Dogs

  • Diseases and Conditions  

  • First Aid  

  • Abscess: First Aid  
    August 1, 2023
    A localized accumulation of pus, usually caused by an infection introduced from an animal bite or other penetrating wound.
  • Bandaging: First Aid  
    August 1, 2023
    We use bandages for several reasons: to protect wounds from the environment, protect the environment from wounds, and to discourage the pet from licking or irritating a wound.
  • Bee Stings and Insect Bites: First Aid  
    August 1, 2023
    Any insect sting or spider bite can cause problems for your pet.
  • Bleeding: First Aid  
    August 2, 2023
    Learn how to stop bleeding in an emergency.
  • Bloat: First Aid  
    August 13, 2023
    Bloat is a life-threatening condition in which the stomach fills with air or twists upon itself.
  • Breathing Problems: First Aid  
    August 13, 2023
    Respiratory distress recognized by increased effort to breathe; noisy breathing; cyanosis (a bluish tinge to the lips and mucous membranes); inability to inhale or exhale.
  • Burns: First Aid  
    August 13, 2023
    A burn is any injury of tissue caused by heat, flame, chemicals, or electricity. Burn classification determines the severity of the wound based on the depth of the tissue injury.
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): First Aid  
    August 16, 2023
    CPCR (formerly referred to as CPR) is the treatment required to save an animal or human life when suffering cardiopulmonary arrest.
  • Chemical Injuries: First Aid  
    August 16, 2023
    Injury to tissue caused by contact with harmful chemicals such as lye, acids, and strong cleaning supplies.
  • Choking: First Aid  
    March 21, 2023
    Choking is interference with breathing caused by foreign material in, or compression on, the trachea (windpipe).
  • Dehydration: First Aid  
    June 19, 2023
    Excess loss of water from the body or inappropriate intake of water into the body.
  • Diarrhea and Vomiting: First Aid  
    August 16, 2023
    Diarrhea is the frequent evacuation of watery stools. Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth.
  • Difficult Birth: First Aid  
    August 21, 2023
    If the contractions are frequent, regular, and strong, and no young is produced in 15 to 30 minutes, the pet should be taken to a veterinarian.
  • Drowning or Near Drowning: First Aid  
    August 21, 2023
    Suffocation caused by the filling of the lungs with water or other fluid. What to do?
  • Electrical Burns: First Aid  
    August 21, 2023
    It is imperative that you do not touch the pet until the electrical source has been turned off or moved. Electricity can flow through your pet and affect you as well.
  • Eye Injuries: First Aid  
    July 10, 2018
    Seek veterinary attention immediately as signs can indicate potentially serious eye problems that can risk your pet's vision.
  • Fainting and Dizziness (Syncope): First Aid  
    March 26, 2020
    Fainting and dizziness may be associated with anything from low blood sugar to severe heart disease.
  • Fever: First Aid  
    July 10, 2018
    Fever is the elevation of body temperature in response to infection or inflammation.
  • Fractures and Injuries: First Aid  
    July 10, 2018
    Fracture: a break or crack in a bone. Learn about the different types of fractures and what to do.
  • Hyperthermia (Heat Stroke): First Aid  
    June 19, 2023
    The elevation of body temperature above normal. It is sometimes indicative of a fever, but it can also be associated with severe conditions such as heat stroke or heat prostration.
  • Hypothermia: First Aid  
    March 22, 2021
    When a pet's body temperature dips below 100.5 degrees, the pet is too cold and must be warmed.
  • Impalement and Penetrating Injuries: First Aid  
    March 26, 2020
    Dogs frequently carry sticks in their mouths and suffer impalements when an end of the stick jams into the ground.
  • Introduction: First Aid  
    August 3, 2018
    VeterinaryPartner.com has provided this complete reference book online for you to browse through, expanding your knowledge of Dog & Cat First Aid.
  • Nosebleed: First Aid  
    July 10, 2018
    If the nose is bleeding profusely and/or the bleeding lasts more than 5 minutes, seek veterinary attention.
  • Paralysis: First Aid  
    July 10, 2018
    It is extremely important to immobilize the spine of a suddenly paralyzed pet before and during transportation.
  • Physical Exam Checklist for Pets: First Aid  
    March 26, 2020
    To identify an illness or abnormal situation, you must first be able to recognize what is normal for your pet.
  • Poisoning in Dogs and Cats  
    April 1, 2020
    Try to get in touch with a veterinarian or a poison control center and follow their instructions. It is important to know which substances you should induce vomiting, and which ones you should not.
  • Preventing a Health and Safety Crisis: First Aid  
    April 1, 2020
    What can you do to prevent a crisis?
  • Seizures and Convulsions: First Aid  
    April 6, 2020
    Seizure activity that lasts longer than 3 to 5 minutes can cause severe side effects, such as fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema) or brain (cerebral edema). A dramatic rise in body temperature (hyperthermia) can also result, causing internal organ damage.
  • Shock: First Aid  
    July 10, 2018
    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.
  • Snakebite: First Aid  
    July 10, 2018
    When your pet is "struck" by a snake, it is best to assume it is a poisonous bite.
  • Straining to Eliminate: First Aid  
    April 6, 2020
    Straining is a frequent and sometimes exaggerated effort to have a bowel movement or to urinate.
  • Sunburn: First Aid  
    June 19, 2023
    Damage to the tissues caused by exposure to the sun's rays.
  • Transporting an Injured Pet: First Aid  
    July 10, 2018
    The first aid provider must not only identify and treat injury or illness, but must also safely transport the patient to the veterinary facility for treatment.
  • Wounds: First Aid  
    July 10, 2018
    Many wounds will require pain control and sedation or general anesthesia for cleaning and closure once your pet has been evaluated by a veterinarian.
  • Wrapping Up First Aid  
    April 6, 2020
    If you have questions, seek advice from a veterinarian.
  • Actinic (Solar) Dermatitis  
    June 10, 2022
    For most of the time, a good fur coat is all the protection a dog needs to avoid damage from the sun. After all, protection from the environment is what fur is all about. There are two problems, however: the tummy (which is sparsely furred in most dogs) and short white fur (which sunlight readily penetrates).
  • Acute Hemorrhagic Diarrhea Syndrome (AHDS or HGE)  
    April 9, 2023
    A potentially life-threatening intestinal condition of dogs that manifests as sudden onset bloody, watery diarrhea called acute hemorrhagic diarrhea syndrome (previously called hemorrhagic gastroenteritis or HGE.)
  • Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)  
    November 1, 2022
    Also called hypoadrenocorticism, Addison's disease results from a deficiency of the hormones that enable adaption to stress. Signs can be vague or can culminate in a circulatory crisis.
  • Adrenal Tumor Treatment in Cushing's Syndrome  
    August 24, 2023
    While only approximately 15% of canine Cushing's syndrome patients have adrenal tumors, half of these patients will have a benign tumor and half will have malignant tumors. The choice of therapy may well depend on which type it is.
  • Adverse Reactions to Spot-on Flea and Tick Products  
    August 5, 2014
    With spot-on preventives, there is the possibility that certain individuals will have adverse local reactions to one or more ingredients in the product.
  • Allergic Conjunctivitis in Dogs and Cats  
    October 13, 2021
    Allergic conjunctivitis is most commonly treated with eyedrops or ointments containing corticosteroids,
  • Allergies: Atopic Dermatitis (Airborne) in Dogs and Cats  
    January 5, 2022
    We get hay fever; dogs get itchy skin. This condition is usually seasonal - but not always - and many treatments are available. Find out the causes and what you can do to relieve your pet's discomfort.
  • Alopecia X is a Pattern of Baldness  
    March 19, 2022
    It may be that Alopecia X is not one hair loss-causing disease but several and we simply do not know how to distinguish them.
  • Amputation is Preferable to Continued Pain  
    March 11, 2019
    A letter from a veterinarian points out that amputation is far better than continued pain or euthanasia.
  • Anal Glands and Anal Gland Abscess in Dogs and Cats  
    August 6, 2020
    The infection prevents the foul-smelling anal gland fluid from leaving the sac.
  • Anal Sac Tumors in Dogs  
    July 22, 2021
    Anal sac tumors are uncommon but serious and left untreated are generally fatal.
