Category Archives for "Dog Q & A"

0 Are You Scared Of Vampires?

Twilight.

Interview With The Vampire.

Buffy.

Vampire Diaries

All the different stories about the legend of Dracula.

A lot of stories have been written about vampires.

People are obsessed with them.

Just check all the books, comics, movies, and TV shows that tell us stories about these bloodsuckers.

There are even documentaries about them.

But did you know that the mythology of vampires may have come from a real-world menace?

This threat to society comes from a virus-caused disease which is Rabies!

If you think about it, many of the peculiarities of vampires in legends are signs caused by rabid animals or people.

Signs like:

• Sensitivity to light
• Biting others
• Hydrophobia or an extreme fear of water

Rabies is a hazardous disease that is present in more than 150 countries!

It can virtually affect all warm-blooded animals, including humans.

Once any susceptible organism gets infected, it is most likely fatal.

According to the WHO, it kills at least 59,000 persons a year.

However, it is believed that this is an underestimation.

As veterinarians, we always think of the possibility of rabies infection on the animals that we handle.

Rabies: Should It Be Given Annually?

Especially in the Philippines, where we are considered a high-risk country for the disease.

We get regular vaccinations against Rabies to protect ourselves.

What about our pets?

Dogs comprise about 98% of the animals infected with Rabies in the Philippines.

Next in line are cats.

If they get infected with the Rabies virus, they will suffer horribly before they die.

In addition, they become dangerous for people and other animals.

That is why you must get ALL of your fur babies vaccinated against this disease.

Not only will you be protecting your pets, but you are also protecting yourself and your family from this horrible threat.

Rabies Prevention Tips: What To Do To Lower The Risk

Call us now at 0908-896-7113/  8896-6386 / 8896-2860 for an appointment so we can give you the protection your pet needs against RABIES!

Be social! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Share your cute pet photos on our social media accounts and get featured!

Enjoy peace of mind,

Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS, Diplomate PCCP
Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Serving Pet Parents near Mandaluyong, Makati, and BGC

0 Dog Heartworm Can Cause Long Term Lung Damage

Dog Heartworm

One night, I was discussing the causes and effects of lung damage with my sister.

Her name is Dr. Paz Carlos. She has a Ph.D. in Comparative Pathology, which she obtained from UC Davis.

She is very familiar with the process of several diseases among mammals. It includes humans and even man’s best friend, dogs.

I find it very interesting when she tried to explain this to me.   Even though we don’t see any symptoms, there are cases where the lung is already damaged.

Even though the disease-causing agent (in this case, Heartworm) has been removed, the damage is still there.

It may take a long time for the patient to fully recover.

There is even a possibility that the patient will not return to 100% health at all.

She continued to tell me that prevention is still the best way to go.

There are still diseases out there that are difficult to prevent.

Check out My Mom talked about Leptospirosis

In the case of Heartworm infection in dogs, there are already preventatives that will give 100% protection.

It is easily available and can be given or prescribed by a licensed veterinarian.

You can choose to give the monthly or yearly preventive for dog heartworm. It depends on which you prefer for your fur-babies.

Call us now at 0908-896-7113/  8896-6386 / 8896-2860 for an appointment so we can give you the protection your pet needs!

Be social! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Share your cute pet photos on our social media accounts and get featured!

Enjoy peace of mind,

Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS, Diplomate PCCP
Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Serving Pet Parents near Mandaluyong, Makati, and BGC

0 Leptospirosis: What I Learned While Working With BAI

I worked as a research veterinarian in the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI).

This was before I became a small animal practitioner.

I am sure that many of you were not born yet as this was decades ago.

You see, we collected blood from cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, dogs, and cats.

We tested blood samples for bacterial diseases.

… and one of the important zoonotic diseases we studied was Leptospirosis.  This is caused by a spirochete, Leptospira.

We maintained about thirty serovars.  We used these for testing the blood samples using the micro agglutination test (MAT).

Leptospirosis can cause serious diseases in men and animals. 

Symptoms include high fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark-colored urine, and jaundice.

Leptospirosis can affect major organs like the brain, liver, and kidneys.  

Worse, this may lead to death.

Leptospirosis can infect your dogs. 

You can prevent transmission by vaccination.

To prevent infection of your fur babies with Leptospirosis, have them vaccinated regularly.

Call us now at  0908-896-7113/  8896-6386 / 8896-2860 to have your loved ones protected!

Be social! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Share your cute pet photos on our social media accounts and get featured!

Enjoy peace of mind,

Rhodora S. Carlos
DVM,  Dip.PCCP,  Fel PCVPH

0 I Hate Amputations!

I had to perform a hindleg amputation on a rescued dog.

Let’s call him “Hope.”

We saw that one of his hindlegs was terribly mangled, which had a terrible infection.

There was pus everywhere … and there was no other way to save the leg.

We decided to do an amputation from the hip down for the patient to survive.

I hate amputations!

Maybe it’s because I picture myself going through this.

Imagine what it would be like to lose a limb.

How does it feel like and what would life be after?

It’s even worse for animals because they have no idea why this happened to them.

They just wake up with lots of pain AND THEN miss a leg.

But it had to be done.

Think about it.

There are groups of people who check on homeless dogs.

If they see they’re not okay, they rescue the fur babies and make sure they get proper treatment.

Like Hope.

There are just too many stray animals in Metro Manila.

You can say there’s overpopulation.

Why is that?

It’s mainly because a lot of people do not have their pets spayed or neutered.

If left alone, dogs and cats would reproduce to unmanageable numbers.

Then they’re given away or left to fend for themselves.

Just like Hope.

He had it bad and needed to have an amputation.

Luckily someone saw him so he could get proper medical care.

Let’s all do our part to have fewer stray animals on the streets.

If you have a pet dog or cat, you can call us at our Hotlines: 0908-896-7113/  8896-6386 / 8896-2860.  Ask us how we can have them spayed or neutered.

Remember, if we all pitch in and do our part, there will be fewer fur babies suffering in the world!

Enjoy peace of mind,

Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS, Diplomate PCCP
Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Serving Pet Parents near Mandaluyong, Makati, and BGC

Be social! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Share your cute pet photos on our social media accounts and get featured!

0 What Should A Pet Owner Do Before Neutering Or Spaying?

What should pet owners do before neutering or spaying their pets?

Responsible pet owners often decide to have their pets spayed or neutered.

Why have your pets desexed? Here’s why

So they call up their veterinarian and set a schedule for their cat or dog to get spayed or neutered. Spaying is for female pets while neutering is for male pets – just in case you still get confused with the terms.

Why Neuter or Spay?

One of the  purposes of this procedure is to prevent unwanted puppies.  Another reason is to prevent  disease conditions like testicular tumors and prostate enlargement  (in Males); pyometra and mammary tumors (for Females).  Desexed pets typically live longer than usual.

After setting everything up, you get yourself and your pet ready for the day.

But wait? What  preparations prior to  surgery should you do for your pet?

Here are the essential tips you need to know before and after your pet gets neutered or spayed:

Before Neutering or Spaying Operation:

Fasting

Like humans, pets need to go on a 12-hour fast before the appointed time. 

What should my dog fast from – just food?

Yes your dog should fast from food but also from water if possible. 

If your dog accidentally ate some food on the day of surgery,  discuss it with the staff. But if your dog ate a full meal on the  operation day,  the best option may be to re-schedule the procedure.. 

You have to understand that full meals can pose a serious concern during surgery. Under anesthesia your pet may throw up  which can lead to breathing problems.

Comfort Care

This means that you have to make your pet as comfortable as possible 12 hours before their appointment, so  they would not think of taking any food or water. Set up their sleeping area to be as cozy as possible and hide the water and food bowl. 

Cuddle up if it makes you and your pet feel better prepared for the operation.

Bathing and Grooming

You can bathe your dog prior to surgery. Have a grooming appointment if you need to, especially if your pet’s fur is long and matted or caked with mud. Remember, your pet will have no bath for at least a few days after operation.

After Neutering or Spaying Operation:

Medications

Pain medicines may be prescribed to your pet after the operation. Do not give any human pain medicines to your dog as this can cause serious problems to your pet. Ask your vet on what you should do after the surgery and what is the safest and most effective medication your dog can take.

Food and Water Monitoring

Food intake should be limited during the  first day post surgery. You have to give food and water gradually to your pet because of the side effects of anesthesia. 

When your dog arrives in your home, let it rest for a few hours. After that, you can offer a little water. An hour after that, you can offer some food. 

If your dog is able to keep  food and water down, you can feed it normally the following day. If your dog vomits, call your veterinarian.

Care of Surgical Site

Surgical sites should be given proper care and monitoring after operation. As a pet owner, you should check for bleeding, swelling, discharges or any other problems in the area. If you observe anything out of the ordinary, please contact your veterinarian. 

Make sure that your pet will not lick or chew the surgical site. Cones can help in preventing your dog from doing any of these.

The incision usually takes 10-14 days to heal fully and is the same time that stitches are removed.

Bathing and Grooming

Your dog will not be allowed to have a bath 10-14 days post operation. Do not let them swim or bathe until the  stitches have been removed. Get clearance from your vet to ensure that it is safe for your dog to do so.

If you have concerns or questions, you can always discuss this with your dog’s veterinarian. Do not assume anything as this can lead to misconceptions and wrong actions. Be open with your vet to understand more about neutering and spaying.

Learn more on Neutering and Spaying here:
Quick Facts Of Neutering and Spaying 

If you are a responsible pet parent you will choose to go to an expert veterinarian.

Contact us at (02) 8896-6386 / 8896-2860 / 0908-896-7113 to set an appointment for your pet’s neutering or spaying.  

Do take note that Makati Dog and Cat Hospital serves you and your pet from 8AM to 3PM, Mondays to Saturdays.

Be social! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Share your cute pet photos on our social media accounts and get featured!

Enjoy peace of mind,

Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS
Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Serving Pet Parents near Mandaluyong, Makati, and BGC

0 Simparica Trio: How To Protect Your Dog 100% From The Most Dangerous Worm

The most dangerous worm for dogs is Heartworm.

It is found all over the world.

No place has been spared from it.

Luckily for us,  there are medicines to protect our furbabies from this nasty worm.

What if I tell you not all the medications are equal?

It has recently been found out there are “Super Heartworms” that are resistant to the average preventative.

Luckily for us fur parents there is a relatively new drug that works 100% against the super worms.

This is called Moxidectin.

This drug is the component of two Zoetis products.

Whichever you want to use will protect your fur babies 100%.

The first is Pro-Heart which is given as an injectable which will protect dogs for 12 months.

The second is Simparica Trio which is given orally monthly as a chewable tablet.

Not only does it protect your dog from Heartworms, but it will also keep them from having fleas, ticks and intestinal worms (and possibly some other parasites too).

For your peace of mind from Heartworms (fleas, ticks, intestinal worms and some others too) use Simparica Trio!

Contact us at: 09088967113 to order for your pet’s Simparica Trio

0 How To Make Sure Your Pet Dog Is Protected From Heartworm Infection For One Year

Heartworm infection is a dangerous disease of dogs.

Besides damaging the heart, other organs such as the liver and kidneys may be affected.

It may lead to coughing, weakness and even death!

It is best to prevent from getting your fur baby infected in the first place!

While Heartworm infection can be treated; it is a long, expensive and possibly fatal process.

Remember the saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure?”

It is so true in this case!

Prevention used to be so difficult.

Before, it was keeping your pets from getting bitten by mosquitoes; the insect that transmits this fatal worm infection from one dog to another.

This was done by using repellents and mosquito nets,  which were very difficult to do.

Later, it was a once a day tablet.

Imagine having to remember to give it daily.

Sometimes your pet dog wouldn’t swallow it.

It then became a once a month medicine which could be injected, swallowed or be given as a spot on.

Problem was, fur-parents would sometimes forget giving it monthly.

What if I tell you there is now a Heartworm preventive which can be given once a year?

All it takes is one visit to your vet.

That’s it!

This Heartworm preventive is called Pro-Heart!

It has been found to be 100% effective in protecting your furbaby from heartworm infection for a year.

Have peace of mind that your furbaby is protected from heartworm with a once a year preventive in Pro-Heat!

Contact us at: 09088967113 to schedule your pet’s Pro-heart Injection.

0 Finally! I will reveal the secret on how to keep your dog free from ticks and fleas for a month just a tablet!

Have you ever had a problem with ticks, fleas and ear mites on your pet dogs?

The Philippines is a tropical country and some parasites just love it here!

Whatever you do,  it seems that you will find them everywhere.

Do  you bring out your furbaby often? 

There is a big chance that the environment you visit may have parasites and your loved one may get it there.

Specially in areas where there are more pets, like the vet or groomers.

What to do?

It used to be that you just comb them off.  It doesn’t work.

Maybe you use a shampoo that will remove the vermin. It does work, but only for a few days.

There are sprays that you apply on them.

Sure. 

Do you have the time and can you use them properly?

What if I tell you there’s something you can give your pet which will keep all of those ticks, fleas and mites away for a month?

It’s called Simparica.

It is highly palatable and your furbaby will easily take it as a treat.

It will give them a safe and effective protection from ectoparasites for at least 30 days.

Available at ETC Pet Supplies.

Please call at (Viber)09778044455 to order yours.

0 Not All Pet Tags Are Made The Same

Not All Pet Tags Are Made The Same

Not all pet tags are made the same.  Some are pretty,  some are just okay.  Rarely do you find those that are worth collecting.

MyFamily has produced pet tags since 2010 in Italy.  It is found in almost all continents and is now available in the Philippines at ETC Drugstore.

Each MyFamily pet tag is meticulously manufactured using high quality materials with a beautiful finish.  Each one is pleasing to look at.

From a wide array of designs, for sure several of these you will find delightful.

In addition, you can have your pet’s name and your contact details engraved on each Pet Tag in two minutes – yes, just 2 Minutes!

Contact us at  0977-804-4455 or PM us at ETC Drugstore FB to order your collectible pet tags.

0 A Gift For The Pet Lover Who Has It All

A Gift For The Pet Lover Who Has It All

Do you have a hard time looking for a gift for your fur parent friend who has it all?

Get them a MyFamily pet tag!

MyFamily is a company that started in Italy and is now available in the Philippines! They have been producing high quality pet tags since 2010. Each MyFamily pet tag is meticulously created and it will be appreciated for sure.

Give this as a present for your friend’s fur baby.  It will definitely be remembered as a cherished gift!

Each tag is beautifully produced with high quality materials with a brilliant finish. You can choose from a wide array of designs that will certainly please the recipient of your gift.

Have the pet’s name and contact details engraved on the pet tag for easy identification in case the fur baby gets lost.

Contact us at  0977-804-4455 or PM us at ETC Drugstore FB to order your gift.