Well, dear readers, we have exhausted the complex issue of Heartworm infestation in dogs and cats – and quite rightly so, because of the seriousness of this ailment.
Before we continue with other specific ailments, I would like to respond to some of the many questions readers of this column pose to us – questions which do not fall into a specific disease category, for example skin disorders, with which we will deal as soon as the potpourri of miscellaneous questions are answered.
Q: DO DOGS SEE COLOURS?
A: For many years when this question was asked, the automatic answer was that dogs do not see colours, rather most likely only black and white.
I suppose such answers were based on empirical observation and “feelings” of the owner – and even of the vet.
New scientific research is revealing that dogs can recognize dark and light blue and yellow hues and some shades of grey. The colour blue seems to be calming in dogs (as with humans). See attached comparison of colour vision of humans and dogs. (Source: PETMD)
Having documented the above, other questions immediately follow, for example
Q: Should dogs sleep in a room where there is complete darkness?
A: The quick answer is PREFERABLY. I have already mentioned that dogs are “NOSE” and “EAR” animals – meaning that their senses of smell and sound are much more acute than is the case with humans. As a result, if there is foreign/unaccustomed sound and/or smell, the animal would immediately become more alert. By the same reasoning, therefore, there is no need to have a light on in the room where the dog sleeps.
The dog is quite comfortable sleeping in an area which is pitch black. For the dog sleeping in the house, this condition is more easily achieved. For the dog sleeping in a kennel, total darkness may not be possible (presence of streetlights, neighbours’ security lights etc.). While kennel dogs adjust to kennel conditions, a lit area is not the best-case scenario. As in humans, there is a hormone (Melatonin), the production of which is compromised if the animal is sleeping where there is much light during the night. This, in turn, affects the bio-rhythm (circadian rhythm) adversely. I dare say that bright lights (even those emanating from household appliances), where humans sleep, can upset one’s body clock.
I should also mention that dogs (like humans) need deep sleep and dreams. Sleep and dream deprivation/interruption (for example, as is normal for security service dogs) can represent serious stress factors with serious health consequences. Security Service Companies are well aware of the behavioral impact on their canine wards that experience/ endure sleep and dream deprivation. They are urged to roster the service animals in a schedule that ensures that they are not in service every night.
Q: Can LED lights all over the house (even in the bedroom) have a negative effect on the dog’s seeing ability?
A: Well, yes. LED lights do have a strobe-like/flicker effect on the sensitivity of your canine pet’s eyes/health and functioning.
Can you imagine how brilliant lights – as in fireworks – damage your canine and companion animal?
I know the next questions will follows!
Q: DO CATS SEE IN COLOUR?
A: For some reason, cat caregivers, as does the general public, feel that cats have a nocturnal (predatory) instinct which allows them to see the world better at night and in black and white.
Let’s be clear: cats (and dogs) do not distinguish colours as we humans do. Moreover, cats, like dogs, are more comfortable dealing with blue and yellow hues. Nevertheless, cats do possess very good night vision.
