Pet Care: Torn Knee Ligaments In Obese Dogs

Air Date:
Heard On The Larry Meiller Show
Dog close up
Robert Dann (CC-BY-NC-ND)

Like humans, ruptured knee ligaments in dogs can cause lots of problems. Recent research suggests that obese dogs appear to be more likely to develop these injuries. Learn if your dog is at risk and have your other pet questions answered by our guest veterinarian.

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  • Water, Shade Important In Preventing Heatstroke In Dogs, Vet Says

    People aren’t the only ones who face health effects from the sweltering temperatures of summer. Dogs are just as susceptible to heatstroke as humans, according to a Wisconsin veterinarian.

    Vet Sandi Sawchuk said pet owners should be aware that dogs can get dehydrated and overheated very quickly.

    “We see heatstroke in dogs and it can be devastating,” Sawchuk said.

    To help prevent pets from becoming overheated, it’s important they drink plenty of water, have shade and are not over-exercised.

    Sawchuk said pet lovers should watch for the following signs of heatstroke:

    • Bright red gums
    • Excessive panting
    • Dilated pupils
    • Confusion
    • Diarrhea

    It’s an emergency situation when dogs exhibit symptoms and should be seen immediately by a vet, Sawchuk said.

    There are also steps that can help dogs before they get to a vet.

    Sawchuk suggested wrapping the pet in a wet towel or putting the paws in cold water.

    “You can increase survival rates if you start external cooling at home,” she said.

    “Do not over-cool your dog, you only want that temperature to drop to 103.5 Fahrenheit,” she warned. “It’s still in the fever range but it is going to continue to drop, especially if the dog is wet. Then we’re dealing with the opposite thing: hypothermia.”

    Sawchuk said she likes to give her dogs treats from the freezer when it’s hot outside. Here is her recipe for pupsicles.

    Sandi’s Pupsicles

    • 1 carton fat-free yogurt (preferably Greek style)
    • 2 bananas
    • 1/2 cup peanut butter

    Blend all ingredients together and pour into paper cups, add dog snack as handle and freeze.

    Sawchuk said dog owners can modify ingredients; just be sure to avoid things like raisins, grapes and chocolate – all things harmful to dogs.

Episode Credits

  • Larry Meiller Host
  • Jill Nadeau Producer
  • Dr Sandra Sawchuk Guest

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