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Managing genetic disorders through breeding recommendations requires accurate diagnosis of affected individuals. Your veterinarian can offer practical recommendations to maintain breed lines and improve the overall health of breeds.

If you are currently a breeder or are thinking about breeding your pet, you should consult with your veterinarian in order to establish guidelines. Today, there are new tests and information available to help identify carriers, methods for breeding away from defective genes and ensuring that the defective genes are not reintroduced in future matings.

Canine Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a commonly misunderstood hereditary disorder. Researchers have concluded that almost all primary hypothyroidism in dogs is caused by hereditary autoimmune thyroiditis. Studies on the mode of inheritance in dogs have been inconclusive to date.

The majority of dogs affected with autoimmune thyroiditis develop measurable antibodies to the thyroid gland and thyroid hormones between two to six years of age. After several months to years, the thyroid gland is destroyed, thyroid hormone levels drop, and without the antigenic stimulus of functional thyroid tissue, the antibody levels return to normal. To screen for the disorder, a thyroid profile, including thyroid auto-antibodies, needs to be run between two to six years of age.

According to data from the endocrinology lab at Michigan State University, more than 10 percent of dogs from the following breeds are affected: English setter, Dalmatian, Basenji, Rhodesian ridgeback, Old English sheepdog, Boxer, Maltese, Chesapeake Bay retriever, Beagle, Cocker spaniel, Shetland sheepdog, Siberian husky, Border collie, Husky, Akita, and Golden Retriever.

Cancer

A familial, or breed related incidence of cancer is being investigated in several breeds. These include lymphoma, osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, melanoma, and mast cell cancer. The research is focusing on inherited mutations in tumor suppressor cells (which act to prevent cancer), or ontogenesis (that promote cancer).

Osteosarcoma is most prevalent in Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Doberman Pinchers, and Labradors. Skin and soft-tissue cancers are most prevalent in Saint Bernards, Bassett Hounds, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, English Setters, Great Danes, Pointers, and Flat-Coated Retrievers. Mammary tumors are most prevalent in Pointers, Poodles, Pulik, Cocker Spaniels, German Shorthaired Pointers, and Boston Terriers. Melanomas are most prevalent in Scottish Terriers, German Shorthaired Pointers, Cocker Spaniels, Pointers, Weirmeraners, Golden Retrievers, and Boxers. An overall reduced cancer risk is found in Dachshunds and Beagles.

Gastric Dilitation/Volvulus (Bloat)

Bloat occurs primarily in the large and giant breeds. Researchers at Purdue University conducted an epidemiological survey and found that the Great Dane has the highest average lifetime risk of a bloat episode. The risk is 42.4 percent. Other breeds at higher-than average risk include the Bloodhound, Irish Wolfhound, Irish Setter, Akita, standard Poodle, German Shepherd Dog, and Boxer.

Several risk factors were identified. The dogs with the greatest risk of developing bloat have one or more of the following: An increased measurable chest depth to width ratio, are lean versus overweight, eat quickly, have a nervous or aggressive personality, or eat a single large meal per day of dry dog food.

Dogs do not inherit bloat; they only inherit a predisposition for the condition. Perhaps the best selective tool against bloat is the chest-depth to chest-width ratio. Dogs that have lower ratios (larger chest widths) and whose litter mates have not bloated are the best breeding candidates. If prospective breeding dogs are compared, and breeders select against those with high ratios, the prevalence of bloat should diminish.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

There are several forms of PRA, and these vary in age of onset, the type of cells affected (rods, cones, or both), the speed of progression, and the mode of inheritance. In the Collie and the Irish setter, PRA may be diagnosed with an ophthalmoscope as young as four to eight months. In the Australian Cattle Dog, Chesapeake Bay retriever, English Cocker Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, Nova Scotia Duck Trolling Retriever, and Portuguese Water Dog, affected dogs may not show ophthalmoscopic signs of PRA until six to eight years of age. An electroretinogram (ERG) can diagnose affected dogs prior to visible changes in the back of the retina.

Several breeds have genetic tests to identify dogs as carrier, affected, or normal. The tests are specific for the particular mutation in each breed.

Genetic Disorders in Cats

Pedigreed cats have several hereditary disorders which require screening and counseling. Thirty-eight percent of all Persian and Himalayan cats have an autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. Many of these cats develop kidney failure, while some only develop isolated cysts that do not impair normal kidney function. A genetic test for this disorder is now available.

The Maine Coon cat breed has a dominantly inherited hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, as well as a high incidence of hip dysplasia. Both disorders are commonly identified in this breed. Renal amyloidosis is a hereditary disorder found in the Abyssinian breed.

