afterwards is usually OK in this area. Smaller toads are less toxic than big ones because they produce less toxin. I personally have never seen a toad toxicity case here because of the types of toads we have.

Can I use hydrogen peroxide to clean my dog’s ears?

It’s better not to. Dog’s skin is different than human skin and is a little thinner. The peroxide can damage the layers. It is better to use a commercial ear cleaner or make a 50:50 solution of white vinegar and water.

Did my kids get head lice from my dog?

Nope — you can’t blame the dog. While dogs and cats can get lice, they are very species-specific, so human lice don’t bite dogs and vice-versa. Kids pass them on to each other.

Can I give my dog milk?

It may give him diarrhea. Dogs and cats lack lactase, the enzyme needed to digest milk properly.

Why do dogs like cat poop?

They like any kind of poop. I know it’s disgusting, but dogs are omnivores and most will eat pretty much anything. Putting the litterbox somewhere that the dog can’t get to is the best solution to the four-legged automatic litterbox cleaner problem.

My dog has spots and I’ve noticed they seem to be changing. Is that normal?

Colored spots can definitely change. In fact, Dalmatian puppies are born solid white and the spots show up later. If any spot is raised or irritated, however, that is not normal and should be checked by your veterinarian.

My dog eats mulch — is it bad for him?

Cocoa mulch is. It creates the same toxicity as chocolate and can be very dangerous.

My dog has been shedding like crazy — what can I do?

Breeds of dogs that shed do so all year round but it is worse in the spring and fall. You can’t stop normal shedding, but if your pet is itchy or the coat is dry, adding a fatty acid supplement to the food can help. The proper ratio of the omega fatty acids (DHA and EPA) is important. We have veterinary products specifically designed for dogs and cats..

With school starting, our schedules are going to be much busier and I’m worried my dog will be stressed when we are not around so much. How can I make him more comfortable?

You’re right that this may upset your dog, but most dogs are also very adaptable and will accept the new schedule in time. You can offer a mind-occupying toy such as a kong with peanut butter smeared on the inside or dog toy loaded with treats that will drop out as he rolls it around. Leaving a TV or radio on may help as may presenting a new exciting toy on certain days. For dogs who have severe anxiety when you are not home (called separation anxiety), special training and maybe even medication may be warranted.

My dog has been eating the new mulch I put down. Is that a problem?

It could be. The cocoa mulch that many people use is toxic. It has the same components as chocolate and can cause the same problems. Some pets have died from that mulch, so if you have dogs or cats, it is best to stick with regular cedar or pine.

I want to run with my dog. Is that OK?

It’s great to run with company, so it may be fun. Just remember that if you are a 5-mile runner and your dog hasn’t been too active, he’ll have to build up to it, just like you. You also have to be careful in the summer with hot asphalt which can burn his paws. They make protective booties you can get him used to wearing.

What do I do if my dog is stung by a bee?

Dogs almost never get a true anaphylactic reaction like people can. They will, however, get itchy and swollen. A cool compress can help as can Benadryl. If your pet is stung, call our office and we can advise you if it would be better to see him for an injection to help bring the swelling down.

Do dogs get poison ivy?

No. They seem to be resistant to it. But you can catch it from your dog if he gets the oil on his coat and then you pet him.

Do male dogs have nipples?

Yes they do, just like males of the human species.

Why does my dog urinate when she’s excited? How do I stop it?

She can’t help herself — it’s a submissive reaction and if you try to correct her, it will get worse because she’ll get even more excited and stressed. It is best to just have her come outside when she sees you so she doesn’t make a mess. Generally, this is common in young female dogs and most of them grow out of it.

My dog’s long hair is matted but it’s still cold out. Is it OK to shave him?

A matted coat will not do a good job protecting a pet from the cold anyway, so shaving him down is fine. You may want to get him a doggie coat, however, since even though the ground hog saw his shadow, we may still have some chilly days ahead.

My dog is on Heartworm preventative all year round — do I really need to check a fecal?