  • Anaplasmosis  
    April 8, 2014
    Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease. Two forms of anaplasmosis are known: granulocytic anaplasmosis and infectious cyclic thrombocytopenia.A dog can have both infections at the same time
  • Anaplasmosis in Dogs and Cats Is Tick-Borne  
    December 26, 2019
    Signs can include poor appetite and fever. Joints are commonly affected, 
  • Anorexia, or Lack of Appetite, in Dogs and Cats  
    June 3, 2022
    Loss of appetite is one of the most important criteria in determining if a pet is significantly ill or just having a minor malady. When the veterinarian says the pet has anorexia, it means the pet is not eating.
  • Aspergillosis in Dogs  
    September 1, 2021
    Nasal aspergillosis is the most common manifestation of the Aspergillus infection.
  • Ataxia in Dogs and Cats  
    November 8, 2022
    Ataxia is a symptom caused by some type of central nervous system problem in which the brain cannot correctly tell the body what to do. It is an inability to make normal, coordinated, voluntary movements.
  • Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs  
    April 21, 2021
    Atopic animals will usually rub, lick, chew, bite or scratch at their feet, muzzle, ears, armpits or groin, causing hair loss, and reddening and thickening of the skin.
  • Atrial Fibrillation in Dogs and Cats  
    May 17, 2018
    Atrial fibrillation (sometimes called "A fib") is an arrhythmia, an irregularity of the heart's rhythm.
  • Aural Hematoma in Dogs and Cats  
    May 17, 2023
    A hematoma is swelling created by a broken blood vessel after bleeding has occurred inside tissue. Hematomas within the ear flaps (aural hematomas) occur when head shaking breaks a blood vessel. The ear flap may partially or completely swell with blood. This condition is more common in dogs but can occur in cats as well.
  • Babesia Infection in Dogs  
    August 23, 2022
    Most people have never heard of Babesia organisms though they cause red blood cell destruction in their canine hosts all over the world. Babesia organisms are spread by ticks and are of particular significance to racing greyhounds and pit bulls. Humans may also become infected.
  • Bacterial Diarrheas in Puppies & Kittens  
    September 17, 2021
    Bacterial diarrheas are generally a nuisance for the adult animal but can be lethal to a small puppy, kitten, or even a human baby. Most of these problems stem from contaminated food or fecal contaminated environment. Raw food diets for pets dramatically increase the risk of human exposure.
  • Basic Virology  
    March 7, 2023
    Viruses are strange life forms. They have only the bare bones of biochemical equipment (barely enough to even qualify for the title "Life Form"). The viral particle's goal is to attach to a host cell and somehow inject its nucleic acids inside the cell. Soon the host cell is little more than a bag of virus.
  • Benign Sebaceous Gland Tumors  
    May 6, 2023
    In older dogs, what looks like a viral wart is probably a sebaceous gland tumor; while there is a 98% chance it is benign, it will not be going away any time soon. Sebaceous gland tumors occur on any location, often in large numbers, and usually in older dogs (and occasionally in older cats).
  • Bicipital Tendinopathy in Dogs  
    December 1, 2020
    Over time, the limping becomes consistent.
  • Biliary Mucocele is a Surgical Emergency in Dogs  
    May 25, 2023
    The goal is to remove the gall bladder before it ruptures. If it has already ruptured, tissue damaged by the rupture must be cleansed or removed.
  • Black Fly Bites on Dogs  
    May 3, 2017
    See what kind of mark a black fly bite leaves on a dog.
  • Bladder Stones (Oxalate) in Dogs  
    June 1, 2022
    Although a urinalysis can provide a clue, the only way to know for sure that a dog's bladder stone is an oxalate stone is to retrieve a stone and have a laboratory analyze it.
  • Bladder Stones (Struvite) in Dogs  
    October 10, 2021
    Some patients with bladder stones show no symptoms of any kind and the stones are discovered incidentally, but there are some symptoms that might promote a search for stones.
  • Blastomycosis is a Systemic Fungal infection Affecting Dogs and Cats  
    November 20, 2019
    Blastomycosis is a systemic fungal infection that affects dogs and cats. Blastomycosis appears in only certain geographic areas in North America, most often the Mississippi, Ohio, Missouri, Tennessee, and St. Lawrence River valleys. Infection with Blastomyces occurs when a cat or dog inhales the fungal spores into the lungs.
  • Bloat - The Mother of All Emergencies  
    June 10, 2021
    A serious, life-threatening emergency. Learn to recognize the signs to get your dog to the vet in time to possibly save his life.
  • Bloody Nose (Epistaxis) in Dogs and Cats  
    November 21, 2021
    Some blood-tinged droplets sneezed on the floor might be the only sign or there might be a steady bloody drip from one or both nostrils. These findings are alarming as well as messy and we want to identify the cause and take care of it promptly. The problem is that there are many causes and not all of them are localized to the nose, and many are serious diseases.
  • Brachial Plexus Avulsion in Dogs and Cats  
    November 2, 2022
    The brachial plexus is the term for the bundle of nerves in the armpit. Injury or trauma such as an automobile accident, a bite, or a wound in this area can damage and tear nerves. 
  • Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome in Flat-Faced Dogs  
    May 27, 2023
    Brachycephalic means short-faced, sometimes called flat-faced. Short-faced breeds of dogs have their own share of unique problems. Be familiar with what they are.
  • Breast Cancer Happens in Companion Animals  
    October 3, 2017
    But it still seems to shock people to learn that dogs, cats, rabbits, rats and a host of other domestic species can get breast cancer, too. Since the aim of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is to raise awareness, our aim here is to wave the flag for those who can’t speak for themselves and raise awareness of mammary cancer in companion animals. We also want people to know that breast cancer and mammary gland cancer are the same disease; it’s just called by a different name in other species.
  • Breed-Related Dermatoses in Dogs and Cats  
    December 20, 2019
    Cat and dog breed-related skin diseases are listed.
  • Brucellosis from Raw Milk Consumption  
    August 10, 2018
    Brucellosis is a very serious disease in animals and people and drinking raw milk should be discouraged as the risks of developing disease are not worth taking the chance.
  • Brucellosis in Dogs  
    March 23, 2022
    Brucellosis is an important venereal disease in many species. It does not usually come up in pet ownership because most pet dogs are not used for breeding. Once someone has decided to breed their dog, though, it behooves them to know all about this disease, particularly since it can be transmitted to humans.
  • Calcium Phosphorus Balance in Dogs and Cats  
    August 3, 2023
    In renal insufficiency, phosphorus is not anyone's friend. The failing kidney is no longer good at getting rid of excess phosphorus and phosphorus levels in the blood begin to rise.
  • Cancer is a Cellular Delinquent  
    March 9, 2015
    Cancer cells go mad systematically. The cellular delinquents bust past the body's natural immune system, as though a gate was left open, burgeoning into abnormal cells.
  • Cataracts in Diabetic Dogs  
    August 17, 2023
    Most diabetic dogs will develop cataracts and go blind. This FAQ can assist the owners of diabetic dogs in knowing what to expect and in decision-making regarding cataract surgery.
  • Cataracts in Dogs and Cats  
    November 7, 2021
    Cataracts are an important cause of blindness in the dog. Through special surgery, it may be possible to restore vision. Would you recognize a cataract if you saw one in your cat or dog?
  • Cauda Equina Syndrome is Painful for Dogs  
    January 14, 2020
    The most common symptom is pain. Treating lumbosacral stenosis depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms.
  • Causes of Blindness in Dogs and Cats  
    September 8, 2020
    Abnormalities in eye structures may lead to blindness
  • Cellulitis in Dogs and Cats  
    July 19, 2023
    Cellulitis is a painful inflammation of the tissue under the skin. In animals, it is generally caused by a bacterial infection that has entered the skin from a cut, open wound, or broken skin from an animal bite.
  • Cervical (Neck) Disk Disease in Dogs and Cats  
    May 14, 2008
    The pet can experience just some neck pain or complete paralysis of all four legs and no pain perception. An acute onset is an absolute emergency.
  • Chagas Disease in Dogs  
    August 16, 2022
    Chagas disease is an infectious disease caused by a microscopic parasite spread by an insect called the kissing bug. Once the parasite infects an animal, if it is not treated promptly, it can reproduce and live in the body for the rest of the animal's life. 
