StemCell Therapy

Plan your Stem Cell Therapy in India with Tour2India4Health Consultants

Stem cell therapy in India is performed by highly skilled and qualified doctors and surgeons in India. Our hospitals have state-of-art equipment that increase success rate of stem cell treatment in India. Tour2India4Health is a medical value provider that offers access to the stem cell therapy best hospitals in India for patients from any corner of the world. We offer low cost stem cell therapy at the best hospitals in India.

Stem cells have the ability to differentiate into specific cell types. The two defining characteristics of a stem cell are perpetual self-renewal and the ability to differentiate into a specialized adult cell type.

Serving as a sort of repair system, they can theoretically divide without limit to replenish other cells for as long as the person or animal is still alive. When a stem cell divides, each "daughter" cell has the potential to either remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a muscle cell, a red blood cell, or a brain cell.

There are three classes of stem cells i.e totipotent, pluripotent and multipotent (also known as unipotent).

Many different terms are used to describe various types of stem cells, often based on where in the body or what stage in development they come from. You may have heard the following terms:

Adult Stem Cells or Tissue-specific Stem Cells: Adult stem cells are tissue-specific, meaning they are found in a given tissue in our bodies and generate the mature cell types within that particular tissue or organ. It is not clear whether all organs, such as the heart, contain stem cells. The term adult stem cells is often used very broadly and may include fetal and cord blood stem cells.

Fetal Stem Cells: As their name suggests, fetal stem cells are taken from the fetus. The developing baby is referred to as a fetus from approximately 10 weeks of gestation. Most tissues in a fetus contain stem cells that drive the rapid growth and development of the organs. Like adult stem cells, fetal stem cells are generally tissue-specific, and generate the mature cell types within the particular tissue or organ in which they are found.

Cord Blood Stem Cells: At birth the blood in the umbilical cord is rich in blood-forming stem cells. The applications of cord blood are similar to those of adult bone marrow and are currently used to treat diseases and conditions of the blood or to restore the blood system after treatment for specific cancers. Like the stem cells in adult bone marrow, cord blood stem cells are tissue-specific.

Embryonic Stem Cells: Embryonic stem cells are derived from very early embryos and can in theory give rise to all cell types in the body. While these cells are already helping us better understand diseases and hold enormous promise for future therapies, there are currently no treatments using embryonic stem cells accepted by the medical community.

Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (IPS cells): In 2006, scientists discovered how to reprogram cells with a specialized function (for example, skin cells) in the laboratory, so that they behave like an embryonic stem cell. These cells, called induced pluripotent cells or IPS cells, are created by inducing the specialized cells to express genes that are normally made in embryonic stem cells and that control how the cell functions.

Embryonic stem cells are derived from the inner cell mass of a blastocyst: the fertilized egg, called the zygote, divides and forms two cells; each of these cells divides again, and so on. Soon there is a hollow ball of about 150 cells called the blastocyst that contains two types of cells, the trophoblast and the inner cell mass. Embryonic stem cells are obtained from the inner cell mass.

Stem cells can also be found in small numbers in various tissues in the fetal and adult body. For example, blood stem cells are found in the bone marrow that give rise to all specialized blood cell types. Such tissue-specific stem cells have not yet been identified in all vital organs, and in some tissues like the brain, although stem cells exist, they are not very active, and thus do not readily respond to cell injury or damage.

Stem cells can also be obtained from other sources, for example, the umbilical cord of a newborn baby is a source of blood stem cells. Recently, scientists have also discovered the existence of cells in baby teeth and in amniotic fluid that may also have the potential to form multiple cell types. Research on these cells is at a very early stage.

Stem cell therapy is the use of stem cells to treat certain diseases. Stem cells are obtained from the patients own blood bone marrow, fat and umbilical cord tissue or blood. They are progenitor cells that lead to creation of new cells and are thus called as generative cells as well.

The biological task of stem cells is to repair and regenerate damaged cells. Stem cell therapy exploits this function by administering these cells systematically and in high concentrations directly into the damaged tissue, where they advance its self-healing. The process that lies behind this mechanism is largely unknown, but it is assumed that stem cells discharge certain substances which activate the diseased tissue. It is also conceivable that single damaged somatic cells, e.g. single neurocytes in the spinal cord or endothelium cells in vessels, are replaced by stem cells. Most scientists agree that stem cell research has great life-saving potential and could revolutionize the study and treatment of diseases and injuries.

Stem cell therapy is useful in certain degenerative diseases like

If stem cell therapy is an option, a detailed treatment plan is prepared depending on the type of treatment necessary. Once the patient has consented to the treatment plan, an appointment is scheduled for bone marrow extraction. Please note that this is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, so it is important that patients do not take any blood-thinning medication in the ten days prior to the appointment. It is necessary for each patient to consult their own doctor before discontinuing this type of medication.

The treatment procedure include:

Bone Marrow Extraction: Bone marrow is extracted from the hip bone by the physicians. This procedure normally takes around 30 minutes. First, local anesthetic is administered to the area of skin where the puncture will be made. Then, a thin needle is used to extract around 150-200 ml of bone marrow. The injection of local anesthetic can be slightly painful, but the patient usually does not feel the extraction of bone marrow.

Isolation, Analysis and Concentration of the Stem Cells in the Laboratory: The quality and quantity of the stem cells contained in the collected bone marrow are tested at the laboratory. First, the stem cells are isolated. Then a chromatographical procedure is used to separate them from the red and white blood corpuscles and plasma. The sample is tested under sterile conditions so that the stem cells, which will be administered to the patient, are not contaminated with viruses, bacteria or fungi. Each sample is also tested for the presence of viral markers such as HIV, hepatitis B and C and cytomegalia. The cleaned stem cells are counted and viability checks are made. If there are enough viable stem cells, i.e. more than two million CD34+ cells with over 80 percent viability, the stem cell concentrate is approved for patient administration.

Stem Cell Implantation: The method of stem cell implantation depends on the patient's condition. There are four different ways of administering stem cells:

Intravenous administration:

It is important to understand that while stem cell therapy can help alleviate symptoms in many patients and slow or even reverse degenerative processes, it does not work in all cases. Based on additional information, patient's current health situation and/or unforeseen health risks, the medical staff can always, in the interest of the individual patient, propose another kind of stem cell transplantation or in exceptional situations cancel the treatment.

Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation: Allogeneic stem cell transplantation involves transferring the stem cells from a healthy person (the donor) to your body after high-intensity chemotherapy or radiation. It is helpful in treating patients with high risk of relapse or who didnt respond to the prior treatment. Allogeneic stem cell transplant cost in India is comparatively less when contrasted with alternate nations.

Autologous Stem Cell Transplant: Patients own blood-forming stem cells are collected and then it is treated with high doses of chemotherapy. The high-dose treatment kills the cancer cells. They are used to replace stem cells that have been damaged by high doses of chemotherapy, used to treat the patient's underlying disease.

The side effects of stem cell therapy differ from person to person. Listed below are the side effects of stem cell therapy :

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, all is considered to be experimental, with the exception of bone marrow transplants. However, the guidelines that were put into place in 2007 are largely non-enforceable. Regardless, stem cell therapy is legalized in India. Umbilical cord and adult stem cell treatment are considered permissible. Embryonic stem cell therapy and research is restricted.

There is about a 60% to 80% overall success rate in the use of stem cell therapy in both India and around the world. However, success rates vary depending on the disease being treated, the institute conducting the procedures, and the condition of the patient. In order to receive complete information you will have to contact the medical institutes and ask specific questions concerning the patient's condition.

Mrs. Selina Naidoo with her Son from Malaysia

Tour2India4Health has proved to be a blessing in disguise for me. A medical tourism company with everything at par with our expectations has given me the most satisfactory and relieving experience of my life. I went to them for my sons surgery who was suffering from a serious illness and stem cell therapy was the only choice I had. Trust it was heart wrenching to leave my son under any hands on the operation table. Nevertheless, courageously I had to because thats what I was here for and thats what could get my son a new and healthy life. Sitting at a corner outside the operation theatre was taking my heartbeats away with every second. Finally, the surgery was over and I was there in front of the doctor with closed eyes. He declared that the surgery was successful and my son is fine but needs some extra care and some cautious post operative measures for recovery. All through our stay in the hospital, everything went on brilliantly and after my son recovered completely, I came back to my home country. Even after that for many months, I received regular calls to verify and virtually monitor the health of my child. Now, its been 5 years and when I see my child today it feels as if no surgery was ever done on him. Thanks to the doctor who treated him and to the entire team of nurses and travel professionals who displayed extra warmth and care. Thanks is just a small word to say as a mother of a child.

