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Leptospirosis Update: Urban Risk & Vaccine Recommendation

April 28th, 2025 by Ima Admin

Leptospirosis is a potentially fatal bacterial disease that affects dogs and is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to humans. In the past, it was considered higher risk for animals in rural areas with access to warm, wet, stagnant areas such as standing water, mud puddles, and even swollen rivers and ponds, where it can linger for months after being shed by wildlife and rodents when they urinate.

Leptospirosis is most often transmitted to dogs through mucous-membrane (mouth, nose or eye) contact with the urine of infected animals and/or contaminated food, bedding, soil, or water. Dogs may also be infected through the bite of, or by eating, an infected animal. Raccoons, skunks, opossums, rats, cows, and pigs are all known carriers of the infection. Dogs can also become infected from close contact with another infected dog.

Historically, vaccination against leptospirosis was considered “non-core,” (elective) recommended primarily for dogs with specific risk factors or living in higher risk areas. However, recent developments have led major veterinary organizations, including the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM), to reclassify the leptospirosis vaccine as “core” (essential) for all dogs.

“This shift underscores the importance of universal vaccination to protect canine health. Infection can lead to severe health issues, including kidney and liver failure, and can be fatal if not promptly treated. It can also be transmitted from animals to humans, posing public health concerns,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.

Early signs of Leptospirosis include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Increase or decrease in urine production
  • Uncharacteristic inactivity
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Severe weakness and depression
  • Stiffness
  • Fever

Why Vaccinate Against Leptospirosis

  1. Increased Prevalence: Leptospirosis has been reported in diverse geographic
    regions including Michigan, affecting dogs of all sizes, breeds, and lifestyles,
    including those in urban areas.
  2. Improved Vaccine Safety: Advancements in vaccine formulations have enhanced
    safety profiles, reducing the incidence of adverse reactions.
  3. Expert Recommendations: Organizations like AAHA and ACVIM have updated their
    guidelines to recommend annual leptospirosis vaccination for all dogs starting at 12 weeks
    weeks of age, reflecting a consensus on the necessity of widespread immunization.

Video: How to Use Assisi Loop to Reduce Pain and Inflammation

April 28th, 2025 by Ima Admin
What: The Assisi Loop uses Targeted Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (tPEMF) therapy to reduce pain and inflammation in animals. Studies have shown that tPEMF can stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, enhance cellular repair, and reduce pain by triggering the release of anti-inflammatory molecules. In this video, Dr. Kim Barnes, DVM, demonstrates how simple the application of the device is for pet parents who want to provide home therapy.
Why It Matters: This type of therapy is simple, non-invasive, and may help increase comfort and mobility for senior pets. It may also reduce the amount of pain medication needed.
More Information on tPEMF Therapy Uses:
  • Several studies have demonstrated the Assisi Loop’s ability to reduce pain and inflammation in animals with various conditions, including spinal surgery recovery and arthritis.
  • Research has shown that tPEMF therapy can significantly reduce pain and inflammation in dogs recovering from spinal surgery, with some studies reporting lower levels of pain and inflammation compared to those who did not receive the therapy.
  • A study on dogs with osteoarthritis showed improved mobility and reduced pain after consistent use of the Assisi Loop, suggesting its potential for managing chronic pain without relying on pharmaceuticals.
  • Some research suggests that tPEMF therapy can also help manage pain in other conditions, including intervertebral disk disease (IVDD).

For more information on the Assisi Loop, please visit: https://assisi.zomedica.com/

Protecting Your Cats (and Dogs) from Avian Flu

March 31st, 2025 by Ima Admin

Millions of migratory birds and hundreds of commercial flocks in Michigan and surrounding states were infected with H5N1 Avian – “Bird” – flu this winter. The strain most deadly to felines was found in American dairy cattle as early as March of 2024, and then was found in unpasteurized milk and some brands of raw pet food earlier this year, causing illness and euthanasia in dozens of cats. Bird flu threatens to become pervasive this spring, and it’s vitally important that pet parents remain vigilant in the face of a pet pandemic.