  • Cherry Eye in Dogs and Cats  
    January 2, 2023
    Has a red lump suddenly appeared in the corner of your pet's eye? What does it mean and what should you do?
  • Chondrodystrophy in Dogs  
    August 4, 2020
    Owning and caring for a chondrodystrophic (short-legged) dog is more about preparation and awareness than prevention and treatment
  • Chronic Bronchitis in Dogs  
    June 26, 2022
    When the bronchi are injured by irritants (cigarette smoke, air pollution, biochemical products of infection, etc.), they respond with a healing process that is inherently inflammatory. When the injury becomes ongoing, the inflammatory/healing process also becomes ongoing and the end result involves excessive mucus production in the airways. The mucus obstructs the smaller bronchi, which stimulates coughing, which in turn leads to irritation and then to inflammation and then to more mucus. A vicious cycle results.
  • Chronic Bronchitis in Dogs is Neither Infectious nor Contagious  
    February 24, 2022
    Chronic bronchitis is a non-infectious inflammatory condition affecting the lining (mucosa) of the large airways. Dogs with chronic bronchitis generally have a persistent hacking cough.
  • Chronic Kidney Disease in Dogs and Cats: Where to Begin  
    April 25, 2022
    Chronic kidney, or renal, failure is common among geriatric pets. As treatment frequently is long term, owners should understand their options. Topics discussed include definitions, medications used in treatment, diagnostics/helpful testing, and monitoring.
  • Chylothorax is more Common in Cats than Dogs  
    November 8, 2021
    When the fluid filling the chest is lymph, the problem is called chylothorax. The fluid is milky when it is drained from the chest, and its whiteness comes being from fat. Chylothorax represents a specific problem and requires specific therapy.
  • Cleft Palate or Lip in Puppies and Kittens  
    October 23, 2019
    With either type, it's difficult for the affected puppy or kitten to eat properly
  • Clostridium difficile Becoming more Common in North America  
    March 11, 2014
    It is unclear if C. difficile can be transmitted from pets to people. The types of C. difficile found in pets are often the same as those found in people, including the epidemic strain ribotype 027/NAP1. So it makes sense that C. difficile could potentially be transmitted between people and animals, but there is still no conclusive proof.
  • Clostridium perfringens Causes Diarrhea in Dogs  
    May 24, 2023
    When pets get chronic diarrhea, one of the tests that sooner or later comes up is the test for Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin. Clostridium perfringens is a bacterium and it produces an unpleasant toxin.
  • Coccidia Infects Intestines of Cats and Dogs  
    August 16, 2021
    Coccidia are parasites that commonly infect young animals housed in groups. Coccidia causes a bloody diarrhea that can be severe enough to be life threatening for a small animal. It is a common infection.
  • Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome in Dogs  
    August 17, 2020
    Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is essentially the dog equivalent of Alzheimer's disease
  • Colitis Causes Gooey Diarrhea in Dogs and Cats  
    November 15, 2019
    Colitis means inflammation of the colon and that spells diarrhea - often with fresh blood or mucus - and straining and discomfort for the pet, as well as a mess to clean up.
  • Collie Eye Anomaly in Dogs  
    August 6, 2021
    The disease occurs in both eyes, but each eye may be affected differently
  • Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs and Cats  
    April 6, 2018
    In congestive heart failure, fluid is retained in specific parts of the body, depending on the side of the heart that is diseased.
  • Constipation and Megacolon in Dogs and Cats  
    January 31, 2023
    Difficulty in passing stool can mean extra effort (constipation) or complete impossibility (obstipation). Management can be surgical or with medication, depending on severity. Find out the difference, and find out what Megacolon is, too, on this informative page.
  • Copper Storage Disease in Dogs  
    September 16, 2020
    Left untreated, liver function would be irreversibly damaged, but treating early and continuing with lifelong therapy has a good prognosis
  • Corneal Ulcers and Erosions in Dogs and Cats  
    October 9, 2022
    A scratch or scrape on the eye is extremely painful, causing squinting, redness and excess tears. What do you need to know about taking care of a pet with this condition? Read about the diagnosis and treatment of corneal ulcers and erosions.
  • COVID-19 FAQ for Pet Owners  
    August 17, 2021
    The illness caused by SARS-CoV-2 is coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). 
  • Cryptorchidism (Retained Testicles) in Dogs and Cats  
    February 25, 2008
    Cryptorchidism is a condition in which a male’s testicles have not descended (dropped) into the scrotum. Some cryptorchid animals are sterile and some are not.
  • Cryptosporidium is a Particularly Challenging Type of Coccidia for Pets  
    August 4, 2023
    Cryptosporidium are similar to Coccidia and, until recent advances in molecular biology showed us otherwise, they were believed to be simply another species of Coccidia. They have some particularly unpleasant features.
  • Cushing’s Disease in Dogs (Hyperadrenocorticism): What Is It?  
    August 2, 2018
    Healthy skin and a normal hair coat are the result of many factors, both external and internal. There are several glands in the body responsible for the production of hormones that are vital for the regulation of other body functions as well as a normal skin surface and hair coat.
  • Cushing's Syndrome (Hyperadrenocorticism): Description  
    September 19, 2017
    Excess thirst, excess urination, excess appetite, poor hair coat and a pot-bellied appearance. This is a classical disease for which lots of information is available. We have attempted to include an explanation of this complicated problem and all the latest information.
  • Cushing's Syndrome: Classifying the Type  
    January 26, 2022
    Excess thirst, excess urination, excess appetite, poor hair coat and a pot-bellied appearance. This is a classical disease for which lots of information is available. We have attempted to include an explanation of this complicated problem and all the latest information.
  • Cutaneous Vasculitis in Dogs and Cats  
    March 6, 2023
    Vasculitis is an inflammatory process of the blood vessels (arteries, veins, or capillaries).
  • Cuterebriasis is a Parasite Causing Skin Infections in Dogs and Cats  
    February 18, 2020
    Treatment (removal of the larva) is one of the simplest things in veterinary medicine; your veterinarian will probe and enlarge the breathing hole, grasp the parasite with forceps, and just pull the invader out.
  • Cystotomy for Bladder Stones in Dogs and Cats  
    January 24, 2022
    Usually a surgery called cystotomy is necessary to remove bladder stones.
  • Degenerative Myelopathy Leads to Paralysis of Dog's Hindquarters  
    April 27, 2015
    Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease of undetermined cause that affects a dog's spinal cord. It results in a loss of coordination of the hind legs, which progresses to weakness and then to paralysis of the hindquarters.
  • Demodectic Mange in Dogs  
    June 18, 2023
    This condition is also called red mange. It is not contagious, but it does have a hereditary component. What are the options for treatment?
  • Demodicosis (Red Mange) is Caused by Mites on Dogs  
    April 26, 2018
    Demodicosis (red mange) is a skin disease caused by a small mite not visible to the naked eye. This mite lives down in the root of the hair. All normal dogs have a small population of mites, but only certain animals will get a disease from mite overgrowth. In some cases, the tendency to develop demodectic mange runs in families.
  • Diabetes Mellitus: Introduction  
    April 24, 2023
    Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease involving the body's handling of sugar. Learn about some of the basics of this common hormone problem of dogs and cats.
  • Diabetic Dog Diet  
    March 30, 2022
    The dietary approaches for diabetic dogs are very different than those for diabetic cats.
  • Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Dogs and Cats  
    January 23, 2023
    Ketoacidosis is one of the most extreme complications of diabetes mellitus that can be experienced. Unfortunately, most cases of ketoacidosis are in patients who were not previously known to be diabetic so the owner and pet must deal with two serious diagnoses at the same time.
  • Diaphragmatic Hernias in Dogs and Cats  
    September 15, 2020
    Diaphragmatic hernias result from abdominal organs (e.g. liver, stomach, intestines) being pushed through a hole in the diaphragm
  • Diets and Heart Disease in Dogs and Cats  
    March 5, 2019
    The only common link to diet-associated cardiomyopathy that's been observed is "grain-free" diets.
  • Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs and Cats  
    March 6, 2019
    Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is one of the most common acquired heart diseases in dogs. DCM is a disease of the heart muscle.
  • Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) in Dogs  
    June 15, 2022
    Dogs nose around in all sorts of things but they should not get crusty or ulcerated noses. When they do, there is generally a disease afoot and biopsy may well be needed to determine what is going on. Discoid lupus, or DLE, is a common disease of the leather of the nose. Thankfully, it is usually easily treated and there are many options.
  • Diskospondylitis (Intervertebral Disk Infection) in Dogs and Cats  
    March 20, 2015
    Diskospondylitis is a bacterial/fungal infection that can reach the intervertebral disks several ways.
  • Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) in Dogs and Cats  
    January 20, 2021
    Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is an extreme complication of numerous already life-threatening conditions leading to the deregulation of the body's natural mechanisms of blood clotting and blood clot dissolving.
  • Distemper in Dogs  
    August 24, 2023
    Most of us have heard of distemper infection for dogs and gather it is very bad. The basic vaccine for dogs is the distemper shot, which vaccinates against distemper, parvovirus and some minor kennel cough agents. Luckily, this is all most people ever hear of distemper.
  • Distemper in Dogs  
    September 15, 2023
    is a highly contagious disease affecting not just dogs but many animals. Distemper occurs worldwide, and dogs are the primary carriers of the disease.
  • Distichiasis Requires Permanent Eyelash Removal in Dogs  
    November 12, 2007
    Distichiasis is quite common in dogs. Distichiasis is a condition in which extra hairs grow out of the eyelash area.
  • Doggy Odor  
    February 5, 2020
    Dog owners often complain about their dog's odor. It is important to recognize that dog odors have many sources, both natural and un-natural.
  • Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) in Dogs and Cats  
    August 10, 2022
    Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or KCS, is a fancy way of saying the eye is dry. There are many causes of dry eye, but the most common one appears to be immune mediated destruction of the tear-producing gland tissue.
  • Dust Mites: Minimizing Exposure in Dogs and Cats  
    February 5, 2020
    Dust mites feed off of skin scales and dander shed by humans and animals. Mites love bedding, carpeting, and anywhere they can find a hiding place with the likelihood of skin dander being present. Dust mites also require a relatively high humidity in the home to truly thrive.
  • Ear Infections (Gram Negative Otitis) In Dogs  
    October 15, 2020
    Gram negative ear infections do not have the same kind of leeway that other ear infections do. It is crucial that recheck appointments are not skipped because Gram negatives will simply get harder to clear if treatment is incomplete.
  • Ear Infections (Otitis) in Dogs  
    September 30, 2020
    Did you know the most common cause of recurrent ear infections is allergic skin disease? What do you do to keep the ear scratching and head shaking from becoming chronic?
  • Ear Infections (Yeast Otitis) in Dogs  
    September 16, 2020
    The J shape of the dog's ear predisposes the dog to ear infections as debris must work its way upward rather than straight out. If ear wax cannot get out, it accumulates. Accumulation of ear wax, skin oil, and other debris feed the bacteria and fungi that live in the normal ear canal, leading them to proliferate. Soon an infection results.
  • Ear Mites in Dogs and Cats  
    July 6, 2022
    This annoying parasite is a common source of ear infections, especially in cats and kittens. Where do they come from? How do you get rid of them?
  • Ectopic Ureters in Dogs  
    January 25, 2023
    If your puppy has an ectopic ureter or even two, the only chance at resolving the incontinence is through surgery. This is expensive and often unsuccessful so it is important to know what you are getting into.
  • Ectopic Ureters in Dogs and Cats  
    July 22, 2020
    An ectopic ureter is a birth defect that leads to leaking urine and difficulty in housetraining
  • Ehrlichia Infection in Dogs  
    June 14, 2023
    Ehrlichia are a type of bacteria that infect and live within the white blood cells of their hosts. Different types of Ehrlichia live in different types of white blood cells. Hosts can be human, pet, or wild animals. They are spread from host to host by tick bites.
  • Elbow Dysplasia Causes Front Limb Lameness In Young Dogs  
    May 1, 2019
    Elbow dysplasia is the most common cause of front limb lameness in the young dog, especially of the larger breeds. Elbow dysplasia can take several different forms.
  • Elbow Hygromas in Dogs  
    March 7, 2022
    The usual patient for this condition is a short-haired large breed dog, usually an adolescent, brought in for assessment of a fluid-filled swelling at the point of one or both elbows. This is the classical presentation of the elbow hygroma, the body's response to chronic trauma to the point of the elbow.
  • Emptying a Dog or Cat's Anal Sacs  
    August 19, 2023
    Is your pet scooting? Smelling a fishy foul odor? Noticing some licking under the tail? Dogs with impacted anal sacs usually scoot their rear on the ground in an attempt to empty the glands. Some dogs will lick their anal area and other dogs will chase their tails. Cats often lick the fur off just under their tails.
  • Entropion in Dogs  
    November 14, 2017
    Entropion is an uncomfortable or painful condition in which the animal's eyelids roll inward, allowing the eyelashes (or other hair) to rub against the cornea and irritate it. The upper and/or lower eyelids can be involved, and the condition can occur in either one eye or both.
  • Eye Removal (Enucleation) in Pets  
    September 13, 2022
    Enucleation means removal of the eye. What are the common reasons this procedure may be necessary, what can you expect after surgery, and what complications are possible?
  • Femoral Head and Neck Ostectomy in Dogs  
    July 28, 2014
    The goal of the femoral head and neck ostectomy surgery is to create a false hip joint that will be more comfortable and yield better mobility than the diseased joint the patient had before.
  • Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE) in Dogs  
    July 11, 2023
    Imagine your dog is happily playing in the yard, jumps up to catch a ball, lands badly, and comes up not just lame but weak or even paralyzed in a back leg. The toes knuckle under, perhaps. Maybe his back tilts downward, his rear legs too weak to rise all the way up. You check him over, trying to find where it hurts and it simply does not seem to hurt at all.
  • Flatulence in Dogs  
    February 21, 2022
    Flatulence is a normal biological function.
  • Flea Anemia in Cats and Dogs  
    April 1, 2023
    We all know fleas are a nuisance and can lead to itching and dermatitis, but did you know a heavy flea infestation can be life threatening? The owners of most victims were not aware of the problem. Read more about this condition and who is most at risk.
  • Flea Control for Allergic Dogs and Cats  
    January 17, 2019
    For some pets, fleas are just an annoyance. But when a pet is allergic to fleas or has other types of allergic skin disease, the need to control fleas is more critical.
  • Flea Control for Dogs and Cats  
    December 6, 2022
    Fleas are the most common external parasite of companion animals. Flea allergy dermatitis is the most common skin disease of dogs and cats! In order to help select the most appropriate products to achieve a flea-free existence for an allergic pet, learn about the life cycle of the flea.
  • Fluid Therapy in Pets  
    June 8, 2022
    Fluid therapy concerns the administration of fluids to bring down (and keep down) the toxin levels of kidney failure. There are many ways to deliver fluids.
  • Follicular Cysts in Dogs  
    September 14, 2020
    Follicular cysts do not spread beyond the skin but can become infected.
  • Food Allergies in Dogs and Cats  
    August 26, 2023
    Have an itchy pet all year round? Maybe there is a food allergy. Just changing to a new diet probably won't be enough. Find out what to do here and see if your pet fits the profile for this condition.
  • Fractures in Dogs and Cats  
    November 27, 2018
    If this article has caught your attention, it may be that your pet has had the misfortune of suffering a fractured bone. This is a traumatic experience for both you and your pet and there are a few things you should know to help both of you make the best of a bad situation!
  • Gallstones in Dogs and Cats  
    November 13, 2020
    Gallstones form because either the gallbladder isn’t functioning properly or something is wrong with the bile
  • Giardia in Pets  
    August 12, 2023
    Giardia is the genus of a protozoan parasite that is infectious to both humans and pets all over the world. Diarrhea can precede the shedding of the Giardia. Infection is more common in kennel situations where animals are housed in groups.
  • Glaucoma in Dogs and Cats  
    September 26, 2018
    Glaucoma is an eye disease that can cause significant pain and lead to blindness.
