Default Blog

Even before the pandemic, travel by car with the family pet has been on the rise. With each passing year more people want all family members to join in on road trips. Now with increased pet adoption numbers combined with the increased need to safely get-away, pet travel by car has skyrocketed according to many surveys, including one by Kurgo.com. According to their survey 56 percent of dog parents have driven somewhere to get-away with a dog over the past year. However, has anyone asked the dogs how they feel regarding these road trips? Certainly, all dogs want to be with us. But they don’t all clearly love car rides. Some are anxious/fearful about being in the moving vehicle, others get car sick, and others are anxious – at least in part because they know they’re going to get sick. For dogs who get car sick, don’t feed them before the ride. And ask your veterinarian about anti-nausea medication. However, for all dogs who suffer from fear of car rides – no matter what the reason is, behavior medication can be hugely helpful. And remember the idea is to set up your dog up for success. Here’s a six-step protocol: Begin by talking with your veterinarian about minimizing anxiety – whether the solution is a pharmaceutical and/or nutraceutical and/or pheromones, depends on the dog and the level of anxiety. However, getting a product on board can be helpful to facilitate learning. Tomlyn’s Relax & Calm could be a great start (see inset). Take your dog to the car and simply toss a favorite toy or treats onto the back seat. Don’t think about starting the car, though you can get into the car as if you may start it. The idea is that the car becomes a playground. Also, periodically take the food dish to the car, and feed your dog from inside the car or offer special treats; when finished eating simply return to the house where the dog gets another special treat, as good things always happen following an experience in the car. When the dog is totally comfortable playing in the car, the next step is to simply start the car and drive down the driveway and no further. Give the pup something to distract, such as a treat stuffed well inside a Kong or another toy. We don’t want the dog eating much now because if car sickness is an issue, exasperating that problem is that last thing you want. However, just a few licks of low-fat/low salt peanut butter, for example, aren’t enough to cause car sickness but will be enough to distract the pup. Upon walking back into the house, the dog gets fed, which will be a constant theme – good things happen after the dog is in the car. After a few days of driveway driving, drive down the block and then around the block. Same as above, distract with a very, very special treat. If the dog is too anxious to pay attention to the treat, you sadly need to back it up to step number two. Remember, upon returning home, the dog gets fed. Drive to a nearby dog-friendly destination, a park, a dog park, a pet store, a friend’s house with a favorite dog buddy – whatever your dog will enjoy and repeat this several times. Same as above, distract with a special treat during the drive, and upon returning home, the dog gets a meal. Finally, drive to a more ambitious location, further away, maybe for a 40 minute to one-hour drive. As before, leave a toy or two for the dog to work at getting a treat from. And as always, when returning home, the dog receives a meal. This six—step process doesn’t happen overnight and could take weeks to months – depending on the dog and how often you’re able to follow the protocol. However, the behavior modification, likely paired with a product or products to ease anxiety can make all the difference in the world – turning an anxious journey into a pleasurable trip. Tomlyn’s Relax & Calm is an easy-to-give and delicious chicken flavored chew. Two active ingredients, L-tryptophan and chamomile help promote a sense of calm and relaxation. Our third active ingredient, ginger, helps settle uneasy stomachs that often accompany stress in our pets. Tomlyn’s Relax & Calm should be given two to three hours prior to a stressful event. Owners should give small dogs and cats 1 chew per 10 lbs. of body weight.

Turkey Day may be fun for us to gather with family, but it’s one of those days when veterinary emergency clinics are most busy.Dumpster diving and counter surfing are dangerous sports for dogs and cats - as turkey and also chicken bones can be a choking hazard. These bones can easily splinter causing a real and urgent, potentially life-threatening emergency. Also, that fatty skin on turkey or chicken can cause acute pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which could easily cause Thanksgiving to be interrupted with an emergency visit to the ER, and this is no laughing matter as pancreatitis is potentially fatal. Mostly it is treatable, but we’re talking days or even weeks of special care following the incident. Aunt Sally and Uncle Buddy love your pets and they mean well but are also notorious for sneaking food to your pets from the table. Aside from potentially including bones and that turkey skin, they may simply be feeding far too much.For even a 50-lb dog, a few slices of turkey is akin to us eating three or four times as much, and for a 15 lb. dog a few slices is like us eating a half a bird, and the same goes for cats. Most chow hounds will continue to eat even though they have had way too much.The reality check is that most pet parents are going to feed some turkey even if warnings are offered. So be sure to offer what is appropriate for the size of the pet, which may likely be a single, VERY SMALL slice of turkey, and no fat please. However, another issue is that without you being aware, the entire family may be surreptitiously funneling turkey to the pet under the dining room table all led by Aunt Sally and Uncle Buddy.Beyond the main course, it’s not sugar that’s as much of an issue as brownies or cookies made with an artificial sweeter called xylitol, which is used in many sugar-free baking mixes. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure or even death in dogs. Of course, chocolate (particularly dark chocolate) can be toxic as well. The best advice is to keep pets away from desserts, as well as Aunt Sally and Uncle Buddy.If you’re a lousy cook – consider moving your pet bird away from the kitchen. Birds can suffer what is commonly called Teflon toxicity. Non-stick heating surfaces heated at too high a temperature (often above 530ºF) results in caustic fumes - which may not smell to our noses, but can cause serious respiratory distress in pet birds, and may result in death.The Company ArrivesSome dogs and cats look forward to all those relatives making their annual appearance on Thanksgiving, but others wish they had received an email to warn them about what’s about to happen because Aunt Sally, Uncle Buddy and everyone else – especially the crazy young nephews and nieces cause bedlam. The noise and unpredictability can be challenging for some pets to deal with. These more sensitive pets are best off behind-a-closed door, such as a second bedroom or den, with their water dish, litter box if applicable and classical music to a least drown out some of the commotion. Classical tunes can also be calming.Distraction is a smart strategy. Stuff treats or kibble or moist food into a Kong toy or any of the myriad of food dispensing toys now on the market. If your dog or cat (yes cats too) are working on figuring out how to get the yummies, they won’t be simultaneously anxious about those rowdy relatives. (Warning: This method isn’t a good idea when multiple pets are aggressive in a confined space about sharing food and/or toys).With all of these food opportunities, you might think about offering a nutritional supplement that can help maintain a balanced digestive tract. Tomlyn’s Pre & Probiotic contains direct-fed microbial cultures to supply beneficial microorganisms that occur naturally in the hind gut of healthy animals.Make it a happy Thanksgiving for everyone.

