My Last Posts

[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.

[BLOG] MSDS : what the heck ???

Discover the critical role of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) in shelter environments through our enlightening journey at the Gatineau SPCA. Learn how MSDS, an essential component of product stewardship and occupational safety, empowers workers with safe handling procedures for substances. This piece unravels the importance of MSDS in providing detailed information on toxicity, health effects, and safety measures, ensuring a well-informed approach to using disinfectants and other products in shelters.

[BLOG] How do you know if this animal is spayed or neutered? Easy ways to check !

Discover the straightforward methods to determine if an animal is spayed or neutered with our insightful guide. In a world where responsible pet ownership and population control are paramount, understanding whether your pet has been surgically altered is crucial. This article provides pet owners with practical advice on identifying spay or neuter status, aimed at ensuring the health and well-being of dogs and cats alike. We cover the significance of spaying/neutering in preventing unwanted litters and delve into easy techniques for verification.

[BLOG] Small animal reproduction: my Top 10 predictions for the future !

Exploring the future of small animal reproduction, this insightful blog by Dr. Emmanuel Fontaine unveils the remarkable advancements and potential breakthroughs on the horizon. With a decade of experience, Dr. Fontaine shares his top 10 predictions that promise to reshape canine and feline breeding. From routine feline insemination and innovative semen processing techniques to embryo transfers and stem cell therapy for repairing damaged uteri, the future looks bright. The blog highlights the shift towards more sophisticated reproductive technologies, including in-vitro fertilization and synthetic colostrum for newborns, underscoring a transformative era in small animal reproduction that could bring the science fiction of today into tomorrow's reality.

[BLOG] Canine repro: why it is really a unique species

Exploring canine reproduction reveals its distinct nature compared to other mammals. Canines exhibit early luteinisation of ovarian follicles, where progesterone production begins before ovulation, aiding in pinpointing ovulation timing. Unlike most mammals that release mature oocytes during ovulation, canines ovulate premature oocytes requiring 55 to 72 hours of maturation before fertilization can occur. This understanding is pivotal in devising optimal breeding protocols, offering a glimpse into the unique aspects of canine breeding and the ongoing scientific journey to unravel the mysteries of their reproductive physiology.

Dog Breeding Decoded: 20 Key Insights into Canine Ovulation Timing

This blog delves into the intricate details of canine reproduction, focusing particularly on the estrous cycle and the role of progesterone in ovulation timing. It provides comprehensive insights into the stages of the cycle, progesterone testing, and the inherent variability in ovulation timing. This resource is invaluable for dog breeders, and veterinarians offering a scientific yet accessible explanation of complex reproductive processes.

[BLOG] Rabies, you are at risk: 5 important tips everyone at the shelter should know !

Rabies poses a significant risk in North America, not just due to wildlife like foxes and raccoons but also domestic animals with unknown health statuses. This article highlights the heightened risk for those working in shelters and provides essential tips to mitigate it. Key measures include vaccination for all at-risk professionals, understanding transmission methods, prioritizing single-housing for new intakes to monitor health, recognizing symptoms early, and knowing the immediate steps to take after potential exposure.

[BLOG] Parasitology: to systematically screen or not, this is the question…

With shelters often being hotspots for infectious diseases, the ideal approach would advocate for systematic screening to tailor treatments and improve sanitation. However, budgetary and time constraints in shelter operations pose significant challenges. While outsourced tests strain finances, in-house testing demands resources and time, making it essential for shelters to weigh the benefits against the costs.

[BLOG] Not only for dogs: CPV-2c

The article sheds light on CPV-2c, a strain initially identified in Italy in 2000, which has since become a significant concern worldwide, including in North America. Notably, CPV-2c doesn't just affect dogs but can also infect cats, causing similar symptoms to those seen in panleukopenia. This revelation emphasizes the importance of awareness and vaccination, as current vaccines and diagnostic tests remain effective against this strain.

[BLOG] A lot of hygiene and a glimpse of contraception: this was our shelter convention !

Key shelter personnel exchanged ideas, aiming for optimal care for animals in their charge. Highlighting the importance of proper sanitation, the introduction of Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide as a potential game-changer in shelter disinfection was discussed. On contraception, while surgical options dominate, promising research into alternatives like GnRH vaccines and gene silencing offers hope for more efficient future solutions, potentially saving time and reducing stress for shelter animals.