🐾 Did you know that water is not just for drinking!
Soaking a dog's coat with water can help draw a lot of heat from their body in a heat stroke situation. It's a crucial first aid step that can make a big difference in saving your furry friend's life. 🌡️
When a dog is suffering from heat stroke, wetting down their coat allows the water to evaporate and draw heat away from their body. It's important to use water that's not too cold, as using very cold water (especially if you're tempted to submerge them) can actually trap heat deeper within the dog's body, making the situation worse.
Carrying water and knowing how to properly administer first aid for heat stroke can be the difference between life and death for your beloved companion.
Have you ever had to administer first aid to your pet in a heat emergency?🐶💦
#PetSafety #FirstAidForPets #DogHealth #VetAdvice #SummerSafety
🔥 Did you know that even the first sign of heat stroke in your dog could be life-threatening? 🔥
As a veterinarian, I can't stress enough how crucial it is to take immediate action when we notice any symptoms.
This involves stopping all activity, moving your dog to a shaded area, and offering them a drink to prevent further complications.
One key to avoiding heat stroke is maintaining hydration, as in hot weather, dehydration compromises your dog's ability to regulate their body temperature, making them more susceptible to heat stroke.
This may be enough, but as heat stroke progresses extra measures to cool them can be critical in ensuring your dog survives.
More importantly, prevention is key. Ensuring your dog has access to adequate shade and water during hot weather is fundamental in avoiding heat-related illnesses.
What steps do you currently take to keep your pets cool and hydrated during hot weather?
#HeatStrokeAwareness #DogSafety #HydrationIsKey #PetWellness #SummerSafetyTips
🤯 Did you know that what veterinary staff call them selves may not correlate to what training you may assume they have had!
1️⃣ Veterinary nurse and technician qualifications can vary significantly across the globe. Not everyone called a "vet nurse" may actually be qualified!
2️⃣ The skill levels and qualifications of the veterinary team members directly impact the quality of care your pet receives.
3️⃣ It's essential to know not just the qualifications but also how many staff members will be involved in monitoring your pet, especially during anesthesia and post-op care.
💡Learning about your veterinary team's qualifications and staffing levels can be a game-changer in ensuring the safety of your beloved pet during and after surgery. Knowledge is power, and asking the right questions can make all the difference in your pet's health journey.
💭Have you ever asked your vet about their team's qualifications before a procedure?
#VetCare #PetSafety #AnestheticSafety #VetNurse #PetHealth
Did you know that certain pre-surgery medications can be lifesaving for our brachycephalic, or "squash nose" dogs, like Pugs and French Bulldogs?
1️⃣ These dogs are at a higher risk of aspiration, where they might regurgitate and breathe that into their lungs—this can be catastrophic!
2️⃣ To reduce this risk, anti-vomiting medications and gastro protectants are crucial. These can prevent conditions like esophagitis and reflux, ensuring a smoother recovery.
3️⃣ For diabetic dogs, it's vital to give the correct insulin dose as prescribed by your vet (often half their usual dose) to keep their blood sugar levels under control during surgery.
4️⃣ If your dog is on long-term medications, always consult with your veterinary team to decide whether to withhold or administer them on the morning of surgery.
5️⃣ Above all, maintaining clear communication with your veterinary team is key to addressing any specific needs your pet may have.
💡 The safety and well-being of our pets during surgery can be significantly improved with the right pre-surgery medications. Whether it's preventing aspiration or managing diabetes, these steps are crucial for a successful surgery and recovery. 🐾
#PetHealth #VeterinaryCare #DogLovers #PetSafety #HealthyPets
💉 Fluids is a really good idea during surgery, both to improve safety and provide and insurance policy in the unlikely event that something goes wrong
1️⃣ Having an IV catheter ensures open access to the bloodstream, allowing for quick and necessary interventions.
2️⃣ IV fluids can be vital during anesthesia to maintain your dog's condition and prevent complications.
3️⃣ Without an IV catheter, veterinarians may struggle to administer needed medication, especially in emergency situations.
4️⃣ Fluid therapy supports overall stability and safety under sedation and anesthesia, making it a critical component of veterinary care.
💡 The key takeaway? Ensuring your dog receives IV fluids during procedures is not just a precaution—it's a potentially life-saving measure. This simple step can make a significant difference in managing anesthetic risk and ensuring your pet’s well-being.