India is the most preferable destination for patients who are looking for low cost stem cell therapy. Indian doctors and healthcare professionals are renowned world over for their skills with many of them holding high positions in leading hospitals in US, UK and other countries around the world. There are significant numbers of highly skilled experts in India, including many who have relocated to India after having worked in the top hospitals across the world.

The Cost of stem cell treatment in India are generally about a tenth of the costs in US and are significantly cheaper compared with even other medical travel destinations like Thailand

*The price for the Stem Cell Therapy is an average collected from the 15 best corporate hospitals and 10 Top Stem Cell Experts of India.

*The final prices offered to the patients is based on their medical reports and is dependent on the current medical condition of the patient, type of room, type of therapy, hospital brand and the surgeon's expertise.

We have worked out special packages of the Stem Cell Therapy for our Indian and International patients. You can send us your medical reports to avail the benefits of these special packages.

You would be provided with 3 TOP RECOMMENDED SURGEONS / HOSPITALS FOR YOUR STEM CELL THERAPY in India.

There are many reasons for India becoming a popular medical tourism spot is the low cost stem cell treatment in the area. When in contrast to the first world countries like, US and UK, medical care in India costs as much as 60-90% lesser, that makes it a great option for the citizens of those countries to opt for stem cell treatment in India because of availability of quality healthcare in India, affordable prices strategic connectivity, food, zero language barrier and many other reasons.

The maximum number of patients for stem cell therapy comes from Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia, USA, UK, Australia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh.

Cities where top and world renowned Stem Cell Therapy hospitals and clinics situated are :

We have PAN-India level tie ups with TOP Hospitals for Stem Cell Therapy across 15+ major cities in India. We can provide you with multiple top hospitals & best surgeons recommendations for Stem Cell Therapy in India.

India has now been recognized as one of the leaders in medical field of research and treatment. Tour2India4Health Group was established with an aim of providing best medical services to its patients and since then has been working hard in maintaining itself as one of the most professional healthcare tourism providers in India. With a number of world-renowned medical facilities affiliated, we have the resources to offer you the finest medical treatment in India, and help your speedy recovery. Tour2India4Health Group has always believed and practiced providing its patients best surgery and treatment procedure giving a second chance to live a more better and normal life. Our team serves the clientele most comfortable and convenient measures of healthcare services thus, making your medical tour to India very fruitful experience.

Our facilitation:

We has been operating patients from all major countries like USA, United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, Canada, Spain, New Zealand, and Kuwait etc. We have network of selected medical centers, surgeons and physicians around various cities in India, who qualify our assessment criteria to ensure that our core values of Safety, Excellence and Trust are maintained in all our services.

Below are the downloadable links that will help you to plan your medical trip to India in a more organized and better way. Attached word and pdf files gives information that will help you to know India more and make your trip to India easy and memorable one.

Best Stem Cell Therapy in India, Cost of Stem Cell Therapy in India, Stem Cell Therapy Best Hospitals in India, Success Rate of Stem Cell Treatment in India, Stem Cell Therapy Treatment Cost in India, Allogeneic Stem cell Transplant Cost in India, autologous Stem Cell Transplant Cost in India, Stem Cell Therapy in India, Low Cost Stem Cell Therapy India, Stem Cell Benefits in India, Top Stem Cell Centers in India, Best Doctors for Stem Cell Therapy in India, List of Best Stem Cell Treatment Clinics in India, Allogeneic stem cell transplantation, Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant Cost in India, Autologous Stem Cell Transplant, Autologous Stem Cell Transplant Cost in India

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Advance Stem Cell Therapy in India | Stem Cell Treatment ...

Definition

Longevity is an extra pay increment awarded to Hourly-Paid staff (Operating Staff) with a current hire dateprior to July 1, 2011,to recognize length of service to the University System. Longevity payments are not treated as benefits eligible, but are taken into account when computing the regular rate for overtime purposes to conform with FLSA regulations.

Longevity increments for Operating Staff are as follows:

For purposes of longevity only, a year of service will be equal to a calendar year of employment, i.e., 12 consecutive months from date of hire equals one calendar year. If an employee held a flex-year appointment of 50% for 10 years, the total years of service for longevity purposes would be 10 years.

The longevity increment, awarded each pay period, is calculated by multiplying the base pay for that pay period by the longevity percentage. Longevity is not included in vacation or earned time payout on termination.

Length of employment will start from the first day of status employment of at least 50% time for employees with a current hire date prior to July 1, 2011.

Longevity increments shall be effective on the staff member's anniversary date of employment.

Staff members will not have their longevity affected by absences due to illness, accident or leaves of absence. Exceptions to this is when an accident is incurred at a staff member's secondary employment outside the University System.

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Longevity | UNH Human Resources

People from all around the world are flocking to Moscow, Russia, for innovative stem cell therapies for MS. Multiple sclerosis is a crippling disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. MS is an autoimmune disease that is unpredictable and affects different people in different ways. Clinical management and pharmacotherapy can help relieve symptoms and delay the progression of MS. However, there is no drug that can completely cure the disease.

Forty-one-year-old Chantelle Baker from Melbourne was diagnosed with MS in 2016. The disease quickly progressed and six months later, Ms. Baker had several dozen lesions in her brain. The family is raising money to travel to Russia with the hope that the doctors there will be able to stop her multiple sclerosis from progressing. Traditional treatments available in Australia have failed to control the disease.

Maxine Parker, Chantelles sister, is helping the family raise the more than $150,000 needed to travel to Russia and receive the groundbreaking treatment there. The family wants to give it their all and not live with the regret that they didnt do everything they possibly could. Chantelle has two young daughters and is fearful the disease will progress to the point that she will not remember her children in a few years time.

Another Australian, Nikki Tatum, received hematopoietic stem cell therapy at a leading clinic Moscow. In a video message to Chantelle Baker, Nikki wished her luck and talked about the excellent care she received overseas.

Thirty-seven-year-old Donna Agnew from Auckland, New Zealand, was diagnosed with MS months after her first child was born. Donna has been battling dizziness, nausea, and crippling headaches ever since. She hopes to travel to Moscow to receive groundbreaking stem cell treatment to control her disease. She worries that the disease will impact her cognitive abilities to the point that she will be unable to care for her child. The travel to Russia and the hematopoietic stem cell therapy she hopes to receive will cost more than $100,000. The family is running an online campaign to help raise funds for Donnas treatment. Donna has chosen to travel overseas after doctors in New Zealand indicated there was not much they could offer in terms of treatment to control her almost daily attacks. Stem cell treatments for MS are considered low-risk, but they do carry some risk. Moreover, there is no guarantee that the hundreds of thousands of dollars the patients spend will control the disease. Many patients are showing good results, but some fail to respond to the therapy. The results of large-scale clinical trials are awaited to more completely understand whether stem cell therapy for MS is safe and effective.

References:

1. Multiple Sclerosis2. Melbourne woman travelling to Russia3. Stem cell treatment gives sick Auckland mum hope

Contributor at Regenerative Medicine Now

Mira Swave, M.D. is a specialist in the field of Regenerative Medicine.

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MS Patients Flock to Russia for Stem Cell Therapy ...

Untreated pig brain at left shows lots of death and few neurons (green) hours after death, but the image on the right shows a brain connected to a system called BrainEx that Yale researchers report kept more neurons alive. Source.Stefano G. Daniele and Zvonimir Vrselja, Sestan Laboratory, Yale School of MedicineUntreated pig brain at left shows lots of death and few neurons (green) hours after death, but the image on the right shows a brain connected to a system called BrainEx that Yale researchers report kept more neurons alive. Source.Stefano G. Daniele and Zvonimir Vrselja, Sestan Laboratory, Yale School of Medicine

Its been a cool week for stem cell and other associated kinds of research. In this post I have a series of links to a variety of interesting developments and papers.

Gene therapy cures bubble boy infants. William Wan over at the WaPo on this good news. Nope, this wasnt done with CRISPR, but rather with a viral transgene approach (not TALENs as I mistakenly had originally written here).

