Feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus are incurable, but they are not an immediate death sentence for a cat, writes veterinarian Mike Fietz. Vaccines for the viruses are helpful but not completely effective, and infected cats that are kept indoors and receive regular veterinary care to prevent and treat secondary conditions can live full, long lives, Dr. Fietz writes.

As researchers tout the physical and environmental benefits of a plant-based diet for humans, a growing number of people have put their pets on plant-based diets, according to the AVMA, but what is good for people is not necessarily good for their dogs and cats. Veterinarian Megan Shepherd notes that dogs are omnivores, not herbivores, research on plant-based diets is scant, and a veterinarian should be consulted about food choices to ensure dogs are getting adequate amino acids and other dietary components.

Mood changes, an increased respiratory rate, lethargy, and changes in grooming habits, sleep patterns or behavior are all signs of pain in dogs and cats, and animal care experts suggest that all pets be evaluated annually for indicators of pain. Painful conditions are more easily treated if they are diagnosed at an early stage, says Carol Erickson with the Pennsylvania SPCA.

Brutus & Barnaby of Clearwater, Florida is recalling all size variations of our Pig Ears for Dogs because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.
Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.
Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.
Bags of our Pig Ears were distributed throughout all states via Amazon.com, Chewy.com, Brutusandbarnaby.com and the brick and mortar Natures Food Patch in Clearwater, Florida.
The product is identified by our trademarked logo  and says “Pig Ears 100% Natural Treats for Dogs”.  These were available in 4 different sizes:

• 8 Count
• 12 Count
• 25 Count
• 100 Count

Brutus & Barnaby has ceased the production and distribution of the product as FDA and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.
Consumers who have purchased Brutus & Barnaby pig ears are urged to destroy any remaining product not yet consumed and to contact the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-489-0970   Monday-Friday 9am-5 PM EST.

Veterinarians and staff at SeaWorld are raising a male manatee rescued by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee officials when it was two to four weeks old. The pup is the 17th to undergo rehabilitation at SeaWorld this year.

Dogs in households with children are prone to boredom and anxiety when summer break ends and children return to school, but giving them ample exercise and mind-stimulating activities can alleviate both, says veterinarian Katy Nelson. Veterinarians can help with dogs that start behaving problematically, Dr. Nelson says.