Why is Dr. Ekenstedt only at Carver Lake in the evenings?  What does she do during the day?

If you have been to our clinic lately and have had  chance to meet me (Dr. Kari Ekenstedt), then it's possible you've asked yourself the same questions.  I would like to answer them!

When I finished veterinary school and got my license in 2005, rather than go into full-time practice, I opted to continue my education by pursuing a PhD in the area of canine molecular genetics and genomics.  Therefore I am still in school and working on a couple of research projects.  One is inherited epilepsy in dogs - I'll write more about that next month.

My other project is the genetic basis for mammary (breast) cancers in certain high risk breeds of dogs, and that is what I'd like to tell you about this month.

Mammary cancer rates in dogs are actually very low in this country compared to Western Europe and Scandinavia because we practice early spaying of our female dogs in the USA.  If you do not plan to breed your dog, it is an excellent idea to spay her before her first heat-cycle to avoid certain types of cancers.  Since mammary cancer has a hormonal component, early spaying also decreases the risk for this type of cancer.

Looking at data on dogs who develop mammary cancer in countries that do not practice early spaying, such as Sweden, shows us which breeds are at higher risk for developing mammary cancer.  Research shows us that the breeds with the highest risks are Cocker Spaniels, English Springer Spaniels, and German Shepherds.

Studies show that up to 30% of all female English Springer Spaniels in Sweden develop some form of mammary cancer.  When we see disease incidence rates like this, which are much higher than other breeds, we begin to suspect that there is an inherited problem.

We know from studies in humans that there are definitely some mammary (breast) cancers that up to 10% of all human mammary cancers are inherited and can be traced through families.

Several mutations have been found in the genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2 (which stand for BReast CAncer susceptibility genes #1 and #2.)  I am looking at these two genes in dogs from these three breeds.  The work involves sequencing and genotyping, studies, which are forms of genetic studies.

An interesting subset of cases (both in human and veterinary medicine), though very rare, are men/male dogs who develop mammary cancer.  In men, mammary cancer is most often associated with mutations in the BRCA2 gene. 

Interestingly, male Cocker Spaniels appear to have 4.5 times the risk of developing mammary cancer than male dogs in general.  Our hypothesis is that male Cocker Spaniels may have mutations in the BRCA2 gene, similar to what is seen in men.  It may be that  either BRCA1 and BRCA2, or both,  may be involved in these three breeds in predisposing them to the development of mammary cancer.

In order to conduct these genetic studies, we need two types of dogs: Purebred unaffected dogs (controls) and purebred affected dogs.  You and your dog can help!  All we need is a blood sample from unaffected dogs, since we can get DNA from the white blood cells that circulate in the blood. 

From dogs with mammary cancer we collect a blood sample and a sample from  the tumor tissue (which would have been submitted to a lab for a histological diagnosis when your dog had surgery to remove the tumor.)  We also request a copy of your dog's pedigree.

If we determine that there is an underlying genetic mutation that predisposes these dogs to developing mammary cancers then perhaps we will also be able to develop a genetic test to help better inform breeders.  Then breeders could make informed decisions regarding which dogs to mate, selecting healthier dogs.  Ultimately it is my goal to benefit canine health through this kind of research.

So, that is what I do  all day while I am away from Carver Lake.  While I'm  not directly caring for individual pets, I am working to benefit companion animal  health on a broader scale. And, I love what I do!

If you have any questions about my research or are interested in enrolling your purebred Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, or German Shepherd in this study, please contact Dr. Ekenstedt at Carver Lake Veterinary Center or directly at her research lab at the University of Minnesota, (612) 624-5322.

Leptospirosis - What You Need to Know                         

You may have heard about the growing threat of Leptospirosis (Lepto).  Lepto is a contagious and potentially fatal bacterial disease that affects wild and domestic animals as well as humans.  It is believed to be the most extensive global zoonotic (transmissible from animals to humans) disease.  Approximately 200 cases are documented annually in the U.S.  Transmission occurs in two ways: through direct contact with contaminated body fluids or through indirect means such as exposure to contaminated food, water, or soil.

Infection occurs when Leptospires, the bacteria that causes Lepto, enter the body through mucous membranes (i.e. mouth, nose, eyes) or skin - particularly skin that is broken.  Although Lepto is most common in areas populated by livestock or wildlife, it has been seen in all types of environments.  Leptospires can survive up to 180 days in most soil and even longer in water - especially stagnant water.

