Breeder Mentoring and Canine Midwifery Programme
The following was sent to our Breed Health Co-ordinator by the Royal Kennel Club and may be of interest to anyone considering mentoring and breeding for the first time. …
Articles about the general health and well being of your Spinone.
Skin Allergy Story
FRAZER’S DIARY
It all started back in May of 1999, Frazer would chew and lick at his feet until they were red raw, the soreness seemed worse right at the base of his pads and occasionally around the nail beds. The feet would be so sore that he could hardly walk on them and he would be lame for days to follow whilst the soreness was healing. Also periodically sores would appear in his inner thigh, groin area and underneath his front legs.
After taking the vets advise trying numerous creams, anti-biotics and various other treatments for dermatitis and fugal infections for the next three months, it was then suggested that maybe it could be a thyroid problem.
So in August of 1999 tests were carried out for thyroid, results showed that Frazer was Hypothyroid, so he was prescribed Soloxine.
Deadly Raisins
Vet’s Corner – Beware the deadly raisin!
Information has come to light recently regarding the toxic effects of raisins, sultanas and grapes on dogs. The Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), the agency who provides information and advice to Veterinary Surgeons in cases of toxicity, has provided the following information. The agency first became aware of this problem a few years ago after a spate of cases in close succession. A check through their database revealed many serious cases in the past.
Adder Bites
I feel I must write to warn people, it can happen to you or should I say your dogs. I was walking as I do most days in our local forestry (not worked) near the Denbeigh moors, with my dogs – 4 hounds, 1 Bouvier, 1 Spinone, my friend and her Airedale,when I noticed the Spinone looked a bit odd! It was a very warm day and fortunately we were nearing the end of our walk.
I stopped to examine Mia and realised there was something wrong. Her eyes were closing and she was having difficulty breathing. Panic!
Exercise
The Italian Spinone is a large breed and has a pre-disposition to Hip Dysplasia. By checking both parents hip scores you will have a fairly good idea whether your puppy may be high risk or not, that is not to say that just because the parents have low hip scores your puppy will not develop the disease.
Parasites
Dogs are prone to internal and external parasites. Routine treatment is recommended for fleas and worms. It is best to discuss treatment with your vet as there is such a wide selection of preparations on the market it would be impossible to recommend one.
Mouth and Teeth
The mouth should be kept clean at all times otherwise a purulent smell can occur, this may be due to rotten food trapped between teeth and in the folds of the mouth. This can then lead to decaying teeth and fungal infections in the hair just under the lip. To prevent the above, give large marrow bones or clean the teeth with a veterinary dog tooth paste.
Following a meal wash the beard to ensure all food particles have been removed.
Feet
Spinone have webbed feet so between the pads should always be kept free from dirt, stones, grass seeds etc. This can be done by gently separating the pads while placing each foot into warm water, gently dry in between the webs.
Anal Glands
The Anal Gland normally empties its self. The function of the gland is to act as a scent marker.