Total Dog Magazine

Category: Magazine

  • Pit Bull ‘Expert’ Who Wrongly Identified Death Row Dog is Overruled in ‘Minutes’

    Pit Bull ‘Expert’ Who Wrongly Identified Death Row Dog is Overruled in ‘Minutes’

    A key witness who described a friendly, family dog as a pit bull type has been overruled by a judge.

    Magistrates ordered the death of the pet dog, named Ice, in March of this year. She was kept in police kennels – at tax payer’s expense –  pending an appeal to the court.

    Barrister Ian Graham, resisting the appeal in Plymouth Crown Court, said that the temperament of the dog was not in question.

    So-called pit bull expert Peter Tallack accepted that Ice was not a purebred dog but wrongly claimed she was a pit bull terrier type.

    He said: “The physical characteristics of these dogs make them enormously powerful, far more powerful than a normal dog. In the wrong circumstances it is that potential which causes the problem.”

    Just for your visual reference, here is a picture of the ‘abnormally strong’ and ‘enormously powerful’ Ice.

    A judge, sitting with two magistrates, disagreed with Tallack and ruled that Ice is not a pit bull type.

    The appeal against the destruction order was upheld and Ice is all set to be returned to her family following a lengthy stay at a police kennels.

    Ice is one of the lucky ones, that is assuming she hasn’t suffered long term psychological trauma as a result of being snatched from her family and kept in police kennels (where dogs often die waiting for their trial date and where they can not be seen or comforted by their family). How many dogs have been killed as a result of erroneous testimony from so-called ‘expert’ witnesses who dedicate their time trying to have dogs put to sleep on the basis of what they look like rather than what they’ve done?

    Mr Barton, Ice’s owner, speaking after the case, said: “We are really happy. It has been a very long time. She has a lovely nature, she is a real family dog.

    “She grew up with my daughter, Hope, who is now aged three. We have had to tell her that she has been in hospital with a sore leg.

    Defence expert Kendal Shepherd listed 68 characteristics of the pit bull type. She said that Ice only conformed to 45 per cent of the traits.

    Dr Shepherd said she believed that dog more closely conformed to an English and Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross.

    Judge Paul Darlow, sitting with two magistrates, took only minutes to grant the appeal following hours of complex technical and legal argument, again at tax payer’s expense.

    UK: Do You Know What a Pit Bull Is?

    One of the more misunderstood breed types in the United Kingdom, the Pit Bull is on the banned breeds list in accordance with the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act. But the question is, do you know what one is, what they look like or anything about them other than the media hype?

    What Is a Pit bull in the UK?

    The use of the term “pit bull” is one that over the last 18 months has become increasingly commonplace yet many people will freely use the term without knowing exactly what it is that they are referring too. So what exactly is a “pit bull” in the United Kingdom in 2008?

    Breed or type?

    First and foremost in the UK it is illegal to own any dog that is a type of dog known as a”pit bull type”. The breed American Pit Bull Terrier has never been recognised here so by the Government so, instead of banning a breed that they didn’t believe existed, they banned all dogs that looked like them. They attempted to ban a type of dog.

    Definition

    When the first cases of dogs charged with being illegal pit bull terriers went before the courts a huge problem became apparent. The courts had to decide, beyond reasonable doubt, that a dog was indeed a dog that fitted the “type”. Several Home Office Circulars followed issuing advice but it was decided by the High court in 1993 that a dog was a “type known as a pit bull terrier” if it had a substantial number of characteristics of an American Pit Bull Terrier. In order to decide this they need to know what an American Pit bull Terrier should look like. It was then decided in 1993 to use the breed standard as drawn up by the American Dog Breeders Association at that time. In recent years the ADBA have changed the standard a number of times however the first standard is the one referred to in UK courts today. The High Court also stated that a dog could be of the “type known as the pit bull terrier” regardless of its parentage and that behaviour was relevant but not conclusive.

    Identification

    Under Section One of the DDA a dog becomes a pit bull type if it has a substantial number or most of the characteristics of an American Pit Bull Terrier as described by the ADBA standard. Substantial or most is normally a dog that scores more than 60 percent. Once an accusation has been made it is up to the defence to prove otherwise, not the prosecution to prove the dog is a pit bull type. The standard sets out 100 points to consider when looking at the perfect APBT. Out of those 100 points only 10 points can be given in respect of the dogs attitude/behaviour. The way a dog is scored falls down to interpretation. For example a number of points can be given for a dog with a muscular build.

    Any dog is capable of having a muscular build of varying degrees and each person will have a different idea on how well muscled a dog is therefore leaving several people giving different scores on the same dog. The standard also suggests the tail should rest at the hock however some will give points for a tail that rests just above or below. There is also a lot of debate over various points of the standard and how it is to be interpreted.

    As all dogs, even litter mates are never identical one dog may score more or less than its sibling. This often leads to dogs with the same parentage being split into “pit bull type” and not “pit bull type” Sometimes simply by being a little taller, having a slightly shorter muzzle and a tail being a little too long can make the distinction between illegal or legal.

    Other breeds or cross breeds can and have been, deemed pit bull type. When looking at any dog stated as being another breed, it often falls to which standard scores the most points. If a Stafford for example doesn’t fit the Kennel Club breed standard for a Stafford quite as well as it does the ADBA standard for an APBT then its quite possible a court will find the dog to be pit bull type.

