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As storm season rolls in, many pet owners start to notice signs of anxiety in their pets. Storm anxiety is a real and common issue among dogs, and it can be heartbreaking to see them so distressed. From pacing and panting to hiding or even becoming destructive, the symptoms of storm anxiety can be unsettling for both pets and their humans. Fortunately, veterinarians play a vital role in helping to manage this type of anxiety, providing guidance on techniques and, if necessary, safe medications to make storm season a little easier on everyone.

What Causes Storm Anxiety in Dogs?

Dogs have heightened senses that make them especially sensitive to the changes that come with storms, such as drops in barometric pressure, lightning flashes, and the low rumble of thunder. While some dogs remain calm, others become very anxious due to these environmental changes and any past experiences they may associate with thunder or lightning.

Symptoms of Storm Anxiety in Dogs

Storm anxiety can look different from dog to dog, but here are some common symptoms that may indicate your dog is feeling stressed:

• Pacing, Panting, or Trembling - Many dogs show their anxiety physically by pacing, shaking, or breathing heavily. They may appear restless and unable to settle down.
• Hiding or Clinging to You - Dogs often try to seek safety during stressful moments. They may hide under furniture, curl up in a small space, or follow you around for comfort.
• Vocalizing - Whining, barking, or howling are common ways anxious dogs express distress. If your dog seems unusually vocal during storms, anxiety may be the cause.
• Drooling or Lip Licking - Dogs may drool or lick their lips excessively when they’re nervous or scared.
• Destructive Behaviour - In more severe cases, storm anxiety can lead to behaviours like chewing, scratching, or digging as the dog tries to cope with their distress or "escape" from the noise.

The Dangers of Escape Behaviour and Potential Injuries

One of the most concerning aspects of storm anxiety is that it can drive dogs to try and escape, especially if they’re outside or in an unfamiliar environment when the storm hits. Anxious dogs might attempt to dig under fences, jump over barriers, or even break through windows or doors in a frantic attempt to flee the perceived danger of the storm.

This "escape behaviour" not only puts dogs at risk of becoming lost but also raises the likelihood of injury. Dogs can suffer cuts, broken nails, bruises, or even more severe injuries when they try to break free. In some cases, anxious dogs have been known to run into traffic or other dangerous situations once they’re outside. This behaviour highlights the importance of managing storm anxiety effectively to keep pets safe and close.

If your dog has a history of escape behaviour during storms, it's essential to talk to us about ways to manage their anxiety, reduce the urge to flee, and ensure that your home and yard are secure.

How Can We Help Manage Storm Anxiety

We can offer a range of solutions tailored to your dog’s needs, ensuring you have effective, safe, and humane options for keeping them calm during storms. Here are some ways we support pet owners in managing storm anxiety:

1. Personalised Anxiety Management

Each dog responds to anxiety differently, so it’s essential to develop a customized approach. We provide personalized recommendations, including behavioural strategies and medication options, to help your dog remain calm during storms.

2. Medication Options

For dogs with severe storm anxiety, medication may be a helpful part of their care plan. We’re equipped to assess your pet’s needs and recommend safe, effective medications for managing storm-related stress. We might suggest short-term anti-anxiety medications for use during storms or daily options for dogs with more consistent anxiety.

3. Creating a Safe Space

We can also provide advice to help you create a “safe zone” at home where your dog feels more secure during a storm. This might be a crate, a bathroom, or a quiet room away from windows. Adding cozy bedding, familiar toys, and even playing calming music can help make this area a comforting refuge for your dog when storms hit. It’s important to introduce this safe space when your dog is feeling comfortable rather than only using it during times of stress.

The Importance of Early Intervention

The sooner storm anxiety is addressed, the better the results tend to be. Severe anxiety can worsen over time, so it’s beneficial to begin a management plan as early as possible. By working closely with us, you can create a supportive environment that helps your dog feel safe and calm even during the wildest weather.

Final Thoughts

Storm anxiety in dogs can be distressing, but there are effective ways to manage it with our help. From behavioural strategies and safe medications to setting up comforting spaces and desensitization training, there’s a range of options to help your dog feel secure. By taking these steps, you’re giving your furry family member the best chance at a calm and comfortable storm season - and helping them face their fears with confidence.