Leptospires enter the bloodstream and remain there for 4-7 days.  The extent of damage and the systems affected depend on many factors, including whether the disease is acute (rapid onset followed by short, severe course) or chronic (infectious over a long period of time usually with a slow, yet progressive course.) 

Most frequently, the liver and kidneys are affected.  Damage may progress to liver and or kidney failure, and death.  Other systems that may be affected include respiratory, cardiovascular, nervous, reproductive, and ophthalmic.  When fatal, death usually results from inflammation of the kidneys, vascular damage, kidney failure, and liver failure.  In acute forms of the disease death can occur within 5-10 days of infection and without clinical signs.  

Often a dog infected with lepto will show no physical symptoms.  If they do show signs, they may include fever, depression, lethargy, loss of appetite, excessive drinking and urinating, dehydration, vomiting (blood may be present), diarrhea, bloody or tarry feces, joint or muscle pain, stiff gait, difficulty breathing, discharge from eyes or nose, bloody vaginal discharge, bloody nose, and excessive bleeding.

Dogs are the most commonly affected companion animal.   Cats are also considered to be susceptible, but the incidence is rare and as such, cats are not vaccinated.  There is no age, gender, or breed predilection. 

New vaccinations against lepto are now available.  They only protect against certain types of infections and so do not offer complete protection.  Further, it is important to note that while vaccines may prevent clinical disease, they do not prevent dogs from becoming carriers of the disease.

Carver Lake now has the Lepto vaccine for our canine companions.  Not all dogs should be vaccinated and it is important to discuss your dog's risk factors with your veterinarian before vaccinating.

There are many ways to help prevent lepto.  Good sanitations, especially in areas with large concentrations of dogs, wildlife, farm animals, or rodents is especially important.  Rodent control and restricting exposure to potentially contaminate water sources and body fluids of unknown animals are also important.

Should there be concerns that an animal may have been exposed to lepto, there are several diagnostic tests - most commonly using blood - that can be used to determine infection.  The presence of leptospires in the blood and kidneys can be eliminated with antibiotic therapy.  In acute and advanced cases, supportive therapy is critical.    Other treatments may be required depending on the location and extend of damage withing the individual.

Infected dogs should be quarantined so they cannot infect others.  Areas that are potentially contaminated should be cleaned and disinfected with iodine-based solutions.  Caution should be used up to 3 months following treatment, as dogs may shed the leptospires in their urine, etc., during that time and pose a risk with respect to infecting other animals and people.

Leptospirosis can be a very dangerous disease, but with the proper information and precautions you can decrease the chances that your pets and family will be exposed.  Please feel free to call our clinic to discuss your pets' risk factors and to determine whether your pet would benefit from the Lepto vaccine.

More information on Lepto can be found at...

Center for Disease Control and Prevention - Leptospirosis and Your Pet

The Merck Veterinary Manual - Leptospirosis in Dogs

Center for Disease Control and Prevention - Leptospirosis: Frequently Asked Questions



   

Making sure your pet is eating the right food is necessary for maintaining good health.  It is important to make sure that your pets food has the essential ingredients for a well balanced diet as a juvenile, adult, or senior companion. 

Some of these ingredients include, protein, fiber, carbohydrates, and fatty-acids.  The proper nutrition for your pet will help build muscle, strong bones, maintain a healthy coat and skin, and digestive tract. 

Check the contents of the bag to ensure they are receiving the proper ingredients at the right stage of life.  Because they have done extensive testing of their diets, including feeding trials,  we recommend Science Diet, Purina, Iams, and Eukanuba as over the counter food choices.

Puppy and kitten diets tend to have a higher calorie count due to more amounts of protein and fat.  Their diets are formulated with greater nutrient sources to promote strong muscles, bones, and teeth as well as healthy growth and development. 

A major nutrient source for dogs and cats is high-quality protein.  Protein can be found in beef, chicken, fish, or whole grain sources.  Other important nutrients include digestible carbohydrates which provide a great energy source for your growing companion, as well as antioxidants which help boost healthy immune systems.