    In the court.

    Court is often a bizarre experience for an onlooker. Expert witness’s will take the stand in hearings that often take two or more days to hear fully and discuss each point in turn. The very serious topic of dangerous dogs is stripped down to the bare bones, quite literally. The experts will state whether in their opinion the shape of the eyes is correct, whether the coat is a single coat or not. They will argue over whether a tail is pump handled when relaxed.

    They will all produce pictures to try and prove their point. Interpretation of each point will be argued. The dog will be weighed and measured and all will be noted and scored. The Judge will then have to decide if the defence have proved beyond reasonable doubt that the dog isn’t a prohibited type. It is not up to the prosecution in Section One cases, to prove the dog is a pit bull type to obtain a guilty verdict.

    So there we have it. That’s what a pit bull type aka “dangerous dog” is in the UK legal system today. Its any dog that a judge believes scores enough points, mainly in conformation, on a breed standard that is no longer used in that exact form as a standard for that breed.

  • Dogs Reduce Asthma Risk in Children [New Study]

    Dogs Reduce Asthma Risk in Children [New Study]

    A family dog can reduce a child’s asthma risk by as much as 15% according to a comprehensive new study.

    The results support the so-called “hygiene hypothesis” that supposes people who live in ‘too clean’ conditions are more likely to have a higher risk of allergies.

    The data of 1 million children born in Sweden between 2001 and 2010 was analysed. Sweden is important for this study as it’s a country where both dog and farm animals must be registered by law

    The findings reveal that children’s exposure to dogs in the first year of their life was associated with a 15% lower incidence of childhood asthma. Farm animal exposure produced even greater results, lowering the asthma risk by as much as a staggering 52%.

    Dr Tove Fall, the study’s lead scientist from Uppsala University in Sweden, said: “Earlier studies have shown that growing up on a farm reduces a child’s risk of asthma to about half.

    “We wanted to see if this relationship was true also for children growing up with dogs in their homes. Our results confirmed the farming effect and we also saw that children who grew up with dogs had about 15% less asthma than children without dogs.

    “Because we had access to such a large and detailed data set, we could account for confounding factors such as asthma in parents, area of residence and socio-economic status.”

    Profess Catarina Almqvist Malmros who co-authored the study said: “These kind of epidemiological studies look for associations in large populations but do not provide answers on whether and how animals could protect children from developing asthma.

    “We know that children with established allergy to cats or dogs should avoid them, but our results also indicate that children who grow up with dogs have reduced risks of asthma later in life.

    “Thanks to the population-based design, our results are generalisable to the Swedish population and probably also to other European populations with similar culture regarding pet ownership and farming.”

  • What This Puppy Does Next Might Shock You – Can You Guess?

    What This Puppy Does Next Might Shock You – Can You Guess?

    This adorable sleeping pup is about to do something that is quite shocking. Certainly shocking to him. Reckon you can guess what’s about to cause him such a fright?

  • World’s Favourite Skateboarding Dog Passes Away

    World’s Favourite Skateboarding Dog Passes Away

    Tillman, the world’s most watched and beloved Bulldog has passed away. He leaves behind him a legacy of skateboarding dogs and a huge fan base who will miss him.

    Tillman
    Photo Credit: Facebook.com/TillmanSkates

    His owner made the announcement on his official Facebook page saying: “I’m sorry to announce the world lost a true legend… My best bud Tillman passed away last night, of natural causes. We spent 10 years making so many incredible memories skating, surfing and hanging out together. No words can truly describe how much he’ll be missed. Thanks for all the good times, Tilly.”

    Here’s one of our favourite clips of this special dog:

  • New Research Outlines Devastating Health Risks to Number of Popular Dog Breeds

    New Research Outlines Devastating Health Risks to Number of Popular Dog Breeds

    Research shows high risk of breathing problems in dogs with short muzzles

    Findings highlight that snuffling, grunting and snorting in popular breeds isn’t normal or healthy

    Researchers at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) have recently demonstrated the health risks of breeding dogs with short muzzles. Although short muzzles are an increasingly popular face shape in pet dogs, flattened faces were found to greatly increase the risk of developing a debilitating, lifelong respiratory condition leaving dogs chronically short of breath. Breeds shown to be at high risk include the Pug, French Bulldog and English Bulldog, but findings are relevant to all dogs, including many other breeds and cross-breeds, with shortened muzzles.

    Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is caused by shortening of the bones of the canine muzzle, without an equivalent reduction in the soft tissues held within them, causing the tissue to become ‘crammed’ within the skull. This tissue can block the airway, and is often accompanied by narrowed nostrils, making it difficult for air to pass through the dog’s nose. These blockages can mean dogs struggle to breathe, leaving them unable to exercise, play or eat normally, and in some cases they overheat and collapse. BOAS can even cause early death. Dogs with BOAS often snore even while awake, when the soft tissue noisily vibrates as dogs force air past the blockages.

