Lobbyists spread misinformation about farmed meat – The Animal Doctor

DEAR READERS: Living in Minnesota, where we usually have a lot of snow (but certainly not during this climate-altered winter), a popular outdoor recreational activity is riding a sled pulled by a team of happy, healthy dogs. I have seen their joy! But these two news reports confirm what I have long been calling for: an end to competitive dog sled racing.

First, a study in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that 51.3% of dogs competing in the Yukon Quest dog sled race from 2018 to 2020 had at least one health abnormality in their veterinary reports, and nearly a third dropped out of the race was deleted. due to injuries or other health problems. A third of the dogs suffered orthopedic injuries, and some showed signs of gastrointestinal or cardiorespiratory disease. (Full study: “Evaluation of Injuries and Illnesses Occurring during the Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race,” JC Hattendorf, et al, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, February 2024)

Second, five dogs died while training for this year’s Iditarod, and three others died during the race. Necropsies are being performed on the dogs killed during the race, two of which were part of teams led by novice mushers. The other was on a musher-led team in his second Iditarod. (Full story: Associated Press, March 14)

Running and racing dogs, like most human runners, experience a “high” of endorphins and cannabinoids with physical exertion. This can force them to death if they have a heart or metabolic problem, or seriously injure them. In many cases, dogs that have suffered serious joint or limb injuries are likely to have had previous injuries or deformities due to poor nutrition, training and care.

We owe these dogs, some of whom are famous for their roles in rescue missions, a reprieve. We need to stop competitive (and lucrative) dog sled racing forever.

DEAR DR. FOX: I’m having problems with my 2-year-old Patterdale terrier/Chihuahua mix, which I adopted from a shelter six months ago. Overall he is a sweet, well-behaved dog, but he is usually only around women. When around male visitors he becomes aggressive and unpredictable. Recently, he spent about 15 minutes affectionately cuddling a male visitor before suddenly biting him hard enough to leave a mark.

I’d love to take him to a trainer, but I’m having trouble finding an experienced trainer who won’t hold him overnight. I do my best to learn from trainers online, but there is quite a bit of conflicting advice.

Do you have any suggestions? Are there any dog ​​behaviorists you recommend? Can you find a good trainer who works with owners? –MF, Cortland, New York

DEAR MF: My late wife, Deanna Krantz, had a rescued dog named Friday who would bite any hand that was slowly extended to him. Everyone was warned and taught to accept this neurotic, fear-based behavior. This is probably the best approach to take: acceptance and warnings for male visitors.

Many dogs become attached to their female owners. If there is limited socialization with the opposite sex and little opportunity to get used to their different scents/pheromones, these dogs may feel their bond is threatened and exhibit aggressive behavior towards males.

Jealousy is also a consideration. My dog ​​Kota is not aggressive, but pushes between me and every other dog I meet and greet.

There are certified animal behaviorists you may want to consult with if your veterinarian does not have referrals to offer. For more information, write to: [email protected].

If you have an understanding male friend, I recommend desensitizing and acclimatizing your dog. Have your friend walk the dog on a leash, with you at the side. Train the dog to sit and stay, and have the man give him a treat every now and then. If you are at home, have your friend groom your dog and encourage the dog to play, catch, or chase a ball or a squeaky toy. But don’t overstimulate/overstimulate him!

Gradually, your dog should accept this male presence in his life and from then on generalize to accept other male visitors. I discourage such visitors from holding and cuddling the dog, at least for the time being. Give the dog his own space and he will find his place at the center of your social life.

(Send all mail to [email protected] or to Dr. Michael Fox Attn: Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106. The volume of mail received prohibits personal responses, but questions and comments of general interest will be addressed in future columns are discussed.

Visit Dr.’s website Fox at DrFoxOneHealth.com.)