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Senior Dog & Cat Tips

Food Safety for Your Pets During the Holidays

December 20th, 2024 by Ima Admin

Do you know what foods your senior pet should avoid during the Holiday season? And which foods are healthful? Heaven at Home’s medical director, Dr. Amy Hoss, teams up with Dr. Kim Barnes to give you great advice on what – and what not – to share with your beloved companion during the holidays. Check it out, then follow us for more new videos each month on Tiktok, YouTube and Instagram!

 

Transcript
Dr. Amy Hoss:
Hi. I’m Dr. Amy, the medical director at Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
And I’m Dr. Kim. I’m one of the associates here at Heaven at Home, and this is Gilly, our star of the show.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
And just as a reminder, everything we’re talking about today is for educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for any medical advice that you can get from your veterinarian, who is familiar with any unique medical needs of your pet.

And a common question that we get as veterinarians is, are leftovers safe for my pet?
A good question to ask yourself is, does my pet have any food sensitivities or allergies? If that’s the case, then, of course, avoid that item.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
Another good question to ask yourself is, does my pet have any underlying diseases like pancreatitis or diabetes? In those cases, it’s best to avoid any new or unusual foods.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
Watch out for uncooked food and rising bread dough while you’re getting ready for the meal, bustling around the kitchen and entertaining your guests.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
And as the meal winds down, be mindful of any scraps that may contain bits of bone and also the extra bits of skin that could contain excessive fat. All of these could cause stomach upset or bigger problems.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
As a general rule, any foods that contain garlic or onion should be avoided. That could be your green bean casserole, your stuffing and any other side dishes.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
Other toxic foods that can sneak into your dishes are baker’s chocolate, dark chocolate, macadamia nuts, raisins, grapes, and sweeteners like xylitol.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
And as with all food safety, if it’s been in the refrigerator a little too long and you wouldn’t eat it yourself, it’s probably not safe to give to your pets, either.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
So we’ve talked about a lot of foods that our pets can’t eat. What are some things we can share with our furry friends?

We can give them green beans, potatoes, and other veggies. Those are always a great option.

A little bit of turkey, a little bit of ham, just for being mindful of keeping them sauce-free in case those sauces contain any of the foods that we’ve had that we spoke about before that are not safe.

And also maybe a little bit of that pie crust.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
So we’ve discussed some foods to avoid and some foods that are safe for your pets, but there’s a few other things that we should mention that come with the holidays.
So your guests may not be used to having inquisitive pets around. So make sure you avoid these items, drinks, edibles, and also gum.

So pets may like eggnog, but they should avoid it and other forms of drinks, so especially coffee and other forms of alcohol.

Also in Michigan, marijuana is legal, but be sure to keep any edibles or other forms of gum or sugar-free candy out of reach as those can contain xylitol, as we talked about earlier, that be very toxic to pets.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
Very true. So if your pets have been exposed to any of these things that we’ve talked about or you have any concerns, please reach out to your local emergency veterinary clinic or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control. We’ll list the number below.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
And for more great senior pet tips or any information on home euthanasia or aftercare, follow us on our webpage at pethospicevet.com or like us and follow us on social media.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
Thank you for joining us today.


The Surprising Importance of ‘Pawdicures’ for Pets

December 20th, 2024 by Ima Admin

Did you know that regular nail maintenance for senior dogs alleviates pain, improves mobility, and supports rehabilitation? Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed is essential. Here’s why:

Posture & Pain

Long nails cause discomfort and severe consequences in senior dogs because they alter the natural alignment of the paws, forcing your companion to shift his or her weight improperly. This can lead to pain in the joints, ligaments, and muscles. According to a study published in Veterinary Surgery, prolonged postural changes due to overgrown nails exacerbate arthritis.

“For a dog, walking on long nails feels like wearing very high heels! Trimming the nails reduces pressure on the toe joints, helping to restore proper posture. This relief can significantly improve a senior dog’s comfort and quality of life,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.