    The research, which was co-funded by Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, and the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW), involved two studies including over 850 dogs of over 100 breeds.  The findings were reported in a paper by Drs Rowena Packer, Anke Hendricks, Michael Tivers and Charlotte Burn and published in the journal PLOS ONE yesterday [Wednesday 28th October].  The researchers found that as muzzle length becomes shorter, risk of BOAS becomes ever higher, with over 90% of dogs being affected at the shortest extreme. This quality-of-life limiting disorder was only seen in dogs whose muzzles were less than half the length of the domed part of the skull. Obesity and thicker necks also increased BOAS risk.

    Puppy buyers should be aware of the health consequences of choosing dogs based on appearance. Practical steps to take when buying a dog of a high-risk breed include selecting puppies from parents with longer muzzles and slimmer necks, and ensuring their dog stays at a healthy body weight.

    Flattened facial conformation has long been suspected by vets as risk factor for BOAS and this research showed for the first time that decreasing muzzle length does indeed increase BOAS risk. With this is mind, breeding organisations should actively discourage exaggeration of this high-risk skull shape in both breed standards and the show ring. This could include imposing limits to how short a dogs muzzle can be, in order to improve dog welfare.

    Veterinary Director for the Dogs Trust, Paula Boyden, explains the importance of this research;

    “The increased popularity of Pugs, French and English Bulldogs hasn’t been coupled with an increased awareness about the health issues these breeds can suffer from. Too many people mistakenly believe that the grunting, snuffling and wheezing sounds these breeds often make are endearing breed traits, rather than warnings of a debilitating health condition. Dogs Trust urges owners to be vigilant for the signs their dog might be suffering with BOAS and take their pet to the vet for advice if they have concerns. The condition cannot be cured but can be improved and there may be things that can be done to provide a better a quality of life for affected dogs.

    Although the research demonstrates the need for UK breeders to be aware of the risks of breeding for shorter muzzles, there is an equally pressing need for buyers to be aware of BOAS. There has been a surge in the number of high risk breeds being bred and illegally imported from Eastern Europe in the last few years. Breeders prepared to smuggle these underage puppies into the UK are rarely concerned with good breeding practices so it is essential that buyers wanting a Pug, French Bulldog or English Bulldog puppy look beyond appealing appearances and listen for the audible signs of BOAS.”

    Signs to look out for that your dog might be suffering from BOAS that should be discussed with your vet:
    1.    Frequent or lasting shortness of breath
    2.    Difficulties in exercising [walking, running and playing] as a result of this shortness of breath
    3.    A tendency to overheat
    4.    Respiratory noises such as snorting and snoring, even when awake
    5.    Laboured or exaggerated breathing
    6.    Narrow slit-like nostrils

    If you do have a dog at risk of the condition make sure they maintain a healthy weight because obesity can worsen BOAS.

    UFAW, an independent charity which promotes advances in animal welfare through scientific and educational activities, has an extensive web-based information resource on genetic welfare problems in dogs and other companion animals which can be viewed at www.ufaw.org.uk/geneticwelfareproblems.php

  • 17-Month Whippet Downs Ecstasy Tablets While Walking With Elderly Owner

    17-Month Whippet Downs Ecstasy Tablets While Walking With Elderly Owner

    PDSA vets today warned pet owners to be vigilant after a whippet nearly died from eating Ecstasy tablets while walking with his elderly owner.

    17-month-old Blue, from Bradford, was enjoying a walk with his owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, when he sniffed something out and gobbled up the contents.

    His owner rushed over to investigate and was horrified to discover Blue was eating small blue heart-shaped tablets from a plastic bag. Worried that another dog or even a child may come across them, the owner took Blue and the tablets home.

    Before long, Blue became unsteady on his feet and started foaming at the mouth.

    PDSA was called immediately for advice and Blue was rushed to the charity’s Pet Hospital in Bradford.

    PDSA Head Nurse Miriam Wilson explained: “When Blue arrived, his condition was critical. He’d collapsed and the toxins were causing organ failure. He was admitted and life-saving treatment was started straight away. He was put on an IV drip and received activated charcoal to absorb the toxins. Without the treatment, he would not have survived the night.”

    The PDSA vet team monitored Blue overnight, and thankfully, he went on to make a full recovery and is now back to his lively self.

    The incident was reported to the police, who came and collected the drugs and disposed of them safely.

    PDSA Head Nurse Miriam advises owners to speak to their vet immediately for advice if they suspect their pets have eaten something they shouldn’t: “There are lots of hidden dangers around the home and garden, as well as out in the wider world, that our pets may sniff out. If you think they have swallowed something then get it checked at once.”

  • Are Pugs the UK’s Favourite Dog Breed?

    With two books currently hitting the UK shelves about the lovable Labrador written by TV presenter Ben Fogle and dog behaviourist, Pippa Mattinson, you might be surprised to hear that it seems Pugs top the charts as the most sought after pet says online marketplace, eBay.co.uk.

    With celebs including Gerard Butler, Kelly Brook and Paris Hilton stepping out with the pint sized pet once beloved by Queen Victoria, the online marketplace has seen more than 300 pug related products sold every day on site, that is 13 every hour – with listings covering everything from a £1,400 pug painting to a ‘Beware of the Pug’ sign that could be yours for as little as 99p.

    labrador photo

    Meanwhile, the loyal Labrador, trots in second on the doggy ranking, selling 91 Lab related products a day with live listings including a £300 tablecloth and the bijoux sized French Bulldog breed, closely related to the champion Pugs, make third place having sold just 4,300 products in the last three months. The German Shepherd and beloved Staffie come in fourth and fifth respectively.

