Dr. Todd Prince owns dogs of several different breeds. A graduate of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Todd Prince first became board certified in small animal practice in 1993. He was recertified in 2002 and 2012.
There are a number of steps dog owners should take when introducing a new animal to the pack. First and foremost, the introduction between a new dog and the resident family dog should take place on neutral territory in a space where either dog can seek out a private area for a break. This means that any family dogs should be left at home when the new dog is retrieved from the shelter or a breeder, because a car is potentially the worst setting for an introduction. Both dogs should be on leashes when they first meet and as they gradually become acquainted. Some dogs may become best friends immediately, while others may require more time. The key to getting along at home is to keep the dogs from fighting in the early days by removing toys and giving each dog individualized attention. If the in-home relationship begins with territorial arguments over a bed or which dog eats first, a rivalry will form, and this will be hard to undo as time passes. Once each dog understands its place in the household, it should be relatively easy to maintain a harmonious relationship moving forward. board-certified small animal practitioner, Dr. Todd Prince has served as a veterinarian for more than 25 years. Dr. Todd Prince focuses on preventive and wellness care for dogs and cats.
A highly contagious illness, feline leukemia (FeLV) is contracted when a cat who has not been vaccinated against the disease comes into contact with an infected cat. If a cat does contract feline leukemia, he or she stands an 85 percent chance of dying within five years. However, owners can improve an infected cat's comfort level and quality of life through regular wellness care. Care for the FeLV-infected cat begins with a diet free of unpasteurized milk and other raw animal products. The immunosuppression of FeLV makes cats highly susceptible to infection by the bacteria in these foods. Cats with FeLV should also receive veterinary checkups at least twice per year, as these animals are more susceptible than healthy cats to gum disease, parasites, and other infections. For the same reason, FeLV-positive cats should receive a full blood count semiannually at minimum and should be vaccinated on a schedule recommended by a veterinarian. Owners should also take care to keep the cat away from unvaccinated or sick cats for the safety of all animals involved. |
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