Pet care information by veterinarians for pet owners -- like you

The more you understand, the better you can partner with your veterinarian to maximize your pet's health.

Information by Species

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DOGS
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CATS
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HORSES
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PIGS
Birds

BIRDS
Reptiles & Amphibians

REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS
Ruminants

RUMINANTS
Small mammals

SMALL MAMMALS


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Medications

Medications

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New and Updated Articles

Latest articles

  • Shock: First Aid Open link in new window
    3/7/2025
    The term shock can mean different things to different people, and medical professionals still debate the true meaning of the word. Regardless of cause, shock is life-threatening and requires immediate attention and treatment.
  • Hookworms in Cats and Dogs Open link in new window
    3/7/2025
    The adult hookworm lives in the small intestine of its host. It hangs on to the intestinal wall using its six sharp teeth and unlike other worms that just absorb the digested food through their skin as it passes by, the hookworm drinks its host's blood. Humans can get hookworms too.
  • Meningoencephalitis of Unknown Origin in Dogs Open link in new window
    2/27/2025
    Meningoencephalitis is an inflammation involving the brain. A diagnosis of Meningoencephalitis of Unknown Origin (MUO) means the reason for the condition is not known. 
  • Hemivertebrae are Congenitally Deformed Vertebra in Dogs and Cats Open link in new window
    2/26/2025
    A hemivertebra is a congenitally deformed vertebra. Hemivertebrae of the tail are not a problem as there is no spinal cord tissue that far down.
  • Anaphylactic Shock in Pets Open link in new window
    2/25/2025
    When a human or pet comes in contact with a substance that their immune system thinks is harmful, the immune system labels that substance an allergen and produces antibodies to fight it. The resulting response is an allergic reaction. If the response is anaphylactic shock, this is a medical emergency. 
  • Glucosamine/Chondroitin Sulfate (Cosequin, Dasuquin, Glycoflex, Flexadin, Caniflex, Synovi, etc.) Open link in new window
    2/25/2025
    Degenerative joint diseases are painful conditions frequently treated with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory agents. It has been of interest to seek a medication that might actually strengthen damaged joints rather than simply blocking pain. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates theoretically represent a solution.
  • Neutering Your Male Dog Open link in new window
    2/25/2025
    Neutering a dog will help prevent or curtail a number of unpleasant behavioral problems and can also prevent prostate disease. This simple surgery is an important part of responsible pet ownership. Click here for an FAQ.
  • Cephalexin (Keflex) Open link in new window
    2/20/2025
    Cephalexin is a good broad spectrum antibiotic, which means it is useful in most common and uncomplicated infections. It is especially useful against staphylococcal infections (most skin infections) and is commonly used for long (6-8 week courses) against deep skin infections (pyodermas).
  • Pyrantel Pamoate (Strongid T, Nemex) Open link in new window
    2/20/2025
    Pyrantel pamoate is effective against numerous parasitic worms, such as roundworms, hookworms, and stomach worms. When a new puppy or kitten is adopted and has been said to have been dewormed, the chances are it is this product that was used.
  • Terbinafine (Lamisil) Open link in new window
    2/20/2025
    Terbinafine has activity against other types of fungi but at this time it is mostly used against ringworm.

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The same folks who provide Veterinary Partner® also offer a blog called VetzInsight. Rather than explain what occurs in a disease process and how to treat it - which Veterinary Partner® offers - our goal is not only to inform on larger issues but to tap into the numerous emotions at play within the human-animal bond. We're here to learn and have fun. If you're interested in learning more about a broader look at veterinary medicine, the veterinarians, the clients, and the patients, VetzInsight is a great learning experience.

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VETzInsight



VIN News Service was created in 2008 as the news media arm of the Veterinary Information Network, the largest online information service devoted to veterinary medicine. Since 1991, VIN has served as a community where colleagues connect to share medical cases and their experiences navigating life, business and the profession. VIN is for veterinarians, by veterinarians. The VIN News Service, like VIN, is advertiser-free, supported by the dues of VIN members.

VIN News Service

VIN News Service


The content of this site is owned by Veterinary Information Network (VIN®), and its reproduction and distribution may only be done with VIN®'s express permission.

The information contained here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk.

Links to non-VIN websites do not imply a recommendation or endorsement by VIN® of the views or content contained within those sites.

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