The pigs were dead. But four hours later, scientists restored cellular functions in their brains.This reminds me of a post I did on a biotech claiming oddly to reverse death ofhuman brain cells at least in part with a laser. In this new report, Yale researchers have a system called BrainEx that purportedly keeps brain cells alive for hours. Note in the image at left that the untreated brain is 8 hours post-death while the image of treated brain is only four hours after death. Still, it seems like a striking difference, but I cant help but feel a bit skeptical about how much meaning this report really has. Well see.

Researchers discover crucial link between brain and gut stem cells. The gut is very tied to overall health in many ways and was also recently found to be a novel reservoir of hematopoietic stem cells in people too.

To protect stem cells, plants have diverse genetic backup plans. Yes, plants have stem cells and they arent just made by nature to go into sketchy anti-aging cremes.

Kind of a first-person piece in the NYT, The Lifesaving Power in Stem Cells on cord blood by Susan Gubar. It has this in your face kind of subtitle in reference to stem cell clinics, Liars and thieves should not be allowed to detract from legitimate scientific research that has made umbilical cord blood mystic in its regenerative powers.

Related

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Weekend reads: reversing death of pig brain cells, brain ...

The Disability Management Employer Coalition (DMEC) is committed to providing focused education for absence management professionals. From face-to-face conferences to helpful tools and resources, we give you what you need to reduce costs, minimize lost work time, and increase staff productivity.

Presenters:

The Disability Management Employer Coalition (DMEC) is committed to providing focused education for absence management professionals. From face-to-face conferences to helpful tools and resources, we give you what you need to reduce costs, minimize lost work time, and increase staff productivity.

Presenters:

The Disability Management Employer Coalition (DMEC) is committed to providing focused education for absence management professionals. From face-to-face conferences to helpful tools and resources, we give you what you need to reduce costs, minimize lost work time, and increase staff productivity.

Presenters:

The National APSE Conference is the only national conference focused solely on the advancement of Employment First. The Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) National Conference brings together more than 1,000 community leaders, businesses, and individuals with disabilities from across the country and around the world to network and discuss state-of-the-art strategies to ensure equitable employment for all citizens with disabilities.

The National APSE Conference is the only national conference focused solely on the advancement of Employment First. The Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) National Conference brings together more than 1,000 community leaders, businesses, and individuals with disabilities from across the country and around the world to network and discuss state-of-the-art strategies to ensure equitable employment for all citizens with disabilities.

The EXCEL Training Conference is sponsored by the EEOC's Training Institute. In its 21st year, EXCEL is the premier national training conference for federal and private sector EEO managers, supervisors, practitioners, HR professionals, attorneys and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) specialists. Private and public sector employees will gain invaluable knowledge for making those tough HR decisions!

Presenters:

The EXCEL Training Conference is sponsored by the EEOC's Training Institute. In its 21st year, EXCEL is the premier national training conference for federal and private sector EEO managers, supervisors, practitioners, HR professionals, attorneys and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) specialists. Private and public sector employees will gain invaluable knowledge for making those tough HR decisions!

Presenters:

The EXCEL Training Conference is sponsored by the EEOC's Training Institute. In its 21st year, EXCEL is the premier national training conference for federal and private sector EEO managers, supervisors, practitioners, HR professionals, attorneys and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) specialists. Private and public sector employees will gain invaluable knowledge for making those tough HR decisions!

Presenters:

The EXCEL Training Conference is sponsored by the EEOC's Training Institute. In its 21st year, EXCEL is the premier national training conference for federal and private sector EEO managers, supervisors, practitioners, HR professionals, attorneys and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) specialists. Private and public sector employees will gain invaluable knowledge for making those tough HR decisions!

Presenters:

The 2018 ILG National Conference held in Anaheim California is the premier meeting ground in 2018 for employers involved and interested in OFCCP compliance and EEOC issues. The 2018 ILG National Conference convenes industry experts, HR, compensation, legal and talent acquisition professionals to discuss the latest issues and information impacting affirmative action and equal opportunity employment and diversity and inclusion.

Presenters:

Slides - Tools, Techniques, and Technologies for Creating Inclusive Workplaces

Handout - Tools, Techniques, and Technologies for Creating Inclusive Workplaces

The 2018 ILG National Conference held in Anaheim California is the premier meeting ground in 2018 for employers involved and interested in OFCCP compliance and EEOC issues. The 2018 ILG National Conference convenes industry experts, HR, compensation, legal and talent acquisition professionals to discuss the latest issues and information impacting affirmative action and equal opportunity employment and diversity and inclusion.

Presenters:

Slides - Tools, Techniques, and Technologies for Creating Inclusive Workplaces

Handout - Tools, Techniques, and Technologies for Creating Inclusive Workplaces

At the 2018 DMEC Annual Conference, youll connect with 700+ like-minded absence, disability, and return-to-work professionals who are looking to tackle strategic workforce issues facing their organizations.And with 40+ sessions and events, you will:Gain insights from those on the front line, giving you expert knowledge on how to address the complex leave and disability issues you are facing in your organization.Share ideas with peers and executive thought leaders from across the country.Take back proven strategies, actionable ideas, and tested program models to assist with the development of cost-saving programs in your company."

At the 2018 DMEC Annual Conference, youll connect with 700+ like-minded absence, disability, and return-to-work professionals who are looking to tackle strategic workforce issues facing their organizations.And with 40+ sessions and events, you will:Gain insights from those on the front line, giving you expert knowledge on how to address the complex leave and disability issues you are facing in your organization.Share ideas with peers and executive thought leaders from across the country.Take back proven strategies, actionable ideas, and tested program models to assist with the development of cost-saving programs in your company."

At the 2018 DMEC Annual Conference, youll connect with 700+ like-minded absence, disability, and return-to-work professionals who are looking to tackle strategic workforce issues facing their organizations.And with 40+ sessions and events, you will:Gain insights from those on the front line, giving you expert knowledge on how to address the complex leave and disability issues you are facing in your organization.Share ideas with peers and executive thought leaders from across the country.Take back proven strategies, actionable ideas, and tested program models to assist with the development of cost-saving programs in your company."

At the 2018 DMEC Annual Conference, youll connect with 700+ like-minded absence, disability, and return-to-work professionals who are looking to tackle strategic workforce issues facing their organizations.And with 40+ sessions and events, you will:Gain insights from those on the front line, giving you expert knowledge on how to address the complex leave and disability issues you are facing in your organization.Share ideas with peers and executive thought leaders from across the country.Take back proven strategies, actionable ideas, and tested program models to assist with the development of cost-saving programs in your company."

At the 2018 DMEC Annual Conference, youll connect with 700+ like-minded absence, disability, and return-to-work professionals who are looking to tackle strategic workforce issues facing their organizations.And with 40+ sessions and events, you will:Gain insights from those on the front line, giving you expert knowledge on how to address the complex leave and disability issues you are facing in your organization.Share ideas with peers and executive thought leaders from across the country.Take back proven strategies, actionable ideas, and tested program models to assist with the development of cost-saving programs in your company."

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Blindness - askjan.org

A variety of genetic and environmental factors likely play a role in causing androgenetic alopecia. Although researchers are studying risk factors that may contribute to this condition, most of these factors remain unknown. Researchers have determined that this form of hair loss is related to hormones called androgens, particularly an androgen called dihydrotestosterone. Androgens are important for normal male sexual development before birth and during puberty. Androgens also have other important functions in both males and females, such as regulating hair growth and sex drive.

Hair growth begins under the skin in structures called follicles. Each strand of hair normally grows for 2 to 6 years, goes into a resting phase for several months, and then falls out. The cycle starts over when the follicle begins growing a new hair. Increased levels of androgens in hair follicles can lead to a shorter cycle of hair growth and the growth of shorter and thinner strands of hair. Additionally, there is a delay in the growth of new hair to replace strands that are shed.

Although researchers suspect that several genes play a role in androgenetic alopecia, variations in only one gene, AR, have been confirmed in scientific studies. The AR gene provides instructions for making a protein called an androgen receptor. Androgen receptors allow the body to respond appropriately to dihydrotestosterone and other androgens. Studies suggest that variations in the AR gene lead to increased activity of androgen receptors in hair follicles. It remains unclear, however, how these genetic changes increase the risk of hair loss in men and women with androgenetic alopecia.