If you have a cat, you know the sound. You can hear it a mile away or at least a room away – it’s the unmistakable sound of a cat coughing up a hairball. Cats are fastidious groomers, and hairballs are a result – at least for some cats. Here’s what happens. When your cat grooms themselves, tiny hook-like structures on their tongue (which you can feel when your cat ever “kisses” you) catch loose and dead hair, which is then swallowed. Most of this hair passes all the way through the digestive tract with no problem for many cats. But if some hair stays in the stomach, it forms into a little ball and the cat eventually vomits it up. Yuck. Passing through the esophagus the ball narrows – but now that’s more than you likely want to know. Hairballs occur in any breed or mix but more often happen among long-haired cats. Periodic random hairballs every couple of weeks or even weekly aren’t a particular problem except for the humans assigned to clean it up. However, when hairball episodes occur more often than that for your cat, contact your veterinarian; less can be a problem because sometimes hairballs are difficult to cough up, and there are products which may help your cat. If the cat is retching and making those sounds that come before the hairball typically comes up, the hairball may be pretty large and/or stuck in place. If this is the case, contact your veterinarian immediately for an assessment and perhaps a recommendation to try a laxative type product (never give a cat a human laxative without veterinary input). Some cats do have frequent issues getting hairballs up and out of their systems. Sometimes cat parents hear repeated coughing and assume the issue is hairball related when it’s not. Watch for these signs: Continuous hacking or retching without producing a hairball Changes in digestion, such as diarrhea or constipation or lack of appetite Lethargy A swollen or hard belly Any of the above means you need to contact your veterinarian. These signs could mean there’s another issue all together such as heart disease, heartworm disease or related heartworm associated respiratory disease or feline asthma, for example. Not only should you see a veterinarian, but also video a coughing episode so your veterinarian has a really good idea about what’s happening. Ask your veterinarian about additional sources of fiber, which could help improve intestinal movement such as hairball-control cat foods and chews, canned pumpkin, or small bits of fruits and veggies such as apples, carrots, or sweet potatoes. Maybe even sprinkling similar human products with psyllium or little pumpkin powder on to food. And of course, encouraging hydration is important. The best way to lessen hairball episodes is simply brushing. The more frequent cat parents brush generally the more effective the hairball control.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (May 13, 2019) – Inspired by National Volunteer Month, ten volunteers from Vetoquinol USA, the world-class developers of veterinarian-approved formulas for companion and large animal healthcare products, recently assisted the Humane Society of North Texas. The volunteers socialized with cats, walked dogs and rolled up their sleeves to help clean and organize.The volunteers brought more than just their physical labor; they donated veterinary and pet products as well. Corporate social responsibility is highly valued by Tomlyn and Vetoquinol USA, which are headquartered in Fort Worth. Employees are encouraged to participate in volunteerism at least two days each year.“It was incredibly rewarding to donate our time and products to the Humane Society of North Texas,” said Tabitha Cromer, Marketing Manager at Vetoquinol USA. “They are fantastic advocates for pet health, which is the first priority for our team at Vetoquinol. Support from the community is essential to nonprofit organizations like the Humane Society of North Texas since most rely solely on donations from the public.”The Humane Society of North Texas advocates for pets in need offering critical services including adoptions, low-cost spay/neuter services, vaccinations and cruelty investigations. For more information on how to support the organization through donations and volunteering, visit hsnt.org.About Tomlyn®:Tomlyn, a world-class animal health and wellness company founded in 1976, carries a complete line of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved animal health products. The company’s wide selection of product categories range from immune support, vitamins, digestive support and hairball remedies, to joint and hip support, calming aids and sanitizers. Tomlyn is owned by, Vetoquinol, the eighth-largest veterinary pharmaceutical company in the world. For more information, please visit www.tomlyn.com, or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram,  Twitter or YouTube.About Vetoquinol USA:Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, Vetoquinol USA is owned by Vetoquinol SA, an independent, family-owned French pharmaceutical company founded in 1933. Dedicated exclusively to animal health, Vetoquinol USA is focused on the development, production and marketing of FDA, EPA and AAFCO-regulated pharmaceutical, nutritional and dermatological products for small and large animals. Vetoquinol’s large animal veterinary division offers products for horses and cattle to assist owners and veterinarians with joint health, pain management, immune support, behavior and general care. For more information, visit the Barn Chats website, Facebook and Instagram. Vetoquinol’s small animal veterinary division, My Happy Pets, helps pet parents support the health of their special fur-babies from birth through senior stages, by delivering a full range of effective, innovative products that build on our more than 80-year legacy of leadership in the animal health market. For more information visit the My Happy Pets website.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (November 20, 2019) – Expanding its line of veterinarian-formulated products for household pets, Tomlyn® Veterinary Science, has announced that its two products launched at SuperZoo in August, Urinary Tract Health and Loose Stool Remedy — Firm Fast, are now available for purchase online and in-store.“Over the past year, we’ve been working to bring these two products to the Tomlyn product line and we’re happy to announce that they are now available for pet owners,” said Brittany Green, product manager at Tomlyn. “We always try to provide pet parents with an assortment of animal health products that meet their needs, whether it’s something they use with their pets every day, or a product that helps manage conditions that come and go.”The Tomlyn Urinary Tract Health is an easy to administer daily tablet that is available in both 30 count ($28.99) or 60 count ($49.99). Suitable for both cats and dogs, the product helps maintain normal urinary tract function and supports healthy elimination.“Our Urinary Tract Health contains compounds from cranberry extract that help keep bacteria from sticking to the lining of the urinary tract,” said Dr. Jen Kasten, technical services veterinarian at Tomlyn. “Spayed female dogs, older cats, overweight cats and male cats, as well as pets that are stressed or those that urinate in the house or outside the litter box, may benefit from daily use of the product.”Available in both gel (15 cc for $21.99 and 30 cc for $27.99) and tablet (10 count for $12.99), Tomlyn’s Loose Stool Remedy helps cat and dog parents manage occasional loose stools that can sometimes result from dietary changes or anxiety caused by travel, boarding, veterinary visits, thunderstorms, fireworks, new household additions and more.“The Loose Stool Remedy can be used once loose stools are seen or even ahead of an inciting event, such as travel or boarding,” said Kasten.Product information sheets and high-resolution images of the Urinary Tract Health and Loose Stool Remedy in all varieties can be found here.To learn more about Tomlyn’s full line of veterinarian-formulated pet health products and where they can be purchased, please visit www.tomlyn.com.About Tomlyn®:Tomlyn, a world-class animal health and wellness company founded in 1976, carries a complete line of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved animal health products. The company’s wide selection of product categories range from immune support, pill masking paste, digestive support and hairball remedies, to joint and hip support, calming aids and sanitizers. Tomlyn is owned by, Vetoquinol, the eighth-largest veterinary pharmaceutical company in the world. For more information, please visit www.tomlyn.com, or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram,  Twitter or YouTube.