#PetCare #VeterinaryMedicine #VetTips #PetSafety #HealthyPets
🐶 With 60% of our dogs classed as overweight or obese, it's time to seriously consider the impact of weight on their surgical risks!
1️⃣Weight loss is the first crucial step in optimizing a dog's health before surgery.
2️⃣Properly managing existing conditions, like diabetes, is essential for reducing complications.
3️⃣Addressing underlying skin diseases by eliminating secondary infections can significantly boost overall health and reduce the risk of surgical infection.
4️⃣The goal is to ensure pets are as healthy as possible before undergoing any procedure.
💡 It's vital to think about these pre-surgery health optimizations for your pets. Remember, a healthier dog means a safer surgery and a quicker recovery!
💭 Has your vet ever advised you to focus on health optimization before a procedure?
#PetHealth #VeterinaryCare #PetWellness #HealthyPets #AnimalCare
How I cured a dog's DEADLY cancer
✨ Did you know that a seemingly hopeless cancer diagnosis doesn't always mean the end? Discover the true story of a dog's miraculous recovery from a malignant thyroid carcinoma!
1️⃣ Initial tests showed a large neck mass, identified as melanoma, which was later found to be a malignant thyroid carcinoma.
2️⃣ Despite an aggressive surgery, tumor cells were left behind and the dog's life expectancy was only a few months.
3️⃣ Amazingly, after four years, the dog was still cancer-free.
4️⃣ No supplements, alternative treatments, or long-term medications were used—they wouldn’t have impacted the outcome but could have changed to narrative given...
5️⃣ Dr. Alex explores the dangers of misattributing treatments, caregiver placebo, and the pitfalls of cherry-picking anecdotal evidence.
💡This story illustrates how crucial it is to rely on scientific evidence rather than anecdotes when determining the best treatment for our pets. Sometimes, natural recovery can defy all odds, highlighting the power and mystery of the immune system 🐾
💭 Have you ever experienced or heard of a pet recovering against all odds? Share your thoughts and stories below!
#MiracleRecovery #PetHealth #VeterinaryScience #PetHealthTips #PetWellness
🩸 Every surgical patient should have a full physical examination before they are anesthetized. While that can pick up a lot, sometimes it's not enough!
1️⃣ A physical exam can check general body health, but to assess organ health, we need a blood test.
2️⃣ This blood test is especially important for older patients, who are at higher risk of hidden health issues.
3️⃣ Blood tests can be done either a few days before the procedure or on the same day, providing timely insights.
4️⃣ Most veterinary clinics are equipped with in-house blood testing equipment, delivering results in just 20-30 minutes.
5️⃣ Quick results from these blood tests help veterinary teams make informed decisions rapidly, helping to improve anaesthetic and surgical safety.
💡Conducting pre-surgery blood tests can significantly improve the safety and outcomes of surgical procedures. This quick and accessible test can reveal underlying health problems that might otherwise go unnoticed until it's too late. And if the test is AOK then you have added peace of mind!
💭 Have you ever had a pre-surgery blood test performed for your pet? What was the outcome?
#VeterinaryCare #PetSurgery #AnimalHealth #PetWellness #pethealth
Fasting your dog before surgery can actually help reduce the risk of potentially deadly anaesthetic complications! It's true, and while it might seem cruel, it's often in their best interest!
1️⃣Fasting helps in reducing any regurgitation and risk of aspiration during surgeries.
2️⃣Exceptions exist: diabetic dogs and young pups might need unique fasting schedules for example.
3️⃣Your vet may provide different instructions based on your dog's specific needs.
4️⃣Always follow professional guidance to ensure your pet's optimal health and safety.
💡Key takeaway: Proper fasting before surgery can significantly lower the risks associated with anesthesia and surgery. Always consult your veterinarian for the best fasting practices for your dog, especially if they have special conditions like diabetes or they're very young.
💭Have you ever had to fast your dog before surgery? How did it go?
#PetHealth #VetAdvice #DogSafety #DogCare #AnimalWellness
How pet drug prescriptions could land your vet in jail
In the video I discuss the pharmaceutical industry's exploitation of pet owners and veterinarians through inflated prices for pet-specific medications, despite cheaper human drug alternatives being available.
I outline the strict prescribing rules vets must follow, known as the "prescribing cascade," which makes it illegal for them to use human equivalents even if they are more cost-effective.
This video also provides five practical steps pet owners can take to reduce their pet's medication costs without compromising the vets' legal and professional responsibilities.