Other frequently encountered genetic disorders in dogs and cats include: deafness, porto-systemic shunts, various types of bladder stones, elbow dysplasia, patella luxation, and Legg-Perthes disease.

Genetic Counseling

The goal of genetic counseling is to effectively reduce the spread of defective genes while preserving the health and genetic diversity of the population.

There are no breeding recommendations that fit every situation. There are, however, guidelines to preserve breeding lines and genetic diversity while reducing the risk of producing carrier or affected individuals. Protocols for genetic counseling and breeding management of genetic disorders can be based on the known mode of inheritance and the availability of genetic tests.

For breeding advice, consult your veterinarian. He or she is your best source for information about breeding your pet.

Diabetes is a condition caused by a relative resistance to or deficiency of insulin which results in elevated blood glucose levels and glucose in the urine. Diabetes mellitus is most common in older cats; however, neutered cats, male cats and obese cats are at an increased risk of developing this condition. Evidence has shown that genetics may play a role in the development of diabetes in cats. In particular, the Burmese breed has been identified as being predisposed to diabetes, and analysis of pedigrees has suggested that this is an inherited trait.

Insulin is produced by the pancreas and is released into the bloodstream where it travels to all the tissues of the body. Its main role is to enable cells to take up glucose (sugar) which is needed as an energy source.

In diabetic cats, there is a relative or absolute deficiency of insulin. An absolute insulin deficiency may arise as a direct failure of the pancreas to produce insulin. In most diabetic cats, there is both an absolute insulin deficiency and a situation whereby cells of the body fail to respond effectively to the insulin produced. This results in a decreased amount of glucose taken up by the cells and an increase of glucose in the blood (called hyperglycemia). As the cells are starved of glucose, the body begins to break down stored fats and proteins for sources of energy. This process results in weight loss and the accumulation of toxic waste products, which can cause a diabetic crisis known as ketoacidosis.

The symptoms of diabetes may be severe or mild. Due to the increased amount of glucose in the blood, it is excreted in the urine. The glucose that is passed into the urine takes water with it, so an increased volume of urine is produced. To compensate for the water lost to the urine, the cat develops an increased thirst. Weight loss and an increased appetite are also frequently seen.

Usually the client brings the cat to see a veterinarian as a result of the following symptoms:
Weight loss
Increased appetite
Increased urination
Increased water consumption

These signs are not always present or may pass unnoticed. If a cat spends most of his time outdoors, the increased thirst and increased urination may not be noticed by the owner.

There are other clinical signs that may be observed. These include:

• Straining to pass urine or passing bloody urine (associated with a urinary tract infection)
• Poor coat
• Cataracts and retinal abnormalities causing vision problems
• Weakness in hind legs or dropped hocks

Some cats develop ketoacidosis, a potential complication in uncontrolled diabetes. In this situation, the cat may become extremely depressed, with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, complete loss of appetite, dehydration, collapse and coma. If any of these signs are seen in a diabetic cat, it is an emergency condition and should be taken to a veterinary hospital immediately.

Blood and urine tests are required to confirm a diagnosis of diabetes. The diabetic cat needs to be hospitalized and monitored very closely. The treatment regime is initiated and necessary changes are made. This initial stabilization period usually takes between a few days to a couple of weeks. Some cats will need to be stabilized in-hospital initially, while others can be started as out patients. During this period, several parameters are monitored. Some of these parameters include:

• Weight
• Appetite
• Personality
• Thirst
• Urine Analysis
• Blood glucose measurements

Diabetes mellitus is usually a treatable condition, but requires considerable dedication and commitment from the cat’s owners. Owners of a diabetic cat need to be aware that a strict routine must be followed. The timing of insulin injections is important; however, they initially can be altered to suit the lifestyle of the owner. Once the insulin injections have begun, they need to be given at regular intervals. Knowledge on correct insulin storage, handling and administration is also required. The dose of insulin given should never be changed without consulting your veterinarian. One of the most common reasons for poor stabilization at home is problems with insulin storage and/or administration.

The most life-threatening complication that can occur at home is hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels). Hypoglycemia can occur if an insulin overdose is given or if the cat has no appetite. The main signs of hypoglycemia are (in order of increasing severity):

• Weakness
• Disorientation
• Staggering
• Strange behavior—aimless wandering, searching for food, licking lips
• Severe neurological signs—collapse, convulsions, loss of consciousness

Ketoacidosis is an uncommon complication of poorly controlled diabetes. It can be rapidly fatal if not treated and is cause for immediate concern. The clinical signs most frequently seen with ketoacidosis are:

• Loss of appetite
• Weakness
• Vomiting/diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Collapse

Initially, all diabetic cats should be seen every one to two weeks in order to assess how well their diabetes is being controlled. It is not uncommon for problems to be seen in the early stages of care. Problems are often related to the storage and administration of insulin; therefore, they are usually quite easy to identify and remedy.

