Veterinary Knowledge- Canine Trivia Quiz

Answer: False

Although adult worms sometimes do shed in the stool and can be seen, the majority of intestinal parasite infestations can only be detected through a microscopic fecal exam. This test looks for the eggs of the different parasites which are not visible to the naked eye.

It is, however, a good idea to observe your dog's solid waste on a regular basis to look for the possibility of worms, blood, mucus, or other easily observable signs of a health possible health problem.

Answer: FeLV

FeLV is a feline disease.

Answer: brushing with a vet approved dental paste and soft tooth brush

The very best way to control tartar build-up, gingivitis, and bad breath is daily brushing. Be sure to use a vet approved toothbrush and toothpaste. Even the softest human brush isn't as soft as a dog toothbrush and the fluoride in our paste can make dogs ill. Establish this habit very early with your new puppy. Safe chew toys and crunchy tartar control treats and foods are great, but nothing is a substitute for the tooth brush.

Although rawhide can be somewhat effective in keeping teeth clean, it does not breakdown if ingested and if your dog swallows a big enough piece, it can cause an obstruction- this means major surgery!

Answer: see your vet immediately

Ear infections can be simple or serious, either way you should see a doctor. Most infections are either fungal (yeast) or bacterial- these require 2 different types of medication. Ears should only be cleaned with an approved canine ear wash. Never attempt to place a cotton swab in your dog's ear canal. Leave this to medical personal who are familiar with the anatomy of the canine ear- you can cause permanent and painful damage.

Answer: Chow Chow

Answer: False

Heartworm is a deadly parasite carried by mosquitos. As you know, it only takes a second to be bitten by one of those little guys, so ALL dogs are at risk.

Answer: any of these

Before dismissing your dog's urinating in the house as a behavior problem, discuss it with your vet. It can be a symptom of several very serious medical conditions.

Answer: False

Dogs contain two small sacs on either side of the rectum called 'anal glands.' These glands fill with fluid and should empty naturally each time your dog passes a bowel movement. Sometimes, these glands do not empty and this leave the dog very uncomfortable.

The scooting is a way of relieving the full feeling. This problem can usually be fixed by adding more fiber to your dog's diet, therefore bulking up the stool and putting more pressure on those glands to express on their own. They can become infected or cancerous (especially in German Shepards), so check with your vet before doing anything.

Answer: An approved canine anti-inflammatory drug

Never, ever, ever give your pet a pain killer out of your drug cabinet! Aspirins are blood thinners and can cause or irritate an already existing internal bleed. Acetaminophen can cause fatal hepatic (liver) damage in dogs. There are several drugs formulated specifically for canine use- safe for their internal organs and metabolism. Even with these drugs, it is still a good idea to have a blood test to check your dog's internal organ function before use.

Answer: 5-6 months old

The current practice is to spay or neuter your dog around 5-6 months of age. For males, early neutering can prevent such sexually dominant behavior as humping and marking with urine. Neutered males are also far less likely to wander. For females, early spaying (before the first heat cycle) can prevent exposure to the female hormone estrogen. The more exposures your female dog (or cat) has to estrogen, the higher her risk of female cancer becomes. Mammary neoplasia (breast cancer) is a major killer of intact female dogs and cats.

Studies in the early 2000s indicate that neutering your dog at such an early age may cause other health problems such as bone cancer and cruciate ligament disease. The practice of castration or spaying at 5-6 months may change to a later date as further studies bring more evidence.