Dog Fun on Pinterest!

I have to admit I have a little bit of a pinterest addiction.  I am a crafter, and a wanna-be better home and gardens kinda girl.  Unfortunately between working, and raising two young girls we look a little bit more like tornado hit the house kinda girl.

All the same pinterest gives you a nice little escape and way to organize all these super cute projects that you can do for you family and for your pets.  Below are just a few of my favorite pins for dog crates!  Enjoy and I would love to hear what projects you've done or dreamed about doing for your pets.



Using a old t.v. console to make a cute little dog bed.  From: http://whenthedinnerbellrings.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2012-06-24T10:25:00-05:00&max-results=1&start=10&by-date=false

Cute combination of dog crate and night stand. This blog link has a whole bunch of super cute creative.  From:  http://wooftalkkw.wordpress.com/2012/07/06/cool-creative-way-to-design-dog-beds/

I loved this in and outdoor mudroom kennel system.  No link for this one (that happens sometimes on the boards), but still a very nice idea.

Cute crate combined with a kitchen eating area.  Found at:  http://www.countryhome.com/decorating/realliferedo/remodelingstory_6.html.

Canine Mast Cell Tumors.

This is follow up from my first case which is found at :
http://drbsvetbuzz.blogspot.com/2012/02/what-is-your-diagnosis-case-1-lumpy-lab.html

This is a case that is dear to my heart as it is my own dog, Tahoe.  Tahoe is a 11 year old lab mix that I have had since I was a senior in veterinary school.  She is often in the clinic with me, or in my Subaru Outback waiting to go for a run.  She is the best dog I have ever had (and I have had a lot), a real one of kind dog.  She has one major flaw though, she gets lots and lots of tumors. Tahoe's growths are typically what is called a mast cell tumor (MCT).

I have a saying that you might hear me use in the exam room, "A lump is just a lump until I stick a needle in it.".  Not sure when and why I started saying this, but it is true all the same.  Your pets growth or lump you've felt while petting is just a growth until a fine-needle aspirate is taken.  A fine needle aspirate, is a simple procedure that typically can take place in the exam room.  A small gauge needle will be inserted into the mass, and a small amount of cells will be retrieved. The cells will then be stained or sent to a special lab and may eventually look something like the cells in the image above.

Mast cells are cell of the immune system and can be found throughout the body and skin.  As seen in the image above they are cell that has tiny granules containing different chemicals that cause inflammation.  Probably the most important mast cell chemical affecting the skin is histamine.  Mast cell tumors are the most common skin tumor in dogs, accounting for roughly 20% of all reported skin tumors.  These tumors are often single firm growths that may be coming form the skin (cutaneous) or under the skin (subcutanous).  They may or may not be haired, ulcerated, reddened or painful.  They may feel like a lipoma (a simple benign fatty tumor) if located below the skin.  Like I stated before, these are like any other lump until I stick a needle in it and they are just a lump.

Both professionally (on patients) and personally (on my own pets) I have seen that MCT can behave a little differently.  They will be a firm mass one day and then almost gone the next day.  Then a few days later they are back and firm.  This is because they are such a reactive type growth and the release of histamine and heparin can make the growth change several times.

Once I stain my aspirate and look at it under the microscope, the diagnosis is made.  Sometimes I will send these a pathologist (a veterinarian that specializes in diagnosis of diseases or pathology), for another opinion or further classification of the diagnosis.  MCT's are very unpredictable in their behavior, meaning that they can be a tumor that has a very slow growth rate or they can be a tumor that is extremely aggressive.  Sending it to a pathologist can often tell me what grade the tumor is, and allow me to form a better treatment plan.

MCT's can have metastatic sites, areas where cancerous cells have spread to but it is not very common.  In the next follow up blog post, I will talk about the treatment for mast cell tumors and also other factors that would influence how a patient would do if they had a MCT.

The take away points are:

• A growth is just a growth until you stick a needle in it!  Any growth that you find should be pointed out to your veterinarian and if possible a fine needle aspirate taken.  All types of tumors are easier to remove when smaller, and a cure can be achieved.  And yes I know some dogs have ALOT of lumps and bumps, and luckily most of these will be benign but, I have removed 7 MCT from my own dog so you never know.
• Mast Cell Tumors (MCT) are the most common skin tumor in the dog.
• Mast Cell Tumors (MCT) are composed of mast cells which are cell of the immune system and they are a granular cell that contains histamine and heparin.