Yes, for a couple of reasons. For one, Interceptor, our recommended heartworm preventative, protects against roundworms, hookworms and whipworms, but not protozoas like coccidia and giardia and also, since nothing is 100%, we want to make sure the medication is doing its job.

Is that why I still need to do a heartworm test once in a while?

Yes. We recommend at least every other year, or if there has been a break in preventative use. Also, with many dogs now being brought up from the south for adoption, we are seeing more heartworm disease, as many of these dogs are infected.

Is it OK to give my dog a bath when it is this cold?

In general, yes. However, if you have a small, sensitive dog, you may want to crank up the heat and blow him dry to be safe. Many breeds are very well-adapted to the cold. My Labradors will swim in the ocean in February perfectly happily.

I read that heartworm pills can hurt herding dogs. Should I be afraid to give it to my collie?

No. The ingredient in Heartgard that is the cause for concern is ivermectin, which some collies and other herding breeds can be sensitive to. However, the dose in Heartgard is low enough that it does not cause issues. Interceptor, the other main heartworm preventative, contains milbemycin and has been extensively tested in collies. It also has not been shown to be a problem.

I read there is a LoJack chip I can put in my dog so I can find him. Can I get him one?

The microchip you are referring to is an identification chip which can be easily implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades during an office visit. It is not an active chip — that is it does not send out a signal like LoJack that you can track. However, most shelters, pounds and veterinarians as well as many police departments have a scanner to read the chip. That chip contains an ID number. The company is then contacted and they relay all the owner information so owner and pet can be reunited.

I had my dog’s coat clipped in the late summer, but it still hasn’t grown back. Is there a problem?

Possibly. Low thyroid levels and other hormone imbalances can cause a delay in hair regrowth. There also is a phenomenon called “Alopecia of clipping” which basically just means the clipping somehow interrupted the hair growth cycle. You should have your pet examined by your veterinarian who may request some bloodwork or skin testing to determine the cause.

Yuck — I just found little white, flat worms in my dog’s stool and they were moving! What are they and should I be worried about my kids catching them?

Those are tapeworms. Yes, they are disgusting, but they generally can be easily treated. They must pass through an intermediate host — often a flea or small rodent — that your pet then eats. They are not transmitted directly from the stool so unlike many other parasites, people cannot catch them directly from the eggs in the stool.

There already has been some frost, but I pulled four ticks off of my dog today! I thought they’d be gone by now.

Fall is actually a bad season for ticks. Cool weather does not deter them and even in the winter, we will occasionally see them in protected areas like wood piles and thick brush. The cold does not kill them; they just become dormant, so it is important to use tick protection year round, just like heartworm preventative.

Can all dogs swim?

In general, yes, but some certainly swim better than others. Water breeds such as labs, goldens and poodles (yes, they were originally water retrieving dogs) do quite well in the water. Dogs with less body fat such as greyhounds don’t often fare so well and dogs with short legs such as bassets and bulldogs have more difficulty as well, but all dogs will instinctively do the dog-paddle. However, if you will be on the water and your dog isn’t a strong swimmer, they do make life-jackets for dogs. (Just make sure that if your dog has one, that there are enough for all the people as well!)

My dog loves hanging his head out of the car window when we drive. Is that OK?

It’s kind of fun watching your dog’s ears and tongue fly in the breeze, but he could get debris in his eyes and possibly scratch his cornea. There is also always the danger he could jump out. The safest place for your pet is the back, preferably in a belt or crate so he doesn’t get injured in case of an accident and isn’t a distraction to you.

I have poison ivy in my woods — do I have to worry about my dog getting it?

Dogs seem to be resistant to the rashy, itchy effects of poison ivy. However, you can get it from him if you pet him and get the oil of the plant on your skin. So if you think he has run through a patch, hose him off and bathe him thoroughly (wearing gloves) to protect yourself.

My dog tore his nail and it’s bleeding all over — what do I do?