    So what do you think? What makes these five breeds so special? Share your comments below and let us know if you are an owner of the UK’s top 5 dog breeds according to the online marketplace.

  • Quick Tips to Help Your Dog Cope With Fireworks

    Quick Tips to Help Your Dog Cope With Fireworks

    Last year the RSPCA received 364 calls relating to fireworks in October and November – more than in both 2013 (310) and 2012 (326).

    Research shows that up to 45 per cent of dogs may be fearful of fireworks* so to help combat the problem the RSPCA has come up with some advice to help pet owners.

    RSPCA Scientific Officer Lisa Richards said: “As the winter months draw in many of us look forward to going to local bonfire and fireworks festivities.

    scared dog photo
    Photo by alyak “The RSPCA want to make sure the enjoyment is for everyone – as animals may become distressed or confused at what is happening.

    “We would always advise letting your vet know of any signs of stressed or unusual behaviour in your animal so they can give you advice to help your pet in the long-term, but there are also some quick tips to help you and your pet during the fireworks.”

    RSPCA Guidance on Helping Dogs Cope With Fireworks:

    ●     For any pet, whether it be a dog, cat, rabbit or rodent, make sure you provide suitable hiding places with extra bedding where they can feel safe. This is also true for animals that live outside.

    ●     Close all windows and curtains.

    ●     Play music or put on the television to muffle the fireworks, using a Sounds Scary! CD to help dogs learn to be less afraid of loud noises.

    ●     Make sure they’re kept in a safe place during any display.

    ●     Never punish or fuss over them as it can make things worse.

    ●     Make sure your pets are microchipped in case they escape.

    ●     Give your dog their walk earlier in the day.

    ●     Never ever take a dog to a fireworks display – even if they don’t make noise – it’s still highly likely to be a stressful situation for them.

    ●     Pheromone diffusers may  help dogs and cats feel calmer.

  • Want to See What a Rottweiler x Newfoundland Puppy Looks Like (Trust me, you do!)

    Want to See What a Rottweiler x Newfoundland Puppy Looks Like (Trust me, you do!)

    A big, buffy head.

    Paws as big as saucepans.

    Neck fur that would make Hoth Wamper jealous.

    Say hello to the Rottweiler x Newfoundland – the Rottland….

    ….

    ready for it?

    .

    .

    .

    .

    .

    .

    .

    here goes..

     

    (totally worth it, right?)

  • England Rugby Player Tom Croft Fills in for Leicestershire Dog Groomer as Part of #BleedforEngland Campaign

    England Rugby Player Tom Croft Fills in for Leicestershire Dog Groomer as Part of #BleedforEngland Campaign

    During the rugby season, top-flight professional rugby players would be unlikely to donate blood themselves due to their strict training and match commitments. So as part of a campaign launched by NHS Blood and Transplant, a dog grooming salon, Grr’s 2 Purr in Market Harborough, is taking part in a series of ‘Blood Substitute’ films for the #BleedForEngland campaign.

    The #BleedForEngland campaign is supported by a number of current and ex-international rugby players and aims to drive sign up of 100,000 new blood donors between 15 August and 31 October 2015.

    The ‘Blood Substitute’ films feature rugby players covering staff shifts to free up an hour of an employees’ time so they can go and give blood – they are their ‘Blood Substitutes’ – inspiring others to sign up and book appointments to #BleedForEngland.

    England player and Leicester Tigers rugby star, Tom Croft, recently stepped in as the salon’s co-owner, Frances Cheshire’s ‘Blood Substitute’. He took over some of her roles such as brushing and washing the dogs while she volunteered to give blood for the first time at the Leicester Donor Centre.

     

    Jon Latham, Assistant Director at NHS Blood and Transplant, says: “It’s been great to have the support of Tom Croft and past and present rugby players for this campaign. Tom wasn’t able to donate blood this time but we hope Fran, the Grr’s 2 Purr’s co-owner he substituted for, will inspire others to join the #BleedForEngland squad.

    “Become one of the 100,000 people we are aiming to register as donors in the run up to, and during, the world’s biggest rugby tournament. Giving blood is an amazing thing to do. Help us meet the need for new donors. Please go to www.blood.co.uk today, find out if you can donate, register as a donor and book an appointment. Giving blood is simple and easy to do and will only take about an hour of your time. We plan our sessions in line with the amount of blood we need to collect to meet hospital and patient needs so it’s best to book an appointment.”

    NHS Blood and Transplant is calling on 100,000 new volunteers to show their support in a way that really matters; by registering to become a blood donor between 15 August and 31 October 2015. By choosing to book an appointment to donate – and literally #BleedForEngland – these new registrants will contribute to the more than 200,000 new donors needed this year.

  • 7 in 10 Deaf People with Hearing Dogs Refused Access on the UK High Street

    7 in 10 Deaf People with Hearing Dogs Refused Access on the UK High Street

    A recent survey, conducted by national charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, has revealed that 70% of deaf people with hearing dogs have been refused access to services.