If your dog struggles with storm anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can build a plan that helps you and your pet weather the storm safely and comfortably.

As temperatures rise with the upcoming hot weather, it's important for pet owners to be aware of the dangers heat stroke can pose to their furry friends. Just like humans, pets are susceptible to heat-related illnesses, and knowing how to prevent and respond to heat stroke is essential for keeping them safe and comfortable during the hotter months.

What is Heat Stroke in Pets?

Heat stroke occurs when a pet’s body overheats, causing their internal temperature to rise above the normal levels. Unlike humans, pets do not sweat as effectively to regulate their body temperature, which makes them particularly vulnerable to heat stress. Dogs and other animals can easily become overheated, especially if they are left in hot, confined spaces, overexert themselves in the heat, or are exposed to high temperatures for extended periods of time.

Dog Breeds Most Susceptible to Heat Stroke

Some dogs are more vulnerable to heat stroke than others. Breeds with short noses or flat faces, known as brachycephalic breeds, struggle to breathe efficiently in hot weather and are at a higher risk of overheating. These breeds often have narrower airways, making it harder for them to cool down through panting. Other factors such as obesity, age, and overall health can also make any dog more prone to heat stroke.

Common breeds that are more susceptible to heat stroke include:

• Bulldogs (English and French)
• Pugs
• Boxers
• Shih Tzus
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
• Chihuahuas
• Boston Terriers
• Mastiffs

If you have one of these breeds, it’s even more critical to keep an eye on them during hot weather and ensure they don’t overexert themselves.

Common Signs of Heat Stroke in Pets

It's important to recognize the signs of heat stroke early, as it can become life-threatening if not addressed quickly. Keep an eye out for these symptoms:

• Excessive panting: One of the first signs your pet is overheating.
• Drooling: Unusually excessive drooling can indicate distress.
• Lethargy: Pets may appear weak or tired and have trouble standing.
• Rapid breathing or shallow breathing: Difficulty breathing is a major sign of distress.
• Vomiting or diarrhea: Digestive issues can occur when a pet is overheated.
• Bright red or pale gums: Discoloration of the gums can indicate a serious problem.
• Seizures or collapse: If your pet has severe symptoms, they may experience seizures or lose consciousness.

If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to act immediately to cool your pet down and seek veterinary help as soon as possible.

How to Prevent Heat Stroke in Your Pets

As pet owners, there are several preventive measures you can take to ensure your pets stay cool and safe during hot weather:

1. Provide plenty of fresh water: Always make sure your pet has access to clean, cool water. Dehydration is one of the key risks in hot weather.

2. Limit outdoor activity: Avoid taking your pet outside during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you do need to go outside, keep walks short and take breaks in shaded areas.

3. Create a cool environment: Make sure your pet has a cool and comfortable spot to rest indoors. Consider using fans, air conditioning, or cooling mats to help regulate their temperature.

4. Never leave pets in the car: Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a car can soar to dangerous levels very quickly. It’s never safe to leave a pet in a parked vehicle during hot weather.

5. Groom your pet regularly: Brush your pet’s fur to remove excess hair, which can trap heat. However, avoid shaving your pet entirely, as their coat also provides protection from the sun.

6. Use cooling products: Consider using cooling vests, mats, or bandanas designed to help regulate your pet’s temperature during outdoor activities.

What to Do If You Suspect Heat Stroke

If your pet is showing signs of heat stroke, it's essential to act quickly:

1. Move them to a cooler place: Immediately get your pet out of the heat and into a shaded or air-conditioned area.

2. Cool them down gradually: Use cool (not cold) water to wet your pet’s body, or place a damp towel on them. Avoid using ice-cold water, as this can cause their blood vessels to constrict and hinder cooling.

3. Offer water: Allow your pet to drink small amounts of water, but don't force them to drink if they're unable to.

4. Seek veterinary care: Heat stroke is a medical emergency, so even if your pet starts to feel better, take them to the vet immediately for further evaluation.

The Importance of Being Prepared

With the summer heat approaching, it's vital to stay proactive in preventing heat stroke in your pets. By being aware of the risks, knowing the signs of heat stroke, and taking steps to keep your pets cool and hydrated, you can help ensure that they stay happy and healthy during the warmer months.