You can use flour or corn starch to try to stop it — cup it in your hand and hold his toenail (or what’s left of it) in it. There are commercially available agents such as kwik-stop and clotisol to use as well. The good news is, although it looks like a lot of blood, it really isn’t. However, it does make a big mess. If the nail is hanging or broken at the base, he should be seen to remove it.

My dog keeps shaking his head and I see black stuff in his ears. Could he have mites?

He could, especially if he is with a cat who has them. Dogs more commonly get ear infections caused by yeast and/or bacteria. They can be very itchy and painful, so a trip to the vet is warranted. We may want to do a cytology of the discharge — this involves taking a sample on a swab and looking at it under the microscope to see what is causing the infection so we can treat it appropriately.

I don’t know anyone who has had a dog with heartworm disease. Why do I have to keep giving the preventative?

Heartworm disease used to be the number one killer of dogs in NJ. Because of so many conscientious pet owners using heartworm preventative, we do not see heartworm disease much anymore. However, if we stopped using the preventative, the disease would certainly make a comeback. Foxes and coyotes can carry it and we also see many rescue dogs brought up from the south that have heartworm disease. The preventative also controls roundworms, hookworms and whipworms, which we do see frequently in this area.

Is it OK to give my dog ice cream?

Dogs have a real sweet tooth, and the occasional tasty frozen treat is something they love. Large amounts could cause diarrhea, but most dogs tolerate some licks just fine. They do make a frozen dog treat caught Frosty Paws that they seem to enjoy as well.

Why does my dog eat poop?

Well, it’s mainly because he is a dog. Most of the time, dogs eat poop because they want to. It rarely indicates nutritional deficiencies. Adding canned pumpkin, MSG or a commercial stool-eating-discouraging agent to the food may help if he is eating his own or other dogs in the household’s feces.

I was told to bring in a urine sample from my dog. How on earth do I do that?

Male dogs are pretty easy since they are higher off the ground. Just use a cup to catch some urine. You can stretch out a coat hanger and put a cup in the hook part to avoid getting too close if you want. For female dogs, slide a paper plate under her when she squats and transfer the urine to a clean, dry container. If it will be more than an hour before you can bring the urine in, put it in the refrigerator.

My dog sometimes makes this horrible snorting noise and he looks like he’s in distress. What is it?

It could be a reverse sneeze. Smaller dogs, in particular beagles, are prone to this. What is happening is that their soft palate is too long and it gets trapped in the airway. The snorting blows it back out. The good news is that it rarely is a big enough problem to have to treat. If you get on YouTube and search “reverse sneeze”, you’ll find lots of videos. We can examine your dog to make sure there is nothing else going on. If you can bring in a short video clip of what your dog does, that is also very helpful.

Why does my dog eat grass?

They probably do it for many reasons. Some dogs just seem to like it (especially in the spring when it is sweet). It may make them vomit, but no one really knows if the dogs eat it specifically for that purpose. Eating grass does not indicate they are missing anything in their diet.

My dog keeps testing positive for lyme but he feels fine. What does that mean?

It means he is either getting reinfected (being bit by new ticks which are carrying lyme) or is persistently infected (the infection is not going away). If he is not sick, he does not have active lyme disease, but he should be monitored for signs. For more on lyme, please see the April 2008 Nibbles and Bits.

Do I really need to brush my dog’s teeth?

How timely a question — February is National Pet Dental Health Month and our Nibbles and Bits features our dental information brochure. Brushing your pet’s teeth is quite beneficial — helping to control plaque and tartar accumulation. The dog and cat toothpastes are flavored so that they will like them and accept the brushing better. It is not recommended to use human toothpaste as pets don’t tend to like the mint flavor and also because they may ingest too much fluoride. We also have a variety of rinses, sealants and water additives that can improve oral health.

I was watching an agility competition on Animal Planet and it looked like a lot of fun. Could I do that with my dog?