  • Glomerulonephritis in Dogs and Cats  
    October 22, 2021
    In glomerular disease, holes are punched out in the filtration system, allowing molecules that the body needs to keep entering the urine flow and be urinated away. Chronic inflammation leads to the holes in the filtration system.
  • Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis (GME) in Dogs and Cats  
    August 9, 2023
    Most people have never heard of GME or any other form of central nervous system reticulosis until they have a dog with progressive neurologic disease. Frequently what the owner is told is that GME is an inflammatory disease that acts in many ways like cancer and that very little is known about it.
  • Hard to Regulate Diabetic Dogs  
    September 2, 2020
    Some dogs just seem completely unaffected by even high doses of insulin and it is important to have a step-by-step plan to rule out causes of insulin resistance so that regulation can be achieved.
  • Heart Murmurs in Dogs and Cats  
    January 1, 2023
    A heart murmur is one of several types of abnormal sounds your veterinarian can hear when listening to your pet's heart with a stethoscope. The murmur itself is not treated; the underlying cause of the murmur may or may not be treated.
  • Heartworm Diagnosis in Dogs and Cats  
    July 13, 2023
    The chief issue in the diagnosis of heartworm disease centers around detecting heartworm infection.
  • Heartworm Disease in Dogs  
    August 17, 2023
    Before reviewing the clinical signs seen in heartworm disease, an important distinction must be made between heartworm disease and heartworm infection.
  • Heartworm Preventive Comparison Chart for Dogs and Cats  
    April 11, 2023
    Confused about heartworm protection? This chart compares the popular heartworm preventives to assist you in determining which is right for your situation.
  • Heartworm Treatment for Dogs  
    November 17, 2021
    It has been said that the treatment of heartworm infection is somewhat of an art. There are several strategies that can be used including the option of not treating at all. The important concept to realize is that very harsh arsenic based drugs are necessary to kill adult heartworms and that treating for heartworm infection is neither simple nor safe in itself.
  • Heartworm: The Parasite  
    April 10, 2022
    Heartworm is a serious problem in many areas of the country. What questions do you have about the disease, its treatment and its prevention?
  • Helicobacter Infection in Dogs and Cats  
    March 24, 2022
    This bacterium is not new but focus on it by both the veterinary and human medical community certainly is. The role of Helicobacter in stomach ulcer formation is now well recognized. If you have a pet with chronic nausea, you may want to be familiar with this infection.
  • Helping your Arthritic Dog  
    March 23, 2022
    There are many products that may be helpful for dogs with weakness, especially rear leg weakness. These products may be available through your local pet supply store, various internet sources, or your regular veterinarian’s office. They may facilitate the lifestyle you and your dog enjoyed prior to arthritis limitations.
  • Hemangioma in Dogs and Cats  
    April 28, 2021
    Hemangiomas are a type of benign tumor of the blood vessels or skin
  • Hemangiopericytoma in Dogs  
    January 19, 2022
    Hemangiopericytoma is a common tumor in dogs. It does not spread the way one normally thinks of cancer. It does tend to recur at the site where it was originally removed. If left alone, this tumor eventually becomes inoperable, disfiguring, and lethal though generally this takes years.
  • Hemangiosarcoma is Blood or Skin Cancer in Dogs and Cats  
    April 28, 2020
    Hemangiosarcoma has three classic locations: skin and subcutaneous forms, splenic forms, and heart-based forms. With the exception of the skin form, which can often be eliminated by surgery, a diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma is bad news.
  • Hemivertebrae are Congenitally Deformed Vertebra in Dogs and Cats  
    January 31, 2023
    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.
  • Hepatic Encephalopathy in Dogs and Cats  
    May 3, 2021
    It is a neurological condition that can occur in pets that already have liver disease
  • Hepatitis in Dogs  
    August 24, 2022
    Hepatitis is a syndrome rather than a specific disease, and it has many causes
  • Hepatozoonosis in Dogs  
    November 20, 2019
     The illness is difficult to treat and can be fatal in dogs showing symptoms.
  • Herpes Infections in Dogs  
    January 11, 2023
    Canine herpes is more of a reproductive problem than a respiratory one; in fact, most infected dogs do not appear to get sick at all. Instead the infections manifests in the pregnancy as resorption of the litter of puppies, abortion, still birth, or death of puppies within a few weeks of life. Transmission occurs through direct contact (sexual contact will do it but the usual route is simply normal nosing, licking, and sniffing) between an infected and uninfected dog.
  • High Blood Pressure in our Pets  
    June 29, 2022
    High blood pressure is an extremely important concern in human medicine. High stress lifestyle, smoking, and high salt diet all contribute to this potentially dangerous condition and virtually everyone in the U.S. knows how serious it can be. But what about our pets? They don't smoke or worry about the mortgage and they don't deposit cholesterol in their blood vessels. They do, however, get high blood pressure, especially in age and here is what you probably should know.
  • Hip Dislocation in Dogs and Cats  
    March 24, 2023
    Hip dislocation is the common term for the separation of the femoral head from the pelvic acetabulum. In order for the hip to dislocate, trauma must be severe enough to break the capital ligament.
  • Hip Dysplasia in Dogs  
    April 24, 2023
    Hip dysplasia is a common condition of large breed dogs and many dog owners have heard of it but the fact is that anyone owning a large breed dog or considering a large breed dog as a pet should become familiar with this condition. The larger the dog, the more likely the development of this problem becomes, particularly as the dog ages.
  • Histiocytoma is a Benign Skin Growth in Dogs  
    June 18, 2023
    The histiocytoma is a tumor originating from what is called a Langerhans cell. This cell lives in the skin and serves as part of the immune system by processing incoming antigens and presenting them to other immunologic cells.
  • Histopathology in Pets  
    January 25, 2021
    The goal of pathologists is to provide a description of what they see happening and why: in other words, a diagnosis
  • Histoplasmosis in Dogs and Cats  
    May 24, 2021
    Histoplasmosis is a dangerous disease caused by fungus
  • Hookworms in Cats and Dogs  
    March 7, 2023
    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.
  • Horner's Syndrome in Cats and Dogs  
    September 11, 2019
    Slight squint, small pupil, raised third eyelid... it all looks pretty strange, as if something is wrong with the eye. In fact, it is not the eye itself that is the problem, but rather it is a nerve problem. Read more about this symptom and its causes.
  • Hot Spots (Pyotraumatic Dermatitis) in Dogs and Cats  
    August 2, 2022
    Hot spots are weepy, wet, red and sometimes bloody when they are fresh, and dry and scabby when they are resolving.
  • Hot Spots in Dogs and Cats  
    July 7, 2016
    A hot spot is a superficial skin infection that results when the normal skin bacteria overrun the skin's defenses as a result of damage to the skin surface.
  • Hydrocephalus (Water on the Brain) in Dogs and Cats  
    April 23, 2022
    This condition literally means "water head" and is more commonly referred to as water on the brain. The central nervous system is bathed in cerebrospinal fluid that is secreted by chambers inside the brain. When fluid builds up, there is no room in the brain for extra volume and disaster can result. This condition is particularly common in dome-headed puppies.
  • Hydrometra, Mucometra, and Pyometra in Dogs and Cats  
    October 5, 2021
    In hydrometra and mucometra, the fluid is sterile and there is no infection. Only pyometra is an infection
  • Hypercalcemia in Dogs and Cats  
    August 23, 2019
    Elevated calcium starts with the bones. They receive an inappropriate message to mobilize their calcium. This message is either from excess parathyroid hormone or from high amounts of parathyroid hormone-related protein. When calcium is removed from the bones, all that is left is a fibrous scaffold, which is not really strong enough to support us. Our bones break, even fold.
  • Hyperlipidemia in Dogs and Cats  
    July 5, 2016
    Hyperlipidemia is a general term for disorders in which too many fat molecules (called lipids) circulate in the blood. The two most important lipids in pets are cholesterol and triglycerides.
  • Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD) in Dogs  
    May 22, 2020
    HOD is a developmental, auto-inflammatory disease of the bones most often seen in fast-growing puppies of the large and giant breeds.
  • Hypocalcemia (Low Blood Calcium) in Cats and Dogs  
    November 26, 2021
    Calcium is such a crucial component of our biochemistry that virtually any complete blood panel, whether human or veterinary, will include a measurement of calcium. Our bodies go to tremendous lengths to regulate our blood calcium levels within a narrow range. We need a storage source to draw upon for when we need more circulating calcium as well as a system to unload excess.
  • Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) in Toy Breed Dogs  
    July 2, 2021
    These itty bitty babies have trouble maintaining body temperature, cut their baby teeth in late and thus have trouble with kibbled foods, and they have difficulty maintaining blood sugar. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) creates listlessness, incoordination (the brain cannot burn fat or protein and relies entirely on sugar), and even seizures.
  • Hypothyroidism in Dogs  
    August 8, 2018
    Healthy skin and a normal hair coat are the result of many external and internal factors. Several glands in the body produce hormones that are important for a normal skin surface and hair coat.
  • Hypothyroidism is the Most Common Hormone Imbalance of Dogs  
    May 11, 2022
    Hypothyroidism is the most common hormone imbalance in dogs. While it seems like it would be a simple subject, there are complexities.
  • Ice or Ice Water Does Not Cause Bloat in Dogs  
    June 25, 2014
    Neither ice nor ice water will cause stomach spasms in a dog that lead to bloat, despite a 2007 viral email that still surfaces every year.
  • Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA) in Dogs and Cats  
    January 31, 2023
    We depend on red blood cells to bring oxygen to our tissues and carry waste gases away. Without enough red blood cells we die. We can lose blood cells from bleeding, but sometimes our immune system gets confused and destroys them by mistake. What can we do when this happens?
  • Immune-Mediated Thrombocytopenia (IMT)  
    July 31, 2019
    Platelets can be mistaken by the immune system as invaders. When this happens, antibodies coat the platelets and the spleen's phagocytes remove them in numbers up to 10 times greater than the normal platelet removal rate.
  • Immunotherapy for Allergies in Dogs and Cats  
    May 17, 2023
    Most people know someone who gets periodic "allergy shots" for airborne allergies. What this means is that an individually-made serum is created using small amounts of allergens (proteins against which the person reacts). It works for dogs and cats, too.
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Dogs and Cats  
    March 25, 2023
    Does your pet seem to have chronic vomiting or diarrhea? Those can be signs of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
  • Influenza Strains in Dogs  
    April 17, 2015
    Two strains of canine influenza are seen in the United States: H3N8, first seen in 2004, and H3N2, first seen in 2015.
  • Insulin Administration in Dogs  
    April 20, 2023
    Insulin is the injectable medication you use to control your diabetic dog's blood sugar. Learn how to administer it.
  • Insulinoma in Dogs and Cats  
    September 30, 2021
    Unfortunately, most insulinomas in dogs and cats are malignant. This is bad news but the good news is that regardless of this fact, surgery is still helpful as the bulk of the tumor (if not all of it) can be removed.
  • Interdigital Cysts in Dogs  
    September 10, 2018
    Interdigital cysts are large bumps, or nodules, between a dog's toes.
  • Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) in Dogs  
    August 15, 2021
    There are two types of disease that can afflict the intervertebral disk causing the disk to press painfully against the spinal cord. One type is a much slower degenerative process than the other.
  • Intestinal Lymphangiectasia (Protein-losing Enteropathy) in Dogs  
    April 14, 2021
    Protein-losing enteropathy is a fancy way of saying that protein is being lost from the body through the intestine. This is a serious problem as the body's proteins are not easily replaced and the only way to replace them involves the absorption of protein constituents from the intestine.
  • Iris Coloboma in Dogs and Cats  
    July 16, 2018
    The iris coloboma, which is relatively uncommon, does not affect vision, nor does it progress to anything else.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Dogs  
    March 7, 2023
    Irritable bowel syndrome is a psychosomatic disease. This means that it is the activity of the mind that causes the symptoms. Most people do not have difficulty imagining having so much anxiety that diarrhea results. Chronic anxiety can similarly result in chronic diarrhea. This is basically what irritable bowel syndrome is all about.
  • Itch Relief for Dogs and Cats  
    June 21, 2021
    Is it possible to relieve a pet's itchy skin without the use of cortisone derivatives? Yes, it is.
  • Itching and Allergy in Dogs  
    April 1, 2020
    Coping with an itchy pet can be an extremely frustrating experience for you, the pet owner, and can truly test the limits of the human-animal bond. The common causes fall into two groups: external parasites and allergies.
  • Kennel Cough in Dogs  
    September 13, 2022
    Infectious tracheobronchitis, commonly known as kennel cough, is a complex of infections rather than infection by a single agent. Find out how infection occurs, how serious it may be, how it is treated, and understand the vaccination.
  • Kidney Dialysis: Is It for Your Pet?  
    August 24, 2023
    Most every animal hospital can provide diuresis: a therapy where extra fluid beyond what the patient can drink is provided, thus giving the kidney its medium so that it can remove toxic waste. This works well but there comes a time when even with plenty of fluids, the sick kidney simply cannot get the toxins out. For most patients this is the end of the line. In fact, dialysis may be another choice, though it is substantially more expensive than diuresis and dialysis centers for pets are still few and far between.
  • Kidney Failure (Chronic) Links for Additional Information  
    October 25, 2022
    See other sources of information on renal disease.
  • Kidney Transplants for Cats and Dogs  
    November 20, 2021
    To the uninitiated, the impression may be that once your cat or dog receives a new kidney, life is renewed and all the kidney problems are solved. In fact, this is hardly the case. Immune-suppressive medications are needed to prevent rejection of the new organ, not to mention infection and other issues. A kidney transplant is a big deal regardless of the species of the recipient.
  • Laboratory Tests Confirming Cushing's Syndrome  
    November 16, 2022
    Excess thirst, excess urination, excess appetite, poor hair coat and a pot-bellied appearance. This is a classical disease for which lots of information is available. We have attempted to include an explanation of this complicated problem and all the latest information.
  • Laboratory Tests Hinting at Cushing's Syndrome  
    October 8, 2021
    Excess thirst, excess urination, excess appetite, poor hair coat and a pot-bellied appearance. This is a classical disease for which lots of information is available. We have attempted to include an explanation of this complicated problem and all the latest information.
  • Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs  
    April 21, 2022
    Laryngeal paralysis results when the abductor muscles of the larynx cannot work properly. This means no expanding and opening of the larynx for a deep breath; the laryngeal folds simply flop weakly and flaccidly. This means that when one needs a deep breath, one does not get one. This can create tremendous anxiety (imagine attempting to take a deep breath and finding that you simply cannot). Anxiety leads to more rapid breathing and more distress. A respiratory crisis from the partial obstruction can emerge creating an emergency and even death.
  • Lateral Ear Resection in Dogs  
    April 21, 2022
    The lateral ear resection is a conservative surgical approach for chronic otitis, meant for ears not yet at their end-stage, where it is thought that more efficient cleaning and better canal ventilation will help.
  • Legg-Perthes Disease in Dogs  
    November 27, 2018
    This disease produces lameness of the hip joint in young, small breed dogs.
  • Leptospirosis and Your Pet: A CDC Fact Sheet  
    June 9, 2015
    A fact sheet from the CDC answers questions about the risk of people getting leptospirosis from their pets.
  • Leptospirosis in Dogs  
    February 16, 2022
    This infection can be caught by humans as well as by dogs. Learn about the leptospira organism, and how we test, treat and vaccinate against the disease (in dogs, that is).
  • Lice in Dogs and Cats  
    May 15, 2023
    When lice are found, it is usually in the dogs that are living in or were obtained from filthy, crowded conditions.
  • Lick Granuloma in Dogs  
    August 15, 2023
    Lick granuloma is a common, stubborn skin disease that is directly caused by the dog licking an area of the body.
  • Linear Foreign Bodies in Dogs and Cats  
    June 10, 2022
    Pets, especially younger ones, have the unfortunate tendency to eat things they shouldn't and we aren't talking about food. Toys, socks, rocks and other materials find their way into pet stomachs but when the foreign body is a string, the consequences are especially dire.
  • Lipomas in Dogs and Cats  
    November 14, 2021
    Oftentimes a lump turns out to be "just a lipoma" or simply a fatty tumor and nothing to worry about.
  • Lithotripsy in Dogs and Cats  
    June 19, 2023
    Lithotripsy is a funny word for a minimally invasive alternative to urinary stone removal surgery.