    The charity has launched a new campaign to raise awareness among businesses of their obligation, under the Equality Act 2010, to allow disabled people with hearing dogs into their premises.

    Feedback showed that business owners have wrongly refused access to deaf people with hearing dogs due to ‘hygiene reasons’ or a concern that the dog may cause a disruption. However, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health states that risk of an assistance dog posing a hygiene risk or behaving badly in any public space is very minimal.

    Michele Jennings, Chief Executive of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People said: “Hundreds of deaf people in the UK rely on their hearing dog to help them every day, and it’s upsetting and degrading when they are turned away from a business.

    “Not only do hearing dogs carry out a wide range of practical tasks, but they also provide a deaf person with the support and confidence needed to live an independent life.

    “The Equality Act 2010 states that service providers must not treat people with disabilities less favourably if they have an assistance dog, so we want to ensure that all businesses are aware of this.”

    Hearing dogs complete a rigorous 18 month training programme, in which they are trained to toilet on command, lie quietly on the floor in a restaurant or café, and taught not to wander freely around the premises.

    Catherine Broughton, pictured above, aged 74 with hearing dog Beni, is one of the charity’s recipients who has been denied access to a business on a number of occasions. She said:

    “Being denied access with Beni brings a mixture of emotions – from shock, disbelief and panic, through to humiliation and helplessness. It is imperative that the quality of life of disabled people with assistance dogs is protected through inclusion and accessibility.

    “Occasionally, when I have been turned away from a business, I have been forced to appeal to a higher level of management. This usually brings forth a belated apology, but sadly, there are still some places that I cannot bring myself to revisit.”

    Businesses and assistance dog users can be found on the Hearing Dogs website: hearingdogs.org.uk/access

  • London Artist & His Dog Get Commuters Talking About World Homeless Day

    London artist John Dolan lived on the streets for more than 20 years before being discovered by a gallery owner, and is now one of East London’s most  prominent artists with sell-out exhibitions and pieces going for six figure sums.

    To raise awareness for charity StreetLink and World Homeless Day 2015, he took to the street with his dog to encourage passers by and commuters to take part in a giant mural.

    Watch the event unfold in the video below.

  • Did This Labrador Really Eat a Beehive?

    Did This Labrador Really Eat a Beehive?

    A leading US pet insurance firm has recognised the extraordinary ‘achievement’ of a Labrador retriever from California who, despite having a penchant for eating train tracks and laptop computer parts, outdid herself by consuming an entire beehive PLUS its angry inhabitants.

    Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI), the nation’s oldest and largest provider of pet health insurance, asked the public to go to the polls and decide which pet with the most unusual health insurance claim.

    Ellie may be a young dog, but she’s already managed to eat everything from wooden toy train tracks to laptop computer keys. So the beehive in the backyard was just another culinary adventure for this insatiable pooch. Unfortunately for Ellie, the recently sprayed beehive was full of pesticides and thousands of dead bees, and that combination sent her to the veterinary hospital later that night. Ellie was treated and sent home with an upset stomach but made a full recovery.

    As the winner, Ellie’s owners, Robert and Sandra Coe, will receive a bronze trophy in the shape of a ham as well as a gift basket full of doggie toys and treats.

    Created to recognize the year’s most unusual pet health insurance claim, the VPI Hambone Award is named in honor of a VPI-insured dog that got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire Thanksgiving ham before being found with a licked-clean hambone and a mild case of hypothermia.

    Second Place – Aubie the Border collie (Birmingham, Ala.). A lot of dogs just bark at the mailman, but not Aubie. To get to his letter-carrying "foe," Aubie leaped through a closed living room window, shattering a pane of glass and cutting his left front leg in the process. Fortunately, Aubie’s owner, Sharman Martin, was home at the time and was able to wrap Aubie’s leg in a towel before rushing him to his veterinarian’s office. Two and a half hours and forty stitches later, Aubie was good as new again. "Aubie’s never been enamored with the mailman," Sharman summed up.

    Third Place – Darci the West Highland white terrier (Belleville, Ill.). Darci always lunged at noisy appliances, but owner Barbara Abell never thought she had to worry about her Westie biting one. That all changed the day Darci took a nip at a buzzing chainsaw Barbara’s husband was using. The chainsaw cut two small holes into Darci’s muzzle and required five hours of surgery. The experience taught Barbara not to take anything for granted with a determined pet. "If your puppy is as inquisitive as mine, it just might cost it its nose!" Barbara said.

    Additional nominees for the 2010 VPI Hambone Award included a boxer that chased and caught a moving delivery van by biting into one of its tires, a standard poodle with a taste for dirty diapers, a Jack Russell terrier that wrestled with a predatory lizard while in Australia, a Labrador retriever that ran tongue first into the pointy-end of a stick during a game of fetch, and a California desert tortoise that scalped himself on a branch and his own shell. Like Ellie, all pets considered for the award made full recoveries and received insurance reimbursements for eligible expenses.

  • Did My Dog’s Food Nearly Kill my Best Friend?

    Did My Dog’s Food Nearly Kill my Best Friend?

