Monday, February 6, 2012

Friends for the moment

The Fox and Dreyfus

What is "Cherry Eye"?


"Cherry Eye" is a term used for prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid.  When the gland prolapses, owners will notice a red lump in the corner of their dog’s eye or eyes.

Dogs receive their tear film from two tear-producing glands.  One gland is located in the upper eyelid and the other is located in the lower lid within the pet's third eyelid. The gland of the third eyelid contributes a good portion of the tear film to the eye.  When out of its normal position, blood does not circulate properly within the gland and it may swell.  It is usually not painful to the dog but it will interfere with normal tear production.

The exact cause of "Cherry Eye" is not known, but it is thought to be secondary to a weakness of the tissue that holds the gland in place.  Some breads especially Beagles, Boston terriers, Cocker spaniels, and bulldogs have a higher incidence of this condition.

Treatment

The only acceptable treatment of "Cherry Eye" is replacement of the gland to its proper location. Preservation of the gland is the goal.  Years ago many vets simply removed the gland but the importance of preserving tear production is now recognized.  There are two techniques commonly used to replace the gland.  Your veterinarian or a veterinary ophthalmologist will decide which technique to use.  Complications from "Cherry Eye" surgery are usually rare but recurrence is common.  Some swelling after "Cherry Eye" surgery is normal but this should resolve and the eye should be normal in appearance in about 7 days.  If the eye suddenly changes in the appearance or it appears painful, it is important to contact your veterinarian right away.

Sunday, February 5, 2012

What's that thing on Jude’s collar?


You might have noticed something on Jude’s collar and wondered what it was.    



It’s his GPS tracking system!  All my Beagles have them.  As we all know Beagles lead with their noses so it’s a safety device if they happen to get out of the yard unaccompanied.  They are also all microchipped.   

Fortunately, no Beagle has gotten out since owning the device so I can’t tell you how well it works.  I can tell you that I can track where they are at all times on my phone and computer and that I’m notified both by text and email if they're out of their “safe zone”  (i.e. we forgot to turn the device off when we take them for a walk).  Also, the device is lightweight, attaches easily to any collar and the dogs don’t seem to mind wearing them.  If you are interested in purchasing one I recommend researching them online to figure out which one is best for your dog.            

If you're looking for a Beagle...


Polly Rescued, Now Needs Her Own Family



Paw Print: This beagle mix is really a southern gentleman 

Mr. Bench is a 5- to 6-year-old tri-color beagle mix who was rescued from a shelter in Kentucky.

Saturday, February 4, 2012

How to Destroy a Perfectly Good (and Expensive) Plush Dog Toy in Less Than 3 minutes by Jude

First select your victim.  
As you can tell by the bandage this poor guy was already previously wounded.


Ummm....what part to destroy first?

Jude selects the wing.  Not a bad choice.

Success!!!  The wing is removed.  
Noticed how Jude used the wall for support.

Jude briefly admires his work.  
At this point I stepped in and took away the whole toy.  No foreign bodies on my watch!
Jude was mad but nothing a treat couldn't fix.



Beagles saved after falling into 100-foot well in Halifax County

Beagles saved after falling into 100-foot well in Halifax County