The long-term outlook for cats with diabetes mellitus varies according to how old they are, the ease of stabilizing their diabetes, and whether or not they have any other concurrent disease. Many diabetic cats have an excellent quality of life and can live for many years.

Aggression between dogs usually results from early socialization problems. From the time of birth, a puppy needs to interact with other dogs. Their first interaction is with littermates and their mother. If a puppy does not or cannot interact, socialization problems occur.

As the puppy matures, he needs to meet and interact with new dogs. This should begin at an early age. Young dogs can easily interact in parks, obedience class, and while on walks.

If puppies remain isolated, or they do not have the opportunity to meet other dogs, they do not learn the social graces that are necessary for peaceful coexistence. When these dogs come in contact with another dog, they become nervous and excited. This often leads to aggressive behavior. If a dog becomes extremely agitated ("loaded") he need to bite. Often the owner will get bitten if he is holding the collar, trying to restrain the dog.

If your dog is older and extremely aggressive, you should consult with a qualified animal behaviorist. Here is a three-step correction plan for treating the average dog:

1. As soon as aggression is displayed, it must be checked. A quick tug on the leash with a strong "Leave It" is recommended. Timing is important because a correction after aggression begins, may cause further stimulation.
2. If your dog walks toward another dog and looks at him, correct him immediately.
3. If your dog walks toward another dog and looks away from him, praise him and give him a treat.

Good luck and don't get bit!

"People who don't respond to anything else often respond to the animals. Animal Assisted Therapy visits uncover avenues of communication that didn't exist before...As a result, (patients) feel more relaxed in their environment and, ultimately, are more likely to be open to rehabilitation and therapy," says Vicki Olivas, coordinator of Activities, Therapy, and Volunteer Services, California Pacific Medical Center.

WHAT IS ANIMAL ASSISTED THERAPY?

Animal Assisted Therapy is a program that brings the healing presence of animals to people in health care facilities and nursing homes. Volunteers often bring shelter animals or their own pets on visits to hospital wards, nursing homes, psychiatric clinics, senior centers, and special schools.

Animals Provide Therapeutic Benefits

The loving, nonjudgmental presence of animals creates a cozy, homelike setting in the institutional environment. And where humans sometimes fail, animals are often successful in cutting through the barriers that isolate people with physical and emotional difficulties.

Medical studies and field reports show animals have a comforting, reassuring effect on people. The therapeutic benefits of animal assisted therapy include:

• Decreased anxiety and depression in patients.
• Increased self-esteem.
• Stronger desire to communicate.
• Lowered blood pressure.
• Increased motivation to get well.
• Decreased need for painkilling medication in some post-operative patients.
• Increased willingness to interact with other patients and/or hospital staff.

Most local animal assisted therapy programs visit the following (but not limited to) locations:

• Children in pediatric wards.
• AIDS patients.
• Adults in acute care and physical rehabilitation facilities.
• Children with behavioral and physical disabilities.
• Hospices.
• Mental health patients.
• Frail and well elders in retirement communities and convalescent homes.

Animals Provide Emotional Support

THE ANIMALS

Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, snakes, even turtles, make the rounds of participating AAT facilities. Each animal chosen for the program receives extensive medical and socialization testing before going out on visits.

About half of the animals used in programs are the pets of AAT volunteers. Dogs owned by volunteers are usually given a rigorous temperament test to make sure they get along well with people and respond favorably when placed in unfamiliar environments and situations. These animals also undergo comprehensive medical screening to ensure their good health.

If you are interested in participating in your local Animal Assisted Therapy Program, or if you have a pet that that meets their qualifications, please call your local animal shelter. Your local animal shelter most likely has the name and phone number of the person that heads the AAT program in your area.

Thanks to the creation and marketing of cat litter in the mid 1940's, more and more cats have become indoor-only pets. As such, cats are now leading longer lives, with some living 20+ years! Our homes offer a safer, healthier environment than life on the street. The average life span of an indoor cat is 10 years, whereas the average lifespan of an outdoor cat is just 2 years. There is no doubt that indoors is safer.

Yet, when we choose to make our cats indoors-only companions, we have a responsibility to provide the stimulation that was previously provided by the great outdoors. Scratching and climbing posts become trees; interactive toys become hunted birds, bugs and field mice. A rotating array of cat playthings provides excitement, unpredictability and exercise which, in turn, gives your cat everything it needs while extending its life inside. With that said, many cat lovers still prefer to commune with nature with their feline friends. Fortunately, there are several ways to minimize the risks.