    On a Sunday evening in July 2009, I was using my computer and my 5 year old Samoyed Bundy came in shaking his head (he had left my room approximately 15 mins earlier). I thought he was bringing me the ball because he wanted to play. He was also pawing at his mouth, so I thought he must have something stuck in his mouth. I had a look but couldn’t see anything. I knew something was seriously wrong so I jumped in the car and raced to the nearest 24 hour vet as fast as I could with Bundy in the back, still acting strangely with his head.

    Luckily, the roads were empty and there was no one waiting at the vet. As we were led into the examination room, Bundy collapsed on the floor and was trembling all over. I then had to go back to the waiting room while they attended to him in the back. After a wait, I was led to the back where Bundy was in a cage and flailing about uncontrollably, which was very distressing for both him and me. I understand the vet gave him a shot of pentobarbital to knock him out. After another wait, I eventually went home but, obviously, I couldn’t sleep.

    The next day, when I visited him, he was lying on a bed with lots of tubes and machines attached. He was unconscious but his paws and face were still twitching. It was tearing me apart to see him like that but I stayed for a few hours and held his paw, because I didn’t think he was going to make it. I don’t think the vets were very optimistic either because he was developing asperatic pneumonia.

    I visited him every day and stayed for a few hours but I realised that the nurses have other animals to look after and duties to perform so I didn’t want to get in their way by staying longer. The vets and nurses that treated him gave him the best of care and I’m very grateful.

    He remained unconscious for 3 or 4 days which, I’m told, is not usual but not unheard of either. The vets there treated him with a cocktail of drugs to try to control his twitching. They recommended sending him to a specialist centre so, after about 5 days, I drove him in the back of my car. He was still unconscious so a vet nurse sat with him, assisting with the oxygen.

    The vets at the specialist centre ran a multitude of generalised tests including MRI and spinal taps but the results were inconclusive. After a day or so, he started to come around, semi conscious, but still twitching. The next day I visited, he was finally awake and when he saw me he started to whine with all the energy his weak body could muster, he could barely move but he still wanted to lick me and it became very emotional for both of us. Within a week, he got more responsive and stronger every day and was then allowed home.

    As Bundy is 5 years old, epileptic fits were a possibility but I’m told that they do not last for 3+ days and the MRI brain scan had ruled out a brain tumour.

    The vets that treated him thought it was likely he had come into contact with a toxin that acted on his nervous system. I wracked my brains as to what that could be as I wanted answers. The day of the episode, we went for a walk (on lead) at about 5 pm then he was shut inside the house and had his food about 6pm. There was no access to the garden and there are no chemicals around the house.

    The previous day, I had put a new tick collar on him and noticed a very strong smell coming from it. I assumed that this must be the cause of Bundy’s condition somehow so I didn’t put another back on him.

    When he was back home, I was feeding him brand new packets of his usual dry dog food that he likes and has had for years but, before the first episode, I had bought a different brand of food just for a change and added this to his usual food in a container, one that he had never had before (not sure if I can say the brand name, for legal reasons, but possibly the biggest and most popular brand in the world and the name is something to do with a dog’s heritage). Anyway, after a few weeks of feeding him brand new usual food strait out of the packet, I went back to adding some of his previous food on top. Within that week, he had a serious case of diahorreoa but I thought that could just be down to the drugs he was on.

    A few days later (coincidentally, again on a Sunday night and about 2 hours later in the evening than the first episode), I noticed Bundy looking at me strangely and his legs were shaking. I immediately knew what was wrong and I drove him down to the specialist centre where he was again in intensive care for a week or so.

    He came home very weak but, today, over six months later he is fit and healthy apart from his legs sometimes shaking when he stands. Obviously, there appears to be some residual nerve damage.

    The vets at the specialist centre ran more tests the second time but still nothing was remarkable.

    The four different vets that treated him between the two veterinary clinics and both episodes suspected intoxication by organophosphates, metaldehyde, (slug bait) or mycotoxins.

    It was after this second occurrence that I realised that this new brand of dog food was the only common factor in both these cases. Perhaps it was contaminated?

    I contacted the company that makes the dog food and arranged for an approximate 1kg sample to be sent off (but unfortunately I didn’t have the bag and batch code). The sample I sent did have small amounts of Bundy’s usual dog food mixed in (other brand). I sent it like this because this new food was added on top of his old food in a container and I wanted to know if they would even notice or just throw it away but, surprisingly, they did notice. I think, because of this, they did not run any tests.

    A guy qualified in veterinary science, and who works for the dog food company, dealing with complaints of this nature, sent me a letter saying he had contacted my vet and discussed the causes of ‘tremorgens’ (a group of mycotoxins). These have been associated with Blue cheese, walnuts and compost as well as others and it was unlikely that their product was responsible.

    Fortunately, Bundy has not been fed or been near those stated substances.

    When I leave the house Bundy stays inside and he is always walked on a lead, he only goes into the garden if I go into the garden and the last time I saw a slug was about 10 years ago so he has very little chance of ever coming across something I don’t know about.

    After a few weeks, I contacted the company’s vet again for the results of the test. I understand the tests didn’t show up anything abnormal. I wasn’t surprised at the company’s response because no company is ever going to test their own product and say something is wrong with it. He suggested that it was just one of those unexplained things, which I would have believed for the first episode but it is too coincidental for the second.

    I got a bit annoyed with this guy because the way he dismissed my reasoning seemed arrogant.

