Understanding the dangers of compulsive petting in animal shelters is essential for maintaining a safe and stress-free environment for animals awaiting adoption. This blog explores how excessive handling can negatively impact pets, particularly those that are already under stress due to their shelter surroundings. It emphasizes the need for creating awareness among visitors and volunteers, highlighting practical strategies for prevention. The piece underscores the importance of training and setting boundaries to ensure that interactions between humans and shelter animals are both positive and health-promoting. By prioritizing the well-being of pets, shelters can significantly improve their chances of successful adoption and long-term animal health.
Author: dremmanuelfontaine
[BLOG] Blood groups in feline: 8 facts about [AB]
Understanding blood groups in felines is crucial for both pet owners and breeders. This comprehensive guide illuminates the vital aspects of cat blood types and their importance in breeding, transfusions, and overall health. Discover the significance of the AB blood group system in cats, including the rare AB type, and learn how it affects breeding decisions and medical care. We cover essential facts that every cat enthusiast should know, from compatibility during transfusions to the implications for pregnant cats.
[BLOG] Neonatology: why I don’t see breast-feeding puppies and kittens as an option Part II
This is Part II of the blog – read Part I here. #3 Bottle-feeding does not work? Tube feed then! Sometimes, puppies/kittens simply don’t want to be bottle-fed. Very often, it’s because they are too week to properly suckle the bottle. For these cases, tube-feeding is THE option. That would have been my go-to option … Continue reading [BLOG] Neonatology: why I don’t see breast-feeding puppies and kittens as an option Part II
[BLOG] Neonatology: why I don’t see breast-feeding puppies and kittens as an option Part I
In the realm of neonatology for puppies and kittens, the significance of early nutrition cannot be overstated. While many consider natural feeding by the mother as the ideal option, this blog explores the complexities and challenges that can make breastfeeding not always viable for newborn pets. Addressing critical factors such as maternal health issues, insufficient milk production, and the risk of transmitting infectious diseases, it highlights the necessity of exploring alternative nutritional strategies. With a focus on ensuring the health and development of puppies and kittens, this piece examines the role of puppy and kitten milk replacers as essential tools in neonatal pet care.
[BLOG] Myth busters: why “puppies should not be fed with special growth diet” is an incorrect assumption
In this enlightening post, we address the common misconception that puppies should not be fed with a special growth diet. Contrary to popular belief, the nutritional requirements of growing puppies are distinct and cannot be adequately met by adult dog food. Special growth diets are formulated to support the rapid development of bones, muscles, and fur, ensuring puppies get the best start in life. This article unpacks the science behind puppy nutrition, highlighting the critical role of a balanced diet in preventing health issues later in life.
[BLOG] Hydrogen Peroxide vs Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide: sounds the same, but quite different in the end !
Explore the critical distinctions between hydrogen peroxide and accelerated hydrogen peroxide in veterinary settings, specifically tailored to breeders and pet care professionals. Understanding the efficacy and safety of these solutions is paramount for maintaining optimal health environments for dogs and cats. This blog elucidates the fundamental differences, focusing on their applications in disinfection protocols within breeding facilities and animal care practices. Highlighting the importance of choosing the right disinfectants, we offer insights into how these choices impact the well-being of both newborn and adult animals in kennels and catteries, ensuring a sanitary environment that promotes health and prevents disease.
[BLOG] Kitten season: is there still such a thing?
As springtime approaches, many pet enthusiasts wonder if the concept of "kitten season" still holds true. Traditionally marked by a surge in feline births, this phenomenon impacts animal shelters and rescue organizations significantly, presenting both challenges and opportunities. This blog explores the dynamics of kitten season, emphasizing its implications for cat welfare and the strategies employed by shelters to manage the influx. We highlight the critical role of spaying and neutering in controlling population growth and the importance of supporting local shelters during these peak times.
[BLOG] Ringworm cultures: red does not always mean infected !
Discover the truth behind ringworm cultures in veterinary practice. This insightful blog uncovers the misconception that a red culture medium always signifies infection. With a focus on Dermatophyte Test Medium (DTM) and its correct interpretation, it emphasizes the complexity of diagnosing ringworm in shelters. Misinterpretations can lead to unnecessary treatments, highlighting the need for accurate diagnosis.
[BLOG] Shelter medicine: 27 things shelter staff should know about ringworm (Part II)
In the comprehensive guide, vital insights into managing and preventing ringworm in shelter environments are shared. The post emphasizes the critical role of environmental factors like warmth and humidity in the disease's development, advocating for controlled conditions to prevent outbreaks. Highlighted is the delicate balance of animal hygiene, revealing how excessive bathing can predispose animals to infection by compromising their natural defenses.
[BLOG] Myth busters: Giving calcium supplements to puppy does NOT help straighten its ears
In the quest for healthy development, many believe that giving calcium supplements to puppies will help straighten their ears. However, this popular notion is more myth than fact. Dr. Emmanuel Fontaine’s latest blog sheds light on the subject, presenting scientific insights and veterinary expertise to debunk this common misconception. Focusing on the crucial role of genetics and proper nutrition in puppy growth, the article emphasizes that a balanced diet is key to healthy development, rather than relying on supplements without professional advice.
DR. EMMANUEL FONTAINE 