Do routine, elective gonadectomies really increase dogs' lifespan?April 11, 2023Many studies have reported a consistent association between canines being gonadectomized and longer average lifespan—several months to two years longer in females, and none to over a year longer in males. However, the methodology of these studies should be carefully assessed before accepting that the association between being gonadectomized and lifespan reflects a causal relationship.
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Southeast U.S. "hotbed" for heartworms, warns AHSApril 11, 2023An influx of heartworm-positive dogs across the U.S. and a general lack of prevention compliance are the driving factors behind the uptick in heartworm cases. This is according to the American Heartworm Society (AHS). The group has unveiled its 2022 Heartworm Incidence Map, drawn from data provided by thousands of veterinary practices and shelters across the U.S. The numbers show the locales with highest heartworm incidence continue to be those in and adjacent to the lower Mississippi Delta, AHS reports. These areas typically experience conditions fostering widespread heartworm infection, including, among other factors, a mosquito-heavy climate. "The states with the highest density of diagnosed heartworm cases in the latest survey were Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Alabama, and Arkansas," says AHS president Jennifer Rizzo, DVM. "Meanwhile, Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and the Carolinas all saw expansions of high-density areas on our incidence map." Additionally, the report shows "unexpected increases" in incidence for states with historically low heartworm rates, including Washington, Oregon, Kansas, North Dakota, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. These areas also saw the development of new "hot spot" areas within their borders. Further, several urban cities (including Seattle, Wash., and Boise, Idaho, in the Northwest; Bismarck, N.D., in …
Generic feline allergic dermatitis med OKed by FDAApril 10, 2023Cats who find themselves constantly licking, chewing, and scratching their skin due to feline allergic dermatitis can now benefit from a newly approved medication.
Dog bite education, awareness helps minimize surrendersApril 6, 2023Helping owners understand dogs’ behavioral cues can go a long way in promoting peaceful coexistence between people and their canine companions.
VPN Plus+ ExclusiveTriage Vet TechnicalitiesApril 6, 2023This session: Alyssa Mages, BS, CVT, covers every aspect of an ER veterinary triage, from input to intake, and informs you how to implement effective triage in your practice. It addresses use for general practices and specialty centers, via telemedicine and in-person. You won’t just be reading a temperature; you will be reading the whole room!
Syria, Turkey earthquake relief receives $100K donation from veterinary groupsApril 6, 2023Humans and pets impacted by recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have received $100,000 in relief funding from two animal health groups.
Enthusiasm for thermal imaging central to company rebrandApril 4, 2023Digatherm Thermal Imaging is showing off a new monicker.
Countertop dog food-maker nabs $25K Pet Care Innovation PrizeMarch 31, 2023A device able to whip up homemade dog food at the touch of a button has taken top honors in the Purina Pet Care Innovation Prize Program.
Screening event puts canine eye disease under the microscopeMarch 30, 2023Spotting and treating early signs of ocular conditions in hardworking canines is the goal of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists’ (ACVO’s) National Service Animal Eye Exam Event.
Tips to Facilitate Effective Weight-Loss ConversationsMarch 30, 2023Weight-loss programs that focus on traditional caloric restriction and physical activity may not be appropriate or successful for all families. Incorporating strategies that enhance and support the family-pet relationship can help you create a customized—and successful—plan.