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The following videos and stories are produced by Veterinary News Network.  After clicking on each link, a new window will pop up to display the video content.

Serious Scams Hurt People and Their Pets

 

In grocery store parking lots, on the Internet, or even in your very own barn, unsupervised and unlicensed individuals are providing healthcare services for your animals.  Most people know and trust their licensed, professional veterinarian to handle all their pet's needs, but a few pet owners might chose individuals who call their services "animal husbandry".  Now, some states are even changing laws that allow these individuals to continue their practice.  Learn how veterinarians are trying to protect our pets and what has prompted this increase in animal care provided by a layperson.

Protecting Ourselves, And Our Pets, From A Killer!

 

What would you do if you found your dog outside fighting with a raccoon?  What if you found your cat batting around a bat inside your home?  Although you might think these are uncommon occurrences, these scenarios do happen and could have a deadly outcome.  The rabies virus can be found in many wildlife populations, including skunks, foxes, raccoons and bats.  Do you know what steps you need to take in case your pet encounters a wild animal?  Read this story to learn what steps need to be taken in case of an injury from a wild animal and to learn how you can keep your pets, and your whole family, safe from this killer!

Keep The Whole Family Safe During Disasters

You never know when a natural or man-made disaster might strike.  From tornados in the Plains States to hurricanes along the coast and wildfires in the West, calamaties can strike anywhere at any time.  Being prepared for a disaster means including your four legged family members in the evacuation plan as well.   Thanks to the PETS Act and some national campaigns, keeping your whole family together during emergencies is now a little easier!

Leptospirosis - An Old Disease Causing New Problems

For many older pet owners, getting their dog a Leptospirosis vaccine was just part of the old "DHL" vaccine package their pets received every year.  But concerns about vaccine reactions and a change in the types of Leptospirosis that are prevalent have led many people to question the need for this vaccine.   Watch this video and read the accompanying article to learn more about this zoonotic disease threat!

 

Hybrid Breeds: Designer Dogs or Disaster in the Making?

From the well trained, low shedding Labradoodle to the perfect for the apartment Puggle, new hybrid dog breeds are appearing everywhere.  Becoming popular with celebrities and anyone wanting to be part of the latest trend, these new cross breeds are winning their way into people’s hearts and their pocketbooks as well.  Is this just a fad or do these hybrids have a chance to be part of the purebred world?  

 

Ruff...Ruff...The Roof Is On Fire!

Hundreds of thousands of house fires happen every year and most people can guess at the common causes…unattended candles, kitchen accidents and, of course, smoking.   But, one less common reason for fires might surprise you…our pets!  With their inquisitive natures and playful attitudes, our four legged friends can create situations that could turn deadly.  Learn how one pet owner’s foresight stopped her house from going up in flames when her dog went looking for chocolate!

Travelin Jacks Surgical Adventure

Like millions of dogs, and quite a few professional athletes, Jack the English Bulldog was sidelined with a knee injury.  Thankfully, Jack has a great owner and a dedicated veterinary team.  Together, they were able to repair his knee and get him back to work.  Watch this video to learn more about cruciate injuries and the surgeries that help get our pets back on their feet.

Top Summertime Tips for Pet Safety

Summer means beach parties, tan lines, trips to the “ole swimming hole” and a lot more outdoor activities.  As we are trying to keep ourselves cool in the hot temperatures, it’s important to remember our furry friends too!!  Heat stroke is a very common problem for pets as the mercury rises during summer’s muggy days.  Likewise, biting insects and celebratory fireworks also have the potential to cause a lot of stress for our dogs.  Before you head out to the swimming pool, read this story for some tips to keep your pets cool this summer!

The Humane Conflict

There is no doubt that animal abuse is frowned upon.  We don’t tolerate individuals who kick puppies any more than people who abuse their children.  But, in the continuing battle against this horror, new controversies are rising.  Many concerned animal lovers donate money to prevent these tragedies only to find out their money might be used for other purposes.  Read this article to find out if your donations are helping dogs and cats or helping lobbyists craft questionable new laws.

Fleas Really Get Under Our Skin!

Warm weather means fun in the sun, but it also means that we might see growing populations of fleas.  Although pets can get fleas at any time of year, spring and summer are often the worst times as these hungry little parasites make life miserable for your pet…and for you!  Learn how to control the flea population and keep these pests off of your dogs and cats with a little help from your veterinarian.

Cancer in Pets and People - Can the Similarities Provide a Cure?

Cancer is a devastating word to families of cancer victims and to pet owners as well.   Estimates show that more than 6 million dogs and a similar number of cats are diagnosed with some sort of cancer each year.  Advances in the field of comparative oncology have helped provide clues as to the causes of some cancers and have given hope to both people and pets stricken with this dreaded disease.  One significant example is the development of a “canine cancer vaccine” that just might help stop the scourge of canine malignant melanoma. 

Heartworms Continue to Plague our Pets!

Veterinary experts continue to see a rise in heartworm cases among our dogs and, although less is known, it is assumed that feline cases are rising as well.   We have safe, inexpensive and effective preventives that can stop this disease in its tracks, so why do these parasites continue cause illness and death?  As this VNN video blog explains, part of the problem could be the shortcuts some owners take with their pet’s care.   Watch and see the best way to stop heartworms from causing heartache!

Pet Parasites Dont Take Vacations!

Intestinal parasites, like roundworm and hookworms, are much more common than people believe.  The Centers for Disease Control estimates that nearly 14% of all Americans are infected with roundworms!  And, if you own pets, you are in one of the highest risk categories for becoming infected!   Our pets can contract these worms from dog parks or other areas outdoors, even in the dead of winter.  Thankfully, there are good guidelines and medications for de-worming our pets routinely.   Read how you can take some proactive steps to protect your whole family!

Lyme Disease and Pets: Deadly Lyme Disease Takes Flight!

For more than one hundred years, Lyme Disease has steadily crept across the United States, with more human and pet cases being seen each year.  We know that ticks are responsible for spreading the bacteria that causes Lyme Disease, but did you know that the spring time robin may play a part as well?  New research has shown that many songbirds are instrumental in the expansion of this serious disease. 

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