Cutting corners in veterinary surgeries can put your pet's life at risk! Do you really know what’s behind those lower-cost procedures?
1️⃣ Does your vet clinic have blood machines to run pre-anesthetic samples on the morning of surgery?
2️⃣ Advanced monitoring equipment like pulse oximeters and ECGs are crucial for ensuring your pet’s safety during surgery.
3️⃣ Equipment like capnography can monitor a dog's breathing to catch any abnormalities early.
4️⃣ These advanced systems may increase the cost but can drastically improve the safety of anesthesia.
#VetCare #PetSafety #VeterinaryMedicine #PetHealth #Anesthesia
💸 Is providing the same surgery at a much cheaper price worth the risk? What corners could be cut?
1️⃣ Are there qualified staff at these low-cost clinics?
2️⃣ Is there any appropriate monitoring equipment? This could be the difference between life and death during surgery.
3️⃣ Are different surgical kits being used for every individual?
4️⃣ Price alone should not be your deciding factor unless you know for a fact that everything else is exactly the same.
💡It's essential to evaluate the overall quality and safety standards of a clinic rather than focusing solely on cost when scheduling surgery for your pet. Cutting corners to save money could end up compromising your furry friend's health and safety. 🐾
💭Have you ever had to make a tough decision about a pet's medical care based on cost?
#PetSurgery #VeterinaryCare #PetSafety #AnimalHealth #VetAdvice
🏋️ It doesn't have to be complicated or cost the earth..."losing as little as 6% of their body weight can significantly improve your dog's arthritis pain!"
1️⃣ **Weight Loss**: Helping your dog shed a bit of extra weight can make a world of difference in their comfort levels.
2️⃣ **Nutrition**: An arthritis-specific diet can reduce lameness and improve pain.
3️⃣ **Supplements**: Omega-3 fatty acids from marine sources are a great addition—but remember, they are not the whole solution.
4️⃣ **Exercise Management**: Short, frequent walks are better than long, infrequent ones. Avoid explosive activities.
5️⃣ **Environmental Modification**: Add ramps, avoid stairs, and put down non-slip mats to ease your dog's movement.
💡 Incorporating these strategies not only relieves pain but also improves the overall quality of life for dogs with arthritis. Consistently applying these methods ensures your furry friend stays active and happy longer 🐾
💬 What’s one change you can implement today to help your dog's arthritis?
#DogCare #PetHealth #ArthritisRelief #HealthyPets #VetAdvice
The pet healthcare system is broken
The pet healthcare industry faces numerous challenges affecting pets, pet parents, and veterinary professionals globally. In this video we explores the complexities and provides insights into potential solutions...
❌ "Grains are not the biggest culprit behind dog food allergies!" Contrary to popular belief, they're responsible for only a small fraction of cases.
1️⃣ Dog food allergies account for about 10% of all skin allergies in dogs.
2️⃣ The real offenders are often animal proteins – beef and chicken top the list.
3️⃣ Dairy products are also a common cause of food allergies.
4️⃣ Among grains, it's usually just wheat that's problematic, not all grains.
5️⃣ Eggs, surprisingly, also make it into the top five common dietary allergens for dogs.
💡 The key takeaway here is that if your dog is showing signs of food allergies, it's more likely due to the animal proteins or dairy in their diet rather than grains. This means switching to a grain-free diet is highly unlikely to make a significant difference in your dog's health and well-being.
💭 Have you ever suspected your dog might have a food allergy? Share your thoughts and experiences below!
#DogHealth #PetAllergies #VetAdvice #HealthyPets #PetCare
💸 "Veterinarians are being blackmailed all the time." Yes, you heard that right – emotional blackmail involving our beloved pets!
1️⃣ Pets are family, and we all want top-notch care for them when they're injured or unwell.
2️⃣ However, high veterinary bills often lead to emotional blackmail, questioning vets' motives.
3️⃣ Accusations of vets being 'in it for the money' are often driven by pet parents who haven't planned ahead.
4️⃣ It's crucial to work with your vet within your financial means, rather than opting out or resorting to emotional manipulation.
5️⃣ Sometimes, a less expensive option can still provide a good chance of success for your pet's health.
💡 Key takeaway: Emotional blackmail in veterinary care often stems from guilt due to a lack of financial planning. Partnering with your vet to find affordable but effective treatments can ensure that your pet receives the care they need without placing undue strain on your finances.