    He said that because they hadn’t had any other complaints, there was obviously nothing wrong with the batch and he also said that was the end of the matter and there was nothing else they would do.

    Not being content with this dismissal or his arrogant and patronising attitude, I contacted a more senior person at the company and spoke to a technical director and arranged for another sample to be tested (I only had a handful left). He said it would be sent to Singapore, would take about 6 weeks and would cost a bit of money.

    While I was waiting for these tests to be performed, I decided to conduct my own research into probable causes (something I should have done earlier) and discovered a few scientific papers freely available on the internet about Mycotoxins affecting dogs.

    Roughly speaking, Mycotoxins are a group of toxins that form as a result of mould on numerous organic sources and can be deadly and cause a number of different conditions to both humans and animals. They can be found in both cereals and dry dog food, a fact which was omitted from the letter I was sent.

    Either the veterinary guy dealing with my complaint has limited knowledge of these potential killers (for someone in his position, this seems very remiss) or he was fully aware of the potential problems but decided to keep quiet so as not to open a can of worms.

    I did provide an email link to all of the papers (listed below) but it would appear that neither of the people I have been in contact with has read them, as they have subsequently provided no comment.

    A number of the cases reported in the papers show clinical symptoms which are nearly identical to Bundy’s condition and, when biological samples from the dogs were analysed, Roquefortine and Penitrem A were detected and suspected as the probable cause.

    A few weeks later, I received in the post the results of the sample testing (it had been sent to a lab in Victoria, not Singapore). Only four tests were performed: two types of mycotoxin, namely Aflatoxin B1 and Patulin, and also lead and permethrin.

    I consider this test to be irrelevant and inconclusive due to the fact the very small sample size was statistically insignificant and they failed to test for any of the mycotoxins that are linked to tremors in dogs.(apparently there are over 30 known)

    The dog food company’s sole defence was based around the fact that they apparently hadn’t received complaints of a similar nature and that their quality control is of a very high standard, and perhaps it was the other brand of dog food that caused it?

    Addressing this statement, my research has indicated that detection and confirmation of mycotoxin poisoning has been grossly under diagnosed and, as far as I am aware, the specialist centre that treated Bundy did not test for this possibility. (I’m not even sure there is a commercial laboratory in Australia that tests for most of the different types).

    In my case, it was only after the second episode that I realised that this brand of dog food was the only common factor that was likely to be responsible and it is possible that many dogs that have a single episode of unexplained acute toxicoses unfortunately die or have to be euthanized due to excessive trauma, poor prognosis and/or lack of financial resources so a confirmed diagnosis and connection to the dog food is not made and hence it is not reported back to the company.

    While I’m confident that their quality control is of a high standard, it is unlikely that it is one hundred percent reliable and variations in the materials and process can be expected in any product.

    After doing further research I discovered a Uni in the USA (Iowa State) that specialises in veterinary medicine and also test for the two mycotoxins I’m interested in, namely Roquefortine and Penitrem A.

    I spoke to a Professor of toxicology from the department and he believed that mycotoxins are not well understood and not commercially tested for because of lack of demand. I provided him with bundy’s Vet case notes and his story and he confirmed that it did indeed fit with mycotoxin poisoning.

    I sent a 1kg sample of Bundy’s original food to be tested at my own expense, the test came back negative so I can be fairly confident that it wasn’t the other brand to blame which I believed was the case anyway because of the timing. THIS IS WHAT THE COMPANY SHOULD HAVE TESTED FOR!

    This whole incident has caused me a great deal of stress, and some days I couldn’t eat or sleep properly.

    I feel that the company didn’t take my claims seriously and underestimated two important factors:

    1. When I think I am right, I don’t give in.
    2. I won’t let anyone hurt my dog and get away with it.

    I spent most of my college fund on Bundy’s vet bills and, as he means everything in the world to me, I will do whatever it takes to protect and look after him.

    I am convinced that this brand is responsible and I want them to reimburse my vet bills and make it up to Bundy somehow but I realise that posting this statement and contacting the media in other ways will effectively put an end to any chances of financial restitution. However, I will take some comfort in the hope that this might provide an explanation and quicker diagnosis to future apparent toxic poisonings.

    I also feel I have been very fair and patient with the company in question and gave them every opportunity to do the right thing but, at every stage, they have seemed intent on absolving themselves from any responsibility. I can only conclude that from the irrelevant sample tests that either the company is grossly incompetent or they deliberately tried to mislead me.

    If my dog had died as a result of this, I would probably be standing outside the company’s headquarters with a placard saying that their food was responsible for poisoning my dog.

    My advice would be that, if your dog exhibits any acute tremors or seizure symptoms, like Bundy had, then get the vet to check for Mycotoxins (though this might be difficult in some countries) and to keep the dog food bags for future evidence if need be.

    As Bundy is a Samoyed and they are not common here, perhaps he could be more genetically pre-disposed to toxins that other breeds?

    If anyone has had a similar experience or can offer a different explanation, I would welcome a response.

    UPDATE: 12th Feb. 2010

    I decided to contact consumer affairs and they passed me onto the Pet Food Industry Association of Australia (P.F.I.A .A) and spoke to the executive manager. I provided him with Bundy’s history and my concerns and he contacted the company and said he was satisfied with their response.