Take care of your pets like family—because they are!

Laparoscopic desexing, often referred to as “keyhole” surgery, is a cutting-edge procedure that offers significant benefits for pets and their owners. This minimally invasive technique is transforming the standard of care in veterinary medicine, providing a safer, more comfortable, and quicker recovery alternative to traditional desexing methods.

What is Laparoscopic Desexing?

Laparoscopic desexing involves performing surgery through small incisions, typically less than 10 millimeters, rather than a large, open cut. The surgeon uses specialized instruments, including a high-definition camera and a fibre-optic light source, inserted through these tiny incisions to perform the procedure. The small size of the incisions and the precision of the instruments allow the surgeon to operate on organs in their natural position, minimizing disruption to the animal’s body.

One of the standout features of this approach is the use of the Caiman device, which gently dissects and cuts tissue with minimal trauma. Throughout the procedure, the surgeon guides the instruments by observing magnified images on an LCD screen, ensuring precise and careful work. Once the surgery is complete, the instruments are removed, the small incision is sealed, and the pet is monitored for a few hours before being allowed to go home.

Why Laparoscopic Desexing is Superior to Traditional Methods

Traditional desexing involves a longer incision down the midline of the abdomen, requiring the surgeon to tear a ligament that attaches the ovary to the abdominal wall—a process associated with a higher risk of complications. The laparoscopic approach, by contrast, allows the surgeon to see and carefully avoid critical blood vessels, reducing the risk of bleeding and other complications. This visibility and precision make laparoscopic desexing a much safer option.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Desexing

• Minimal Pain and Discomfort: The smaller incision and less invasive technique mean less pain for the pet, both during and after the procedure.
• Quicker Recovery: Pets are often up and about on the same day as the surgery, with a much faster return to normal activities compared to traditional methods.
• Reduced Risk of Complications: With no need for large incisions or tissue handling, the risk of bleeding, infection, and other complications is significantly lowered.
• Less Need for Post-Operative Medication: The gentle nature of the procedure means fewer painkillers are needed after surgery, reducing the overall stress on your pet's system.

Why Desex Your Pet?

Desexing your pet, especially through the laparoscopic method, provides numerous health benefits. For female dogs, it reduces the risk of mammary cancer and completely eliminates the risk of pyometra, a potentially deadly uterine infection. Male dogs benefit from a reduced risk of testicular cancer and painful prostatitis. Additionally, desexing helps control the pet population, reducing the number of unwanted animals in shelters.

The Future of Veterinary Surgery

Laparoscopic desexing is not just about reducing pain or speeding up recovery—it's about providing the highest standard of care. Just as minimally invasive surgery has become the norm in human medicine, it is now revolutionizing veterinary care. At ACE Vet, we are proud to offer this advanced surgical option, giving your pets the gentle, safe, and effective treatment they deserve.

Elbow dysplasia is a common orthopedic condition that affects the elbow joint in dogs, particularly in larger breeds. This document aims to provide a clear understanding of what elbow dysplasia is, its symptoms, diagnostic procedures, treatment options, and preventive measures.

What is Elbow Dysplasia?

Elbow dysplasia is a term that encompasses several developmental abnormalities of the elbow joint, which can lead to joint instability, arthritis, and pain. The main components of elbow dysplasia include:

1. Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD): A condition where the cartilage does not properly form and may become damaged, leading to joint issues.
2. Elbow Incongruence: A mismatch in the size and shape of the bones that make up the elbow joint, causing abnormal movement.
3. Ununited Anconeal Process (UAP): A developmental defect where a small bone (the anconeal process) fails to fuse with the ulna.
4. Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP): A condition where a part of the ulna (the coronoid process) becomes broken off, resulting in pain and instability.

Symptoms

The symptoms of elbow dysplasia can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but common signs include:

• Lameness in the front legs, which may be intermittent or persistent
• Pain when moving the elbow or during specific activities
• Swelling around the elbow joint
• Decreased range of motion
• A reluctance to engage in physical activities like running or jumping

Diagnosis

To diagnose elbow dysplasia, veterinarians typically perform a combination of the following:

1. Physical Examination: A thorough examination to assess the dog's gait, range of motion, and areas of pain.
2. X-rays: Radiographs are commonly used to visualize bone abnormalities in the elbow joint.
3. Advanced Imaging: In some cases, CT scans or MRIs may be necessary to identify cartilage damage or other subtle changes not visible on X-rays.