#VeterinaryCare #PetHealth #EmotionalBlackmail #PetOwners #VetAdvice
The Best Age to Spay Your Dog in 2024 (veterinarian explains)
😱 Did you know that 1 in 4 entire female dogs will develop a pyometra by the age of 10? This is a life-threatening infection of the uterus that often requires emergency surgery!
🐕🦺 Here are some key points from our discussion on when to spay your dog:
1️⃣ Spaying can prevent serious conditions like pyometra and mammary cancer, and on average spayed dogs live longer than their entire counterparts
2️⃣ Spaying does have some risks, and if carried out at the wrong time it can increase the risk of cruciate ligament injury and certain cancers in specific dog breeds.
3️⃣ The recommended timing of spaying varies hugely and is based on adult body weight and breed
💡 The overall takeaway is that while spaying offers numerous health benefits, the ideal timing should be carefully considered based on your dog's specific breed, size, and health needs. It's crucial to discuss this with your vet to tailor the decision to your furry friend's situation.
🤔 How do you feel about the timing of spaying or neutering your pets? Do you think more personalized guidance is needed in making these decisions?
#DogHealth #PetCare #SpayAndNeuter #VeterinaryCare #petowners
Disclaimers: - My views are my own, guests views are theirs, sponsors are noted. - I earn money from linking to qualifying Amazon purchases (and other affiliate programs). Thanks for your support and helping my channel! - Enjoy my educational content, but remember, it's not specific veterinary advice for your pet. Consult a veterinary professional in person for your pet's needs.
00:00 Dog spay controversy
01:34 Pyometra
02:33 Mammary cancer
03:34 Pregnancy risks
04:12 Roaming and trauma
04:52 Life expectancy
05:14 Surgery risk
06:19 Cruciate ligament injury
07:46 Cancer risk
08:43 Incontinence
09:03 Autoimmune disease
09:45 Obesity
10:52 Should you spay your dog?
13:09 When to spay your dog
🚫 "Do not starve your dog with diarrhea" is old-fashioned advice—food actually aids their recovery instead!
1️⃣ Feed a bland diet with low fat and low salt options like chicken and egg to nourish the cells lining their intestines.
2️⃣ Incorporate prebiotics into their diet, either through special dog foods for diarrhea or home-prepared meals, to help reset their microbiome.
3️⃣ Avoid antibiotics if at all possible as this can disrupt their microbiome and compromise recovery.
4️⃣ Ensure they stay hydrated by adding water to their diet and enticing them with flavorings like tuna juice or chicken broth.
5️⃣ If symptoms persist beyond a few days or they show signs of being unwell, it's time to consult your vet for professional advice.
#DogCare #PetHealth #VetTips #DogLovers #HealthyPets
🤑 "Most vets could have chosen any other pathway if money was their motivator." 🐾
1️⃣ The journey to becoming a vet is challenging and requires immense dedication right from the start. Almost any other top career path would have been easier and more lucrative
2️⃣ Vets often accumulate significant debt to pursue their passion, highlighting their true dedication to animal care.
💡 Despite misconceptions, veterinarians are driven by passion and compassion rather than financial gain. Understanding the sacrifices they make sheds light on their genuine commitment to animal welfare. 🐶🐱
#VeterinaryCare #AnimalWellness #NOMV #AnimalLovers #VetLife
Grab your free guide to dog allergy management "Don't let itch control their life!" - https://ourpetshealth.com/resources
😲 "Relying on a single treatment for your dog's allergies is a mistake that often leads to failure!" - Veterinary expert Dr. Alex
1️⃣ Secondary infections are frequently overlooked—an overgrowth of normal bacteria or yeast on your dog's skin can make allergies worse.
2️⃣ We're guilty of not putting out that 'inflammatory fire'—many "natural therapies" either take too long to work or are nothing more than snake oil.
3️⃣ We often rely on a single treatment, such as a single supplement, shampoo, or dietary change, when allergies need a multi-faceted approach.
4️⃣ Treatments need time to work—starting a supplement requires patience, often a couple of months.
5️⃣ The itch may resolve, but allergies are often a lifelong issue, so stopping treatment too early is a common mistake.
💡 A key takeaway is that managing your dog's allergies is a long-term commitment requiring a comprehensive strategy—not just a single remedy. It’s crucial to stay consistent even when symptoms improve to ensure your dog's comfort and health. 🐶
💭 What's your biggest challenge when dealing with your pet's allergies? Let’s share our experiences!
#dogAllergies #itchydog #AllergyTreatment #VeterinaryTips #PetCare
