Dog Care Information
by Stuart Nelson, Jr., DVM My medical topic for this month is the syndrome known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus or GDV. Uncomplicated gastric dilatation (distension) can occur as the result of swallowing air and/or overeating, but there is a great potential for rapid progression into a life-threatening emergency if the stomach twists on its long axis …
by Stuart Nelson, Jr., DVM I have chosen to address a topic of concern for dogs and humans in this article. Rabies is a disease we are all familiar with, at least on a superficial level, but I think its important to emphasize some key points about this infection that may not be common knowledge. …
Aaron Burmeister, video from 2015 Iditarod, comments on how nutrition is a big factor in a healthy running sled dog team. With temperatures dipping well into the negative digits in Manley, it’s very important to keep those dogs fueled for their long trip.
by Stuart Nelson, Jr., DVM Many of you may have experienced knee injuries, including ACL tears. You know what I’m referring to! Ouch! For those of you who may not be aware, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is critical to normal function of the knee joint. This structure, most commonly referred to as the cranial …
PROVIDE A PROTECTED AND CLEAN LIVING ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR DOG. Shelter from the elements and hazards, as well as good hygiene, are basic to a quality life. ALWAYS KEEP FRESH WATER AVAILABLE. Maintaining optimal hydration is important for health and energy. FEED A QUALITY DIET AND PREVENT OBESITY. Overweight humans and animals can adversely …
Iditarod dogs enjoy wellness care uncommon among dogs and even most humans. They are currently undergoing extensive preventative exams that include full blood workups and electrocardiograms to ensure they are Iditarod fit. It is with much irony that detractors have used a disinformation smear campaign stating, “if an Iditarod dog is lucky enough to survive …
There’s nothing better than hands-on real-life experiences for learning. Thanks to musher and educator Tim Vandermeuelen, Symposium participants went to work making necklines and constructing a doghouse. Tim handed out pre-cut and marked lengths of braided nylon and the indispensible fid to everyone interested then the fun began – push the fid through the rope …
Without adequate dog care, marathon racing such as the Iditarod would not be possible. These athletes receive top quality care before and during the race. The dogs are trained for months before the race season starts. They are conditioned in a variety of terrains to prepare for different challenges. These dogs receive high quality kibble …
Dropped dogs are dogs that are removed from the race for one reason or another. A dog that isn’t feeling well, has an injury, isn’t running well, is in season, or just doesn’t have the attitude to race, are ‘dropped’ at checkpoints along the Iditarod Trail. Veterinarians at each checkpoint are on duty to examine …