Absolutely! Agility is a great way to bond with your dog. Some breeds tend to be better at it than others (you’ll see lots of border collies and shelties in competition), but many dogs love the challenge of the course. There are a number of local training facilities that have classes. If you get some basic plans, you can even build some of the equipment for your own yard. Gather some of your friends and have a contest of your own.

My dog’s rabies vaccine isn’t due until June, but the town says I need to get it before I get his license this year. Is it OK?

State law says that the rabies vaccine must be good through the first eleven months of the licensure period (so for most towns, that is through November). It is perfectly safe to give the vaccine early.

My dog is always shaking his head. Could he have an ear infection?

He certainly could. He should have an exam to determine exactly what is going on in his ears and how best to treat them. Cleaning is often involved and we can show you the best methods and solutions to use.

I cut my dog’s nails too short and now they are bleeding — how do I stop it?

The nail will stop bleeding eventually, but it makes a big mess in the meantime. You can use regular flour or corn starch cupped in your palm and hold your dog’s nail in it to plug the end. There are also several commercially available products such as Kwik-stop and Clotisol that you can use. Rest assured, unless your dog has a clotting disorder, he will be fine.

What is a dog’s normal temperature?

Dogs and cats are normally 100.5 to 102.5, so they are much warmer than we are. In fact, at 98.6, people run colder than most domestic animals, which are usually over 100.

My dog was boarded at the kennel for a week and now his bark sounds funny. Should I be concerned?

If he’s just a little hoarse, he probably just barked his head off for the past week and his voice will come back in a couple days. If he is coughing or not acting himself, he should be examined to make sure he doesn’t have a respiratory infection.

My dog is going to have surgery and I’m really worried. Will he be OK?

Anesthesia, surgical monitoring, and pain management have progressed dramatically over the past twenty years. With the availability of in-house bloodwork, many different anesthetics, state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and multi-modal pain management, we will keep your pet as safe and comfortable as possible.

I just saw a rattlesnake — can you treat my dog if he gets bitten?

Snake bites are actually quite rare in this area. We do have rattlesnakes and copperheads but they aren't very aggressive. If a dog gets bitten, the area will immediately swell and become very painful. Usually as careful search will reveal the two fang puncture marks. We treat with supportive care — IV fluids and pain medication for as long as needed. The faster we can start this, the better the prognosis. In general, snake bites are rarely fatal.

My old dog doesn’t seem to see or hear well anymore. Is there anything I can do?

It’s hard to see our beloved friends get old. Aging changes in the lens called lenticular sclerosis causes poor night vision and decreases the lens’s ability to focus. The age-related deafness is a nerve issue and not reversible. The good news is that these changes are gradual and your pet will usually adapt quite well. If your pet is showing these problems, we should perform a physical to make sure they aren’t caused by something we can fix like an ear infection or cataracts.

My dog has been limping — can I give him an aspirin?

You have to be very careful using over-the-counter pain relievers for dogs. You never want to give Tylenol (acetaminophen), Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen) as these can all be very toxic. Aspirin, while the safest, is not the best for your dog. The prescription anti-inflammatories specifically for dogs are much safer and more effective.

My dog is not due for his rabies vaccine until the summer, but the town says I need it now to get his license. Will it hurt him?

The rabies vaccine we use is very safe. It is not a problem to give it early. This law started when rabies was reintroduced back into New Jersey in the late 1980’s. It was epidemic at that point and the towns wanted to make sure all the dogs (and in many towns, cats also) were staying current on their rabies vaccine. Sometimes, the town would issue a license to a dog whose vaccine was due in March, for example, but the owners never got the booster done. The law designed to prevent these lapses in protection.

My dog is always itchy — what can I do?

That’s a big question because there are so many things that can make a dog scratch. Fleas, allergies, scabies (“mange”), and skin infections are a few of the things that can make for an itchy, uncomfortable dog. A thorough exam can find out the cause and then we decide on the best treatment.

My dog has been shaking his head and scratching his ears. Could this be an infection?