“This strain of Avian flu is especially dangerous for senior felines. In Michigan, indoor cats on dairy farms have contracted it through indirect exposure. This suggests it’s highly contagious. Watching for early symptoms and protecting your pet is vital,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice. Read the rest of this entry »

Video: How to Check Your Dog’s Mucous Membranes & Capillary Refill Time

March 28th, 2025 by Ima Admin

What: Dr. Kim Barnes from Heaven at Home Pet Hospice, Grand Rapids, demonstrates how to check your dog’s mucous membranes and gums for color, and how to test Capillary Refill Time (“CRT”) – the time it takes for color to return to the gums after you depress an area with a finger.

Why It Matters: This quick check can help you determine if your dog is suffering dehydration, shock, or other ailments. In senior pets especially, dehydration needs immediate attention. When speaking with Heaven at Home staff, you may be asked to report on your dog’s tongue and gum color, feel and CRT.

Key Takeaways include looking for a pink, wet tongue and a “bubble gum” pink color on the gums. A relatively fast CRT – eg. 1-2 seconds, is ideal. The longer it takes the color to return to the gums when you test, the more likely it is that your companion is dehydrated or suffering an issue with blood flow to tissue.

Free Senior Pet Tips Workshop at Your Pets Naturally!

March 3rd, 2025 by Ima Admin

Join Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice, on Saturday, March 22nd at Your Pets Naturally for a free workshop on ways to help your senior pet enjoy a comfortable quality of life as they age.

Time: 1:30 p.m.

Location: Your Pets Naturally, 6439 28th Street – (Next to D&W)

Topics: Presented by Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice

  • Mobility aids
  • Pain management
  • Nutrition
  • Mental stimulation
  • Bedding/Sleeping areas
  • Toileting

Please feel free to bring your questions!

Video on Clipping the Nails of a Senior Dog

March 3rd, 2025 by Ima Admin

What: Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice, demonstrates the real “at-home” way to clip your senior dog’s nail length.

Why It Matters: Properly trimmed nails have a major impact on improving posture and gait to reduce pain and preventing slips.

Key Takeaways include how to avoid the “quick” (the “little dot”) and how to know they’re the right length (you should be able to slide a piece of paper under the nails when standing!).

Covering Vacations When You Have a Senior Pet

February 28th, 2025 by Ima Admin

Taking a vacation when you have a senior pet can be stressful for both you and your companion animal. Older dogs have unique needs due to age-related changes in their physical and emotional well-being. Conditions ranging from arthritis and diabetes to sensory issues like failing vision, hearing or cognitive function all need to be considered.

“The least stressful thing you can do for a dog is have someone stay with them in their own home. Changing locations can be extremely disorienting to a senior pet, especially if they have any symptoms of cognitive canine dysfunction,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.

That doesn’t mean boarding isn’t the right fit for some families, especially with the advent of more “luxurious” boarding options that can accommodate senior pets.
Veterinary Assessment Before arranging care coverage for your vacation, first schedule a veterinary check-up to assess your senior dog’s overall health.

  • Ensure their vaccinations are up to date, and discuss any chronic conditions or
    medications they require.
  • Ask for referrals to preferred pet sitters, boarding facilities, or whether your veterinary practice offers medical boarding with 24/7 supervision.
  • Create a detailed health record, including condition history and any special medication and care instructions.
  • Make arrangements with your veterinarian to cover any emergency care that might arise, and discuss what to do if a serious medical emergency necessitates a compassionate end-of-life decision.

Boarding Facilities

Not all boarding facilities cater to the needs of senior dogs. Look for a facility that:

  • Offers a calm and quiet area designed for seniors.
  • Has experience in senior dog care.
  • Offers comfortable sleeping areas/beds and flooring that accommodate mobility issues.
  • Offers medication administration and frequent potty breaks.
  • Provides frequent monitoring/communication options.

Facilities with smaller playgroups or one-on-one care options may be better suited for older dogs.

Pet Sitters

  • Ask for referrals from your veterinarian or fellow pet parents.
  • If using an online app, carefully scour reviews, and ensure you’re clear on the sitter’s day
    and night availability and expectations for coverage.
  • Look for experience in pet care, including certifications.
  • Most good care providers will have a detailed questionnaire for you to fill out.
  • Discuss crisis handling and how decisions are made in your absence.
  • Schedule a meet and greet, plus a short trial stay.

Boarding a senior dog requires careful planning and communication to ensure their well-being. With the right preparation, both you and your beloved companion can enjoy peace of mind while you’re away.

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.