Running with Rover.

I have been an avid runner most of my life.  Running has provided me a great outlet for tension relief and served as a fabulous way to keep my pets healthy.  Over my years of running, I have had a dozen or more running partners but it is undeniable that my dogs are the absolute best training partners.  As summer arrives many people take up exercise programs with a vengeance.  Before you decide to take Fido in tow consider the following points:

·         Before including your dog in any fitness activity, they should be examined by a veterinarian.  The exam should include a thorough check of the animal’s heart and lungs, joints and ligaments.  Beware of genetic defects, such as hip or elbow dysplasia.

·         Consider your dog’s age and breed before including them in your fitness program.  All dogs are not created equal.  The ideal running dog is medium-built, weights 40 to 70 lbs and has a short light hair.  Avoid large dogs like Great Danes and small dogs like Chihuahuas, since their body proportions do not favor distance running.  Avoid also the engineered breeds.  The breathing system of Bulldogs is ill-developed and does not permit intense aerobic activity.

·         Puppies should not run long distances.  Wait until the dog is 2 years old to begin intense distance training.  Between 6 months and 1 year old can take their dog on a mile or so every other day.  As their endurance increases training can be increased 10 percent each week.  Give the dog a day off for every day of running and always stopping if the your dogs appears painful or does not want to continue.

Once you and your vet have agreed on a suitable diet and fitness program for your dog, keep the following points in mind while you exercise.

·         Start slowly, increasing the length and intensity of the workout over a few weeks.  Include your dog in your warm-up and cool down routine.

·         Keep the dog on a leash when running on public roads and trails.  It is safer for everyone and it is the law in many areas.  A 6-foot leash held in your hand, never tie the leash to your arm, or a bicycle.

·         Keep the dog visible to traffic.  At night, use a reflective dog harness, a reflective tape the length of the leash and/or flashing lights around the collar.

·         Train your dog to obey you and ignore distractions. A simple jerk on the leash should bring the dog back to your left side.

·         Respect the heat.  Dogs do not sweat.  They dissipate heat through their paws and mouths.  Long haired like chows and collies have more difficulty in the heat.  Plan your running route to allow drinking stops and let the dog run through puddles.

·         Watch the paws carefully.  Dogs do not have the luxury of carbon rubber outsoles.  Check the paws before and after every run for any cuts or abrasions.

·         Run on a soft surface.  The best running surface for dogs are grass fields and dirt trails.  Concrete and hot asphalt impair a dog’s ability to dissipate heat through their paws.  At the other extreme, frozen roads, ice and salt are harmful to the paws.

·         Be certain your dog is wearing a current traceable identification just in case you become separated.

By following these suggestions you will enjoy a long partnership with your canine training partner.  And as you head out the door with your new partner you can be comforted by the fact that your new partner will be comforted by the fact that they are always ready to run, and won’t even mind if you choose the route.  Furthermore, they will never criticize your running form, speed or attire.  Enjoy the run!

If you have more questions or concerns don’t hesitate to Call Dr. Scheenstra at Fidalgo Animal Medical Center at 360-283-2186

Its Good to Be Back!

I have to apologize.  I knew when I started the blog, that it was a dangerous time to start a new project.  I was 36 weeks pregnant and knew that my time would be limited really soon.  I wanted to start it all the same, and so I did.  Now some 10 weeks later and a new baby sitting next to me, I am slowly but surely getting back to all those to-do's.

Last week was my first week back to work and it seems fitting then that I get my blog back up and running too.  I couldn't have a veterinary blog and not mention my children though, as they shape me as veterinarian and visa versa.  For me life isn't divided into nice little seperate pieces one aspect of my life always seems to influences the other pieces or in a more messy way they spill and splatter carelessly back and forth.

When I was a little girl, and even a teenager I never really thought about children.  I didn't babysit.  I was the youngest in the family so there was no younger sibling to take care of.  Friends of mine would be drawn to children at social functions, I was drawn to animals.  I rarely if ever thought about having children but often thought of my career as a veterinarian.  Any maternal feelings were I had were typically placed onto the care of pets and stray animals.