It certainly could be. There are different things that can cause this, but the most common are yeast infections, bacterial infections and allergies. By looking in the ear and possibly doing cytology (taking a swab and looking at it under the microscope) and/or culture (sending a swab to the lab to find out what organisms are growing in the ear and what antibiotics to use), we can decide on the best course of treatment.

My dog lives outside — how can I keep him comfortable in the winter?

You need to make sure he has adequate shelter. It should be small enough that he can conserve body heat and protected from wind and rain getting in. You need a heated water bucket or check the water frequently to prevent it from freezing. He may need extra food because he will burn more calories staying warm. If it is going to be particularly bitter, you may want to bring him in, even if it’s into a mudroom or garage. And remember that most dogs are companion animals and would rather be with you than out by themselves.

How do I clip my cat’s nails?

Hold her foot in your hand and push upwards on the pad. This will make the nail come out of its sheath. Trim just the white part (not into the pink — that is the blood vessel). Make sure you reward her with some treats when you are done.

Can I teach my cat to walk on a leash?

You can, with patience. You need to use a harness and thin leash and is much easier to start as a kitten. Try encouraging her with treats to move forward. Most cats won’t trot along beside you like a dog, but she will learn not to fight the leash so you can take her outside safely.

My cat has urinary issues. Will distilled water help him?

It may. Distilled water is straight water — no minerals, etc. However, is has a very bland taste and some pets won’t drink it. It is very important for cats with FLUTD (feline lower urinary tract disease) to drinks lots of water to keep their urine dilute and their bladder flushed out. If he doesn’t like the water, he may not drink as much as he should and that would defeat the purpose.

My cat insists on drinking out of the faucet, but I’m tired of turning it on all the time. What else can I do?

Lots of kitties seem to like running water (to drink, not to bathe in!). They make a water fountain for cats that constantly recirculates water to keep a flow going. Much more cost-effective and less wasteful than keeping the tap running.

I need to deworm my cat and she won’t take that pill. What else can I do?

We also carry a topical medication called Profender that will get rid of roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms. Revolution, another topical, will kill roundworms and hookworms as well as fleas, ear mites and heartworms.

Is it true that cats always land on their feet?

Not exactly, but they do try. Sometimes a slightly higher fall is better because it gives the cat time to pull herself around. Obviously, though, they can only stand to fall so high, even landing on their feet. It’s important to have solid screens in upstairs windows so that she can’t accidently jump out.

My cat brought in a baby bunny. I’d like my daughter to take care of it because it would be a good experience for her. What should we feed it?

Although it may seem like a good learning experience, it is not the best thing for the baby bunny to have you try to raise it. It is also not legal for you to keep it. You should contact a licensed rehabber who will know how to best care for it.

My cat just had kittens and they don’t look anything alike. Two have long hair, three have short, one is black, one is calico, two are orange and one looks like a Siamese. What happened?

Cat color is very complicated and depends not only on genetics but environment in the uterus. (If you look at pictures of the first cloned cat, it was not the same color as the donor.) Also, one litter can have different fathers because cats ovulate each time they are bred during a heat cycle. But don’t worry, the mom will take care of each one the same — she knows they are all hers.

I’m a vegan and would like to feed my cat a vegan diet as well. Is that OK?

It is not recommended to feed cats a vegan or vegetarian diet. They are strict carnivores, that is, they require meat in their diets. They lack the ability to make certain amino acids that can only be found in meats.

Is it true that all calico cats are female?

For the most part, yes. For calico and tortoiseshell colors, there need to be two X chromosomes. Very rarely, you will find an XXY male that could be that color. However, he will be sterile.

What is that glow I see when a light shines in my cat’s eyes at night?

You are seeing the tapedum, which is part of the retina in the back of the eye. Cats see very well at night because their tapedum reflects the light. It is usually shades of green or blue but in blue-eyed cats, it is usually red.

My cat likes chewing on my spider plant and then he vomits. Is it poisonous?

No, spider plants are not toxic, but since your cat can’t digest it, either, he’s vomiting it up (usually on the lightest color carpet you have — it’s an uncanny animal talent).

