Colorado Dept of Agriculture Press Release 5/23/2011

Posted May 23rd, 2011 by Lisa Cass, DVM

Re: Equine Herpesvirus Outbreak in Colorado

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – The Colorado Department of Agriculture continues to investigate the spread of Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1) in the state.

As of 5/23/2011, 12pm:
• 9 confirmed cases of horses with EHV-1
• Two horses, which tested positive for EHV-1, were euthanized after showing severe neurological signs associated with the disease.
• 22 suspect cases. Suspect cases are those horses that are believed to have been exposed to EHV-1 but confirmatory tests are still pending.
• 12 quarantine and hold orders have been issued in 8 counties (Bent, Boulder, Garfield, Gunnison, Larimer, Mesa, Morgan, & Weld)

BACKGROUND
Colorado State Fair Horse Shows Cancelled
Colorado State Fair organizers have voluntarily cancelled th ree equine events following the spread of EHV-1.
• Zamora Roping originally scheduled for May 20-22, 2011. Reschedule date pending.
• Mounted Shooting Regional originally scheduled May 27-30, 2011. Rescheduled for October 7-10, 2011
• Sagebrush Slide Cow Horse Show originally scheduled June 1-5, 2011. Rescheduled for August 10-14, 2011

“We decided to reschedule these events to limit the number of horses traveling to and from our fairgrounds,” said State Fair General Manager Chris Wiseman. “Our horse shows are important to the Fair and to Colorado as a whole and we want to be proactive in protecting our horse community.”

Facts about EHV-1 Vaccines
The common vaccines available for EHV-1 immunization do not protect against the neurological form of EHV-1 disease which is commonly called equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM). These immunizations do protect against the respiratory and abortion forms of the disease.

The EHV -1 vaccines are thought to reduce the shedding of the virus and may decrease the amount of circulating virus in the system of infected horses. So vaccinations prior to infection may help reduce the severity of an outbreak.

In the face of an EHV-1 outbreak, the value of vaccinating EHV-1 affected horses or exposed horses is questionable and may be detrimental to the horse. When an EHV-1 outbreak occurs, it may be helpful to give an EHV-1 booster immunization in a previously vaccinated, unexposed horse.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best vaccination and treatment strategy for your horses in your particular situation.

New Travel Requirements for Horses Entering Colorado
Standard requirements for horses entering Colorado include a health certificate issued within 30 days of their arrival and a negative Coggins test within 12 months. The new requirement consists of a permit to enter the state. Horse owners who wish to bring their hor se into Colorado must first call their veterinarian. That veterinarian can then contact the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s State Veterinarian’s Office at (303) 239-4161 and request a permit number. That number would then be included on the health certificate.

News in Veterinary Medicine April 2011

Posted April 21st, 2011 by Lisa Cass, DVM

A Note on Easter Pet Hazards

Easter can be a time when lots of chocolate and candy are around the house. Be careful to put chocolate and candy well above the reach of pets, especially dogs. Chocolate is toxic to dogs, especially small dogs who eat large amounts. If you find your pup has dug into the easter baskets, call your vet. It’s helpful to tell the vet what the dog has eaten: what kind of chocolate (milk, dark, baker’s) and how much.

The other type of candy that can be hazardous is anything containing the sweetener xylitol.  Xylitol is found in  sugarless gums and lollipops.  This causes a massive insulin release which leads to dangerously low blood sugar.  This is an emergency and needs to be treated right away. If you find your dog has eaten candy or gum containing xylitol, load up and get to the vet quickly- in this situation it’s best to head to the hospital and call when you’re on your way.

Cats are less likely than dogs to eat candy but are not immune to dipping into the Easter baskets. The plastic “grass” for decorations can be great fun for cats to play with but very dangerous if swallowed because it can cause an intestinal blockage. For homes with cats, it’s best to use paper Easter grass instead of plastic. Although it can still cause a problem, it’s more likely to be digested if swallowed.

Most pets love a little bit of hard boiled egg. If you’re wondering what to do with all the extra eggs, give a little bit to your cat or dog with their regular meal or for a special treat.  Eggs contain a lot of protein and are an especially good dietary supplement for older pets who are losing their muscle tone.

Wishing a fun and and safe holiday to all!

Veterinary News March 2011- recalls

Posted March 2nd, 2011 by Lisa Cass, DVM

Jones Natural Chews Pig Ears (Mar 9) Since Colorado is not one of the states listed, this shouldn’t affect us here, but I wanted to post it anyway.

http://online.wsj.com/article/AP8ab4910b7d5642a0995fb1dad64e0b79.html?mod=dist_smartbrief

 

Wellness canned cat food- voluntary recall

http://www.wellnesspetfood.com/letter.aspx