Researchers continue to investigate the connection between androgenetic alopecia and other medical conditions, such as coronary heart disease and prostate cancer in men and polycystic ovary syndrome in women. They believe that some of these disorders may be associated with elevated androgen levels, which may help explain why they tend to occur with androgen-related hair loss. Other hormonal, environmental, and genetic factors that have not been identified also may be involved.

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Androgenetic alopecia - Genetics Home Reference - NIH

Skye is a 10-year-old German shepherd whose DNA was tested for degenerative myelopathy (DM) after she stumbled and fell as she walked down the steps outside her homean early warning sign of the disease. Soon after, Skyes family noticed that her back legs were wobbly and slipping out from under her on a regular basis. Her familys fears were confirmed when Skyes DM test results indicated she was at the highest risk level for developing the disease.

What is degenerative myelopathy?A progressive disease of the spinal cord that leaves once-healthy dogs paralyzed and ends their lives prematurely, DM is similar to ALS (Lou Gehrigs disease) in humans. It begins in the spine, when the outer coating (myelin) dies off and stops protecting the inner white matter that sends messages from the brain to control movement of a dogs legs.

DM is seen most often in German shepherd dogs between the ages of 8 and 10. Recently, the disease has been identified in several other breeds, including American Eskimo, Bernese mountain, borzoi, boxer, Cardigan Welsh Corgi, Chesapeake Bay retriever, golden retriever, Great Pyrenees, Kerry blue terrier, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, French poodle, pug, Rhodesian ridgeback, Shetland sheepdog, soft-coated wheaten terrier, and wirehaired fox terrier.

Some early warning signs of DM include:

As DM progresses, the signs become more pronounced:

Drs. Joan Coates and Gary Johnson and associates at the University of Missouri along with Drs. Kirsten Lindblad-Toh and Claire Wade at the Broad Institute at MIT and Harvard have identified the mutated gene responsible for degenerative myelopathy. They found that dogs with two copies of the mutation are at greatest risk of developing the disease.

The team of researchers also developed a DNA test that dog owners can administer at home and mail in for results. The test returns one of three possible results: normal, at risk, or carrier. The home DNA testing kit can be ordered through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.

Skye has been lucky; her disease has progressed slowly, and her family has been able to take care of her needs 24 hours per day. Now, 2 years after that first fall, Skyes hind legs are completely paralyzed, she is incontinent, and shes having trouble sitting up on her own. She has gone from using a dog wheelchair and keeping her body strong by swimming regularly to enjoying daily walks in a dog stroller. Despite her handicap, Skyes family says she is still happy and full of lifeand theyre happy to give her the care and love she needs.

Photos of Skye courtesy of Dorri Modic.

Sharon Seltzer is an animal writer who founded Lessons From A Paralyzed Dog, a website for owners of dogs with neurological and mobility disorders.

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Is your dog at risk for degenerative myelopathy? | AAHA

5 things you need to know about the AAHA/AAFP Fluid Therapy Guidelines

We all know how important water is to living beingswithout it, we couldnt survive. Water in our cells helps regulate body temperature, aids in digestion, transports oxygen and nutrients (as well as waste), lubricates joints, energizes muscles, and basically keeps our organs functioning.

Thats why fluid therapy is such an important part of veterinary medicine. If an animal is dehydrated due to illnessor needs a boost during surgeryveterinary teams can administer fluids to help them stabilize. The AAHA/AAFP fluid therapy guidelines thoroughly prepare animal hospitals to best administer these life-saving fluids and customize treatment to the needs of each individual dog or cat.

Here are the top five things to know:

Lift your pets lip and run your fingers along his gums. If he is well-hydrated, his gums will be slippery and moist to the touch. If your finger sticks to the gums because they are dry or tacky, then he is dehydrated and you should seek veterinary care immediately.

Gently pinch your pets skin between his shoulder blades or at the top of his head between his ears. If he is well-hydrated, once you let go of the skin, it will quickly flatten out back to normal. If he is dehydrated, the skin will remain tented for a second or two. Seek veterinary care if this is the case.

Look at your pets eyes. His eyeballs should be slightly jutting out of his eye sockets. With severe dehydration, the tissue and fat behind the eyeball shrinks and the eye sinks deep into the sockets. You guessed it: Call your veterinarian if you suspect dehydration.

What to ask your veterinarian about fluid therapy:

Related articles:Heatstroke and your petKeep it cool for pets on warm daysSix things to consider when choosing a new veterinarianWhy theres no substitute for advice from your own veterinarianCommunication 101: Get the most out of your vet visit

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Fluid Therapy Guidelines | AAHA

Mindy Tehan, RVT, gives laser therapy treatmentsto a patient at Animal Care Unlimited. Photo courtesy of Lindsay Melia.

Denver resident, Sue Kohut, was alarmed when her Great Dane puppy, Beauxmont, became lethargic and developed swollen legs that were hot to the touch. At just five months old, the pup was diagnosed with hypertrophic osteodystrophy (HOD), a painful bone disease that can occur in fast-growing large and giant breeds.

It can be cripplingin certain cases, a puppy would have to be euthanized, Kohut said. I had this big puppy who was in so much pain. I was like, Just fix him!

Fortunately, Kohuts veterinarian developed a treatment protocol that included laser therapy. Unlike surgical lasers that cut through tissue, therapy lasersor cold lasersstimulate the bodys cells to promote healing and alleviate pain.

I literally noticed an improvement after his first treatment, Kohut said. He was less lethargic and seemed like he was in less pain.

After three or four laser therapy treatments, Beauxmonts condition was completely resolved. Two years later, Beauxmont, who is also deaf and blind in one eye, is a loving pet who is simultaneously graceful and goofy.

Beauxmont is just one of a growing number of pets who have benefitted from laser therapy, particularly over the last decade as the technology has evolved. Jamie Bobulsky, DVM and medical director at AAHA-accredited Animal Care Unlimited in Columbus, Ohio, said the practice invested in a therapy laser in 2010 and has since seen some remarkable results. In fact, the hospital now includes laser therapy in treatment plans for everything from surgery to arthritis to ear infections.

Laser [therapy] causes many physiological and biochemical processes to occur, Bobulsky said. It stimulates the release of endorphins, causes vasodilation, and promotes lymphatic flow, which brings more blood to the area and flushes out inflammatory mediators and swelling, and accelerates tissue repair by increasing the rate of cell division and activating cells needed for repair. I explain this to clients as bringing in the good cells and taking out the bad ones.

Bobulsky said laser therapy is a valuable pain management tool, particularly for older dogs with arthritis who are starting to lose the use of their back legs, or those with compromised livers that prevent them from being able to take pain medication. It is a great option for cats as well, since there are fewer pain control options considered safe for them.

Therapy lasers are also useful in treating exotic animals that may not take medication easily, Bobulsky said. In addition to dogs and cats, her team has performed laser therapy treatments on birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, ducks, sugar gliders, and wildlife, including owls, hawks, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, red-tailed hawks, and turtles.

There was a cockatiel named Beaker that suffered an unknown injury to the base of his tail and plucked out all of the surrounding feathers. After several laser treatments and some pain medication, he healed beautifully and all of his feathers grew back, she said. We have also used laser therapy on raptors with a condition called bumblefootsores on the bottoms of their feet. This is notoriously difficult to correct and sometimes requires medications and bandaging. They heal more quickly when we use the laser.

Software on many therapy lasers helps calibrate the proper dosage for each animal and length of each session by prompting the veterinary team to enter the pets weight, skin color, and hair coat length, as well as the medical issue and area to be treated.

Therapy lasers emit a pleasant warming sensation and most patients seem to relax and enjoy their sessions, she said. Typically, multiple sessions are most effective, so the practice offers special packages to achieve the best results.

Though the laser cost about $25,000, Bobulsky said it has been a good investment. She expects the technology to continue to evolve so the machines become more affordable, allowing more veterinarians to offer the modality to their clients.

Bobulsky absolutely suggests pet owners try laser therapy for their pet if their veterinarian recommends it.

It is noninvasive and can be very beneficial, she said.

Freelance journalist Jen Reeder loves writing about lasers of any kind because she grew up watching "Star Wars" and "Battlestar Galactica."