Most diets help promote good dental care by offering a daily protection for clean teeth and fresh breath.  One prescription diet called T/D has extra large chunks to encourage chewing,  which helps to prevent the build up of plaque and tarter.  But don't rely on their food to provide good dental care.  Brush their teeth daily or contact our facility for more dental options. 

Puppies and kittens should be fed smaller proportions, more often.  Since each breed grows at a different rate, it is best to ask your veterinarian when it is time to switch to an adult diet.

As an adult companion your pet needs to maintain the strong bones, muscles, and coat it gained as a juvenile.  Adult maintenance formulas have a lower caloric value to maintain a healthy weight and continue an energetic life style.  An important concern for our pets is obesity.  Common health problems associated with obesity include: arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, increased anesthetic and surgical risks, and reduced life span. 

The best ways to avoid weight gain are exercise, portion control, and monthly weight checks at your veterinarian's office.  Stop in at anytime and we can assess your pets weight and evaluating their body condition score.  There are adult "light" formulas available over the counter, as well as prescription diets that promote weight loss available at our clinic.  Discuss feeding portions with your veterinarian as guidelines on the bag are too generous. 

When our pets reach seven years of age we consider them our "senior" companions.  As seniors their nutritional needs change to help promote joint and bone health.  Senior formulas have appropriate amounts of sodium, protein, and fatty-acids to keep internal organs functioning properly.  

Many canine formulas also contain glucosamine which helps protect aging joints and cartilage.  Here at Carver Lake, we carry a glucosamine supplement called Cosequin which helps aging joints.  Senior diets have a superior antioxidant blend to help support overall health and natural immunity so your senior companion remains healthy throughout their senior years.

Another important nutritional need to consider when switching your pets diet from puppy or kitten formula to adult or adult to senior is to make the transition slowly.  This transition period is an essential element of a healthy and safe diet change for your companion.  It is best to switch formulas gradually to avoid any gastrointestinal upset.  To start the transition phase, begin by adding a very small portion of the new formula to the old food, keeping the total amount of food the same.  Continue this small portion change for about two days.  After day two or so, add a little more of the new food, and decrease the old formula.  Continue this gradual transition phase of more new food, less old food for a week to ten days until the transition is complete.  If your pet's stool is soft or loose as a result of the transition, introduce the new formula more slowly. 

Maintaining a healthy diet for our companion animals is a very important factor in their overall health.  Before making any changes to your pets diet or adding any supplements,  it is important to have a discussion with a member of our veterinary team.  We encourage you to call our clinic anytime you have questions regarding your pet's nutritional health.

Physical Rehabilitation for Pets               by, Kelly

Orthopedic and muscle injuries are not easily fixed.  Both take time to heal and generally need a good deal of physical rehabilitation.  When a human breaks a bone or tears a muscle, quite often a doctor will recommend physical therapy to improve joint function, range of motion, and muscle strength. 

Our veterinary team here at Carver Lake Veterinary Center feels the same way about our animal friends.  We want them to recover from orthopedic and muscle
injuries in the same manner.

Last summer my English Setter "Lenny" had a major surgery.  While he recovered I experienced 1st hand canine rehabilitation.  Along with range of motion, strengthening, and endurance activities, Lenny also worked with a canine massage therapist.

I can't express just how important this rehab is to the healing process.  Lenny went from a lame, depressed animal, to a strong active beast!

Rehab isn't limited to postoperative care.  Canine athletes use these techniques to condition their bodies for competition.  Animals that experience chronic pain, especially arthritis, can benefit from range of motion activities to help them lead more active, happy lives.  Even our feline friends can benefit from, and even tolerate rehabilitation.

There are many kinds of therapy being used today; functional/strength training, passive and active range of motion, aquatic exercises, therapeutic ultrasound, and laser therapies.  Aquatic therapy has become quite popular for strength and range of motion rehab.  The water seems to make movement effortless so the dogs get a good work out without feeling pressure on their joints.

Physical rehab is a relatively new service for our animal friends.  If you are interested in learning more about rehab for your pet please call our clinic.  We would be happy to demonstrate proper exercises or help you find a local professional with specific knowledge and training in rehabilitation.

Whether your pet is recovering from orthopedic surgery, or is  suffering from chronic pain, physical therapy can give your companion a jump start on a active life again.