Ask The Vet RadioShow Notes

Show #: 06-102

Show Description: “Rabies, Vaccinations and Pet Bites”

Audio Files: ATVR-06-102.mp3, ATVR-06-102.wma

This week’s Ask The Vet Radio showcased information about rabies, vaccinations, and dog bites. Dr. Tracy Dewhirst, along with several guests, discussed these topics in detail as well as took various pet questions from callers. 

Show Notes & Resources:

  • Dr. Rupert, Chief of the rabies program at the CDC (Center for Disease Control), took the time to talk to listeners about rabies, treatment for the rare human exposure, and gave information on the different varieties of animals that can carry the disease. More information on rabies can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/rabies/ .

  • One of our callers asked about wild coyotes/wolves spreading rabies and information on how to take precautions from these animals.  Dr. Tracy Dewhirst reminded listeners to keep our pets vaccinated at all times to eliminate the possibility of rabies infections.  Information on oral vaccines for wild animals can be found at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ws/rabies/index.html .

  • Dr. Sims, from the University of Tennessee School of Veterinary Medicine, told listeners about National Dog Bite Prevention Week and classes on Saturday May 20.  This is a good chance for children to learn good manners and stay safe around dogs.  The class will be both fun and educational. Bring the kids to meet Rufus and the gang and receive free goodies! Sign up soon, space is limited.
    For more info, visit www.vet.utk.edu/rufus .

  • Don Bosch, attorney at law from the Bosch Law Firm, PC, was in the studio to explain the legalities involving pet ownership regarding pet bites.  He explained that pet owners are usually the ones deemed responsible, so don’t take the risk! Take precautions by keeping your animals on leashes at all times and up-to-date on their shots! More info on pet legal issues can be found at http://www.lib.utk.edu/agvet/veterinary/pethealth.html#laws .

  • One listener had a problem with controlling his dog’s weight. Here is a simple formula for calculating how many calories your pet needs per day to maintain weight control: Choose the ideal weight for your animal then divide that number by 2.2 (which converts the pounds to kilograms).  Don’t forget to use their desired weight, NOT their current weight.

    30 X (desired animal wt. in kilograms) + 70 = number of calories per day

    Example:          20 lb dog (20 / 2.2 = 9 kilograms)  
                                        30 x (9) + 70 = 342 calories per day
               
    Find out how many calories are in a cup of your pet food, and then feed the appropriate cups to your pet daily.  Remember: This is per DAY, so be sure to divide the amount of cups if you feed more than once a day.  Also, any treats given to your animal increases calories so adjust the total amount accordingly to accommodate the extra calories.