During the first week in August, I traveled to Washington, DC for the 2019 American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) Annual Convention. Drawing more than 8000 animal health professionals, including over 4000 veterinarians, the convention is one of the largest veterinary meetings on the calendar each year. To give you a glimpse of the conversations in Washington, here are a few highlights from the convention: Surgeon General Jerome Adams Addresses Convention – During the opening session, United States Surgeon General Jerome Adams gave an inspiring speech, asking veterinarians to help him fight the opioid abuse epidemic in the United States. He used a story from his own family to highlight the fact that the epidemic does not discriminate based on background or upbringing. He trained the entire audience on how to use naloxone (available to anyone for free at most pharmacies in most states) to save a life in the event of an opioid overdose. His final call-to-action was asking us to share this digital postcard to help educate the public and draw awareness to the problem of opioid misuse. Technological Innovation is Changing Veterinary Practice – From the immergence and increasing availability of telemedicine to advancements in cage-side diagnostic tests and novel drug delivery systems, technologic innovation was omnipresent at the AVMA Convention. It will be exciting to see how these advancements alter the way veterinary medicine is practiced in future! Dermatology Draws a Crowd – 6 of the 10 highest attended continuing education lectures covered topics pertaining to skin and ears. Not only are skin issues a problem for pet parents, they can be a challenge, even for the most experienced veterinarian. As we try to engage in antimicrobial stewardship by saving systemic antibiotics for situations that preclude treatment by other means as to help prevent bacteria from developing resistance, topical treatments for skin infections were an important topic of education and conversation. A lecture covering the diagnosis and treatment of pruritus (itchiness) in cats was the highest attended lecture of the hundreds of sessions available at the convention. Veterinarians Want to Manage Pain Better – Sessions on managing pain in pets, particularly cats, were also very well attended. Speakers highlighted the importance of using a multimodal approach to pain management, regardless of the underlying cause of pain. Several sessions discussed treating pain in pets suffering from orthopedic problems. Multiple speakers emphasized that a combination approach incorporating weight loss, rehabilitation therapy, exercise, joint supplements, and medication for best results. Faced with the challenge of navigating their unique physiology, the pharmacologic management of pain in cats was also a hot topic. Health and Wellbeing Remains an Imperative for Veterinarians – Veterinarians are tough on themselves. Compassion fatigue and burnout are major challenges in the profession. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), veterinarians are 3.5 times more likely than the general population to die from suicide. Needless to say, finding ways to solve these problems was a critical issue at the AVMA Convention. From booths in the exhibit hall offering health and wellness services to lectures on topics ranging from educational debt management to navigating the myth of being Superwoman and practical tips for giving feedback, the profession showed it is committed tackling these challenges head-on. Public health, technology, dermatology, pain management, and veterinary wellbeing are critically important topics that impact the lives of animals and the people who care for them. Hopefully the knowledge shared and conversations started at the 2019 AVMA Convention will plant the seeds of progress and help advance animal health!

Tomlyn’s Pill-Masker has revolutionized pilling time at my house. I’m sure you’re thinking to yourself, “But Dr. Jen, aren’t you a vet and therefore an expert at giving dogs medications?” Well, yes and no. I certainly can get it done in a clinical setting when I have to, but I prefer to just be “mom” (or “Aunt Jen”) to the dogs in my life. In other words, a positive, low-stress, and fun experience getting medications is what I’m after. There are 3 dogs in this household, all with different stories on how Pill-Masker has helped me accomplish just that. In the first installment of this three-part series, I describe the use of Pill-Masker with a healthy puppy. Ranger – “Positive Puppy” Ranger is the youngest of the 3 dogs, and the only one that is technically mine. I got him as a 9-week old puppy, not long before I joined the Tomlyn team. In fact, he was still in puppy kindergarten classes when I was first introduced to Pill-Masker. At the time, we were testing treats to determine his most favorite, and therefore highest value, treat to give him as a reward for the most important commands (“stay” and “come”). After extensive testing, Tomlyn’s Pill-Masker came in second, only to pieces of cooked chicken. Fast forward two years. While I can’t say that I was 100% successful in teaching Ranger “stay” and “come”, I can tell you that introducing Pill-Masker at a young age has recently proven to be mighty handy. Last week, Ranger was not feeling well and ended up going to the veterinarian’s office. For the first time in his life, he was prescribed five days’ worth of medication. Fortunately, because he was already used to getting Pill-Masker as a treat, giving him his medication was no big deal. Each time he was due, I pinched off a small amount, made sure the pill was completely covered and gave it to him like I would a treat. It all worked out well, and Ranger has fully recovered. Just to maintain continuity, I will give him a few “blank” bites over the coming days and weeks. Stay tuned for the next edition of this three part series! In it, I will tell the story of how Pill-Masker completely changed the experience for an almost impossible-to-pill dog.

