Chetz Yusof

A Video about Canine Parvovirus (CPV)

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 03:47:00 -0500

I found this video today regarding canine parvovirus (CPV). I also watched some other videos and comments. There are dogs that died although they’re vaccinated. What I believe is that if a dog is stress, this will also weaken their natural immune system. So, no matter how good the medication or vaccination, if the dog is still stress or in stressed environment it won’t work.

Like the case of Memphis who has demodex mange, he was given the same treatment when he was at the pet shop. But I believe he was still stressed there as there are many new dogs he didn’t know and he didn’t get much attention as he’s at home. Once I brought him back to my house, he only mix with my friendly dogs. Most of the time he only mix with one dog. He’s condition improved in just a month.

With Gabriel, eventhough I’m worried and sad that he got parvo, I do my best to project happy energy/feelings when I’m around him. I believe he can feel my energy.

Let me know your story and what you think k.

Thanks!

Gabriel at the Vet

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:16:00 -0500

Your donation to help with the medical bills and food is highly appreciated. You can donate through PayPal or bank deposit to my Public Bank Account.

Fund Bowl

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Or Click here for donation through bank deposit

May God Bless Your Kindness.

Putting ecollar on Garbriel.

What You Should Know about Canine Parvovirus

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 23:50:00 -0500

Gabriel is being treated at the vet.

Your donation to help with the medical bills is highly appreciated. You can donate through PayPal or bank deposit to my Public Bank Account.

Fund Bowl (click to donate via PayPal)

Or Click here for donation through bank deposit

What is canine parvovirus?

Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) is a highly contagious and serious disease caused by a virus that attacks the gastrointestinal tract of puppies, dogs, and wild canids (e.g. foxes, wolves, coyotes). It was first identified in 1978 and is seen worldwide. It also can damage the heart muscle in very young and unborn puppies.

There are several variants of CPV-2 (CPV-2a, CPV-2b, CPV-2c) based on analysis of the genetics of the virus, but they produce similar signs in animals. CPV-2b is the most common variant in the US. CPV-2c was first confirmed in the U.S. in 2006, and is becoming the second most common variant.

How is parvovirus spread?

CPV-2 is highly contagious and is spread by direct dog-to-dog contact and contact with contaminated feces (stool), environments or people. The virus can also contaminate kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes, and the hands and clothing of people who handle infected dogs. It is resistant to heat, cold, humidity, and drying, and can survived in the environment for long periods of time. Even trace amounts of feces containing parvovirus may serve as environmental reservoirs of the virus and infect other dogs that come into the infected environment. CPV-2 is readily transmitted from place to place on the hair or feet of dogs or via contaminated cages, shoes, or other objects.

What dogs are at risk?

All dogs are at risk, but puppies less than four months old and dogs that have not been vaccinated against canine parvovirus are at increased risk of becoming infected and ill.

What are some signs of parvovirus infection?

Dogs infected with the CPV-2 virus that are ill are often said to have “parvo.” CPV-2 infection causes lethargy; loss of appetite; fever; vomiting; and severe, often bloody, diarrhea. Vomiting and diarrhea can cause rapid dehydration, and most deaths from parvovirus occur within 48 to 72 hours following the onset of clinical signs. If your puppy or dog shows any of these signs, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is canine parvovirus diagnosed and treated?

CPV-2 infection is often suspected based on the dog’s history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Fecal testing can confirm the diagnosis.

No specific drug is available that will kill the virus in infected dogs, and treatment is intended to support the dog’s body systems until the dog’s immune system can fight off the viral infection. Treatment should be started immediately and consists primarily of efforts to combat dehydration by replacing electrolyte and fluid losses, controlling vomiting and diarrhea, and preventing secondary infections. Sick dogs should be kept warm and receive good nursing care. When a dog develops parvo, treatment can be very expensive, and the dog may die despite aggressive treatment. Early recognition and aggressive treatment are very important in successful outcomes.

Since CPV-2 is highly contagious, isolation of infected dogs is necessary to minimize spread of infection. Proper cleaning and disinfection of contaminated kennels and other areas where infected dogs are (or have been) housed is essential to control the spread of parvovirus. The virus is not easily killed, so consult your veterinarian for specific guidance on cleaning and disinfecting agents.

How is parvovirus prevented?

Vaccination and good hygiene are critical components of canine parvovirus prevention.