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Laser therapy: A promising trend in veterinary medicine | AAHA

What is a pet wellness plan?A wellness plan offers a way to prepay for pet health care services. Different than insurance, a wellness plan often requires a pet owner to sign a contract for a particular time period, usually 12 months. The pet owner then pays a monthly fee and receives a set of services that may include exams, laboratory tests, vaccinations, spaying or neutering, nail trims, deworming, heartworm testing, dental care, and others. Participants in pet wellness plans also often receive discounts on additional veterinary services. Several plans may be available based upon the type of pet you have and how old he or she is. There may also be different tiers or levels depending on the services bundled into the plan. For example, a puppy plan that includes spay/neuter, microchipping, and other services may be more expensive than an adult dog plan that doesnt include these one-time services. In addition to the monthly fee, there is often a sign-up fee or one-time membership fee, which is paid up front.

How can a wellness plan help your pet?A wellness plan makes it easier for you to take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as you suspect a problem without worrying about the cost of the office visit or exam. Getting your pet to the veterinarian early means a diagnosis can be made earlier and treatment can begin earlierboth of which are potential life savers. Preventing health care problems or addressing them early gives your pet the best chance for a long and healthy life.

How will a wellness plan assist you in paying for veterinary care?Being able to budget for the cost of veterinary care is one of the many benefits of pet wellness plans. Rather than facing a large veterinary bill after your pets annual exam, vaccinations, or other health care services, a wellness plan allows you to pay for your pets care in manageable, monthly payments.

Will a wellness plan save you money?Preventing an illness is much easier and less expensive than treating it. A wellness plan allows and encourages pet owners to seek medical care for their pets when needed, rather than putting it off for financial reasons. Wellness plans offer more veterinary visits and services and can save you several hundred dollars each year because of the discounted services.

Does your veterinarian offer a wellness plan?Pet wellness plans are beginning to appear in veterinary hospitals across the country. Some hospitals have had them for years. Ask your veterinarian if he or she offers prepaid wellness plans to help keep your pet (and your wallet) healthy.

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What a wellness plan can do for your pet (and your ...

This summer, U.S. pet owners will celebrate Take Your Pet to Work Week, which wraps up with Take Your Dog to Work Day on June 22. This is a great opportunity for animal lovers to bring their dogs and cats to the office, and for employers to see the benefits of pets in the workplaceand in fact, those benefits are prompting a growing number of businesses to be pet-friendly all year long.

According to Chris Meiering, director of innovation at Zukes, a natural pet treat company located in Durango, Colorado, an average day at the office includes 25 staff members and 10 dogs, though sometimes there are more than 20 dogs on the companys campus at one time.

Having them by our side makes us happy, lowers our stress levels, and creates an environment that is comfortable, open, and flexible, he said. Some offices have water cooler conversations; we have dog playtime conversations. Their presence really builds camaraderie in the office.

Meiering said the dogs also remind employees to take breaks throughout the day.

They may need a walk, but really, we need one too! Its not uncommon for a lunch at Zukes to include a romp alongside the stream or a hike through the mountains, and a midday stretch can easily turn into a game of fetch among the trees, he said. This time with our dogs rejuvenates us and makes us more productive.

In addition, Meiering said the pet-friendly policy has led to staff retention over the past 20 years.

Life is better with the love of a dog, and if a tail-wagging friend is with you at the office, the same holds true for work, he said.

Tips for a dog-friendly workplace

Chris Meiering, director of innovation at Zukes, offers these tips for a successful dog-friendly workplace:

Weve been dog-friendly for over 20 years, so its an easy, natural environment for us, but from time to time, there will be problems, such as a dog that is consistently disruptive or aggressive, or an older dog with bladder issues. The best way to handle issues is to talk about them, Meiering said. Work together to find a solution thats best for the workplace and the dog.

Scientific studies have also confirmed the benefits of pets in the workplace. For example, a 2012 study by researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University found employees who brought their dogs to work had reduced stress throughout the day compared to colleagues without pets.

Studies have demonstrated that pets in the workplace contribute to stress reduction, as well as employee teamwork and satisfaction. Employees who can bring their pets to work are also more productive, said Steven Feldman, executive director of the Human Animal Bond Research Initiative (HABRI) Foundation in Washington, D.C. Employees feel supported and have a better perception of their employers if they can bring their pets to work. They are also more likely to collaborate and work better in teams because pets help forge social connections.

Humans arent the only ones benefitting from pet-friendly policies, either. In 2004, researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that humans who petted a dog for 1530 minutes during a study experienced approximately a 10 percent drop in blood pressure, while the dogs blood pressure dropped as soon as the humans began petting them. A day at the office also provides more stimulation for a dog than a day spent home alone in a crate or the backyard.

In addition, Feldman says the trend will increase the positive impact pet ownership has on U.S. health care costs.

We know that pets reduce stress, alleviate depression, improve heart health, and reduce obesity. We also know that pet owners visit the doctor less often than non-pet owners. In fact, pet ownership saves the U.S. healthcare system $11.7 billion every year, he said. Once we calculate the improved workplace productivity, the benefits will be even higher.

Feldman said companies considering a pet-friendly workplace should first develop common-sense policies for pets.

For example, pets must be current on their vaccinations, be on flea and tick prevention, and be well-trained. Veterinarians play a key role in partnering with pet owners so that their pets are ready for the office, he said. If having a happy, motivated workforce that works together is important, companies should strongly consider written pets-at-work policies.

Award-winning freelance journalist Jen Reeder considers herself extremely fortunate to work at home with her Labrador retriever mix, Rio.

Photo courtesy of Sarah Sturm

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The many benefits of pets in the workplace | AAHA

As too many cat lovers know, kidney disease is very common in felines, particularly as they age. The kidneys are responsible for many key bodily functions, from regulating blood pressure to removing toxins from the bloodstream. Unlike acute kidney failure, which occurs when a cat ingests something toxic, like antifreeze, lilies, or human anti-inflammatory medication, chronic kidney failure is irreversiblefunctioning kidney tissue is replaced by scar tissue, resulting in a loss of kidney function over time.

Treatment options can be daunting, particularly if the disease is advanced. Your veterinarian may recommend dialysis or other methods of keeping your cat comfortable. But theres another alternative to consider: kidney transplantation.

Success rates have been high for the few dedicated veterinary surgeons who perform feline renal transplants in the U.S. While most cats live an average of three years post-transplant, Lillian Aronson, VMD, BS, CACVS, founder and coordinator of the Feline Renal Transplant Program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, had one feline patient live an additional 13 years with his transplanted kidney.

For the right cat, it can be an excellent treatment option, said Aronson, who has performed over 150 feline kidney transplants. Ninety-three percent of our patients have left the hospital. Approximately 70 percent are alive and doing well at one year [post-transplant].

One of the things that makes kidney transplants a viable option for cats is the relative ease in finding a donor match.

Most cats have the same blood typeAand unlike dogs, they dont need to be related to be considered compatible.

Additionally, cats, like people, can live normal, healthy lives with just one kidney. In fact, Aronsons team conducted a study of 99 feline kidney donors from the program and found most had no associated long-term effects from kidney donation.

There is one caveat, however: If your cat needs a kidney transplant and a potential donor is found from an animal shelter or elsewhere, you must adopt the donor cat regardless of the outcome of the surgery, an ethical practice supported by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

Fortunately, Aronson said thats typically not an issue. Most owners are so grateful to the donor cat for helping save the life of their pet, they happily welcome a new addition into their home.

People get very attached, very quickly, Aronson said. Its really nice to see.

Feline renal transplants require a great amount of commitment, and whether youre ready to adopt a donor cat isnt the only thing to keep in mind. An uncomplicated surgery can cost anywhere from $15,000$18,000, plus $60$100 a month for anti-rejection medications and other drugs. While some pet insurance companies will help cover the cost of feline kidney transplant surgery and associated treatments, it is important to read your policy carefully and be mindful of any pre-existing conditions before scheduling the procedure.

After surgery, the recipient cat will need to have frequent veterinary exams to make sure the new kidney is working and to monitor potential complications. You will also need to give immunosuppressive medications at the same time every day to prevent your cats body from rejecting the new kidney.

While pursuing a kidney transplant for your cat is not a decision to be made lightly, some owners say its worthwhile despite the high level of commitment involved.

New York archeologist Andre Gonciar said he is glad he and his wife, Laure, decided to pursue a kidney transplant for their beloved cat, Oki, who was a sick, abandoned kitten when Gonciar rescued him years ago. Aronson performed Okis kidney transplant on May 18, 2015, removing a kidney from a donor cat named Cherry.

Now Oki and Cherry have celebrated their first transplantiversary and are both doing great. Cherry is settling into life in the Gonciar household, and Oki is a happy bubble of a cat, according to Gonciar.