In previous editions of this three part series on how Pill-Masker can help pet parents with real-life situations, I described my experiences using the product with Ranger when he was a young puppy, and Daisy who was quite the pilling challenge. In this edition, I tell the story of using Pill-Masker in a dog that will be on medication for the rest of his life.Old Man Hank – “On Medication for Life”Henry, who is better known around here as Old Man Hank, is the senior member of the Kasten pack. Since he was a rescue, nobody knows exactly how old he is, but he was certainly a mature adult when mom got him 11 years ago. With the exception of the ill-advised consumption of a corncob a few years back, Hank has been a model of health. Until one night in January. He was running into the dog room for his dinner and his back end gave out on him. He couldn’t get up. At 80+ pounds, he was hard to move, even for a skilled veterinarian. We feared the worst. Fortunately, it turned out just to be a chronic back issue that we could manage at home with oral medication.In order to stay comfortable and mobile, Henry will be on the medication for the rest of his life. Luckily, he is not a picky dog or hard to pill. Since we had an ample Pill-Masker on hand, and he was well used to receiving the occasional “blank” with Daisy or Ranger, he gladly accepted his medication wrapped in a small bit of Pill-Masker. After 4 months, he’s so used to getting his medication that he now lumbers over to the spot where he gets it and stares at the counter when he’s due. Not only does Old Man Hank know when it’s dinner time, he knows when it’s pill time. Without Pill-Masker, I doubt he would be so excited for his medication!I hope you have found these 3 stories of how Pill-Masker has helped the dogs in my household illustrative of how the product may help the dogs in your life.Have you used Tomlyn’s Pill-Masker to help a pet in your life? If so, we would love to hear about how you used Tomlyn Pill-Masker to help a pet in your life? If so, we would love to hear about it!

In the first edition of this three part series, we learned how Pill-Masker can be used to help train healthy young dogs and condition them to the use of the product for pilling. In this edition, I will tell the story of how Pill-Masker has made medication time easier for a previously difficult to pill dog.Daisy – “The Challenge”Daisy is my mom’s Dalmatian and Ranger’s best friend. She came to our family in November 2015 after her previous family could no longer take care of her. At the time mom got her, she was on a twice daily medication and was very resistant to receiving it. After careful consultation with her veterinarian, mom was able to wean her from the medication within a few months. This allowed Daisy and mom to have a much better bond since there was no longer the twice daily struggle to get the pill in her.However, because of her situational anxiety associated with thunderstorms and mom not being home, Daisy periodically needs medication to help her cope. Because Daisy developed such an aversion to receiving medications with her previous family, pilling time became almost as much of a stressor as whatever anxiety-inducing event we were hoping help her cope with. Mom tried it all – sprinkling it on her food, peanut butter, cheese, deli turkey, other pilling solutions. Nothing worked. Every time, she would end up with a freaked out dog, a puddle on the floor, and medication anywhere but in Daisy. Then we tried Pill-Masker.Given Daisy’s history, and that we failed to get her to take the medication the first time we tried Pill-Masker, I encouraged mom to start slowly. For approximately 2 weeks, she gave Daisy small pieces of empty Pill-Masker at different times of the day. Sometimes she would get it when Old Man Hank would get his medications. Sometimes she would get it as a treat for being a good dog on her walk. Other times she would just get it for fun. Eventually, mom tried her medication in it, admittedly with a generous portion, and even then, still stuck it in with her dinner. Since that first successful use, Daisy has learned that she gets treats from where the Pill-Masker resides. Now, giving Daisy her medication when she needs it is no big deal! To reinforce this idea to her, we often give blanks to the other dogs who invariably show up for medication time. If it’s a fun treat for Ranger and Hank, it must be good!Does Daisy’s story remind you of a pet you know? Perhaps Tomlyn’s Pill-Masker can change the narrative for you as well!In the final edition of this series, I will tell the story of Old Man Hank who will be taking pills for the rest of his life.

March 2019 As warmer spring weather approaches, millions of people across the country are finalizing their travel plans and deciding if they should leave their pet at a professional boarding facility. They aren’t alone — according to a study from the Family Travel Association, 47 percent of families take a vacation during the spring months. I’ve found that traveling with an animal along can be sometimes be cumbersome, and depending on the pet and the pet owner, it’s not always the right decision. If you’re planning a trip and are hesitant about leaving your dog or cat at a boarding facility, here are six tips that can make you feel more comfortable: Find a boarding facility that meets your needs: Just like most things, boarding facilities have changed over the years. Do your research to find a facility that meshes well with you and your animal’s needs before making a commitment. Some luxury pet boarding facilities offer add-on items for pets such as daily playgroup time, in-suite webcams and specialty treats like doggy ice cream or grilled sirloin steak. Introduce them to the facility before their stay: If your pet has never stayed overnight in a new location, call the boarding facility to see if you can schedule a walk-through or even a trial one-night stay. While there, provide your animal with positive reinforcement so they view it as an experience that is safe and enjoyable. Ask questions: During your visit to the facility, ease your mind and ensure you’re selecting the best place for your animal by asking important questions such as: Who is responsible for the daily care? Is someone available 24/7 to check on the welfare of the animals in boarding? What is their protocol in the event of emergencies? Are any vaccinations and medical records required for a stay? Is there time provided for socialization and/or training? Send them with something familiar: It’s especially important to leave them with small items that will remind them of home and make them feel more comfortable in a new environment. Familiar scents of their favorite bed, blanket, toy or even one of your old pieces of clothing can make them feel more comfortable throughout their stay, so consider sending one or a couple of items with your pet. Provide them with peace of mind: To help alleviate any stress that’s associated with being away from home, consider instructing the person caring for your pet to provide them with a calming supplement as needed. The Tomlyn Relax & Calm chews are easy to administer and can help dogs and cats cope with stressful situations. Tomlyn products can be found at pet stores, feed stores and online. To find a store near you, visit www.tomlyn.com/our-locations. Make your departure as painless as possible: Leaving your pet is the most difficult part, but try to make a quick departure. Animals can sense our stress, so if you remain calm it will help them feel more comfortable in their new temporary environment. If you still have questions about boarding your cat or dog, you can consult your veterinarian or the staff at your local boarding facility. For more tips from Dr. Jen Kasten, you can read our other pet-related articles here on the Tomlyn blog.

