Why you need pet health insurance!!!

Logan after treatment

Did you know that when you adopt from the Humane Society of Broward County, your new pet is already protected by Trupanion Pet Health Insurance?

All new adoptions are automatically approved for a 30 day trial membership with Trupanion which will protect your new edition immediately! For many this coverage goes unused as the new pet remains healthy. However, at VCA Hollywood, we know that is not always the case. Whether it is simply a cough that needs treatment or an intestinal bug, new pets are often in need of a little tune up as they move into their new home. 

Trupanions trial, once activated, offer an umbrella of protection. Success stories of this coverage is seen often within our walls and is no more represented than with 6 month old Logan that was rescued at 8 weeks through the HSBC and one week later developed signs of Parvo Virus. 

Parvo, or canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious viral disease that can produce a life-threatening illness. The virus attacks rapidly dividing cells in a dog’s body, most severely affecting the intestinal tract. Parvovirus also attacks the white blood cells, and when young animals are infected, the virus can damage the heart muscle and cause lifelong cardiac problems. The clinical signs and symptoms of CPV disease can vary, but generally they include severe vomiting and diarrhea. 

At 9 weeks old, Logan, was brought to us and under the care of Dr. Cappe, he was hospitalized. For 13 days he was treated for  Parvovirus, Coccidiosis, Kennel Cough and Pancreatitis. He was in our ICU, isolated from other patients, and on IV fluids, medications, recieving  regular blood tests and 24/7 intensive care. 

Logan today!!

Our staff bonded deeply with young Logan over those weeks and watched as he slowly-very slowly- made the turn from a sick puppy to one with hope. On the day of his discharge, Logan was nearly 3months old, he was 5 lbs, he had a regimen of prescription medication and food and had just fought the battle of his life.
 
This week Logan returned for an exam. Fighting the sniffles a little, he is now 58 lbs of pure lovable lab. Logan's story is not unique. Rescued animals often have underlying issues that do not manifest for days or weeks after exposure. This is why the HSBC and Trupanion partnered in the first place.

Insurance is a funny thing. We never want to use it. Logan's family certainly appreciated it's presence as these 13 days of care where covered and that burden was lifted.

Tuesday's Tips from our Doctors-Canine Parvovirus!!!!

Tuesday's Tips from our Doctors! 

Recently our  Doctors asked how they could share some facts about the common (and not so common) things that can effect the health of our  pets in S. Florida.  This is what we can up with. Be on the look out for more Tips from our Doctors and be sure to let us know what other things you would like to know about!

Canine Parvovirus

What is “Parvo”?

Canine parvovirus is a very contagious gastrointestinal virus that can affect dogs of all ages. This virus can be deadly if left untreated. Unvaccinated puppies are at the highest risk, especially those less than four months of age. Parvovirus is spread by direct contact with contaminated stool from other infected dogs and puppies. This virus is very resistant to heat and cold, and unfortunately for this reason can live in the environment for long periods of time. It is important to understand that any places where dogs have access to could potentially have parvovirus in the soil.  The virus can also contaminate leashes, dog beds, kennels, and food bowls.

What are the signs and symptoms?

If you notice your puppy is acting lethargic, has a decreased appetite or begins to vomit or have diarrhea contact your veterinarian immediately! All of these symptoms could be signs that your puppy may have been exposed to parvovirus. Most puppies that are infected with parvovirus will become very dehydrated and can die within 72 hours if not treated aggressively.

How is Parvovirus treated?

The most important aspect of treating your puppy with parvovirus is hydration and helping to control the vomiting and diarrhea. Recently, some human antiviral drugs have had some benefit in treating dogs with parvovirus. Puppies will also need to be treated with antibiotics in order to help prevent secondary bacterial infections. Any dog or puppy that is diagnosed with parvovirus needs to be immediately isolated from other dogs so that they cannot further spread the infection.

How can Parvovirus be prevented?

Most importantly vaccinating puppies and keeping them isolated from other dogs before their vaccine series is completed can prevent parvovirus. Many owners do not realize that one vaccine is not enough to protect their puppy from parvovirus.  Puppies must complete their minimal three vaccine series before they are able to socialize with other dogs, especially at places like the dog park and beach. 

Kate Cappe D.V.M.

Oklahoma State University, 2015

Check out Dr. Kate's page for even more great information about the best care for your pet!

 

December Patient of the Month- Cagney!!!!!!!

This month’s Patient of the Month is really a story of bad luck. Cagney, a 5 month old yorkie has certainly giving his pet parents a reason to celebrate this year. His family, having a history of rescuing and caring for animals did everything right but still have a tough story to share.  

Earlier this year, after rescuing and treated a German Shepherd with Parvovirus his family took the necessary precautions to treat the family areas and linens with bleach.

Many months later, they rescued another dog that surprised this family with 3 puppies; Bogart, Cagney and Chaplin. Being acutely aware of the realities of treating disease in pets they were diligent in ensuring their home was safe and that the pups received the appropriate medical and vaccine care. However, what our owners were not aware of was just how persistent the Parvovirus can be.

Parvovirus is a hearty viral disease that is life threatening to dogs and puppies.  It is transmitted from one animal to another through contact with infected feces.  While bleach is the only thing that will kill the virus it can live in the ground for several months. Shaded areas are considered contaminated for seven months whereas areas with good sunlight exposure should be considered contaminated for five months.  In order to remove Parvovirus from your yard there needs to be no living material, such as grass or plants left. The ground must be saturated with a solution of one part bleach to 32 parts water or one-half cup of bleach per gallon of water.

 

Before our owners knew it, their puppies had picked up the Parvovirus from their yard. All three pups were hospitalized in our intensive care and one by one fought their fight. Sadly, not all were successful.

After a week of care, Cagney, the largest of the pups was sent home.  Perhaps it was his early vaccine boosters that helped him battle this bug or perhaps simply his size but now, 5 months old Cagney is doing well.  Since the incident, the family's 2 acre yard has been treated to the roots and the Parvovirus and is believed to be clear.

This holiday season will certainly be one to celebrate. Cagney’s is a story to educate on the voraciousness of the Parvovirus and the importance of understanding all we can do to protect our animal community. Thank you to Cagney’s family for letting us share this story and for partnering with us in the care of your pets.

Happy Holidays!!

For more information about Canine Parvovirus: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/parvovirus

A HAH success story.

Two months ago this little guy was found in a wooded construction area nearby and brought to the HAH. He weighed 4.5 pounds and was deeply weakened by the very contagious Canine Parvovirus. Dr. Carlos took him in and immediately began intravenous fluids and antibiotics to give this guy a fighting chance. Thing did not look great for him but as his mother said- she wasn't giving him the choice not to get better.  For 6 days, Stevie stayed in an isolated intensive care area of the hospital. Slowing he began showing signs of recovery and was release with a hopeful prognosis. 

5 weeks old

13 weeks old

Today Stevie came in for his final set of puppy vaccines and to schedule his neuter. Stevie is a success story and we are so pleased to be able to share his tale. Watch this vido to learn more about Canine Parvovirus from Dr. Patterson!