That’s why veterinary surgeons and rehabilitation specialists recommend weekly nail trimming on senior dogs. Frequency helps prevent the “quick” (the fleshy part) inside the nail from getting too long and avoids the vicious cycle of over-sensitized toe pads and traumatic clipping sessions with bleeding.

Slips & Falls

Properly trimmed nails ensure that the dog’s paws make full contact with the ground, improving grip and stability. Research in canine biomechanics shows that dogs with well-maintained nails exhibit better balance and fewer incidents of slips and falls, especially on slippery surfaces. The Heaven at Home team routinely recommends that pet parents use foam mats and even toe grips to further prevent slip risks at home.

Rehabilitation Support

For senior dogs recovering from surgery or managing conditions such as hip dysplasia, maintaining short nails is crucial. Physical therapists for animals often emphasize nail care as part of rehabilitation programs. Long nails can interfere with gait retraining exercises, impeding progress. A study from the Journal of Small Animal Practice notes that dogs undergoing rehabilitation therapy for orthopedic issues demonstrated better outcomes when nail care was incorporated into their treatment plan.

Tips for Safe Nail Care

  • Use high-quality nail trimmers designed for dogs, and/or consider a grinder (such as a Dremel tool) if your dog doesn’t tolerate clippers or you prefer smoother edges.
  • Trim gradually to avoid cutting into the quick, which can be painful and cause bleeding.
  • If unsure about proper techniques, consult a professional groomer or veterinarian for home tutorials.

Trimming senior dogs’ nails is more than a grooming necessity—it is a key aspect of their health care routine. By reducing pain, enhancing mobility, and supporting rehabilitation, regular nail maintenance can dramatically improve the quality of life for aging dogs.

 

 

 

 


Comfort Care in the Twilight Years of Your Cat

December 20th, 2024 by Ima Admin

Cats are stoic creatures, and are loath to admit when they’re in pain. Ensuring that your kitty is comfortable in their senior years or when they have a life limiting illness may require some sleuthing.

“Cats are excellent at masking pain due to traits inherited by their wild ancestors. We want to monitor criteria like appetite, mobility, and enjoyment of family and simple pleasures to gauge their quality of life,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.

Home Observation:

Observe subtle changes in your kitty’s physical health and behavior. Watch for:

  1. Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss
    Has your cat lost interest in their meals or eat with less enthusiasm? Are they spilling their food when they used to be tidy?
  2. Decreased Mobility
    Did your kitty love to sleep in their cat tree but doesn’t anymore? Maybe they don’t get up on the couch or bed to snuggle like they used to?
  3. Hiding and Behavioral Changes
    Do you see less of your cat than when they were younger? Have they stopped purring or asking for pets?
  4. Poor Grooming and Appearance
    Does your kitty’s fur seem more matted or dull? Perhaps you don’t see them grooming themselves like they used to?
  5. Chronic Illness
    Cats diagnosed with terminal conditions such as cancer, kidney failure, or advanced arthritis may reach a stage where curative treatment is no longer effective. It may be time for the focus to be solely on keeping them comfortable.

Comfort Care Elements:

Discuss your home observations and any diagnosis with your veterinary team. Pain management, including medications and alternative treatments (like laser therapy, massage, and acupuncture), hydration and nutrition, along with environmental improvements, can all be part of the Care Plan for your kitty.

Environmental Modifications:

Making small adjustments at home can significantly improve a senior cat’s quality of life:

  • Provide a cat warming bed; use ramps/steps to help them get to their favorite spots
  • Try water fountains, easy access bowls, and warming their food to encourage consumption
  • Give them a quiet, comfortable place to escape to
  • Use low sided litter boxes with easy access
  • Find interactive toys or games you both will enjoy

Assessing Quality of Life:

Pain, Grimace, and Quality of Life scales can all help pet parents assess their cat’s comfort level and contentment. These Tools and Resources can be found in our TOOLS section.

When pain or distress outweighs moments of joy, euthanasia may be a compassionate option to prevent further suffering. The goal is always to prioritize your cat’s dignity and well-being, and to ensure a peaceful passing at the end of their life’s story.