Vaccination is extremely important. Young puppies are very susceptible to infection, particularly because the natural immunity provided in their mothers’ milk may wear off before the puppies’ own immune systems are mature enough to fight off infection. If a puppy is exposed to canine parvovirus during this gap in protection, it may become ill. An additional concern is that immunity provided by a mother’s milk may interfere with an effective response to vaccination. This means even vaccinated puppies may occasionally be infected by parvovirus and develop disease. To reduce gaps in protection and provide the best protection against parvovirus during the first few months of life, a series of puppy vaccinations are administered. Puppies should receive a dose of canine parvovirus vaccine between 14 and 16 weeks of age, regardless of how many doses they received earlier, to develop adequate protection.

To protect their adult dogs, pet owners should be sure that their dog’s parvovirus vaccination is up-to-date. Ask your veterinarian about a recommended vaccination program for your canine companion.

In spite of proper vaccination, a small percentage of dogs do not develop protective immunity and remain susceptible to infection.

Hygiene—Until a puppy has received its complete series of vaccinations, pet owners should use caution when bringing their pet to places where young puppies congregate (e.g. pet shops, parks, puppy classes, obedience classes, doggy daycare, kennels, and grooming establishments). Reputable establishments and training programs reduce exposure risk by requiring vaccinations, health examinations, good hygiene, and isolation of ill puppies and dogs. Contact with known infected dogs and their premises should always be avoided.

Finally, do not allow your puppy or dog to come into contact with the fecal waste of other dogs while walking or playing outdoors. Prompt and proper disposal of waste material is always advisable as a way to limit spread of canine parvovirus infection as well as other diseases that can infect humans and animals. Dogs with vomiting or diarrhea or other dogs which have been exposed to ill dogs should not be taken to kennels, show grounds, dog parks, or other areas where they will come into contact with other dogs. Similarly, unvaccinated dogs should not be exposed to ill dogs or those with unknown vaccination histories. People who are in contact with sick or exposed dogs should avoid handling of other dogs or at least wash their hands and change their clothes before doing so.

Although this brochure provides basic information about canine parvovirus, your veterinarian is always your best source of health information. Consult your veterinarian for more information about canine parvovirus and its prevention.

Source: http://www.avma.org/animal_health/brochures/canine_parvo/parvo_brochure.asp

This information has been prepared as a service by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Redistribution is acceptable, but the document’s original content and format must be maintained, and its source must be prominently identified.

Another good source of information about Parvovirus: http://www.workingdogs.com/parvofaq.htm

New Addition: Gabriel

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 23:04:57 -0500

This is Gabriel. He was abandoned in a housing area near my place. The family who helped to feed him told me that when the first saw him, he was wearing a collar that was very tight. They took the collar off.

I brought him back home Saturday evening, 21st November 2009. Going to bring him to the vet next weekend for vaccination. Once he’s neutered, I plan to send him to Furry Farm to meet his sisters, Charity and Mercy. They look alike.

Why Did They Feel Offended?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:24:00 -0500

I’d like to share with you about something I read on one of Muslim dog lover blog, http://www.mymki.com. The blogger, MKI was featured in Bahasa Malaysia newspapers and the headline was “Saya Tak Menghina Sesiapa” or “I don’t mean to offend anyone” (Click the picture to go to his blog). What I understand from reading the article was some people (I believe the Malay Muslims) were offended because MKI is a dog breeder and enters his dogs on dog shows.

My respond to Muslims who are “offended” and those who believe that having dogs is “haram”, dog is dirty, Muslims cannot have dogs, you won’t be blessed if you have dogs and those who question the morality of rescuing and helping dogs is…

You Are Giving Islam & The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) a bad name.

In my opinion, these Muslims are no different than terrorist who killed many innocent people in the name of Islam. In a way they’re making Islam look bad.

There’s nowhere mention in the Quran that dogs is “haram”, dirty or prohibited. However, there is a mentioned in the Quran that it’s ok to eat the animals that are caught by the trained hunting dogs.

[Quran 5:4] They consult you concerning what is lawful for them; say, “Lawful for you are all good things, including what trained dogs and falcons catch for you.” You train them according to Allah’s teachings. You may eat what they catch for you, and mention Allah’s name thereupon. You shall observe Allah. Allah is most efficient in reckoning.

Narrated Abu Huraira:
The Prophet said, “A man saw a dog eating mud from (the severity of) thirst. So, that man took a shoe (and filled it) with water and kept on pouring the water for the dog till it quenched its thirst. So Allah approved of his deed and made him to enter Paradise.”

If you read about the characters of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), it’s really impossible that he would condemn or be cruel to dogs.

I also heard some opinions that said Muslims can have dogs but they must be working dogs or the dogs must have purpose like guard dogs or herding dogs.

After having dogs of my own and doing some research about dogs behavior, I understand why this is the case. We can’t just keep our dogs caged or chained or leave them all day, everyday leaving them doing NOTHING.

