Introduction to Ask Dr. Paola Series
Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
Do Minties Have Garlic in Them?
“Minties dog chews have garlic listed as an ingredient, but I know garlic is toxic for dogs, so what’s the deal?” – Brenda
Hi Brenda,
I looked into this brand’s products at their official webpage and did not see garlic listed as an ingredient in the current formulations. That alone brings some peace of mind because the most reliable information is always the label on the package in front of us. It is still completely valid to question garlic in any canine product. Garlic contains organosulfur compounds that can damage red blood cells when given in meaningful amounts, and this is the mechanism behind the anemia we worry about in dogs. For pet parents, checking labels and choosing products without unnecessary Allium ingredients remains the simplest way to keep dogs safe while still enjoying the potential benefits of dental chews.
Help! My Town Has a Parvo Outbreak!
“Dear Dr. Paola, My puppy Blossom is safe, but we’ve heard about a Parvo outbreak in our town. I’m just wondering statistically, what are the chances of a puppy surviving it if they contracted it?” – Charlene
Hey Charlene,
I am glad to hear Blossom is safe. When we look at canine parvovirus, early and intensive supportive care makes a remarkable difference. With prompt hospitalization that provides fluid therapy, electrolyte correction, antiemetics, and careful nutritional support, survival rates in treated puppies often reach seventy to ninety percent. Parvo behaves a bit like a fast-moving storm that overwhelms a young immune system, so a puppy’s age, hydration status, and the speed at which treatment begins all influence the outcome.
Help! I Found a Stray Dog Behaving Strange!
“I found a stray dog yesterday, and he is very sweet and kind. He ate dinner and breakfast. He comes over to me for pats. But this afternoon, I noticed he was by his bed, just walking around in circles. What could it mean?” – Justin
Dear Justin,
First of all, thank you for giving this stray some much-needed food, love, and care. When a dog begins to walk in circles, especially if this behavior is new, it usually points to an underlying medical issue rather than a behavioral quirk. Circling can appear with conditions that affect the vestibular system, the brain, or even the inner ear. Because you do not know this dog’s history and he is already showing a neurologic sign, a veterinary examination is important.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the “Ask Dr. Paola” series provides valuable insights and expert advice on various dog health and behavioral issues. Whether it’s about the safety of certain ingredients in dog treats, the chances of survival for a puppy contracting Parvo, or the possible causes of a stray dog walking in circles, Dr. Paola offers helpful and informative answers to common questions. By following her advice and seeking veterinary care when necessary, dog owners can ensure their furry friends lead happy and healthy lives. If you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s health, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Paola or a veterinarian for guidance.