There is no doubt in my mind that we have done the right thing, he said. Some sacrifices had to be made and caring for Oki forced quite a few changes in our lifestyle, getting it on a rather strict schedule. But at the end of the day, he falls asleep purring in my arms and we are all happy.

Award-winning pet writer Jen Reeder was thrilled to be able to donate her left kidney to her husband in 2012.

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Kidney transplants for cats: A viable option | AAHA

Learning your dog has cancer is a frightening experience, but according to the National Canine Cancer Foundation (NCCF), it is a diagnosis one out of every three dogs will receive during their lifetime. The good news is, about half of all canine cancers are treatable if they are caught early and several promising research studies are currently being conducted to help find a cure.

Cancer comes in many forms, including carcinoma, sarcoma, melanoma, lymphoma, and leukemia, and can occur at any age in both mixed breeds and purebreds. Listed below are the most common types of cancer affecting dogs and the signs to look for at home.

Lymphoma: Lymphoma occurs in cells in the lymph nodes or bone marrow and is most commonly diagnosed in dogs between the ages of 6 and 9 years old. Lymphoma affects the dogs immune system and can spread rapidly if left untreated. It is classified in five progressive stages and treatment options vary depending on the stage. The first sign of lymphoma is typically a painless, swollen lymph node in the neck or behind the knees.

Hemangiosarcoma: Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant cancer of the blood vessels. It is more common in dogs than any other species. Hemangiosarcoma is commonly diagnosed in the spleen, liver, and heart, but can travel to any organ or occur just under the skin. Because there are no distinct early warning signs for hemangiosarcoma, many dogs are not diagnosed until the disease has reached its advanced stages. It is often seen in German shepherd dogs, golden retrievers, and other large breeds.

Early warning signs of cancer:

Abnormal swelling

A sore that does not heal

Weight loss

Loss of appetite

Bleeding or discharge from anyopening on the body

Unpleasant or unusual odor

Difficulty eating or swallowing

Loss of energy

Ongoing lameness or stiffness

Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating

*Information from the National Canine Cancer Foundation (NCCF)

Mast cell tumors: Mast cell tumors are an extremely common form of cancer in older dogs and mixed breeds, as well as boxers, Boston terriers, Labrador retrievers, beagles, and schnauzers. Mast cells are found in the skin and other tissues, like the intestines or respiratory tract. They contain large amounts of histamines and enzymes that protect the body, but when tumors develop, that protection turns against the immune system. The first sign of a mast cell tumor is usually a lesion on the skin. Some mast cell tumors can also be uncomfortable and cause agitation.

Melanoma: Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can be found in the nail beds, footpads, and eyes, but the vast majority of melanoma tumors start in the mouth or around the lips. Melanoma tumors are highly aggressive, growing deep into the skin to invade vital organs. The first sign of melanoma might appear as a swollen paw, an eye that drains, or a sore in or near the mouth.

Osteosarcoma: Osteosarcoma is cancer of the bone. Approximately 85 percent of osteosarcoma tumors are malignant, and grow very quickly. Osteosarcoma commonly affects large breeds between the ages of 4 and 7 years old, including Great Danes, Irish setters, Doberman pinschers, Rottweilers, German shepherd dogs, and golden retrievers. While osteosarcoma can occur in any bone, it most commonly affects the limbs. Initial signs of osteosarcoma may include swelling and lameness.

Mammary cancer: According to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS), mammary tumors are more common in female dogs that are either not spayed or were spayed after 2 years of age. About 50 percent of all mammary tumors are malignant and have metastasized, or spread to other areas of the body, by the time they are surgically removed. Signs of mammary cancer are often overlooked because the tumors appear as a small nodule on or around the dogs nipple; however, this type of cancer can also present itself as a painful tumor around the nipple.

Promising canine cancer research

Yale School of Medicine has developed a new vaccine that may help dogs with cancer. They have teamed up with the Veterinary Cancer Center in Norwalk, Connecticut for a clinical trial to test the vaccine on real cancer patients. The vaccine is injected into a dog with the goal of producing antibodies to fight cancer. Yale University tested this vaccine in the laboratory and found it was successful at targeting and shrinking malignant tumors. Now they hope to create the same results with dogs battling the disease.

UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine is also performing a clinical trial to help dogs with lymphoma. They are reformulating the way the popular cancer drug, doxorubicin, is administered. Doxorubicin is widely used to treat cancer, but the medication can affect a dogs heart. UC Davis has developed a method to turn the drug into tiny particles and administer it by infusion. The goal is to have the medication flow directly to the tumor and lessen the chance of damaging other organs.

Both studies are in need of patients for the clinical trials.

Sharon Seltzer is a freelance writer and founder of Lessons From A Paralyzed Dog, a website for owners of dogs with paralysis and other mobility disorders. Shes a pet mom to two dogs and two semi-feral cats.

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6 most common canine cancers | AAHA

Vaccines have become an emotional issue among pet owners. And, while the science of pet vaccines is always a work in progress, there are some undeniable facts.

No medical development has had a greater impact on the prevention of diseases and general health of people and animals than the development of vaccines against various diseases, says Michael Paul, DVM, past president of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), and frequent vaccine task force advisor.

Animal vaccines help to control disease, many of which can affect people. At the top of the list is rabies. On WGN radio, Cook County Administrator of Rabies Control Donna Alexander, DVM said, Make no mistake, rabies does occur in the United States. We have a wildlife reservoir of rabies. The only reasonand I do mean the only reasonwe dont see it in [people] in this country is because we have laws mandating vaccination.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 55,000 people around the world die from rabies each yearthats approximately one death every 10 minutes. In the U.S., one to three people succumb to rabies each year.

Another disease controlled by vaccination is canine parvovirus. The disease emerged in the 1970s, and for some time veterinarians were powerless to stop it; dogs with parvovirus often died, and they still can. Today, however, the canine parvovirus barely occurs in some places. Its not because the virus has done a disappearing act; its because enough dogs are vaccinated to provide community protection, or herd immunity.

Where populations are less protected against the canine parvovirus, such as shelter populations, the virus appears and often spreads among those individuals not vaccinated.

So, vaccinations do what theyre supposed to do. But can there be too much of a good thing? Are we vaccinating our pets too often? This is a topic often discussed, and while theres some disagreement within the ranks, veterinarians do agree that just because a vaccine is available doesnt mean that all pets should receive it.

Factors that affect vaccine protocolsAccording to the AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines, whether a vaccine is suggested or not is dependent on the following factors:

Also, to lessen the possibility of adverse reactions or side effects, its often suggested that not all vaccines are given during the same veterinary visit.

To vaccinate or not to vaccinateSometimes choosing whether or not to vaccinate is easy. For rabies, its the law. Sometimes, however, those decisions arent so black and white.

During the recent canine influenza epidemic in Chicago, veterinarians werent all in agreement about supporting vaccination with the dog flu vaccine. Thats because the current vaccine was created for a flu strain called H3N8, and may not be effective against the strain of dog flu that infiltrated the Chicago area, called H3N2. Anecdotal evidence indicated the vaccine did offer some protection against the newer flu strain, and because the old flu strain still existed most veterinarians did recommend the vaccine for social dogs.

Far less was known 20 years ago about how often to immunize our pets and when to booster. Today we know more, but theres still much to learn. Organizations like AAHA, the American Association of Feline Practitioners, and others have created guidelines based on current scientific and medical knowledge, which veterinarians can consult when making health care recommendations for their patients.

Another tool to help determine which vaccinations are appropriate for a particular pet is a titer, although this tool is somewhat controversial. A titer is a laboratory test that measures the presence and amount of antibodies in blood that could defend against a particular disease. For example, instead of receiving a vaccine against the canine parvovirus, the dog could be titered. If the dogs titers are at a specific level, the veterinarian may deem no vaccine is necessary. Titering is not a perfect tool, however, and titers arent available for all vaccinations. Many veterinarians dont believe titering is an effective way to ensure a pets ability to fight off certain diseasesthey believe vaccinating the pet is the safest and most effective way to prevent disease.

At the end of the day, my hope is that pet owners develop a trusting relationship with their veterinarian, says Paul. Discussing each immunization is serious business, and you should review with your veterinarian whats right for your individual pet.