January 2019 For much of the United States, cooler temperatures have taken hold. Some parts of the country have already seen snow and ice this season. Here are a few tips to help keep your pets healthy and safe this winter. Take care of paws and pads – Cold temperatures, snow, ice, salt, sand, and deicers can all be rough on paws and pads. Additionally, some deicers can be toxic to pets if they are ingested. The paws, pads, hindquarters, belly and tail should all wiped down with a towel after coming in from outside. Tomlyn’s Protecta-Pad Cream should be applied to paws and pads regularly to help maintain the skin’s barrier function. Regular use of the product can also help soothe rough and cracked pads and nails. Be careful on snow and ice – Much like people, pets can easily slip, fall and become injured on the snow and ice. Whenever possible, it is best to leash walk pets for optimal safety and control. Have an emergency supply kit at home and in the car – Snow, ice, power outages, and broken pipes can all create emergency situations where you may get stranded in the winter. It is important to have emergency kits available at home and in the car. At home, the emergency kit should include a seven day supply of food and water, blankets, bedding, copies of veterinary records and a first aid kit. The car kit should contain spare collars, leashes, bowls, blankets, food, water, vaccine records, and a first aid kit. Adjust the diet – Some dogs, particularly working dog breeds thrive on cold temperatures and playing in the snow. Owners may actually find that it is difficult to get these animals to come inside in the winter! Since these pets may have increased activity at this time of year compared to warmer months, they may need additional nutrition to support them. However, other dogs may not enjoy being outside, or experience increased stiffness and joint discomfort in cooler temperatures. These dogs will require less nutritional support in the winter in order to prevent them from gaining extra weight. Your veterinarian can provide you with specific guidance on any necessary seasonal adjustments to make with your pet’s diet. Additionally, giving Tomlyn’s Joint & Hip daily can help keep pets comfortable and moving throughout the season. Find alternate sources of stimulation – Since dogs and cats may not be as eager to be active outside at this time of year, owners should look for alternative ways to provide positive and productive stimulation for their pets. Food puzzles, games, and new toys can all be helpful. Care for outdoor cats – Provisions for outdoor cats should be made so they have appropriate shelter from the elements during the winter. Outdoor cats should have access a sheltered area that provides a wind break and bedding for warmth. Food and water should be available in a location where it won’t freeze. A sunny location that warms during the day can be a great spot. Outdoor cats may need additional rations in the winter to keep warm and maintain appropriate body condition in the colder months. It is always wise to tap the hood of your car and check between the tires during the winter months. Cats tend to seek warmth and shelter in those locations, and can get hurt when the vehicle moves. When in doubt, if it is too cold for you to be comfortable outside, it is likely to be too cold for your pet. Stay warm and safe this winter!

January 2019 I will start the New Year with a bit of a confession. Ranger’s New Year’s resolution is to be a good boy in 2019. While he certainly fell into that category at times in 2018, he was far from a model citizen. We were working from a solid base – he aced puppy kindergarten, and successfully completed a “family dog manners” training course. I could no longer claim he was “just being a puppy” as he turned 1 in early 2018. His basic commands were not as sharp as they needed to be, and he had developed some leash aggression with both people and other dogs. Using the tips below and some help from a professional dog trainer recommended by Ranger’s veterinarian, we made some real progress. Here are a few tips to help you get started training your dog: Use positive reinforcement – Veterinary behavior research has shown that rewarding dogs for engaging in desired behaviors is much more effective in generating lasting behavioral change than punishing dogs for inappropriate behaviors. Most behaviorists and trainers recommend having a variety of treats of varying values for this purpose. Bits of cooked steak or chicken may be of highest value, whereas a small piece of a regular dog treat may be of lesser value. If your dog is not strongly food motivated, favorite toys can be used in a similar fashion. Use the highest value reward for the most important behaviors or commands, such as “come” or “stay”. Using treats of lesser value can be helpful for practicing commands once they have been established. Rewards should be given within 1-2 seconds of the positive behavior so the dog can make the association between the behavior and the reward. Be consistent – If more than one person is sharing the responsibility of training the dog, make sure everyone is on the same page and speaking the same language. Everyone should use the same terms for each command, reward positive behaviors in a similar fashion, and if undesirable behaviors are corrected, they should be corrected in the same way every time. If the goal is to not have the dog jump on people, every person who encounters the dog should ignore him and turn away if he tries to jump. Similarly, if the goal is to have the dog sit before crossing the street, the dog should always sit before crossing any street, regardless of who is walking him or if anyone is coming. Be patient – You might get lucky and have the world’s easiest dog to train. But odds are you won’t. Training your dog will require lots of patience and practice. There will be days where the training sessions go perfectly and your dog seems to be mastering everything you are trying to teach her. There will be others where she’s just horrible and does nothing right. Look for progress in weeks to months, and realize that there may be ups and downs each day or during each session. Master the basics first – As tempting as it might be to teach your dog fun tricks like “high 5” or “roll over”, getting a firm grasp on the basics including “sit”, “stay” and “come” is the most important first step. These commands are essential for ensuring good behavior around people and other dogs, but also may help your dog’s life in an emergency situation. Your veterinarian can be a great resource for information about dog behavior and appropriate training classes in your area. Follow these tips, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for help if things aren’t going smoothly. The sooner you address a problem behavior, the easier it will be to resolve.

