Dear Dr. Forsythe: What is your opinion of the test that people are having done to determine the different breeds of dog their mutt is composed of? I was considering having that done, but worried about the cost.
Heinz 57 Lover
Dear Lover: A lot of people think this test is of great value, but I am not one of them. I don’t really recommend the test unless you are doing it for fun. The rep for the company that makes the test would have us believe that pet owners are wise to know the individual breed types from which their mixed breed dogs came from in order to know any possible diseases that are more common in those breeds. But I think the test is really more for entertainment, since people love to “guess the breed.” The medical benefits of breed identification are more questionable: For example, it is well known among veterinarians that purebred Boxers and Golden Retrievers have a high incidence of many cancers, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are over represented with heart defects. But as soon as these breeds are with any other breed, those problems decrease significantly in the offspring produced, making the need for genetic mapping less important, in my opinion. The test costs over a hundred dollars, so I’d rather see my clients put that money towards dental cleaning or other preventive care that will extend their pets’ lives and make them more comfortable and healthy. Good luck and thanks for a good question.
Dr. F
Dear Dr. Forsythe: You prescribed the weight-loss drug Slentrol for my dog, and I am happy to report that so far that she has lost two pounds. Other than a decrease in appetite, I haven’t really noticed any other side effects. Is this true for other dogs you have put on this medication?
JT
Dear JT: I’m happy that things are going well since your pet started using Slentrol. Some pets do experience vomiting and some loose stools, but heartier pets simply have a decrease in appetite. A few of my clients have been worried that their pet could have a major “blowout,” so I try and be more conservative in those cases. Slentrol (dirlotapide) acts by blocking the release of lipoproteins into the bloodstream and suppressing the satiety center so your pet feels “full” sooner. This medication is often a help for pets who still haven’t taken the weight off after being on a low-fat diet and whose thyroid and other hormone levels are being monitored and adjusted as necessary. I’m glad that she is doing well, and keep up the good work!
Dr. F
Dear Readers: I continue to enjoy your excellent and compelling questions. Please give me more, as I read each and every one. Send your questions to me through the Sun at feedback@sonomasun.com.
Thanks!
Dr. F
(aka Dear Fabby)
