DNA Debunks Age-Old Ratio for Dog Years to Human Years
By tracking age-related progressions in gene methylation patterns of dogs and comparing them with those previously observed in people, researchers have constructed a new “epigenetic clock” for translating dog years to human years. All mammals pace their way through similar milestones, from embryogenesis to birth; then infancy, youth, and adolescence; and, finally, maturity, senescence, and death.1But every species ages at its own clip. Some compress their lives into a couple...
Big Dogs Face More Joint Problems If Neutered Early
Heavier mixed-breed dogs have higher health risks if neutered or spayed early, according to a new study from researchers at the University of California, Davis. The study found mixed-breed dogs weighing more than 44 pounds as adults are at higher risk for one or more joint disorders if neutered before 1 year of age. Dogs weighing up to 43 pounds had no increased risk for joint problems. The study was published in...
VITAL VOICE: Virtual consults give you another way to help your pet without leaving home
Introducing VITAL VOICE, Vital Vet's new video series featuring interviews with leaders and experts in the field of pet rehabilitation.
Dogs Watch Us Carefully and Read Our Faces Very Well
Research shows dogs pay close attention to different human facial expressions. ...In addition to learning the basics of dog behavior, one area that's important for us to understand is how their various senses work and how they use their eyes to read our faces and the reasons for their sensitivity to the various visual social cues we emit.1 (See "How Dogs See the World: Some Facts About the Canine Cosmos" and "Dogs: An Exciting...
Why the Tail Is Important for the Active Dog
The Amazing Tail Those who love them all agree: Dogs are amazing animals. Not only are they capable of adapting to life with people, they have skills and abilities that are inconceivable to humans. From their fantastically sensitive noses to their keen intelligence, dogs find ways to thrill and stagger the imagination. Dogs' physical capabilities are one of the many aspects of the species that continually amaze. With the proliferation...
Virtual Consults for Pets - Rehab, Conditioning, and Mobility Issues
Many of you are becoming familiar with telemedicine so that you can connect with your veterinarian for a virtual appointment. A Vital Vet Pet Video Consultation is different - it's a totally new concept in virtual consultation. Here's how: You do not have to be a client of the Vital Vet Pet Consultants Our Pet consultants are the best of the best - some names you might even recognize since they helped develop the certification...
Summer Dog Exercise: Six Ways to Keep Fido Cool and Happy
The best time of year is late summer – the weather is its warmest and the days are long. Even though fall is around the corner, many states experience hot weather well into autumn. Take advantage of the gorgeous outdoors now and be active, especially with your dog! While exercise is crucial to your and your pet’s health, it’s important to remember that the soaring temperatures can be harmful and...
Mobility Matters: Nutritional Management of Canine Joint Disease
The disruption of normal joint mechanics may lead to or result from injury to the various components of a joint. Frequently, this injury results in osteoarthritis (OA),1which often leads to physical incapacity, pain and reduced quality of life for the affected pet. OA is the most common form of arthritis and is recognized in humans and in all veterinary species. It is often a slowly progressive condition characterized by two...