The Pet Effect – Ways Dogs Can Improve Cancer Therapy & Potential Pet Care Challenges

October 7th, 2024 by Ima Admin

Lower blood pressure. Feelings of well-being from the release of oxytocin. Increase in blood oxygenation. Improved endocrine responses.

There are many reasons dogs have earned the title of “(wo)man’s best friend,” and research continues to find new ones.

The Human Animal Bond Institute (HABRI) currently has more than 30 ongoing studies that investigate the impact of our companion animals in specific scenarios, from children with autism spectrum disorders to healthy aging. At the heart of this research are the scientifically documented benefits of the human-animal bond, which include decreased blood pressure, reduced anxiety, and enhanced feelings of well-being.

In humans undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer, research has shown that animal-assisted activities reduce depression by as much as 50%.

“Numerous studies suggest that pet ownership offers emotional support and connection for cancer patients,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice. “The challenge can be to find ways to simplify pet care for owners undergoing treatment, particularly when the companion animal is also aging or has a life-limiting disease.”

HABRI announced funding for a new research project that will explore the challenges cancer patients encounter in caring for their pets throughout the course of their treatment and recovery. Researchers at the University of Colorado will be looking for gaps and interventions to better address their pet-related needs – because the physiological and psychological benefits are worth it:

  • Interacting with dogs has been shown to lower cortisol levels, which is associated with stress. This reduction in stress hormones can lead to a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
  • Petting a dog triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone that enhances feelings of trust and bonding. Oxytocin not only helps in reducing stress but also improves social interaction and emotional resilience.
  • Patients who engage in regular physical activity, such as walking with a dog, tend to experience better overall outcomes during their therapy. The exercise not only boosts cardiovascular health but also increases blood oxygenation and enhances the body’s natural immune response.
  • Companionship of a dog can alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness that are common among cancer patients. The presence of a loyal, non-judgmental companion can significantly improve a patient’s mood, providing a distraction from the rigors of treatment.

“Ensuring support for pet care during cancer treatment is vital for both the companion animal and his or her human counterpart,” Dr. Brush said. “My hope is that HABRI’s new research project helps coordinate good planning across health care, social service and veterinary professionals.”

Visit the PetHospiceVet.com blog for tips on senior companion animal care and more.


Pet Pain Awareness Month: Early Intervention for Osteoarthritis

September 3rd, 2024 by Ima Admin

Every September, the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) promotes pain awareness to foster best practices in the prevention and treatment of pain in animals. One source of pain that affects millions of pets each year is Osteoarthritis (OA).

One in every 5 dogs will experience OA pain and mobility challenges in their lifetime, according to the American Animal Hospital Association. In cats, some estimates suggest that degenerative joint disease prevails in anywhere from 40 to 90% of cases.

The cascade of arthritic events starts with cartilage damage and loss, followed by the release of inflammatory mediators. OA then progresses to synovial membrane inflammation, then bone remodeling/osteocytes that lead to heightened pain and disability. Read the rest of this entry »


Select Food as Medicine for Canines – Part 2: Balancing Essential Nutrients

June 5th, 2024 by Ima Admin

In part one of this series, we examined research conducted by the Dog Aging Project that shows promise to extend the lifespan and quality of life of our beloved companion animals. Many pet parents are eager for definitive research on what to feed their pets to maintain optimum health.

Evidence is mounting that whole, plant-based diets offer extended “healthspans” thanks to polyamines such as spermidine, which has been shown to improve cellular function. Spermidine’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties protect against oxidative DNA damage.

While there has been controversy around the safety of feeding pets plant-based diets, some recent research has shown that dogs fed vegan diets were in ideal body condition, with normal behavior and good skin/coat condition, with no echocardiographic differences between vegan and the control group.