    It was only after I explored their website that I read their Statement of Purpose

    #1 “To promote the prepared pet food industry in general and the interests of the members of the association.”

    So this guy had a conflict of interest to do anything about it as I understand the association is funded by its members.

    A few days later I contacted the company again and put a few questions to the guy I spoke to many times before (manager, veterinary services).

    I asked him, how many people have to complain about a product before they admit responsibility.

    Unsurprisingly he failed to specifically answer. He just reiterated what he said many times before, that no one else has complained of this problem so it is not their responsibility. Imagine if you went to the doctor with an ailment and they said, “Well no one else has complained of this so nothing I can do.”

    I also asked why he failed to test for Tremorgenic Mycotoxins in the samples I provided. His response was that they only had a small sample and they wanted to test for as wide range as possible? (a wide range of the toxins that don’t cause tremors?)

    When I pointed out that I had spoken to and expert and had the other brand properly tested for tremorgenic mycotoxins he didn’t want to know and said it was irrelevant and rudely concluded our conversation.

    Thanks to other forum members I can see that in other countries they have had serious problems with contamination of their dog food products with salmonella and melamine. Anyone would have to be crazy to feed their dog this companies products.

    To me it is obvious that the dog food is responsible and the company has done nothing to prove otherwise.

    Craig W. 2009.

    References;

    Bennett, J.W, & Klich, M. (2003) Mycotoxins. Viewed 19th Dec 2009 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC164220/

    Bough, M, (2006) Toxicology Brief: “Tremorgenic Mycotoxicosis in Dogs”. Viewed 19th Dec 2009 http://www.compendiumvet.com/ME2/Audiences/dirmod.asp?sid=F0E2AE6B0B7E437588DFCF8A9FCA8CAC&nm=CE+Programs&type=Publishing&mod=Publications%3A%3AArticle&mid=8F3A7027421841978F18BE895F87F791&tier=4&id=60963CBCF74D4156BBFCA2595B06714C&AudID=43A035C1ADDF4F5F823E087E3BEE4975

    Eriksen et al, (2009) Poisoning of dogs with tremorgenic Penicillium toxins. Viewed 19th Dec 2009 http://informahealthcare.com/doi/abs/10.3109/13693780903225821

    Hocking, A.D, Holds, K, Tobin, N.F, (1988) Intoxication by tremorgenic mycotoxin (penitrem A) in a dog. Viewed 19th December 2009 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3401148?itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum&ordinalpos=10

    Lowes, N.R, Smith, R.A, Beck, B.E (1992) Roquefortine in the stomach contents of dogs suspected of strychnine poisoning in Alberta. Viewed 19th December 2009 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1481371/pdf/canvetj00057-0057.pdf

    Schell, M.M, (2000), Tremorgenic mycotoxin intoxication. Viewed 19th Dec 2009 http://www2.aspca.org/site/DocServer/toxbrief_0400.pdf?docID=113

    Virginia Maryland Veterinary Notes (2005), Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Viewed 19th Dec 2009 http://www.vetmed.vt.edu/engagement/ext/pub/VetNotes_115.pdf

    Walter,S.L, (2002), Acute penitrem A and roquefortine poisoning in a dog. Viewed 19th Dec 2009 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC339273/?referer=www.clickfind.com.au

  • Dog Owners Warned About Acorn Dangers

    Dog Owners Warned About Acorn Dangers

    Heath Veterinary Clinic in Burgess Hill and Hurstpierpoint is warning dog owners of the dangers of acorns. The veterinary clinic has recently had a case of a dog becoming very ill from eating these seemingly innocuous nuts.

    Max, a 4 year old Yellow Labrador, had been happily playing in the woods with acorns and leaves but his owners didn’t realise he had been swallowing the acorns. Late Friday night, they noticed Max becoming lethargic, acting out of character, unable to settle and drooling excessively, so they contacted Heath Vets who advised them to bring Max into the clinic straight away.

    The poorly pooch was examined by Vet, Nicky Chinneck, who was concerned that Max had ingested, or come into contact with, something toxic. She quickly gave him an emetic injection which induces vomiting. Within minutes, Max vomited up a large quantity of acorns.

    It is common for dogs to be exposed to acorns during the autumn and winter months. Acorns contain tannic acid, which is believed to be the toxic component, and can cause damage to the liver and kidneys. Signs of toxic illness can include vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, a lack of appetite and lethargy. Ingested acorns can also cause an intestinal blockage.

    Max felt very sorry for himself but started to improve quickly. The clinic staff fed him charcoal enhanced food to absorb any remaining remnants of the acorns in his stomach and intestines. Being a Labrador meant he was happy to be eating again, despite everything! Max’s initial blood tests show that his liver and kidneys have not been affected by the toxin but he will have further tests done after a week to check there is no lasting damage.

    Sarah Solomon, Practice Manager at Heath Vets, said:

    “Max’s owners acted quickly so Max should make a full recovery. Whilst it can be difficult to watch your dog’s every move when out walking them, it’s important to try and ensure they don’t eat or play with acorns due to the toxic ingredient. If Max hadn’t been treated so quickly, the outcome may have been very different. Be aware of the symptoms of toxicity and if you are concerned in any way about your pet, contact your vets immediately.”