A lot of people have dogs as Guard Dogs. They just put them in a cage, chain them or just put them in the back yard to guard their house or property. This is CRUEL.

Dogs need a purpose. They need exercise, discipline and affection. They need to be socialized with humans and other dogs.

There are a lot of responsibilities to take care of a dog. You must exercise, discipline and clean after your dog so that your life will be happier with your dog and also it won’t disturb the neighbors by their excessive barking or the smell from their poop or pee.
I don’t encourage people to have dogs, the same as I don’t encourage them to have children if they don’t know how to take care of them.

A lot of people question my morality of rescuing and having dogs (I’m sure most of them are Malays), I will tell you why I prefer rescuing dogs than rescuing humans in another post. Some of my friends also questioned am I a Muslim because of I’m a dog rescuer, trainer and I have dogs in my house. Well, I have the same question to those who asked me whether I’m a Muslim and question the morality of my effort….

Are You A Muslim?

Help in Raising Fund for my Dog Center

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 03:37:00 -0500

I’m currently raising money to feed DHR rescued dogs, pay their medical bills and also to build a proper dog center so I can help more dogs.

When you look at these pictures, there are all healthy and happy dogs. The only sad story about them is that they were abandoned by their ex owners.

One was abused by the previous owner. Thrown to wall and kicked.

Flip Jack

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Five of them were left to die in a box when they were about two weeks old.

The Brindle Boys

Golek & Yusni

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One was left outside of the house because the owner couldn’t longer take the barking. She was two and a half years, not spayed and left outside with big possibility of mating with other stray dogs.

Chestnut

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One was found wondering around in front of my house (my house is like a dog magnet). He’s very friendly, funny and surprisingly obedient! I crowned him DHR Ambassador and jester.

Indiana Bones

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The newest in the family was abandoned in a pet shop for six months. He was brought there to cure his mange. He suffered from Demodex Mange. It’s a heredity decease which is hard to cure. I believe due to his hair loss and his not so pleasant smell and look, the owner decided not to keep him. I heard if I didn’t rescue him, he’d end up at the ex owner’s relative fish farm.

Memphis Job

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That was their past. I don’t have pictures of skinny dogs, sick dogs, injured dogs or traumatized dogs so that you’ll help. These dogs have been with me more than six months and some more than three years already. The latest one is Memphis, took him in September 11th 2009. He is healing now and he’s doing very well with the medicine and TLC.

My mission is to help dogs enjoy a happy life and to educate people on how to give their dogs what they need so both the dogs and the owners will be happy.

As you can see the dogs at DHR are happy and I need help in the up keep and maintenance of these dogs like their food and medical. I’m also raising fund to build a better dog center so I can help more dogs and dogs owners to rehabilitate their dogs or learn how to give their dogs what they need.

I need about RM900 per month just for their food & treats. Many people questioned why I give them very good food. Trust me, I’ve tried those cheap food and they only cause more problems, stress and money. After a few bags, my dogs started to have rashes and their shedding was getting more serious. The jack Russell’s body started to become reddish with red spots. I have allergies and I know how it feels when your whole body is itchy. I won’t let my dogs feel that suffering.

So, I really appreciate your help in keeping these dogs happy and healthy and also in educating people on how to take care of dogs. If you’d like to sponsor a dog, it’s RM90 per month.

You can donate through PayPal or bank deposit to my Public Bank Account.

Fund Bowl

(click to donate via PayPal)

Or Click here for donation through bank deposit

May God Bless Your Kindness.

An Email from Her World Reader

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:34:00 -0500

Hi Chetz,

my name is Sri Devi. I’m from Ipoh but studying in Unimas. Currently in Sarawak. I bought Her World magazine 2days back. When I started to read it today, the first thing impress me is yr column. I was too impressed with your job now. I had a dream last time to be a veterinary doctor but I end up here studying for network engineering. I love animals especially dogs. I dreamt to open a mini zoo which especially for abandoned animals but all gone as it is my dream. I wrote this email is to appreciate you and your great job. I hope I can contribute anything for you one day or become as your volunteer.

Good day.

Regards,
Sridevi

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Thanks so much for your email Sri.

For those of you who are reading this, please KEEP YOUR DREAMS ALIVE. God works in a mysterious way. I could really relate with Sri’s story.

After my SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia), Accountancy, Business Management & Business Administration were the top three majors I chose when applying for a placement at a university. However, I was offered to do Industrial Engineering, a twining program with UiTM and Marquette University, WI, USA. I accepted the offer as I might not get other opportunity like this one. It’s a great experience being in the U.S. A lot of times I wish I didn’t come back. But when I looked at my dogs, I believe there’s a reason why I’m back here in Malaysia.