November 2018Halloween has passed and the holidays will be upon us before we know it. Here are a few tips to help keep your pets healthy and happy this season.Stick with a routine. Much like people, pets are creatures of habit. Even though your schedule may change with special events, kids on break from school, and holiday travel, your pets will do best if you stick to their regular routine of feeding, walking, and exercise. Some people find it helpful to set reminders in their smart phones to keep their pet’s daily needs on track.Make a safe space for your pet. Some pets love the excitement and festivities associated with the holidays. Others find the loud noises and commotion to be stressful. It is always a good idea to have a safe place where pets can go to get away from the party. The space can also serve to keep pets away from guests who may not be comfortable around them. Crates and small, quiet rooms away from the center of the action can all be great places for your pet to relax during the holidays. Dimming the lights and playing soothing music can help calm pets. A food puzzle or other interactive toy can distract your pet from the surroundings. Adding a supplement containing L-tryptophan, chamomile and ginger, such as Tomlyn’s Relax & Calm can also help animals cope with the stresses of the season.Watch what they eat. Dietary indiscretion can be a major cause for emergency room visits for pets during the holiday season. Stress, rapid changes in diet, as well as high fat foods can cause gastrointestinal upset. Tomlyn’s Pre & Probiotics can help balance the intestinal flora and maintain gut health. Table scraps and bones can easily obstruct or damage the gastrointestinal tract, in some cases causing life-threatening emergencies. Some common human foods such as chocolate, macadamia nuts, onions, raisins, and xylitol (an artificial sweetener) can be highly toxic for pets. If you want to give your pets treats during the holidays, stick with their regular dog food which can be moistened with water and baked into festive shapes. If you can’t resist giving your pet a taste of the season, stick with plain pumpkin, carrots, and green beans, which are all safe for pets. However, like people, pets can be susceptible to gaining extra weight during the holidays, so be mindful of the total calories your pet consumes.Make time for exercise. Pets that don’t get enough exercise can easily become bored, anxious, hyperactive, or even destructive. These behaviors can be exacerbated with the stresses of the holiday season and when owners are preoccupied with other priorities. Exercise can help combat these challenges and the effects of any extra weight your pet has gained during the holidays. Incorporating a few extra walks or some extra active play time can go a long way to improve your pet’s wellness and your bond with him.Hopefully these tips will help make the holidays a bit brighter for your whole family, both 2- and 4-legged!

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (October 9, 2018) – Vetoquinol USA, a world-class developer of veterinarian-approved formulas for large animal healthcare products, announced that starting in September EQUISTRO® Flexadin UC-II® and MYO POWER for high performance horses are available to purchase over the counter in retail stores that sell feed, farm supplies, horse tack and equine products. Both horse health supplements were previously only available through veterinary clinics.“We’re excited to now offer both products over the counter, so horse owners have more convenient access,” said Tabitha Cromer, marketing manager at Vetoquinol USA. “All of our equine health supplements are tested and approved by veterinarians, so you can still rely on getting the best product available.”Flexadin UC-II is a unique product with the patented UC-II technology designed to help keep horses healthy and physically active as they grow older. Daily administration helps maintain joint mobility and flexibility. Horses and ponies weighing between 100 to 2,500 pounds should receive 15 grams per day for up to 12 weeks for the initial administration, and then 10 grams (one scoop) daily for maintenance administration.MYO POWER is a product for horses designed to support performance, endurance, and normal muscle recovery. It contains readily assimilated proteins originating from milk, in addition to the branched-chain amino acid, L-Leucine. Each scoop included with MYO POWER conveniently holds 25 grams. 75 grams per day should be administered to horses for up to 3 weeks for initial administration and then 50 grams per day for 2 weeks, or as directed by your veterinarian, for maintenance administration. Foals and ponies should receive 50 grams per day for up to three weeks for initial administration and then 25 grams per day for 2 weeks, or as directed by your veterinarian, for maintenance administration.To learn more about Vetoquinol USA’s equine health products, please visit www.barnchats.com. You can also follow Barn Chats on Facebook and Instagram for information on horse health and care. About Vetoquinol USAHeadquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, Vetoquinol USA is owned by Vetoquinol SA, an independent, family-owned French pharmaceutical company founded in 1933. Dedicated exclusively to animal health, Vetoquinol USA is focused on the development, production and marketing of FDA, EPA and AAFCO-regulated pharmaceutical, nutritional and dermatological products for small and large animals. Vetoquinol’s large animal veterinary division offers products for horses and cattle to assist owners and veterinarians with joint health, pain management, immune support, behavior and general care. For more information, visit the Barn Chats website, Facebook and Instagram.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (September 27, 2018) –As Happy Healthy Cat Month comes to an end, Dr. Jen Kasten, technical services veterinarian at Tomlyn®, is sharing four tips to help pet owners ensure the happiness and healthiness of their felines all year round. Tomlyn is a world-class developer of scientifically formulated, veterinarian-approved animal health products.“Some pet owners make the common mistake of thinking cats are low maintenance, when in reality, cats require just as much daily attention and yearly veterinary care as their canine companions,” said Dr. Kasten. “Knowing the basics of feline veterinary care and providing them with the attention and love they need can help them stay happy and healthy.”Dr. Kasten’s tips for how to keep your cat happy and healthy are: Don’t skip playtime: Active cats are happy cats! In nature, cats thrive from regular exercise. You should make sure you are spending at least 10 minutes each day engaging your cat(s) in playtime. All cats have different prey preferences (mice, bird, bugs, etc.), so the type of toy you choose is entirely up to you and your cat, but common favorites are toy mice, laser pointers and feather wands. Schedule an annual veterinary exam: Seeing a veterinarian at least once a year for a general wellness exam is one of the best ways to prevent illness. During the exam, a vet will check your cat for signs of disease or anything unusual, assess their weight, provide necessary vaccinations and more. If your cat’s anxiety prevents you from making the trek to the vet, Tomlyn’s Relax & Calm Chews, given two to three hours before a vet appointment, can help cats that experience travel or veterinary anxiety. Keep an eye on the litter box: No one likes to clean the litter box, but it comes with the territory. Each litter box should be placed in an area that your cat frequently visits, and you should scoop the litter at least once a day. Not sure how many litter boxes you should have? It is recommended to have one litter box per cat, plus one more. The more litter boxes the better! Monitor their food intake: Nearly 60 percent of cats in the U.S. are overweight or obese. To prevent weight gain, consult your veterinarian to determine the best type and amount of food for your cat. If your cat is eating too much food at once, you can consider introducing an automatic feeder to regulate meal time instead of feeding freely. Giving regular feedings in food puzzles can also help slow down the rate of consumption and encourage more play activity. To provide your cat with extra nutrition, give them a Tomlyn Multi-Vitamin Chew with their food each day. Each chew provides nutrients essential for healthy eyes, bones, teeth, skin, brain and heart For more information about how to keep your cat happy and healthy, you can follow Tomlyn on Facebook and Instagram where the company will be sharing tips throughout the remainder of the month.Tomlyn cat products can be found at pet stores across the United States and on Amazon and Chewy.com. To find a store near you, visit www.tomlyn.com/our-locations/.About Tomlyn®:Tomlyn, a world-class animal health and wellness company founded in 1976, carries a complete line of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved animal health products. The company’s wide selection of product categories range from immune support, vitamins, digestive support and hairball remedies, to joint and hip support, calming aids and sanitizers. Tomlyn expanded into the equine and bovine industry in 2017 with the EPIC® line and now the addition of three new Equistro® equine health supplements. Tomlyn is owned by, Vetoquinol, the eighth-largest veterinary pharmaceutical company in the world. For more information, please visit www.tomlyn.com, or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