Steve Dale is a certified animal behavior consultant, author of a syndicated newspaper column (Tribune Content Agency), and the host of two national radio shows, including Steve Dales Pet World on WGN radio in Chicago, Ill.

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Pet vaccinations 101: What you need to know | AAHA

When a pet is diagnosed with cancer, chemotherapy treatment is often offered as a possible treatment option. The thought of putting a pet through chemotherapy can be frightening for some pet owners, though, particularly those who may have seen family or friends suffer through the side effects of chemo, or even experienced those side effects themselves. Dogs and cats, however, usually fare much better than their human counterparts when undergoing chemotherapy and dealing with the side effects of treatment.

Your veterinarian will advise you of specific side effects associated with the drugs theyre using to treat your pets cancer. While it is important to be aware of these possible side effects, it is also wise to watch your pet closely for any other signs that something is awry. Fever is a sign of infection and should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian immediately. Also watch for signs of lethargy or changes in appetite. Remember: No one knows your pet better than you, so if you think something is wrong, tell your veterinarian.

The three most common side effects of chemotherapy are bone marrow suppression, alopecia, and gastrointestinal upset.

Bone marrow suppressionChemotherapy drugs attack cells in the body that are rapidly dividing and producing, which is precisely what cancer cells typically do. There are good cells in the body, however, which also rapidly divide. White blood cells, produced in the bone marrow, are an example of these. Red blood cells can also become suppressed during chemotherapy, causing anemia in the animal.

Your veterinarian will check your pets white blood cell count through regular blood tests to determine how the chemotherapy is affecting the bone marrow. If the level of white blood cells is low, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection introduced by opportunistic bacteria, which are normally kept in check by the white blood cells.

AlopeciaWhile alopecia, or hair loss, is a common side effect of chemotherapy in humans, it is not all that common in animals. Certain breeds are more likely to experience hair loss, and they are usually breeds with continuously growing hair, such as poodles, Portuguese water dogs, shih tzu, and Maltese. These breeds may expect to see a general thinning of the hair coat, rather than a total loss of hair.

Hair may also be slow to regrow in areas that have been shaved. If your pet is receiving chemotherapy via injection into a blood vessel, your veterinarian will need to shave a spot to place an IV catheter to give the injection.

The coat usually grows back after the course of chemotherapy is completed, however, like humans who receive chemotherapy, the hair that regrows is sometimes a different color or texture than it was before chemotherapy. This may or may not change back over time.

Cats, and sometimes dogs, can also lose their whiskers during chemotherapy treatments. Like the hair coat, the whiskers may grow back after chemo looking different than they previously did.

Gastrointestinal upsetLike blood cells in the bone marrow, the gastrointestinal tract (throat, stomach, and intestines) is also made of rapidly dividing cells. Chemotherapy drugs are unable to discern these good cells from the bad cancer cells and will attack them. If the good gastrointestinal cells are seeing more than their fair share of attack from the chemo drugs, your veterinarian may adjust the dose of the chemo to balance the effect on your pet.

Vomiting and diarrhea may be seen 1-3 days post-chemotherapy treatment. Duration is usually short term, and your veterinarian may prescribe medications to ease these side effects. You might also want to adjust your pets diet during this time; a bland diet may be easier on your pets tender tummy. Boiled chicken and rice are often go-to options to try when your pets regular food doesnt seem to be sitting well.

If you notice signs of gastrointestinal upset, be sure to notify your veterinarian: she may want to treat the side effects if they warrant it.

Are the side effects worth it?The main goal of veterinary cancer treatment is to maintain quality of life. Although pets may experience some side effects of treatment, those symptoms are typically milder than symptoms that humans experience, and many pets go into remission after just a few doses of chemotherapy.

If your veterinarian recommends chemotherapy for your pet, be sure to discuss all the ramifications thoroughly. While your pet may experience some unpleasant side effects, the hope is that all those bad cancer cells will be wiped out by the chemotherapy drugs, and your pet will go on to live a happy life.

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Pets and chemotherapy: Side effects to prepare for | AAHA

Ive never seen such a look of betrayal as was in Tomkins eyes when he came home from the veterinary hospital. Traumatized by the poking, prodding, bright lights, and sharp tools, he cowered in his corner, refusing even his favorite treats. It took days before he finally showed his sparkly new grin, and I knew I could never subject him to a nonanesthetic dental cleaning again.

The 2013 AAHA Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats clearly state cleaning a companion animals teeth without general anesthesia is considered unacceptable and below the standard of care. This means the pain and stress a pet faces during a nonanesthetic dental cleaning are so great that to subject your pet to this type of procedure when safer, more comfortable methods are available is considered cruel. Thankfully, the use of anesthesia and a personalized pain control plan can mitigate many of the risks associated with nonanesthetic procedures.

Pets rely on their owners to provide for their needs. When dogs and cats undergo a nonanesthetic dental cleaning, they can often be overwhelmed by the bright lights, loud equipment, and strange people restraining them. This can place your pet under significant stress and even cause lasting trauma. Anesthetized dental procedures allow your pet to rest comfortably while the veterinary team performs a thorough exam and cleaning without the risk of injury to himself or others.

Anesthesia also allows your veterinarian to properly evaluate your pets teeth. Did you know that 60 percent of a dog or cats tooth is hidden beneath the gum line? Dental X-rays obtained while the pet is under anesthesia allow the veterinarian to fully examine each tooth and identify problems that cannot be seen with the naked eyeand additional treatment can often be provided on the spot.

So, what should you expect when your pet undergoes general anesthesia? First, your veterinarian will want to examine your pet and perform a blood test to ensure there are no health issues prior to the procedure. Based on the results and your pets medical history, your veterinarian will create a customized plan and anesthetic protocol for your pet.

Most pets recover from anesthesia quickly. According to the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC), many patients are fully recoveredmeaning they are awake and standingjust 1520 minutes after the procedure is completed. Anesthetized dental cleanings are also an outpatient procedure, so your pet can go home with you the same day.

Just like humans, pets are at risk for cavities, periodontal disease, and broken teethall of which are sources of significant pain. By taking your dog or cat in for an anesthetized dental procedure in which the veterinary team can thoroughly examine and clean all their teeth safely, you ensure a healthy, happy future for your pet.

Chris Nichols is a freelance writer living in Michigan with her cranky cat and elderly dog.

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The truth about dental anesthesia | AAHA

If your aging dog or cat starts acting strange, dont chalk it up to old age or think he needs a refresher course in potty trainingmake an appointment with your veterinarian.

Why? There may be several causes for unusual behavior in senior pets, including one most owners typically dont think about: cognitive dysfunction syndrome or CDS.

Many pet owners mistake the gradual advancement of dementia as aging changes that are to be expected in an elderly dog or cat, says author and columnist Jeff Nichol, DVM, of the Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital of New Mexico in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Senior pets should function mentally almost as well, if not as well, as they did as youngsters, Nichol says. While older pets may have moderate hearing and/or sight impairment, they should not have noticeable changes in their mental activity.

For pets with CDS, however, it is another story. CDS is a degenerative inflammatory disease of the brain very similar to the human dementia of Alzheimers disease. Studies show that it affects more than a third of dogs over age 11 and more than two-thirds over age 15. In cats, those numbers are likely similar; however, less is known about cats because fewer studies have been conducted.

Because they are with their pets daily, pet owners will be the first to notice the symptoms, says Gary Landsberg, DVM,DACVB,DECAWBM, veterinarybehaviorist at North Toronto Veterinary Behaviour Specialty Clinic.

Pets suffering from CDS may seem disoriented, perhaps going to the wrong side of the door when wanting to go outside or wandering aimlessly around the home. They may be restless or wake at night and be less active during the day. They may become anxious and irritable. They may have decreased interest in interacting or, just the opposite, may become clingy. They may also forget their house training behaviors.

While research is advancing understanding of CDS, a cure has not yet been found. However, there are ways to slow its progress. Because the disease can be significant, a visit to the veterinarian at the first sign of atypical behavior is key.

Diagnosis is based on recognizing the behavioral changes and excluding other medical conditions and drug side effects. If it is determined that your pet has CDS, discuss possible treatment options with your veterinarian.

Treatment options may include:

Nichol has been working on his own research into CDS and found that a varied approach of supplements and daily exercise is helping many of his patients.

If you dont get on it early and decisively, you may not have time, he says, noting that some pets deteriorate rapidly while others have a slow decline.

