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Medical tale will tug at heartstrings

A Japanese Chin named Esme is recovering from a groundbreaking heart surgery to repair his mitral valve and replace the chordae tendineae, also known as heartstrings.

A JAPANESE Chin named Esme is recovering from a groundbreaking heart surgery to repair his mitral valve and replace the chordae tendineae, also known as heartstrings. Japanese veterinary cardiologist Dr. Masami Uechi performed the surgery Nov. 19 at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.

It was the first time the operation has been performed in the United States. If it is successful, it holds out hope for other dogs with mitral valve regurgitation, including Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Chihuahuas and dachshunds.

* Natura Pet Products is recalling some dry cat and ferret food because it lacks sufficient levels of vitamins and contains excess minerals.

The recalled products are EVO Grain Free Turkey & Chicken Formula dry cat and kitten food in 15.4-pound bags, UPC number 5148 541402, expiration date Feb. 19, 2016; the same food in 2.2-pound bags, UPC number 5148 541400, expiration date Feb. 20, 2016; and EVO Grain Free Ferret Food in 6.6-pound bags, UPC number 5148 542101, expiration date Feb. 19, 2016. Return the food to the seller for a refund.