  • Liver Enzymes in Dogs  
    September 3, 2021
    Liver enzymes can be elevated from liver disease or by other diseases or processes
  • Liver Tumors and Cancers in Dogs and Cats  
    June 29, 2021
    After blood testing and medical imaging has led to a diagnosis of liver tumor, many questions must be answered in order to make proper choices.
  • Localized Demodectic Mange in Dogs  
    September 8, 2020
    Unlike sarcoptic mange, demodectic mange is not considered a contagious disease and isolation of affected dogs is generally not considered necessary. 
  • Lung Cancer in Dogs and Cats  
    October 28, 2020
    Some lung tumors are benign, and some are not
  • Lupoid Onychodystrophy in Dogs  
    August 12, 2020
    This nail disease usually affects multiple claws on all four paws
  • Lyme Disease in Dogs  
    April 21, 2022
    Lyme disease is transmitted through a tick bite, and can cause various symptoms in dogs. Lyme disease in dogs is quite different than in humans.
  • Lymphocytic Leukemia in Dogs  
    April 20, 2022
    What is leukemia in dogs and why is it bad? Learn about the most common forms of leukemia for dogs: the lymphocytic forms.
  • Lymphoma  
    September 2, 2021
    This form of cancer, also called lymphosarcoma, is the most common malignancy of dogs, cats, and humans. A plentitude of information is available, information that is necessary in order to make intelligent decisions about an affected pet.
  • Lymphoma in Dogs  
    June 23, 2021
    This form of cancer, also called lymphosarcoma, is the most common malignancy of dogs, cats, and humans. Much information is available, information that is necessary in order to make intelligent decisions about an affected pet.
  • Lymphoma in the Skin of Dogs  
    April 20, 2023
    There are three types of skin lymphoma: mycosis fungoides, Sezary syndrome, and pagetoid reticulosis.
  • Malassezia Dermatitis (Yeast Infection of Dog's Skin)  
    July 25, 2022
    Technically known as Malessezia Dermatitis, this is one of the stinkiest and itchiest conditions treated in veterinary dermatology, and it is one of the chief reasons a previously well-controlled allergic dog might suddenly increase itching. What to do? Find some answers here.
  • Malassezia Otitis in Dogs and Cats  
    August 4, 2020
    Malassezia ear infection is common in dogs, but cats can also be infected
  • Malignant Melanoma in Dogs and Cats  
    March 1, 2023
    While a good fur coat generally protects our pets from sun-induced malignant melanoma, a melanoma diagnosis is still just as serious and potentially deadly in our pets as it is for people.
  • Malignant Thyroid Tumors in Dogs and Cats  
    May 18, 2023
    In dogs, there is an 87% chance that a thyroid growth is malignant. Cats with thyroid carcinomas are usually hyperthyroid.
  • Mammary Tumors in Dogs  
    May 17, 2023
    Women get breast cancer, female dogs get mammary cancer. What many pet owners don't know is that the incidence of mammary tumor development in dogs is higher than in women, as one in four unspayed female dogs are affected. This incidence is huge, yet awareness among owners of female dogs is lacking.
  • Managing Megaesophagus in Dogs  
    December 14, 2017
    Familiarizing yourself with a variety of appropriate megaesophagus management techniques can help you provide a plan for your individual dog.
  • Mast Cell Tumors in Dogs and Cats  
    April 20, 2023
    Most mast cell tumors arise in the skin but technically they can arise anywhere that mast cells are found. Mast cell tumors are notoriously invasive and difficult to treat.
  • Masticatory Myositis (Eosinophilic Myositis) in Dogs  
    September 14, 2022
    It may start suddenly one day or come on gradually. The dog seems to be in pain when his mouth opens or he attempts to chew. Perhaps he will not open his mouth at all. In time, the muscles around the head (particularly the temple region) hollow out, giving the dog a thin faced look. What is happening?
  • Medial Luxating Patella in Dogs  
    August 29, 2019
    The medial luxating patella, commonly called trick knee, is an extremely common problem in toy breed dogs. An owner typically notices a little skip in the dog's step. The dog may even run on three legs, holding one hind leg up, and then miraculously be back on four legs as if nothing has happened.
  • Megaesophagus in Dogs  
    August 3, 2023
    Do you know the difference between vomiting and regurgitation? If your pet has megaesophagus you probably know all too well. Read about the latest in treatment and testing (and see a graphic interactive demonstration).
  • Meibomian Gland (Eyelid) Tumors in Dogs  
    April 14, 2021
    Usually eyelid masses are benign but sometimes they are sebaceous adenocarcinomas, a type of cancer
  • Meningioma in Dogs and Cats  
    April 12, 2022
    Meningioma is the most common brain tumor of cats and dogs. Meningiomas are generally benign. In dogs, seizures are the most common sign. In cats, signs are more vague and consist of listlessness and behavior changes.
  • Mitral Valve Disease in Dogs and Cats  
    April 25, 2018
    MMVD is caused by as-yet unidentified processes that lead to degeneration of the mitral valves, the valves on the left side of the heart between the left atrium and left ventricle.
  • Monitoring Glucose Regulation in Dogs and Cats  
    June 18, 2023
    Monitoring is crucial to determining your pet's proper insulin dose. Much monitoring can be done at home; however, some tests simply must be done at the veterinarian's office.
  • MRSA vs. MRSP in Dogs & Cats  
    June 2, 2020
    MRSA is the abbreviation for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
  • MRSA: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Dogs and Cats  
    May 12, 2017
    In dogs and cats, the most common conditions associated with MRSA tend to be skin infections, post-operative incisional infections and wound infections. The bacteria have also been isolated from the urinary tract, auditory canal, skin, eye and joints.
  • Multiple Myeloma in Dogs and Cats  
    April 13, 2020
    Multiple myeloma is rare in cats and dogs, but cure is rare
  • Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs and Cats  
    January 12, 2021
    If you did not witness your pet eating a mushroom, you will likely notice when they start feeling sick
  • Muzzle Folliculitis and Furunculosis (Chin Acne, Muzzle Acne) in Dogs  
    June 29, 2020
    It occurs most often in young dogs of short-coated breeds
  • Myasthenia Gravis in Dogs and Cats  
    July 22, 2022
    Myasthenia gravis is a disease that interrupts the way nerves communicate with muscles. There is no treatment for the congenital form. The acquired form, which is an autoimmune disease, is treated medically with immunosuppressive agents.
  • Nasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Cats  
    August 25, 2019
    The oral squamous cell carcinoma does not spread as you normally think of a cancer spreading, but it is so locally invasive that it carries a poor prognosis. The only hope of good survival comes from early detection. Learn what to look for and what important risk factors are.
  • Neuropathic Pain in Dogs and Cats  
    October 18, 2013
    People who experience neuropathic pain describe it as "a pins and needles sensation," tingling, burning, itching, numbness or cold, and sometimes feeling as if they had received a small electric shock. Grades of neuropathic pain that have been established in human medicine are definite, probable and possible. Pets cannot describe their pain to us but we believe it's likely to be like what people have.
  • No Bones About It - Chewing Bones is Bad for Dogs' Teeth  
    July 29, 2023
    Are any bones safe for your dog's teeth? No. The pieces can get stuck in your dog's palate (roof of the mouth) and cause infection, and break teeth. 
  • Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Dogs and Cats  
    November 30, 2022
    When squamous cell carcinoma occurs in the mouth and throat, it's called oral squamous cell carcinoma. In these oral cases, the lesion is usually located on the gums or tonsils.
  • Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) in Dogs  
    January 11, 2021
    OCD is a developmental disease seen in rapidly growing puppies of some but not all large breeds
  • Osteosarcoma in Dogs  
    October 30, 2019
    Osteosarcoma is by far the most common bone tumor in dogs. We see 2 to 3 cases a year. Owners need information on which to make proper treatment decisions.
  • Otitis Externa Treatment in Dogs  
    April 26, 2018
    Otitis externa is an inflammation or infection of the external ear canal. Bacteria, yeast, ear mites, and allergies can all cause it. Addressing this problem involves four steps.
  • Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection) in Dogs and Cats  
    September 12, 2021
    Otitis media is inflammation and/or infection of the middle ear, whereas otitis externa begins in the external ear canal. 
