I know everyone has seen those heartworm posters in vet clinics, in every corner of every room, that they skim but don't retain (at least that is my experience). Well, until today I had not fully understood the severity of heartworm disease in dogs; how easy it is for them to get it, and why it is important to prevent it. Today in my animal physiology lab, we talked about a case in which a dog had developed heartworm disease, how to diagnose it, and eventually treat it. In short (it was a long lab), this dog had been exposed to a mosquito that was infected with microfilariae (immature heartworms), and without proper preventative treatment, these heartworms developed into adult worms that resided in the right ventricle of the heart, and the pulmonary arteries. They tend to live in that area because of the low pressure in the right side in comparison to the left, and that is where the blood collects. Heartworm disease was diagnosed in this dog because of abdominal and pulmonary ascites, and eventually confirmed by antigen testing. The product of the heartworms living in the right ventricle was enlargement of this area. There was a buildup of pressure in this area because of the resistance that the worms cause to the blood flow. This pressure buildup causes a backlog of blood in the venous system; the pressure is higher in the right ventricle than it normally is, meaning the blood cannot get to that area through venous return. This means that blood pressure will increase in the capillary bed (where nutrient exchange in the form of fluid happens) causing an increased amount of fluid pushed into the abdominal cavity, directly leading to ascites. Ultimately, this can get treated, but why not prevent it. This bears the question... Does your dog get heartworm medication? Do you think there are ways other than medication to prevent it, and what methods have you found that have worked?

When nature designs in style, it often designs with purpose. I came across this video that belongs to 2can.tv, and wanted to share this amazing restoration that he accomplished for a beautiful toucan named Newt - the link is below to check out the video. Before (or after) you check out the video, read these interesting findings about the toucan's beak. Looking at a toucan's beak, you can't help but think nature had favourites. It is functional, and pretty. The beak is an extremely functional/important part of survival. The toucan's beak is fairly large, growing up to 18cm, depending on the species and sex. It's odd, how can they fly with such a large beak? Interestingly, their beak is hollow, consisting of a bony core covered by keratin allowing for easy maneuvering in order for them to collect sufficient feed (fruits, insects) from far-reaching branches, trees, etc,. Furthermore, research shows that their beak contains a network of blood vessels that act as a thermal regulator. It functions to release heat to combat the extensive heat in the tropical climates. In a more straightforward manner, the beak is used in communication, and defense against predators. In my opinion the most fun, cool function of the beak is during mating. Yes, their colourful beak is used in mating signalling, but more notably it is used in courtship rituals. In these courtship rituals, the male toucan will offer fruit to the female toucan by the passing the desired fruit with its beak. It is then up to the female to accept this offering as a sign of love, or not. This way is less expensive than proposing with a ring, but to each their own. It is fascinating that evolution has a way of turning the seemingly ordinary - the beak - into something so multidimensional. It is also interesting to ponder about the difference in courtship rituals between all species, as they all abide to the same underlying principles. Does anyone know of any other animals that have crazy interesting mating rituals?

Luna it’s pretty calm, but sometimes she gets anxious looking around the dog park. A little meditation can go a long way.

Our dog just had their Lyme vaccine. I wasn’t aware this was possible. there’s no need for the pills or cream anymore. It seems like Lyme is very prevalent here in southern Ontario.

A whole new meaning to food trucks. It was so heartwarming to see a community come together to show support and care for animals that have ended up in unfortunate circumstances. This has motivated me to do my part and contribute to initiatives like this. We can't fix everything, and I often feel that stops me from at least fixing something. It is always good to remind myself that even helping one life is a change in the positive direction. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMg0_y7pe7r/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link