September 2018 Even the most inexperienced of all cat owners probably knows one fundamental truth about felines. Most of them hate water. The good news is that they generally do a great job of grooming themselves. With a bit of brushing on a regular basis, bathing is usually unnecessary for most cats. Nabisco Every once in a while, a situation will come up when there is no other choice but to give a cat a bath. For me, it was immediately following the first time I took Nabisco on a long car ride. Stressed from the trip and confinement in his carrier, he soiled himself. I was in the parking lot of a road side stop 4 hours from home and 5 hours from our destination when I noticed what had happened. Needless to say, I had a long time to think about bathing him upon arrival! Should you find yourself in a similar predicament, here are a few tips to make the process easier: Make a plan. Having a plan of attack and being organized is essential for making the process of bathing a cat as simple and painless as possible. It will also keep stress for both you and your cat to a minimum. Giving your cat Tomlyn’s Relax & Calm chews once a day for a few days prior and then again 2-4 hours before the bath will help your cat better cope with the process. Identify a location. Figure out where you are going tackle the project. I suggest a room with a deep sink, counter space, and door that closes off the room to eliminate the potential for escaping. I find the laundry room works well. Gather supplies and have them at the ready. Towel or non-slip pad for the sink Cat shampoo Ear cleaner Source of warm water for rinsing Towels for drying Treats Sinks are slippery, especially when they are wet. Your cat will likely resist the bathing process and may be sliding around in the sink. The non-slip pad or towel in the bottom of the sink can provide some much needed traction. Cat skin is not the same as human skin. Use a shampoo formulated for cats. Your veterinarian or local pet specialty retailer can recommend an appropriate product. As you are bathing your cat, be cautious with shampoo and water around the cat’s eyes, ears, and nose as they may be irritating to these structures. Bathing time can be a great time to clean your cat’s ears. Tomlyn’s Veterinarian Formulated Ear Cleaner and the towel used for drying should do the trick. Just squirt a small amount in each ear, and then gently massage the base of the ear. As you are drying the cat, use the towel to wipe away any excess ear cleaner. If your sink doesn’t have a spray nozzle, having a pitcher of warm water at the ready for rinsing can be a huge help. You don’t want to be searching for towels when your freshly clean but unhappy wet cat is trying vacate the bathing area. Having an assistant offer your cat treats before, during, and after the bath can positively condition the cat to the experience. Be efficient. The bathing a cat can take just a few minutes if you’re well prepared. During the process, focus solely on the cat and work as quickly as possible. Your cat and your sanity will thank you. With any luck, bathing your cat should be an infrequent event, rarely being necessary. If you find that your cat is needing more frequent bathing due to soiling or a failure to self-groom, you should consult your veterinarian. These behaviors may be subtle signs of an underlying medical or behavioral condition that needs attention. Good luck!

Equistro Chrysanphyton helps promote and support normal circulatory and vascular function in horses. FORT WORTH, TEXAS (August 8, 2018) – Tomlyn®, a world-class developer of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved animal health products, has launched a third Equistro® horse supplement, Chrysanphyton, completing its line of equine supplements first released in 2017. “Launching and growing our line of health supplements for horses has been a major focus for Tomlyn over the past 12 months,” said Tabitha Cromer, marketing manager at Tomlyn. “We’re proud to announce that horse owners can now find our complete line of Equistro equine products, Artphyton, Secreta Pro Max and Chrysanphyton, in most major feed stores across the country.” The most recently launched Equistro product, Chrysanphyton, is a daily equine supplement used to help promote and support normal circulation and vascular function. The supplement is made from the plant, Chrysanthellum americanum, which is dried and shredded. Like the plant, the Chrysanphyton supplement is rich in potent antioxidants. The supplement is formulated to give support to blood vessels, by keeping them healthy, and to promote the natural process of blood vessel dilation in horses. “Our Equistro Chrysanphyton supplement can be used to support horses that are prone to lower leg and hoof problems, such as quarter horses, warmbloods or thoroughbreds,” said Dr. Jennifer Kasten, technical services veterinarian at Tomlyn. “Proper blood circulation is essential for the normal function of hooves in middle aged and older horses.” Adult horses greater than 1,100 lbs. should be given one 20-gram scoop twice daily, which conveniently comes in pellet form. One bag of Chrysanphyton contains a 50-day supply at $129.00. Horse owners can find the supplement at most major feed stores in the United States. Chrysanphyton recently launched at SuperZoo 2018 and received second place for new equine products in the New Product Showcase. Nearly 630 new products were submitted to this year’s showcase. Retailers and other industry professionals voted for their favorites during the Las Vegas trade show in June. To learn more about Tomlyn’s line of Equistro products and where they can be purchased, please visit www.tomlyn.com. About Tomlyn®: Tomlyn, a world-class animal health and wellness company founded in 1976, carries a complete line of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved animal health products. The company’s wide selection of product categories range from immune support, vitamins, digestive support and hairball remedies, to joint and hip support, calming aids and sanitizers. Tomlyn expanded into the equine and bovine industry in 2017 with the EPIC ® line and now the addition of three new Equistro® equine health supplements. Tomlyn is owned by, Vetoquinol, the eighth-largest veterinary pharmaceutical company in the world. For more information, please visit www.tomlyn.com, or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (May 29, 2018) – To help retail partners showcase its Jackson Galaxy co-branded Pill-Masker Paste for Dogs & Cats, Tomlyn®, a world-class developer of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved animal health products, has designed a new point-of-purchase (POP) display kit. “The Tomlyn Pill-Masker paste is a product that our customers rave about when we see them in-person, and when they reach out to us on social media. Because of its popularity, we wanted to make it easier for our retail partners to display the product in-store,” said Tabitha Cromer, marketing manager at Tomlyn. “Our partnership with Jackson Galaxy, and his face on the product label, further captures the attention of pet owners who see the display.” Jackson Galaxy Pill Masker Point of Purchase display The POP display kit comes pre-loaded with six Pill-Masker products for cats and dogs, and is refillable. The kit can be used on a shelf or hanging from a wire grid to optimize space. The Tomlyn Pill-Masker, a great alternative to other less palatable pill aids, is easy to use and doesn’t dry out while filling. Each container includes over 50 servings, and can be used as a treat or for training purposes. Animals of all sizes enjoy the product, as it is highly palatable with its bacon flavor. Tomlyn partnered with Jackson Galaxy, an animal advocate, host of Animal Planet’s My Cat From Hell and a New-York Times best-selling author, to promote the Pill-Masker paste in 2017. Together, Jackson and Tomlyn strive to make the unpleasant job of giving pills to pets easier. Retailers interested in ordering a Pill-Masker POP display kit can contact their distributor or a Tomlyn territory manager. The displays are available now. Additional information about the POP display can be found by contacting the Tomlyn customer service center at 1.877.580.7729. For more information about Tomlyn and its Pill-Masker products, visit www.tomlyn.com. About Tomlyn®: Tomlyn, a world-class animal health and wellness company founded in 1976, carries a complete line of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved animal health products. The company’s wide selection of product categories range from immune support, vitamins, digestive support and hairball remedies, to joint and hip support, calming aids and sanitizers. Tomlyn expanded into the equine and bovine industry in 2017 with the EPIC ® line and now the addition of three new Equistro® equine health supplements. Tomlyn is owned by, Vetoquinol, the eighth-largest veterinary pharmaceutical company in the world. For more information, please visit www.tomlyn.com, or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. About Jackson Galaxy: Jackson Galaxy is an animal advocate, host of Animal Planet’s My Cat From Hell and is a New York Times best-selling author with more than 20 years of experience helping humans understand cats and helping cats find their mojo.