Most importantly, while vaccinations are important for indoor cats, they are absolutely critical to the health of outdoor cats. The threat of rabies, FeLV, FIV, and FIP, transmitted through altercations with wildlife, or interaction with stray, un-vaccinated cats, should be enough to have your cat immunized in order to give you peace of mind. All of these diseases can be prevented and can provide your outdoor cat with proper protection should he need it.

If you feel as though your cat deserves the fun of being outside, but want to provide a safe way to experience nature, there are alternatives to opening the door and watching him go. Harnesses and leashes (gasp!) have been developed for cats. Either cat specific or small dog accessories fit well and are relatively inexpensive. Training your cat to walk with the harness takes patience (unless you start with a kitten, in which case it could take less time), but the reward is worth it. Your cat will be able to experience the joys of being outside in a controlled environment. How far he can travel is up to you!

Outdoor enclosures are another great alternative. Since outdoor enclosures are usually homemade, they come in all shapes and sizes. For durability, chicken wire or wire hardware cloth - secured around a simple wood frame - is preferable to ordinary window screening. The most successful structures usually feature climbing and resting furniture inside. A shaded area is necessary for warm or hot weather. Whether you choose an outdoor enclosure or add cat-proof netting to the top of traditional fencing, they are safest used only when you are at home able to check on them often.

Even with the option of training or providing your cat with an enclosed outdoor adventure area, you still need to consider identification. Lost cats result in heartache that can easily be avoided. Microchip and ID tags provide easy identification and may be what reunites you with your cat should he / she get lost or scooped up by a caring, but ignorant stranger.

When deciding whether or not to let your cat outdoors, it is important for you to consider the alternatives. As the pet industry expands and becomes more creative, more and more indoor/outdoor products are going to become available. Of course, there is nothing better than being outside. If you can provide your cat with the proper care and protection, allowing your cat to go outdoors can be a fun and healthy existence.

Dogs are extremely clear about relationships: either you are someone to listen to, or you are someone to be directed. Period. Power struggles evolve around the issue of control. They result from a lack of clear-cut delineation of roles, or a lack of respect for the designated authority figure. Power struggles are learned behavior.

Dogs are pack animals like wolves, and they respond naturally to the laws of pack existence. A dog is a dog; from a Great Dane or a Rottweiler to a Poodle or a Chihuahua, they will lead or be lead. Just because your puppy does not live in a wild pack does not mean that she will not instinctively adapt these behaviors to her domestic environment. Living with your puppy will be much more enjoyable and meaningful if you understand the basic principles of pack life and apply them to your relationship. Dominance and submission are absolutely central to the pack.

All puppies love to play; you can capitalize on this by making play sessions with your pup part of her training. Play conditions your pup to be enthusiastic about learning and to enjoy being with you. By mixing training with games, you can bring out of a healthy attitude in your pup that will carry over to conventional obedience work as she gets older.

Prevention, which is easier than correction, is the name of the game. Start grooming right away even if there isn't much to groom. Rough games encourage rough behavior, so avoid rowdy forms of play. Don't encourage your puppy to do anything you do not want your adult dog to do. Get your puppy used to having you touch her while she eats. Never pet a barking or whining puppy: the response to soothe the upset youngster is seen as praise, leading to more of the same later in life. If you can ignore the noise, praise her when she stops. Get a puppy used to all kinds of handling early. When you get your pup, be sure to gently grab her skin, hold her tail for a second, or lift up one of her paws. Always be gentle; you do not want to hurt the pup.

Do what is truly natural: be your dog's leader. Most dogs love their owners, but many don't respect them. Respect is earned, not given. Dogs adore and respect a confident leader who is decisive and fair.

We all claim that we have the smartest cat. And maybe you do. But is your cat a musical genius?

Ketzel, a cat from the Upper West Side of Manhattan, sure was. Ketzel died this summer at the age of nineteen, but has left in her paw steps a musical legacy. Ketzel was a composer – an award-winning composer, in fact, who won a prize at the Paris New Music Review’s One-Minute Competition for a piece she pawed onto her owner's piano one morning in 1996. Morris Cotel, one of Ketzel's owners, was the chairman of the composition department at the Peabody Conservatory, who claimed Ketzel as "one of his best students." Cotel was shocked the morning Ketzel composed her one-minute-wonder, which he claimed to have a "structural elegance … with a beginning, middle, and an end." Cotel took note of his cat’s masterpiece and submitted it to the competition. Although he explained the composer's identity in the entry form, the judges were not told that "Piece for Piano, Four Paws," truly was written by four paws.

Ketzel's piece premiered in 1998 in Peabody. It was later performed in Europe, over public radio, and at the Museum of the City of New York, where the composer herself was in attendance. After announcing Ketzel's piece, a meow was heard from the back of the hall acknowledging her new claim to fame.

Now that is one smart cat.