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Q: We adopted a Pug and were told that she was prone to “star gazing” and we have noticed a spell or two every day that lasts about 5 seconds-10 seconds. What can we do for her?
A: Since you have had your pug has she had routine blood work done? If not, your pug should have this done as well as a blood test for a liver shunt. While the star gazing could be indicative of a neurological problem it could also be behavioral and nothing to worry about. If her blood work is completely normal you may wish to have her examined by a veterinary neurologist.
Q: Today my dog felt warm. Does that mean she has a fever? Is my dog is sick?
A: It can be hard to judge a pet’s temperature by feeling their skin. If it is hot out or if they were just exercising they can feel warmer and their body temperature can be elevated. A normal temperature for a dog is about 99.5 – 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. A dog’s temperature can easily be checked at home with a rectal or ear thermometer.
Q: My Husky has what we call ‘sleep or sand’ in the inner corners of his eyes. Lately, the material has been moist and gooey. Should I be concerned?
A: This material in the corner of the eyes may not be an issue and can be cleaned off with warm water. If there is a significant color and texture change there could be an underlying infection. If your pet isn’t squinting or rubbing his eyes it is probably not an emergency but I would have your veterinarian take a look. They may wish to prescribe something to help clear this up.
Q: My cat’s gums have been red around the tooth line since he was a couple of months old. His teeth are clean, but he has bad breath. What can this be?
A: This definitely sounds like gingivitis. Sometimes the gum line in cats can be inflamed for a month or two after they get their permanent set of teeth but it sounds like your cat may have passed this point.
If the teeth are healthy, there is no need for major dental work now although your cat may need it in the future. For now, we want to keep the teeth and gums as healthy as possible. Make sure that your pet gets hard food which is great for the teeth.
Daily brushing is also extremely important for your cat. Your veterinarian may have other products that you can use to prevent dental disease such as gels that can be applied to the teeth.
Q: My cat is scratching and losing his fur around his neck where his collar is. Is it safe to apply an antibiotic ointment on his neck to help his neck heal?
A: A topic antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin probably won’t hurt your cat but I do not recommend that he ingests it. If the skin in that area is not infected the ointment probably wont help much. If is it infected or if your pet is suffering from allergies, your vet may be able to prescribe something that will be more effective in alleviating the itch.
Q: In the American Profile insert for May 4-10, your "Ask the Vet" piece warns against "creams with zinc" because of "red blood cell problems." Isn’t zinc is an essential nutrient for pets and added pet foods to promote good health? Can you explain this?
A: The amount of zinc in pets foods is not enough to be toxic. In order for zinc, or many other ingredients to be toxic, they must be ingested in high doses. If a large enough quantity of zinc is ingested, it can cause hemolytic anemia. This means that the red blood cells burst open and can not function properly. For example, pennies made after 1983 are over 97% zinc. If swallowed by an animal this can be enough to cause an anemia. Certain creams can also be a problem if enough is ingested.
Q: My dog has what the vet called a “diaper rash” near her groin from too much hair staying wet after urinating. Is there a way to prevent this? Is it really from too much hair?
A: Urine can be irritating to your pets’ skin, especially if there is a lot of hair. If you take your dog to the groomer have them shave the area near her vulva very short. Remember not to cut hair with scissors at home! When the hair is short it is easier to keep that area clean. Baby wipes can be a big help for this too!
Q: I just watched your video on applying flea drops to the base of the neck. What if the directions say to put it down the center of their back? I understand what you said about them licking it off, and that makes perfect sense. Even if it says to put it down the center of their back, will it still work if I apply it your way?
A: It should work if you apply it at the base of the neck. Which flea product are you using? The ones that I really like are Frontline and Revolution for cats. While there are other great preventatives out there, there are certain pet store over the counter products that can be toxic to cats. Check with your veterinarian first if you are not using a product purchased through a veterinary office just to make sure it’s safe for your pet.
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Dr. Brickman started as a veterinary technician at Garden City Park in 1997 and went on to veterinary school. After graduating from Ross University, she completed one clinical year at North Carolina State University School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Brickman is a member of the New York State Veterinary Medical Association, Long Island Veterinary Medical Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association.
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