During the day a biofilm called ‘plaque’ forms on teeth. This film is soft enough to be easily scraped off, however it starts to harden within 48 hours and after about 3 days the plaque becomes dental calculus (tartar) and is difficult to remove.
Calculus or tartar is a form of hardened dental plaque. It is caused by the continual accumulation of minerals from saliva on plaque on the teeth. Its’ rough surface provides an ideal medium for further plaque formation, threatening the health of the gums. Brushing can remove the plaque, which the calculus forms on. However, once calculus has formed, it is too hard and firmly attached to be removed with a toothbrush and brushing.
Dental plaque and calculus formation can give rise to teeth and gum problems such as inflamed gums, infection and inflammation around the tooth roots.
Just like humans, dogs need regular dental care at home. Dental health and preventative measures should ideally be discussed with our Vets (or Vet Nurses) when your pet is young. The ideal age to begin introducing home dental care to your pets is at 8-12 weeks of age, but with older pets it is never too late to start!
Dog and cat teeth should be brushed at least twice weekly, however if you have time daily brushing is the best! The aim of daily teeth brushing is to remove the daily accumulation of plaque from tooth surfaces and the gums before it mineralizes into calculus.
Day One:
Introduce the animal to having its mouth touched. Gently pat or stroke the pet while scratching the muzzle, slowly lift the lip for 10-15 seconds. Praise or reward them at end of session.
Day Two:
Gently pat or stroke the pet while scratching the muzzle, slowly lift the lip for 30 seconds, gently running one finger covered in wet swab over the pets’ teeth. Praise or reward at the end of session.
Day Three & Four:
Repeat the above increasing by 15 seconds each time.
Day Five:
Assess the animals’ response to above. If pet is not responding well, continue. If pet is responding well then proceed by running finger over pets’ teeth for 30 seconds and then introduce a wet tooth brush, running it gently over the pets’ teeth for 30 seconds. The toothbrush bristles should be placed at a 45 angle to the gum margin where the teeth and gums meet. The movement should be in an oval pattern, ensuring the bristle ends are gently forced into the area around the base of the tooth as well as into the space between the teeth.
Day Six:
Repeat the above but increase the time by 30 seconds.
Day Seven:
Repeat above, introducing the use of pet ‘enzymatic’ toothpaste. Do not use ‘human toothpaste’. Attempt to put the paste between the bristles, this will allow the paste to have longer contact time to the teeth. Different sizes of toothbrushes and ‘finger’ brushes are available please speak to our Vets or Vet Nurses about which will work best for your pet.
Day Eight:
Repeat above, gently increasing the time until 60 seconds is spent on each quadrant including the backs of the teeth.
Some diets are specially formulated to help reduce plaque and tartar. They do this in a variety of ways. Some are made into larger biscuits which resist crumbling, which creates a scrubbing action. Others have a special coating that helps prevent bacteria, reduce plaque, or discourage the formation of tartar. Ask our Vets or veterinary Nurses about the special diets available. We recommend ‘dental diets’ by Hills (T/D) and Royal Canin (Dental).
Maxi Guard Oral Cleansing Gel: contains a mix of compounds which helps neutralize ‘bad breath’ and prevent plaque build-up. It also contains compounds which promote collagen synthesis and the repair of gum damage.
There are a wide variety of dental chews available to encourage your dog to chew and mechanically remove plaque. These can include ‘rawhide’ chews made from the hides of cows and products such as ‘Greenies’ and ‘Vetradent Dog Chews’ both of which are approved by the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council).
Although not edible, chew toys such as ‘Kong’ toys and ‘Gumabones’ are good products to encourage chewing and gum exercise. They are very useful for pets that chew through edible treats too quickly and also provide environmental stimulation for your pet
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet.
This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital (“ZPEH”) and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
Tick fever is a term used to describe blood disorders caused by blood parasites. It is a common and serious disease in Hong Kong and often fatal if left untreated.
Some of the signs of tick fever include paleness of the gums, poor appetite, nose-bleed, weakness, jaundice, skin or eye bruising, fever, possibly dark coloured urine, vomiting and diarrhea. However, at times, the signs may be vague and the signs are not obvious and a dog may just show chronic weight loss or not be so lively.
There are several different blood parasites that can cause tick fever. These blood parasites are microscopic organisms and live in the blood cells of the dogs. The most common parasites are called Babesia canis, Babesia gibsoni and Ehrlichia canis. The parasites are
transmitted to dogs from tick bites, hence the name ‘tick fever’. Unborn puppies can also be infected while in the womb of their mother.