However, concerns have been raised around deficiencies in certain amino acids such as taurine, and vitamins such as B12 (cobalamin) and B9 (folate) when pet parents stray from veterinary-approved, pre-formulated diets. In addition, cases of DCM – dilated cardiomyopathy (enlarged hearts) – from boutique grain-free foods and the taurine connection has never been fully resolved. So how can a pet parent safely incorporate wellness nutrition into their pet’s meal plan? Read the rest of this entry »


Food as Medicine for Canines – Part 1: Slowing Down the Slowing Down

April 1st, 2024 by Ima Admin

What would we give for extra time with our beloved companion animals before they cross the Rainbow Bridge? What if there was a way from maturity onward to expand not only their lifespan, but their “healthspan” too? The concept of aging well, and longer, is a hot topic that’s enjoying a burst of research activity in the human realm. Much of that research applies to animals too. In fact, many of the early findings in longevity are coming from canine research through the Dog Aging Project.

Current longevity research is focused on slowing down what’s known as the mTor signaling pathway, the system that regulates metabolism and promotes growth when we’re young, but then ages us once we’re mature. Read the rest of this entry »


The Benefits of Librela for Arthritis in Dogs

January 2nd, 2024 by Ima Admin

Arthritis is a debilitating condition that affects senior dogs, causing pain and discomfort that can greatly diminish their quality of life. Fortunately, advancements in veterinary medicine have introduced promising treatments like Librela, a novel medication designed to alleviate arthritis symptoms in dogs.

“In the field of pet hospice and euthanasia, quality of life and the ability to manage pain are key factors that weigh into difficult decisions. Many senior dogs can enjoy an improved quality of life and an extension of their sunset years through treatment with this game-changing class of drugs,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.

Librela is part of a new class of drugs known as disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs) that target the underlying causes of arthritis, rather than merely masking symptoms. The active ingredient in Librela is known as “arti-antagonist,” which works by inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules and promoting joint health.

Ways Librela Can Help

  1. Pain Reduction: One of the primary benefits of Librela is its ability to reduce pain associated with arthritis in dogs. A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Medicine found that dogs receiving Librela experienced a significant decrease in pain scores compared to a control group.
  2. Improved Joint Function: Arthritis often leads to decreased mobility and joint stiffness in dogs. Librela has been shown to improve joint movement and agility, allowing them to engage in more physical activities.
  3. Cartilage Protection: Librela helps protect and preserve cartilage in arthritic joints, which is crucial for long-term joint health and mobility.
  4. Reduced Inflammation: Inflammation is a key driver of arthritis pain. Librela works to decrease inflammation in the joints, thus reducing pain and swelling.
  5. Minimal Side Effects: Another significant benefit of Librela is its relatively low incidence of side effects compared to some traditional arthritis medications. Research has reported that adverse reactions to Librela are rare and generally mild.

Librela represents a promising advancement in the reduction of pain, improved joint function, preserved cartilage, and reduced inflammation. If your dog is suffering from arthritis, consult with your veterinarian to discuss the suitability of Librela as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. It may put a new spring in the step of your beloved companion, and extend your time together.


Medical Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Dogs

December 1st, 2023 by Ima Admin

As veterinary medicine continues to evolve, innovative treatments are emerging to enhance the comfort of senior companion animals. One such breakthrough is red light therapy, a non-invasive treatment that has shown promising medical benefits for dogs. Backed by research from reputable veterinarian journals, this therapy is shedding light on new ways to alleviate pain, accelerate healing, and improve overall canine health.

“The initial research is promising,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice. Dr. Brush returned recently from the International Association of Animal Hospice and Palliative Care conference, an organization for which she serves as a member of the board of directors. At the conference, hospice veterinarians from across the country studied new ways to manage pain in aging pets.

“Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation, has gained recognition for its efficacy in managing various forms of pain in dogs.”
Read the rest of this entry »


Navigating Vision and Hearing Loss in Senior Dogs

October 2nd, 2023 by Ima Admin

As our loyal canine companions age, they may encounter challenges such as vision and hearing loss. These conditions can be distressing, but with understanding, patience, and proper care, pet parents can provide their companions with a comfortable and fulfilling life.

“Vision or hearing loss in your dog is not a death sentence. We routinely see senior pets enjoying a high quality of life despite diminished vision or hearing. However, it’s vital to create a system of communication, engagement and comfort to keep your pet happy and safe,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, DVM and founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice. Read the rest of this entry »