I graduated in 1998, came back to Malaysia and started working as an Industrial Engineer for nine years. I learnt a lot of stuff… working with people, computers & machines. My main specializations are capacity planning and systems development. I learnt about the things I’m good at and the things I’m not. But I felt there’s something missing. There’s something greater that I need to do.

I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in life when I was young except wanting to become a millionaire. There was no specific path or profession in my head but I was sure I must become an entrepreneur in order to become a millionaire. I like to read motivational and business books. I started seeing myself as motivational speaker and wanting to do something great to inspire people. But I had ONE BIG PROBLEM. My predominant personality is Phlegmatic. In simpler term, I am LAZY. I don’t get easily excited, interested or obsessed at anything. Most everything is OK. I believe a lot of people think people with my type of personality are lazy to think. But we actually think TOO much in order to avoid conflict.

I have two options:

1. Continue being LAZY and ordinary and don’t do anything great before I die. Like most people, born, eat, sleep, go to school/work, watch TV, make babies and die.

2. Find out how to overcome laziness or any constraints that are stopping me from becoming great and make a change in the world.

I choose Option 2. Isn’t it more awesome if a lazy, shy, reserved, uncharismatic and quiet person turns out to be a leader and makes this world a better place for some animals or people? Of course it’s more AWESOME!

So, what I did was looking back at my life since I was a child and learnt what actually changed me or made me take actions. I also studied people stories from books and the Internet on how people have changed and become successful and made a difference to the world. And I’m writing and compiling what I discovered in my upcoming book, JERKING THE CHAIN. I’m still working on the sub-title. It’ll be out as an ebook before 31st of December 2009. If you want a printed version, please let me know by emailing me or leave a comment here.

In summary, the main message I’d like to deliver from this post is, KEEP WORKING ON YOUR DREAMS no matter what life brings to you. Things happen for a reason.

I’d like to do this all day! : )

Photo by Frosted Peppercorn

Special Thanks To Maya & Friends

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:25:00 -0500

A Very Special Thanks to…

Maya Ranjit Singh

Nikhil Ranjit Singh

India

Anjali Gananathan

Suvesshaa Nathan

Aishwaiya Viswanathan

These children have collected more than RM200 for Dogs Have Rights! That’s so woofie AWESOME!!!

Memphis' 3rd Trip to the Vet

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:21:00 -0500

I’m so happy that there’s improvement. This trip cost RM68.

I saw this picture on http://www.mykittun.com. It makes me...

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 04:02:25 -0500

I saw this picture on http://www.mykittun.com. It makes me really happy because it’s really RARE to see this in Malaysia. Many Malay Muslims here have a bad perception on dogs, scared of dogs and think all dogs will give them decease and bite them. Thanks to mykittun for sharing!

New Wall & Fence at DHR

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 07:46:00 -0500

I plan to build a shelter here using canvas as the roof and also plywood as the bedding. It’s gonna cost about RM250 (will build it myself). This side is cooler, so they can hang out here when it’s very hot. I can also put them here if I need to separate the dogs.

I also need to get portable fence. It’s cost about RM200, I need 2 sets of this which come to a total of RM400.

If you’d like to help, you can chip in through PayPal by clicking the ChipIn button on the top right side of this blog. Your help is greatly appreciated!

BEFORE the Brick Wall

Golek & Yusni don’t seem to be happy with the new brick wall because they can’t escape.

Canine Rescue - Her World Life November '09

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 06:25:00 -0500

Click the picture to download (in pdf file) my story in Her World Life November ‘09. There’s also story about the Furry Friends Farm.

Please share this with your friends!

Otto... The Oldest Living Dog.

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 04:58:30 -0400

My housemate would be happy to see this.

Hitam's Memorial Ceremony at Furry Friends Farm

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 03:29:00 -0400

For more information about Hitam, go to http://www.furryfriendsfarm.org

Update on Memphis

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:15:00 -0400

Meal Time at DHR Center

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 06:16:47 -0400

Let me know if you’d like to learn how to do the same with you dog.

Cesar Millan: Kids and Dogs

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 02:43:00 -0400

Very important information especially if you have the powerful breed

Overcoming fear of dogs

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 03:49:23 -0400

Anyone who wants to overcome their fear of dogs can come over my place : )

Dog Grooming Tips by Cesar Millan

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 07:01:07 -0400

I watched this video today. It’s a really cool mobile grooming van. I don’t think we have any of this in Malaysia. In this video, note that dogs also have their button. You just need to find them.

Tips When Walking Your Dog by Cesar Millan

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 08:03:00 -0400