It’s not as simple as being bitten by a tick. It has been shown that some dogs carry these blood parasites without showing any clinical signs. It is thought that there are other factors involved which cause your dog to actually fall sick from these parasites, including immune status, stress factors, genetics or breed, for example, German Shepherd dogs are known to be vulnerable to these parasites
Dogs that become ill due to infection with Babesia canis or Babesia gibsoni usually have low red blood cell counts. These parasites live in the red blood cells, causing them to be abnormal and the dog’s body responds by destroying these infected red blood cells. In some cases, the parasites can also cause a drop in platelet numbers, causing clotting and bleeding problems.
Dogs that fall ill due to Ehrlichia canis most frequently have low platelets, but their red blood cell and white blood cell numbers may also drop later on. It is thought the parasite causes bone marrow dysfunction – bone marrow is important in the production of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. However, dogs with Ehrlichia canis may have many different signs including arthritis, nose bleeds, blindness or recurrent fever.
Loss of red blood cells cause the dog to be tired, pale, weak and can lead to organ failure. Loss of platelets causes an increase the tendency to bleed, leading to bruises and blood loss. Lowered white blood cells can lead to a poor immune system, leading to ease of getting secondary infections. All of this can lead to death!
This is done from the clinical signs and blood tests.
The Complete Blood Count or CBC looks at the numbers or red and white blood cells and platelets. Antibody tests see if there is any immune response to the parasites.
Smears may reveal the parasites in the blood cells.
We now have DNA tests looking for the parasite’s DNA in the dog’s blood; these tests are expensive but very accurate.
Diagnosis may not be easy in some cases as there are other disease which may have similar signs and blood test results.
These other diseases include heartworm disease and autoimmune hemolytic anemia (self destruction of the body’s own red blood cells due to a disorder in the immune system).
Depending on the type of tick fever and the severity, this may include hospitalization, oral antibiotics, anti- protozoal injections, anti- malarial medications (one of these is so expensive we call it liquid gold ), corticosteroids, and in severe cases blood transfusion. The treatment is aimed at lowering the number of parasites in the blood circulation, providing supportive care, and preventing further destruction of the blood cells and platelets.
This depends on how early the treatment is given, the types of tick fever and the resistance of the dog. Relapse may happen as there is no drug to completely kill all the blood parasites once they get into the dog’s body. The drugs we use lower the parasite numbers but not eliminate them all. The immune system needs to function well to completely eliminate them. In case of chronic Ehrlichia infection, the prognosis is poor – the dogs will often eventually die from secondary infection or blood loss from low platelet counts.
Even if your dog has been successfully treated and recovered from tick fever he is still at risk as there is not a long term immunity , as well as there being several types.
To prevent infection with these parasites, it is very important that your dog does not have the chance to get infected.
Dogs should be prevented from getting ticks which transit the parasite.
The regular and correct use of Frontline Spray or Frontline Spot On should be effective against prevention of ticks.
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet.
This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital (“ZPEH”) and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
There is a great deal of controversy and discussion about dog vaccinations. We are frequently reviewing the current science and our aim is to get the right balance between protecting your pet against disease and not giving unnecessary vaccines.
Vaccination protects your dog against various diseases, some of which can be fatal. They are an important part of your dog's health care program, however there is the potential for side effects. Most are not serious (discomfort at the site of injection, tiredness, reduced appetite) and usually go away without treatment. However some can be life threatening, such as an allergic reaction: bumpy itchy skin, vomiting/diarrhea, swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, collapse and even death.
For this reason it is important to choose the vaccines each dog truly needs, and to vaccinate as little as reasonably possible whilst still providing your pet freedom from disease.
The current recommendations by the WSAVA (World Small Animal Veterinary Association) are to give a core vaccine (against potentially life threatening diseases which all dogs should be vaccinated against) no more than every 3 years after the initial 12 month booster following the puppy series. Non-core vaccines (usually preventing less serious diseases compared to those covered by the core vaccines) are given to those dogs which are assessed to have risk of exposure or a health concern that may make the disease more serious.
Our veterinarians will assess your dog's lifestyle and health status, and tailor a vaccination plan accordingly.
Puppies usually receive a ‘primary course’ of combination vaccinations which consists of 2-3 vaccinations, depending on the age at which the course is started. Your puppy should be vaccinated before they are allowed to mix with other animals. We recommend that the puppy receives its first vaccine at 8 weeks old, then at 12 weeks and 16 weeks. A booster is given one year after the primary course, then every subsequent year thereafter. Some components of the combination vaccine are given every 3 years, whilst the Leptospirosis vaccine is administered yearly as it’s effect is not so long lasting.
The diseases covered by the combination vaccine are:
1) Rabies. By law, dogs are also required to be vaccinated against Rabies, in order to apply for a license. The vaccine is usually given at or before 5 months of age, and must be given with a microchip. A booster vaccination is required every 3 years.