Treatment

Treatment options for elbow dysplasia vary and may include:

1. Conservative Management:
   • Weight management and dietary adjustments
   • Controlled exercise to maintain joint function without exacerbating symptoms
   • Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
2. Surgical Interventions:
   • In more severe cases, surgical options such as arthroscopy may be necessary to remove fragments or repair abnormalities.
   • Joint stabilization procedures may be employed to restore function to the elbow joint.
3. Rehabilitation: Post-surgical rehabilitation and physical therapy can help improve joint function and mobility.

Prevention

While not all cases of elbow dysplasia can be prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk:

• Genetic Testing: If acquiring a puppy, choose reputable breeders who screen for elbow dysplasia in breeding stock.
• Proper Nutrition: Ensure that your dog receives a well-balanced diet appropriate for their age and activity level to promote healthy growth.
• Management of Exercise: Provide suitable exercise without excessive strain during the growth phase, especially for large breed puppies.

Conclusion

Elbow dysplasia is a manageable condition when identified early and treated appropriately. If you notice any symptoms in your dog, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian for a thorough examination and a tailored treatment plan. By understanding elbow dysplasia, you can take proactive steps to ensure your dog's well-being and maintain their quality of life.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding elbow dysplasia, please feel free to reach out to us for more information or further assistance.

Tibial plateau Levelling osteotomy  or TPLO is a procedure for managing stifle instability due to failure of the anterior cruciate ligament, also know as the cranial cruciate ligament.

The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) fails most commonly in the dog due to cruciate disease which is a degenerative condition which sees the CCL weaken over time and fail. The process of weakening and failure is painful and we see lameness, pain and reduced activity.  This process has also been referred to as non traumatic cruciate rupture as it is not associated with trauma - the ligament fails during normal daily activity.

Cruciate disease is a very common issue in the dog and is the commonest orthopaedic procedure performed. Their are likely lifestyle factors and genetic factors contributing to the frequency of this condition.

Cruciate management surgery has often been referred to as cruciate repair surgery - however this is not correct. None of the procedures performed to manage cruciate disease actually “repairs” the cruciate.  Instead, cruciate surgery manages the consequences of cruciate disease, mainly; stifle instability, pain, lameness and degenerative joint disease (DJD).

There are many ways cruciate management surgery may be performed. The two basic groups are:

1. Those that replace the function of the cruciate and
2. Those that change the way the joint works so we don’t need a cruciate .

TPLO surgery falls into the second category and is the originator of this concept. The joint is altered and no longer requires the cruciate to be stable during loading.

The TPLO procedure is only part of the surgical procedure. The overall procedure consists of;

• Anaesthesia and Analgesia - This is keeping the patient calm, still and pain free during the procedure. At ACE we subscribe to the Zero pain philosophy and use many different components together to keep patients comfortable and pain free. These include pain control via constant intravenous infusion, ultrasound guided blocks to the sciatic and femoral nerves and anti-anxiety medications to reduce response to the changed environment.
• Arthroscopy - To examine the inside of the joint. This is the use of very small cameras - usually under 3mm, to examine the inside of the joint through small incisions. This causes less pain and is more sensitive to finer issues as the picture is magnified.  If problems such as a meniscal tear are found we can remove this via arthroscopy also.
• The TPLO procedure - The proximal tibia is approached through a small incision and the tibia is cut with a curved saw and the bones altered in position. Finally a plate is applied to hold the bones in position while they heal.
• Physical therapy - Before and after surgery the leg is placed into a compression ice pack. Additionally patients are given massage and physical movement to aid in rapid return to weight bearing during their hospital stay.

Benefits of TPLO

Patients that have undergone cruciate management surgery show:

• Rapid return to weight bearing 
• Vastly improved function
• Reduced pain
• Reduced progression of degenerative joint disease
• Patients who have had TPLO surgery get lifelong management of the cruciate disease.