May 2018 Warmer temperatures throughout the United States mean the school year is winding down and summer fun is on its way! While the rest of your family might enjoy the best summer has to offer, pets may find it a stressful time. Loud noises such as thunderstorms and fireworks, changes in schedule, travel, interactions with strangers, and boarding can make pets stressed or anxious. Dogs and cats tend to show signs of stress and anxiety slightly differently. Dogs Cats Panting, pacing, trembling or vocalization House soiling Licking, chewing, or biting Hiding Aggression toward people or other animals Escape behaviors Destructive or escape behaviors Excessive grooming Inappropriate urination or defecation Trembling, panting, or vocalization Self-trauma Aggression toward people or other animals Appetite changes Increased or decreased human interaction   Being aware of these signs can help you recognize when your pet is stressed or anxious, allowing you to better support him. Being consistent in a routine, and not making a fuss out of departures or arrivals, can help pets suffering from anxiety associated with separation and schedule changes. Providing a dark, quiet room with gentle, soothing music and favorite toy can help calm pets with noise sensitivities. Rewarding dogs for positive behaviors such as sitting, staying or playing fetch during times of anxiety can help divert unwanted anxious behaviors. Supplements can also help pets adjust to stressful situations. Tomlyn’s Relax and Calm contains two ingredients that help pets maintain a normal disposition during stressful times. Both tryptophan and chamomile have calming properties. The ginger in the product can help settle uneasy stomachs that often accompany stress and anxiety. Owners will find that the product works best if it is given two to three hours before the noisy event or stressful situation occurs. Hopefully knowing more about stress and anxiety will allow you to get out and enjoy the summer with all your friends and family, both human and 4-legged!

Spring is finally here! Trees and flowers are starting to bloom, baseball season is starting, and the temptation to spend more time outside is growing by the minute. If you are like me, spending time outdoors includes my favorite canine companion. Exercise, fresh air and sunshine can be beneficial for both you and your dog. However, as we head outside it is important to keep a few seasonal health tips in mind. Protect against fleas, ticks, and mosquitos – Not only are they annoying pests, they can cause serious health problems for your pet. Fleas can cause dogs to be itchy, creating the potential for flea allergy dermatitis and hot spots. Additionally, fleas can transmit intestinal parasites. Ticks can spread dangerous infectious diseases including Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever; mosquitos transmit heartworm disease. Trimming back shrubs and tall grasses, and keeping standing water at a minimum can help control the presence of these pests in the environment. Your veterinarian can recommend appropriate flea, tick and heartworm prevention solutions for your pet. Be ready for seasonal allergies – Pets can suffer seasonal allergies to dust, mold, pollen, grass and other environmental irritants. Veterinarians refer to this condition as atopy or atopic dermatitis. Signs of atopy include watery eyes, excessive itching, scratching, chewing, licking and grooming. Ears, muzzle, paws, groin, and in areas between the toes are most commonly affected by this condition. Regular grooming, especially after time spent outside can help reduce exposure to allergens. Rinsing eyes with a sterile eye wash can also help pets be more comfortable. If seasonal allergies become a chronic problem or the itching and scratching becomes uncontrollable, consult with your veterinarian on ways to manage your pet’s allergies. Groom your pet regularly – With more daylight and warmer weather, pets will start their seasonal shedding. Regular brushing will help control shedding and reduce allergens in the environment. For cats, grooming will help minimize the likelihood of hairballs. Start exercise slowly – If you and your dog have been laid up with the cold weather and less active than normal this winter, gradually ease back into activity this spring. Muscles will have lost strength and joints will have reduced flexibility. Starting slowly, including warm up and cool down periods will help rebuild your pet’s strength and endurance. Additionally, it is always a good idea to check paws for any scuffs or cracks, especially after time on pavement, as pads may be tender from the layoff. Keeping pads clean, dry and moisturized can help your pet stay active and comfortable all season long. Hopefully these tips will help keep your pets healthy and active this spring. Ranger and I will be hitting the trails as soon as it stops raining. We hope to see you out there!