[BLOG] Nutrition in animal shelters: the consistency principle

Ensuring consistent nutrition in animal shelters is crucial for the health and well-being of resident cats and dogs. This blog explores the significant impact of stable dietary practices on animal health, focusing on the key aspects of nutritional consistency. By highlighting the challenges shelters face in providing balanced meals and the solutions to overcome these, we underscore the importance of dietary planning and execution. Understanding the nutritional needs of shelter animals can lead to improved health outcomes, supporting their journey towards adoption.

[BLOG] 2014 SFT meeting: news worth sharing with shelters (Part I)

At the 2014 Society for Theriogenology meeting in Portland, OR, specialists in animal reproduction convened to exchange insights on the latest breakthroughs. This post explores the relevance of these discussions to shelters, emphasizing contraception and population management in canine and feline reproduction. Highlights include a study on penile spines in feral cats and their reproductive adaptations, as well as innovative research on using nicotine as a non-surgical contraception method in dogs and cats

[BLOG] Sanitation in shelters: why there should be no animal around while cleaning & disinfecting

Ensuring a clean and disease-free environment is crucial for animal shelters. This blog emphasizes the importance of maintaining rigorous sanitation practices during the cleaning and disinfecting process. Highlighting the risks associated with the presence of animals in the vicinity during such activities, it underscores the potential for disease spread and the adverse effects on animal health. By outlining best practices for shelter hygiene, it aims to educate shelter staff and volunteers on effective strategies to minimize health risks for both animals and humans.

[BLOG] The compulsive “animal petter”: why it is a threat & how to prevent this in shelters

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.

[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] 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] Shelter medicine: 27 things shelter staff should know about ringworm (Part I)

Discover essential insights on managing ringworm in animal shelters with our comprehensive guide. Learn key strategies to prevent, identify, and treat this common fungal infection, crucial for shelter staff dedicated to maintaining animal health and welfare. This article highlights the importance of early detection, effective sanitation practices, and tailored treatment plans, ensuring a safe, ringworm-free environment for both cats and dogs.

[BLOG] Feline upper respiratory diseases: 24 things you need to know concerning Feline Herpes Virus (aka FHV-1)

In the world of feline care, upper respiratory diseases pose significant health challenges, with Feline Herpes Virus (FHV-1) standing out as a prevalent cause. This comprehensive blog sheds light on 24 critical aspects of FHV-1, highlighting its nature as an alpha-herpesvirus specific to cats, with no risk to humans. It delves into the virus's modes of transmission, primarily through close contact via ocular, nasal, and oral secretions, and underscores the critical role of sanitation and hygiene in managing outbreaks. The post also addresses the virus's life-long impact on infected cats, including potential latency and stress-induced reactivation, which can lead to widespread shelter outbreaks.

[BLOG] Feline Upper Respiratory Tract Diseases: things to know to better control and prevent these diseases

Understanding Feline Upper Respiratory Tract Diseases is crucial for pet owners and breeders alike. These conditions, often highly contagious among cats, can range from mild to life-threatening. The blog explores symptoms to watch for, including sneezing, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis, and emphasizes the importance of early detection and veterinary care. Preventative measures, such as vaccination and maintaining a clean environment, play a key role in controlling these diseases. Tailored towards those committed to the health and wellbeing of their cats, this resource provides essential insights into effectively managing and preventing the spread of upper respiratory tract diseases in felines.