I focused from high-school and then eight years of school on becoming a veterinarian.  I had a social life I enjoyed, and later a husband.  I still didn't think much about children.  I don't know if I just had enough on my plate at the time, or the idea hadn't come to the surface.  I simply kept on working (which was plenty) and moving forward.  Why the need to have children came to us, I don't know.  I blame it on age and biology.  Luckily though it did because I most say they are my greatest accomplisment to date.  It also brings my husband and I our greatest joy.

That being said, one of the gifts my daughters have given me is that they have helped me realize how truely blessed I am to be a veterinarian.  Thats not to say that I don't love being a mother and love being at home with them every chance that I get.  But it because both my pregnancies had major complications, I was forced to take 5 months off with each one.  The longest periods of time that I have ever had not working in my adult life.

 During my time away I do my best to keep busy (as busy as you can be in a NICU or on bedrest).  And I sobbed for days before I have to go back to work and leave my daughters at home while I go back to work.  All the same, both times after being gone, it all comes back to me the moment I enter an exam room.

I have been blessed to find a profession that I truely love.  The joy of talking to clients, the patient with a happy tail or a quick tongue, it all comes back in a flash.  I can lose myself in my work and quickly become engrossed in complicated cases, and the simple routine of a veterinary practice.  I am eager to see the day move on and keep people and the pets happy and healthy.  This is the profession I wanted and dreamed it to be, and I know that there are many people out there that have never been as lucky as I to find their true passion.

The days and nights of a working mom are long, exhausting, and more than a little emotional.  Overall though, doing the best I can both at home and at work makes me a better person and stronger veterinarian. 

Is there anything more precious?

I try to say we have enough pets, and then I see one of these adorable little kitten in the clinic and I am a pile of love and desire. Nothing will make my resolve fall apart more than a sleeping kitten or puppy.

Unfortunately, there are just too many adorable bundles and their equally cute adults that they become. According to the Humane Society of America, four million cats and dogs are euthanized in shelters per year. That is one every 8 seconds!

Spaying and Neuter your pets, and encouraging everyone else to as well is critical!

What is your diagnosis? Case #1 The Lumpy Lab-Mix.

Disclaimer: The information contained here is intended solely for the general information of the reader. It is not intended to diagnose health problems or to take the place of professional medical care. The information contained herein is neither intended to dictate what constitutes reasonable, appropriate or best care for any given health issue, nor is it intended to be used as a substitute for the independent judgment of a veterinarian for any given health issue.

You will see this disclaimer at the bottom of all my post. Obviously I always want you to consult with you veterinarian about any and all of your pets needs. This blog should be fun and entertaining but not replace your professional. The opinions stated in this blog, though supported by medical data, journal articles and my professional experience are only one opinion on a wide variety of topics. I feel that medicine is truly an art and there is not a single answer or cure in any situation. Just as each pet is unique and different, so to is their medical journey.

I hope to have a series of what is your diagnosis blogs. They will be multiple entries or part series. I welcome your comments and questions and will try to respond accordingly. The names and pictures used will have had owner approval or been changed, any coincidence in relation to your own pet is only a coincidence. They may represent several cases combined for better reading. I think we can all learn best from a case base approach!

Case #1-- The Lumpy Lab Mix

The appointment is for checking a lump. Patient is a ten year old lab mix, named Terra. Terra is current on her vaccines, dewormer and flea preventative. Bloodwork was done in the last six months, and was normal. She takes no medications besides her monthly flea and internal parasite control. Per owner she has been happy and healthy lately. Maybe a little slower, but it is winter and she is showing her age a bit more. No change in eating and drinking.

She is a perfect body condition at 33 lbs, and no change from her last visit. Her color is pink, and moist. She has minor dental disease and staining to her back teeth. Her heart and chest sound normal with the stethoscope. Her lymph-nodes all feel normal. Her abdomen palpates normal. Besides the lump or growth on her thigh you don't feel anything else on her, but do notice several scars. She is nervous but, friendly and wants to hide between her owners legs.