My cat lets me pet him for about two minutes and then will bite me and run off. What can I do?

Remember the joke that goes “Doctor — whenever I do this (fill in the blank), it hurts, what should I do?” And the punch line is — “Don’t do that.”? Well, it’s the same thing. Even the behaviorists will tell you that you can’t really stop the cat’s reaction. What you need to do is read the cat’s response to the petting and stop before he tells you to.

I ran out of Biospot for my cat, but I have my little dog’s Biospot. Can I use it?

Absolutely not! Biospot for dogs is a completely different product than Biospot for cats. It contains permethrin, which is used to kill ticks in dogs but is very toxic to cats. If you accidently apply it, wash the cat off immediately with Dawn dish detergent and call us. Cats will have severe tremors that look like seizures and they can last for several days. They need to be hospitalized for supportive care until the tremors stop.

My cat has diabetes and I have three other cats — how can I prevent this from happening to them?

For cats, the number one risk factor for the development of diabetes mellitus is obesity. By keeping your cats at a normal weight, you will greatly decrease the risk of diabetes as well as urinary problems.

With all the ticks out, I wanted to put something on my cat for ticks, but I ran out. Can I apply my dog’s flea and tick medicine on my cat?

The answer is a resounding NO. With the exception of Frontline Plus, most flea and tick spot-ons for dogs contain a product called permethrin. It is perfectly safe for dogs but very toxic to cats. Should you accidently apply a dog product to your cat, wash him/her immediately and call us. Permethrins cause severe tremors and seizures in cats. There is no antidote, but they need supportive care and medication to limit the reactions until the permethrin is excreted from the body.

Is it okay to give my cat milk?

It’s fine as long as it doesn’t cause diarrhea. As much as cats like milk, it often doesn’t agree with them. They make a product called “cat milk” as a treat (available in the pet food aisle) which may be a better choice.

Can cats tolerate over-the-counter medications better than dogs?

In a word: NO! All of the over-the-counter anti-inflammatories are toxic to cats including aspirin. Cats’ livers are very different from ours and dogs’ and they cannot metabolize these medications well.

How do I give my cat a pill?

There’s a million dollar question! If you are very lucky, your cat will take it in some food, but most cats won’t fall for that (or you think they do and when you move the sofa, you find a pharmacy’s worth of pills under there). You can get the pill down by tilting the cat’s head back, opening his mouth and popping it on the back of the tongue, pushing it down with your finger. You can also use a “pet piller”— the pill loads into one end of a rubber plunger and you use that instead of your finger to push it down. We also have “pill pockets”— treats that you hide the pill in. Many cats are actually quite good at taking them this way.

Why does my indoor cat need a rabies vaccine?

Because you just never know when it comes to animals. Sometimes on a whim, even a totally indoor cat may get frightened and bolt out the door. There are also cases of wildlife (especially bats) getting inside houses. Don’t think it can’t happen — I had a bat flying around my upstairs hallway last year! I caught it in a fishing net, and had it tested for rabies, but don’t try this at home — I’m vaccinated for rabies.

Is it true that white cats with blue eyes are deaf?

Actually, that is often true. You can try and test your cat’s hearing by making a sudden loud noise behind her, but let’s face it, being the independent creatures they are, cats only hear what they want to hear anyway, so sometimes it’s difficult to tell! Rest assured, deaf animals adapt quite well and will often learn to read your sign language. And they always seem to know when it’s feeding time.

I have a lot of stray cats hanging around my house. Is there a way I can get them spayed and neutered so they won’t keep having more kittens?

There used to be a state feral cat program, which unfortunately has succumbed to the big budget cuts. You can try contacting local rescue groups which sometimes can help with funding. If you can trap the cats, we would be happy to spay/neuter them on short notice and can use dissolvable sutures so they don’t need to come back.

My cat often eats and vomits but seems fine otherwise. Why does she do that?

