Vet’s Views
SB Mathur
One of the most experienced veterinary specialists in India, Dr SB Mathur is running a successful practice in Lucknow
Q: My young Labrador eats grass. Is it okay? Dipti Chaturvedi
It is not really okay because you don’t know if they are toxic weeds that you term as grass. Though, it is believed that dogs eat when they wish to vomit or have digestive issues, it is best to try and understand why it is doing so. A vet may diagnose the issue and may also provide deworming tablets, if required.
Q: I have an 11-year-old dog. Lately he is behaving oddly. Can it be dementia? Rohit Saxena
Dogs over the age of 11 can show signs of cognitive decline, which some might refer to as dementia. So, the answer to your question is a yes, it is possible for an older to dog to suffer from cognitive decline or dementia. If your dog seems lethargic, not interested in usual activities, there is a change in its sleeping patterns or seems confused, it could be cognitive decline syndrome. It is not curable, but the symptoms can be treated. Sometimes, our dogs just get old; and when that happens, it seems their old bodies cannot behave like when they were young. There are some things you can do however to help your pet in this situation. When a diagnosis is given, you as the owner can choose to either purchase medication for your pet to help slow the decline or go with therapy options. Both options, especially if used together, can be of great help to your pet.
Q: When should I give my pet medication for fleas, or ticks? Rita Singh
It is always best to consult with your vet regarding any specific pet medication question. That being said, there are some general guidelines you can follow regarding these types of common treatments. Flea medication can be applied as a preventative or on an as-needed basis, i.e., when infestation occurs. There are various types of flea medication including pills and ointment. Some work better than others, so talk to your vet. Much of the time, medications combat both ticks and fleas at the same time. During the months of summer and rains, the likelihood of infestation is at its highest, but that doesn’t mean you can start giving over-the-counter medication to your pet. The treatment should be done as and when required, so be careful.
Q: Why does my dog sometimes eat his own feces? Sanjana Mehta
The reality is, some canines just do that. An animal might eat his feces or that of another pet when he feels that he needs some kind of vitamin that is lacking in his diet; or a pet might do this when he has “messed up” by pooping in the house. The theory is that the pet understands he might get in trouble for his action and therefore eats up the poop to hide the evidence.
Q: Can I give my pet Benadryl for cough/chest allergies? Balraj
Benadryl is a very common treatment option to help pets with allergies and other problems. So yes, it is okay to give it to your pet. However, you need to consult with a vet about dosage and whether your pet in particular would benefit from the medication. Generally, dogs and cats are given proper dosage amounts based on their size, so find out from your pet doctor just how much your pet may need.
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