Parvovirus, commonly known as Parvo, poses a significant threat to dogs, especially in shelter environments. This highly contagious viral disease can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues and, if left untreated, can be fatal. Our latest blog highlights 12 essential facts about Parvo, including its transmission methods, symptoms, and the critical role of vaccination and sanitation in prevention. Understanding these aspects is vital for anyone involved in dog care, particularly in shelters, to protect these vulnerable animals from such a devastating disease.
Tag: Infectious Diseases
Overview of common infectious diseases in pets and how to prevent them.
[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] 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] 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] 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.
[BLOG] What is canine angiostrongilosis? My notes here !
Discover the essentials of canine angiostrongilosis, a parasitic disease increasingly reported in Europe and raising awareness in North America. Known colloquially as the "French heartworm," Angiostrongylus vasorum resides in the heart and pulmonary artery, leading to symptoms that range from respiratory distress to severe neurological and coagulation disorders. Transmission occurs through the ingestion of infected molluscs, posing a risk for dogs across varied regions. Despite the variability in symptom severity, from asymptomatic cases to life-threatening conditions, early detection and a proactive approach to treatment—often extending up to four weeks—are crucial for managing this parasitic threat.
[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.
DR. EMMANUEL FONTAINE 