You should first have your cat examined to make sure she does not have a physical problem. Many things can cause vomiting. However, if everything is OK, it could be a behavior issue. Wild cats (like lions and tigers) will hunt and then gorge on the prey. They then will go back to a safe place, vomit it up and eat it again. Some behaviorists think this is where the “eat and vomit” cycle comes from.

Do you give tours of the hospital?

Yes we do. The addition and renovations that were done a few years ago have made ours a top-notch facility which we are very proud of. If you have a group (such as scouts or Pioneers), we are happy to arrange a tour and presentation. Dr. Summers is also a Boy Scout merit badge counselor for Veterinary Science, Pets, Dog Care and Horsemanship.

Where did you attend veterinary school?

Dr. Leal graduated from University of Tennessee, Dr. Summers, Dr. Clegg and Dr. Park all attended North Carolina State University and Dr. McDonald went to Cornell.

Do veterinarians have to go to continuing education?

Yes, and although New Jersey only recently started requiring that of veterinarians, Dr. Leal has always emphasized the importance of CE and we regularly attend local and national conferences as well as having in-house CE with different specialists to give us one-on-one learning experiences. The support staff also attends regular in-house seminars.

Do you have to be a veterinary technician before becoming a veterinarian?

No, but some choose to continue their education and become veterinarians, just like some nurses choose to change careers and become MDs. Usually, however, they are technicians because they love the kind of work they get to do.

What is that little square badge I sometimes see on the doctors’ and technicians’ uniforms?

That is a radiation badge. It keeps track of how much radiation exposure is received to make sure it does not exceed the recommended maximum. When taking radiographs, we also wear lead aprons, thyroid shields, and gloves for protection. The radiology suite also had lead-lined walls to prevent leakage outside the room..

I’ve heard that there are more women veterinarians now. Is that true?

Most veterinary students now are indeed women. In fact, the first class of students made up entirely of women graduated two years ago.

Is veterinary school harder than medical school?

In a way it is because veterinarians need to learn about multiple species, while human doctors learn about just one. However, in human medicine, internships and residencies are required, which makes their training much longer. Veterinary students can go right into practice after graduation.

Is veterinary school expensive?

Unfortunately, yes. Tuition ranges from $20,000 to $40,000 per year. Plus you have to pay for a place to live, food, books, supplies, etc. New Jersey does not have a veterinary school. The state used to contract with a few other schools to get residents in-state tuition, but that program has been cut back. Remember, too, that this expense is after the expense of undergraduate college.

How long does it take to become a veterinarian?

Veterinary school is four years after undergraduate school, so it takes seven or eight years altogether. There are only 28 veterinary schools in the US so competition can be pretty stiff. Unlike MDs, veterinarians are not required to do an internship and residency although many do. Many vets have spent their earlier years working as a kennel help, so we can appreciate the hard work our staff puts in cleaning cages and mopping floors (sometimes endlessly!).

How do you get an X-ray of a dog?

We have a digital radiography machine — that means we do not use film. The images are stored to the computer. Sometimes we need to use sedation if the dog is very active or is in pain. We generally have one of our technicians and an assistant in the room holding the patient. They wear protective lead gowns, thyroid shields and gloves and we measure the amount of their exposure with a special radiation badge that you may notice our staff wearing on their clothes.

Do you accept pet insurance?

Yes. It isn’t like an HMO where you have to go to participating Doctor. There are a number of companies out there, including VPI and ASPCA. They generally offer major medical and preventative health care options. The key is reading the fine print so you know exactly what you are paying for. Look for comments on deductible amounts, pre-existing condition limits, age limits, and maximum amounts allowed and percentage of coverage per incident. Generally, you pay us and then submit your claim for reimbursement.

What types of animals do you see at your hospital?

We see primarily small animals (dogs and cats) and exotics — which include rabbits, ferrets, rats, mice, guinea pigs, hamsters, birds, snakes, iguanas, bearded dragons, chameleons, turtles and others. We also take care of the wolves, foxes and bobcats at the Lakota Wolf Preserve in Knowlton.