Bordetella bronchiseptica (a cause of Kennel Cough). If your dog is going into a boarding kennel or dog show or is regularly groomed in a pet shop it may also be advisable that you vaccinate against this disease. Your veterinarian will be able to discuss the risk with you.
Disclaimer to add to the bottom of Animal Care Sheet
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet.
This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital (“ZPEH”) and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
Heartworm is a parasitic disease that affects dogs and cats.
The parasite is caught by being bitten by mosquitoes that have already bitten another dog that has heartworm. The risk is therefore higher for dogs that are exposed to mosquitoes (dogs in a village, or kept in a garden, or dogs that are exercised outside).
When an infected mosquito bites your dog, it leaves baby heartworms under your dog’s skin. These baby worms sit under your dog’s skin and start to mature. After 3 months under the skin, they are mature enough to enter your dog’s blood stream. Then the parasite leaves the skin and enters your dog’s blood stream.
Once in the blood stream, this parasite goes to the dog’s heart and the vessels that bring blood from the heart to the lungs. When the parasite reaches the heart and lung vessels it continues to mature until it becomes an adult worm. Once it is an adult worm, it is able to breed and make new baby worms. In total, once an infected mosquito bites your dog, it takes about 5-7 months for a heartworm to become an adult. It is not until the heartworm becomes an adult that it starts to cause problems for your dog. We cannot detect that the heartworm is in your dog until the heartworm becomes an adult. Therefore, your dog can be bitten by an infected mosquito and you will not know until 5-7 months later.
When the adult worms are in your dog’s heart and lung vessels, your dog’s immune system tries to get rid of the worms. Because they are so big, the immune system is not able to get rid of the adult worms. Instead the immune system causes inflammation to the lung vessels. This causes the heart to have to work harder. Also, the actual worms themselves sit in the heart and make it difficult for the heart to push blood to the lungs. This also makes the heart have to work harder. When the heart has to work harder it can make your dog very sick.
The signs of heartworm disease include coughing, breathing problems, exercise intolerance, a “pot-bellied” appearance and weight loss. Treatment is expensive and risky and involves a stay in hospital. If a dog is not treated, the heart problems will get worse and the pet will eventually die from heart failure.
A blood test is performed to see if your dog is infected with adult heartworms. This test is called an “antigen test” as it looks for tiny pieces of adult heartworm skin circulating in the dog’s bloodstream. If the blood test is positive we will advise treatment to kill the worms. Before the treatment is started, other tests (such as radiographs) will need to be done to evaluate the extent of the heartworm infection. If the blood test is negative, we recommend preventative treatment to prevent your dog from catching the infection even if they are bitten by a mosquito carrying the parasite. There is no need to test a puppy that is less than 5 months of age. This is because the test looks for evidence of adult heartworms in the dog’s blood stream. As explained above, it takes 5-7 months for the baby worms to become adults inside your dog, so there is no way that a 5 month old puppy can have adult worms.
Heartworms are different from gut worms and a normal “dewormer” does not kill or prevent heart worms. Therefore a heartworm preventative must be given IN ADDITION to the normal “dewormers”. There are two methods of preventing Heartworm.
The first method is through a monthly preventative medication for heartworms called “Heartgard” and needs to be given every month to prevent your dog from becoming sick from the parasite. This medication kills the baby worms that could become adult worms, which are the ones that cause disease. It MUST be given on time. If you forget to give it for over 3 months we recommend that a blood test should be performed to check if the dog has become infected with the parasite while off the Heartgard. As it takes 5-7 months for the adult worms to develop (and therefore be detected with the test), you will need to wait for 7 months after the last dose of Heartgard was given before your dog can be re-tested.
If Heartgard is accidentally given to a dog that is infected with heartworms, please contact your veterinarian. It is usually not a problem, but if large amounts of the baby worms are killed all at once, this can sometimes cause your dog to become ill. This is rare; in fact many veterinarians will use Heartgard as the first line of treatment in dogs that are known to have heartworm infections. But, this is usually done under the observation at a veterinary hospital to ensure that the dog doesn’t have any problems.
Heartgard can only be bought from a veterinary surgeon, not from pet shops. Heartgard can be started at 6 weeks of age. If your dog is 5 months or younger they can start Heartgard without a blood test first, as there has not been time for the adult worms to develop.
The second method of preventing Heartworm is by an injection called “Proheart”, which is given once a year (or twice initially if your dog is less than 5 months old when first starting prevention).
Please speak to your vet about which method of Heartworm prevention will work best for you and your dog.
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet. This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital (“ZPEH”) and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