Some of these pets get so totally confused. They dont remember their owners or their house training. They walk into corners and stand there. They really have no life anymore, he says. [Thats why] pet owners need to bring their concerns to the veterinarians attention.

Maureen Blaney Flietner, an award-winning freelance writer, photographer and artist, has been mom to several dogs, cats, and horses over the years.

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Alzheimers-like disease in pets needs quick attention | AAHA

One of the most common questions veterinarians hear each week is, When should I spay or neuter my dog or cat? With so much conflicting advice from friends, breeders, and the Internet, it can be difficult to find an answer, which is why the best option is to talk to your pets veterinarian.

Patrick Mares-Ziehmn, DVM, veterinarian at AAHA-accredited Prescott Animal Hospital in Prescott, Ariz., says he counsels pet owners about spay and neuter issues every week. If clients are not planning to breed their pets, Mares-Ziehmn says he typically recommends spaying female dogs or cats when they are 4 to 6 months oldbefore the first heat cycledue to the medical benefits.

If you spay a dog after her first heat cycle, she goes from having a 0.5 percent risk of [developing] mammary tumors up to an 8 percent risk, he says. If you wait until after her second heat cycle, its almost a 26 percent risk.

This benefit extends to cats as well. According to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS), kittens spayed before 6 months old are seven times less likely to develop mammary cancer.

Mares-Ziehmn also suggests spaying dogs to avoid pyometra, a life-threatening infection of the uterus. By age 4, he says 15.2 percent of unaltered female dogs will develop pyometra. By age 10, that risk rises to 2324 percent.

While Mares-Ziehmn notes that the risk is reduced if the dog has several litters, a spay surgery, which removes the uterus and ovaries, eliminates the risk completely.

Neutering a young dog or cat is a simple procedure that may be performed as early as 8 weeks of age. In fact, AAHA supports pediatric neutering to help reduce the overpopulation problems affecting companion animals.

One major health benefit to neutering a dog is that it virtually eliminates the risk of prostate issues, including infection and prostatic hyperplasia, an enlargement of the prostate that creates difficulty defecating.

By age 6, 7580 percent of unaltered male dogs will have benign prostatic hyperplasia, thanks to testosterone, Mares-Ziehmn says. By age 9, its 95100 percent. If you neuter them, you take that [risk] off the table.

He adds that neutering dogs also prevents the spread of transmissible venereal tumors (a sexually transmitted disease) and perineal hernias, in which testosterone weakens the muscles around the anus and allows abdominal content to push though, while neutering cats protects against testicular cancer.

Neutering also reduces or eliminates unwanted behaviors like spraying in male cats, roaming in dogs, and aggression before theyve had all that testosterone build up in their system, he says.

Some pet owners may have concerns that sterilizing their pets will lead to obesity. This is a valid concern, though Mares-Ziehmn points out that proper diet and exercise can easily solve the issue.

We have control of the food. Most dogs and cats cant access the refrigerator or our food, he says. That should be a non-problem when deciding whether to spay or neuter, in my opinion.

Other pet owners say they want to wait to spay their dogs or cats until after they produce a litter so their children can witness the miracle of birth. However, Mares-Ziehmn says, not every birth is smooth, and animals shouldnt have a litter until they have reached full adult size if they are to be bred responsibly.

Instead, he suggests his clients consider fostering a pregnant dog or cat from a local animal shelter.

Then youre doing a good deed and not bringing even more animals into the world, he says.

Mares-Ziehmn has also heard concerns about the risks of anesthesia, and questions about Zeutering, a chemical castration process. He says he has never performed a neuter this way because there are not any long-term studies on the procedure.

Instead, he says AAHA mandates excellent anesthesia protocols that make the risk of anesthesia for young, healthy animals astronomically low. As a matter of fact, Mares-Ziehmn says AAHAs strong anesthesia protocols are one reason he works at an accredited practice.

Finally, Mares-Ziehmn said spaying and neutering pets is important not just from a health and behavior standpoint, but because it helps address the issue of pet overpopulation. Each year, approximately 1.2 million dogs and 1.4 million cats are euthanized in the U.S., according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

As a society, we need to make that choice of whether we want to tackle that problem head on, he says.

Freelance journalist Jen Reeders dog, Rio, was neutered at an animal shelter when he was 12 weeks old, and he has been healthy and happy ever since.

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Spay and neuter when the time is right | AAHA

January is Walk Your Pet Month, a great time to get outside and exercise with your pup. But what if your dog needs space from other dogs or people? Dont resort to walking your dog at midnight. With patience, ongoing training, and expert advice, you can successfully manage your dogs leash reactivity.

It's easy to get overwhelmed with all the information circulating out there about what to do with your reactive dog and how best to help them improve, said Scott Raymond, MS, CPDT-KA, a certified professional dog trainer with Synergy Behavior Solutions in Portland, Oregon.

Misleading information can also result in the development of even more significant behavioral issues, he said.

Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to punish a dog to make them act better, Raymond said. Having a consistent management plan and a solid rewards-based approach to training can help a lot.

According to animal behaviorist, ethologist, and adjunct professor in zoology at the University of WisconsinMadison, Patricia McConnell, PhD, CAAB, it is important to gain confidence walking your reactive dog to build resiliencethe process of adapting well in the face of significant stress.

Exercise and time outdoors have a profound effect on dogs and people, both on healing from drama and building resilience, she said.

Below are great resources and tips you can put to use right away to help correct and manage reactive behaviorand create a better walk for you and your dog.

Setting your reactive dog up for success

Training ideas

At the veterinarian

Living with a reactive dog also presents challenges when it comes to veterinary appointments.

AAHA-accreditedFrontier Veterinary Hospitalin Hillsboro, Oregon, created special corrals that keep reactive pets separate in the waiting room for this very purpose.

Our biggest tool, however, is our workflow, Frontier's practice development director, Sara Fleissner, said. We room clients as soon as possible upon entering the building. Sometimes, the customer service representative sees [clients] in the parking lot and greets them the moment they walk in. Then, everything happens in the room: taking of history, doctor exam and communication, and most importantly, checkout. This minimizes the interaction between patients in the building.

This is important for all patients, whether they are fearful, reactive, or excited, Fleissner added.

Many dogs need space. If you live with a dog that has leash reactivity, there are many solutions and tools at your disposal. Remember that walking a reactive dog at midnight is one option, but not the only option.

As a certified veterinary technician, longtime PR veteran, and content marketing expert, Christy Caplan brings her unique understanding of social and digital media to connect dog lovers to brands both on and offline. She lives with three houndstwo doxies and a beagle/basset hound mixwho constantly teach her about life and companionship. Christy is a member of the Dog Writers Association of America and writes for Spot Magazine, City Dog Magazine, and regional animal publications. Follow Christy at mylifewithdogspdx.com.

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Walking a reactive dog: Tips and tricks | AAHA

Those of us who have experienced an injury or surgery know just how beneficial physical therapy can be. Rehabilitation exercises lessen pain, strengthen muscles, and speed up the recovery process, helping the body to get back into shape after a traumatic event.

But physical therapy isnt just for humans anymore. Rehabilitation is increasingly prescribed for our canine companions to address issues such as mobility, pain, and joint damage due to orthopedic surgery, musculoskeletal injury, arthritis, obesity, paralysis, neurological disease, and more.

If youve seen one of those cute videos of a dog trying to walk on an underwater treadmill or balance on a big exercise ball, you have seen a small part of canine physical therapy at work. Common conditions that benefit from physical therapy may include:

Physical therapy techniques

There are many different physical therapy techniques available for pets, including:

Where to find a physical therapist

Veterinary physical therapy is a relatively young profession. Some of the first specialists were physical therapists for humans who wanted to share their skills with animals. Today, private and university-based programs certify veterinary professionals and physical therapists in animal rehabilitation.

Despite being a relatively new form of treatment, rehabilitation is a growing resource for dogs and their owners and practitioners can be found in most major cities. Talk to your veterinarian to determine whether physical therapy is a good fit for your dog. If so, she can provide a referral or you can find a local qualified therapist through an online directory, such as Canine Rehabilitation Institutes Find a Therapist tool.

Sharon Seltzer is a freelance writer and founder of Lessons From A Paralyzed Dog, a website for owners of dogs with paralysis and other mobility disorders. Shes pet mom to a Rottweiler puppy named Bailey and two semi-feral cats.

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Could my dog benefit from physical therapy? | AAHA