  • Ovarian Remnant Syndrome in Dogs and Cats  
    August 30, 2022
    The spayed female pet has no ovaries and should not display any signs of a heat cycle but what happens if she does anyway? Where might these hormones be coming from?
  • Pacemakers in Dogs and Cats  
    November 4, 2008
    Just like people, some pets need a pacemaker to keep their hearts ticking.
  • Pancreatitis in Dogs  
    June 18, 2023
    In pancreatitis, inflammation disrupts the normal integrity of the pancreas. Digestive enzymes that are normally safely stored in granules are released prematurely where they digest the body itself. The result can be a metabolic catastrophe. The living tissue becomes further inflamed and the tissue damage quickly involves the adjacent liver. Toxins released from this orgy of tissue destruction are released into the circulation and can cause a body-wide inflammatory response.
  • Pannus in Dogs  
    May 15, 2014
    Pannus is an eye disease that can result in blindness if it is not treated
  • Panosteitis: Growing Pains in Dogs  
    September 5, 2023
    Pano is often referred to as growing pains because of the similarity to the human malady.
  • Paralyzed Dogs: How to Care for Them  
    June 4, 2019
    Spinal damage leading to rear leg paralysis is not uncommon. These "downer" dogs have special needs. Rarely is rear paralysis temporary so management requires commitment. It is not for everyone and it is important to understand what one is getting into; though, for the right owner and patient, management can be rewarding.
  • Paraphimosis and Phimosis in Dogs and Cats  
    March 17, 2022
    Paraphimosis is the inability to retract the penis, but it is not an erection. It is quite painful and thus medically urgent. Priapism is the inability to extend the penis beyond the sheath. Phimosis is rare, and is either congenital or acquired. Paraphimosis and phimosis are flip sides of the same coin, although they are not the same thing, nor are they treated the same way. 
  • Parvovirus in Dogs  
    April 8, 2022
    Parvoviruses are a large group; almost every mammal species including humans seems to have its own parvovirus. Fortunately, each virus is pretty specific about what animals it can infect (i.e., the pig parvovirus will not infect people, the canine parvovirus will not infect cats, etc.)
  • Parvovirus Infection: Diagnosis  
    November 10, 2021
    A puppy with a bloody diarrhea could have a parasite problem, a virus other than parvovirus, stress colitis, an intestinal foreign body, or may simply have eaten something that disagreed with him. It is important to confirm the diagnosis of parvovirus before embarking on what could be the wrong treatment.
  • Parvovirus Infection: Physical Illness and Treatment  
    June 24, 2023
    Treatment for parvoviral infection centers on supportive care. This means that the clinical problems that come up in the course of the infection are addressed individually with the goal of keeping the patient alive long enough for an immune response to generate. We do not have effective antiviral drugs and must rely on the patient's immune system for cure.
  • Parvovirus: Caring for the Recovered Dog  
    May 10, 2023
    There should be no permanent ramifications due to this infection. The recovered puppy should lead a normal life once the recovery period is completed (1-2 weeks).
  • Parvovirus: How it Happens  
    October 6, 2021
    Whether or not parvovirus infection happens depends on the interaction of three things: Host vitality (including immune experience/vaccination status), virulence of the virus (including how many viral particles the host is exposed to), and environmental factors.
  • Parvovirus: Vaccination and Prevention  
    July 11, 2023
    We vaccinate puppies in a series, giving a vaccine every 2 to 4 weeks until age 16 weeks. By age 16 weeks, we can be certain that maternal antibodies have waned and vaccine should be able to take. It should be recognized that some individuals, especially those of well-vaccinated mothers, must be vaccinated out to 20 weeks unless a high titer vaccine is used.
  • Patellar Luxation in Dogs Ranges in Severity  
    November 20, 2012
    Patella luxation, or knee dislocation, can range in severity from a patella that can be dislocated only in extreme extension and then snaps readily into place, to a patella that is permanently luxated medially (towards the center of the dog's body).
  • Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Dogs and Cats  
    June 26, 2019
    Sometimes the ductus arteriosus fails to close in a newborn. It remains open, or patent, usually because the muscles in the ductus failed to form properly.
  • Pemphigus Foliaceus in Dogs and Cats  
    March 15, 2022
    Pemphigus foliaceus (PF) is a type of autoimmune disease of the skin. Although an uncommon skin disease in dogs and cats, any breed of dog or cat can develop PF. Your pet’s veterinarian will need to take skin samples to diagnose PF. Treatment might include corticosteroids and other medications.
  • Perianal Fistulae in Dogs  
    March 28, 2023
    The anus of a dog with perianal fistulae will show deep open crevices and some oozing pus all around the sphincter. This condition waxes and wanes but ultimately over time is progressive, ulcerating the surface of the anus and its surroundings.
  • Pericardial Effusion in Dogs and Cats  
    April 30, 2022
    Pericardial effusion is a somewhat uncommon condition, but when it is diagnosed it can be serious for your pet. The pericardial sac is formed by a thin membrane (the pericardium), and normally holds a very small amount of fluid. Pericardial effusion refers to an abnormal buildup of fluid in this sac. If your pet has been diagnosed with this condition, this article will include some information to supplement what your veterinarian has told you.
  • Physaloptera (Stomach Worm) in Dogs and Cats  
    November 16, 2020
    Physaloptera are rare but most common in the Midwestern U.S., particularly in pets with access to the outdoors
  • Physical Rehabilitation for Arthritis in Dogs  
    February 8, 2021
    Physical rehabilitation as part of a multimodal treatment plan is designed to enhance your arthritic dog's quality of life
  • Pituitary Macroadenoma in Cushing's Syndrome  
    October 25, 2021
    Approximately 10 to 20 percent of dogs with pituitary dependent Cushing's disease have a tumor large enough to take up a meaningful amount of space.
  • Pneumonia Management in Dogs and Cats  
    August 21, 2023
    Most people have heard the term pneumonia and know it is a lung infection of some sort. In fact, pneumonia is not a very specific term and essentially means "lung inflammation of some sort." Pneumonia is an inflammation in deep lung tissues where oxygen is absorbed into the body and waste gases are removed. It has potential to be life-threatening regardless of its cause.
  • Pneumothorax in Dogs and Cats  
    March 3, 2020
    Pneumothorax may result from chest trauma, excessive pressure on the lungs, or underlying lung disease (asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, etc.). In some cases, the cause is never discovered.
  • Polyuria/Polydipsia in Dogs and Cats  
    September 1, 2022
    With polyuria (PU) the body makes more urine than normal, which in turn causes a condition called polydipsia (PD), which means your dog or cat is extra thirsty because they are trying to stay hydrated. What are the reasons for these conditions? 
  • Portal Vein Hypoplasia in Dogs and Cats  
    June 22, 2018
    The hepatic portal system consists of numerous veins, but sometimes these systems can go awry. The portal vein is the big one into the liver, where the smaller veins converge before entering the liver.
  • Portal Vein Hypoplasia in Dogs and Cats  
    June 22, 2018
    The hepatic portal system consists of numerous veins, but sometimes these systems can go awry. The portal vein is the big one into the liver, where the smaller veins converge before entering the liver.
  • Portosystemic Shunt in Dogs and Cats  
    March 31, 2021
    A portosystemic shunt happens when a pet's venous blood from the intestine bypasses the liver. The pet can be born with the shunt or can get it later.
  • Positive Snap Tests for Ehrlichia and Anaplasma  
    February 4, 2020
    Snap tests results can be a bit confusing
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) in Dogs  
    September 26, 2018
    Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) describes a group of inherited degenerative disorders of the retina that occur commonly in dogs and rarely in cats. Dogs eventually become blind, but remain happy and otherwise healthy.
  • Prophylactic Gastropexy in Dogs  
    July 19, 2023
    Commonly referred to as bloat, gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is an often-fatal emergency that causes the dog’s stomach to distend and twist.
  • Prostate Cancer in Dogs  
    September 18, 2019
    Within the prostate gland, cancer is rare, occurring in only about 0.3-0.6% of dogs.
  • Pruritus Diagnostics in Dogs and Cats  
    February 5, 2020
    Itching, or pruritus, is the most common symptom of skin disease in pets. