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• Tracheal Collapse

  The trachea is made up of cartilaginous rings shaped like the letter “C”. Over time these rings start to weaken and the tracheal membrane becomes loose. When a dog with tracheal collapse breathes outward, the membrane of the trachea droops down and causes an occlusion. The tickling sensation of the membrane touching the tracheal lining generates coughing, and if the obstruction interrupts breathing the patient may become distressed. Panting or rapid breathing for any reason makes collapse and anxiety worse, which unfortunately tends to generate more rapid breathing and a vicious cycle of distress.
  
  The factor that can sometimes further complicate this disease is inflammation in the trachea. Inflammation causes more coughing which results in increased inflammation. Ultimately, the tissue of the trachea gets worse and worse.
  
  Tracheal collapse is a very common disease we see in small breed dogs, such as, Yorkshire terrier, Maltese, and Pomeranians. It usually is seen in middle aged dogs but realistically can occur at any age. Many times dogs with tracheal collapse are asymptomatic until they are having an episode. Potential hazards that can predispose a patient with tracheal disease to an episode are:
  • Obesity
  • Cigarette smoke, dust, airway irritants, extreme heat
  • Kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis)
  • Heart disease
  • Irritation from endotracheal tube during anesthesia
  • Heart disease
  
  There are two ways to treat tracheal collapse: medical management or placement of a tracheal stent. Medical management is ALWAYS the first line of treatment and includes sedation, cough suppressants, and sometimes steroids. Patients that are having an episode are often hospitalized in oxygen and kept sedated until the inflammation has subsided. This may take hours to days. In severe cases, where medical management has failed, placement of tracheal stents is considered. This procedure is performed by a specialist and can be done at our Tinton Falls, NJ location (Garden State Veterinary Specialists).
  
  If you notice your pet has prolonged difficulty breathing, has blue colored gums or uncontrolled coughing, he/she should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. If your pet has been diagnosed with tracheal collapse, try and keep him/her cool and quiet in the heat and avoid excitement. Use a harness rather than a neck leash. Cigarette smoking should be avoided in your dog's presence. Keeping your pet a healthy weight will also help ease their breathing.
  
  The information contained in this article is for informational purposes only and should not take the place of the advice of a veterinarian who has had the opportunity to examine your pet.

• Pyrethrins & Pyrethroids

  Michelle Brognano, DVM Greater Staten Island Veterinary Services, a member of the GSVS Family of Veterinary Hospitals
  
  Ticks are a significant problem in the tri-state area largely due to a rising deer population. It’s incredibly important to keep your pets on parasite preventatives year round but even more so in these warmer months. Dogs and cats that stay inside only are at risk for tick bites and heartworm disease too! Please take the time to ensure you select the CORRECT preventative for your pet.
  
  Pyrethrin insecticides are naturally obtained from the Chrysanthemum flower while pyrethroids insecticides are a synthetic (man made) version. Insecticides are found in home and outdoor gardening supplies, over the counter flea shampoos, and some (but not all) topical flea/tick preventative products. These insecticides are commonly used on dogs without much of a problem, however cats are extremely sensitive to these products.
  
  Cats often present to the emergency room after a canine only-labeled product is applied to them. Some cats may also become ill after the product is applied to another pet in the household with whom they have direct contact. Dogs that ingest flea collars or tubes of topical parasite preventive products will also require emergency veterinary care.
  
  Clinical signs of toxicity are hypersalivation, seizures, paresthesia, tremors, ataxia, hyperexcitability, hypothermia, weakness, vomiting, trouble breathing or even death. The onset of these signs can vary from minutes to hours. If your pet is suffering from any of the symptoms they should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
  
  Patients are usually admitted to the hospital for IV fluids, heat support, sedation, muscle relaxants and anti-seizure drugs, as needed. Blood work may also be done to assess organ function. The goal of treatment is to manage clinical signs, detoxify if possible, and to provide supportive care. Vomiting is usually not induced due to a risk of aspiration which could lead to a more serious medical condition. For dermal exposures, the patient is bathed in liquid dish detergent with warm water.
  
  Prognosis is usually good for patients treated aggressively and quickly. Failure to do this may result in complications that can eventually lead to death. Prevention is key! ALWAYS read the label and follow packaging directions which are based on weight and species. Pesticides should be safely secured out of the reach of children and animals.
  
  INTERESTING FACT: Fish are so sensitive to insecticides that they may die from even the least amount of exposure. For this reason it is recommended that dogs do not swim in ponds or creeks for approximately 24-48 hours after administration of a parasite prevention product.
  
  The information contained in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to take the place of the advice of your veterinarian.
  

• Microchip & Register Your Pet

  For information about how to Microchip and Register your pet, talk to your veterinarian or click this link: AVMA Microchip