She has a soft lump or mass on her left thigh. It is irregular shape but about 1-3 cm. The owner noticed it about two weeks ago when petting her. It is not painful, and can be moved under the skin (we often call this a subcutaneous mass, meaning under the skin (dermis) in the layer before muscle. Terra does have a history of several growths, some which have been removed and some that were determined to be benign. The owner loves her dearly, and wants to make sure this one isn't cancer though it just feels like fat.

What should you do first?

Are there any questions that should be asked of the owner?

What would be the next testing that might help in this case?

Dr. B: The Who, the What and the Why that writes this blog.

THE WHO:

I am what people in the industry call a "lifer". I knew what I wanted to be from the time I could think, maybe from the womb. Basically I knew all my life I was going to be a veterinarian. Some people might say it is a calling (a strong urge to follow a career often accompanied by a divine devotion). I only know that from a very small child I wanted to be with animals as much as possible. I had the typical childhood thoughts of being random things but, they never lasted more than a month.

Wanting to be a veterinarian and becoming a veterinarian are to very different things. Starting at 15 years of age, I became a kennel girl (after school helper in a veterinary clinic) I continued doing that and being a veterinary assistant until I went to college (Washington State University) where I then worked on my bachelors degree in Wildlife Biology. I worked in a variety of jobs for the university and at the College of Veterinary Medicine during my undergraduate degree to gain the important experience and references (oh, yeah and those good grades too). Finally in 2000, I went Washington State University Veterinary College to eventually graduated with my doctorate of veterinary medicine. Ready to conquer the world! Or so I thought.

I was lucky and got a great job out of veterinary school, at a mixed animal practice in the Skagit Valley. Here under the great mentor-ship of four other more experienced veterinaries my real education began. Working both in the clinic and on the farm doing both day practice and 24 hour emergency for 3 1/2 years taught me a wide variety of medicine, surgery and life experiences.

They say that your first job as a veterinarian will help define you as a veterinarian and I do feel that this is true. Many graduates are now going to clinics that do not have emergencies, or they are specializing from the start. I feel that it was this well rounded 'James Herriot' type learning experience that made me love being a veterinarian. As well as made me a better veterinarian. I also learned to appreciate a good nights sleep.

The Why:

Eventually other aspects of my life started to require more attention. Knowing that my husband and I wanted to start a family. I made a career decision to move to small animal only clinic, where my hours were more standard and I would not be seeing off hour emergencies anymore. With this change, and two years later. We welcomed our first daughter into the world. Two and a half more years we are anxiously waiting the birth of another daughter.

I wish that I could say it was that easy, but it wasn't. Our first daughter was born unexpectedly at 25 weeks gestation (typical pregnancy is 37-40 weeks). She was 1 lb and 14 oz at birth. To make matters worse, we were traveling at the time and both daughter and I were trapped across the state during a 3 month hospital stay. Her development and growth has been a long journey which I have documented in my first blog (Tails from the Edge). And with my second pregnancy, I have been on bed rest since 23 weeks and have had what we term 'high-risk' pregnancy with many complications.

The past four years have been one of those little curves in life that leave you not knowing exactly where you stand. My conquer the world attitude has been replaced with a bit more of a resilient mature, lets handle it one day at a time the best we can attitude. But, as the saying goes when one door closes, typically a window opens.

My window has been blogging. I used my blog originally to keep family updated while our daughter was in intensive care for 90 plus days. It was a great way to post pictures, and get information out to a lot of people in a quick way. Then after I got home, I kept up the blog again thinking that I was just updating others on my daughter. As time went on though I realized a few things, I really enjoyed to write and I was helping others.

From my blogging I have made some wonderful friends and helped other parents and families deal with extreme premature birth. In my second pregnancy I have given others hope to those who are on bed-rest, or dealing with other medical problems.

The What:

Now it has lead us to this point. And the idea seemed only natural that I combine two passions into one. Blogging and veterinary medicine and create a veterinary medicine blog. A place that I could go a write about a profession that I love. Provide owners, friends and even strangers with some education on the animals that have inspired me.

I look forward to trying to make complicated medicine in terms we can all understand. I hope to work together to improve animals and their owners lives with better health and preventative medicine. Of course I want us to also be entertained along the way.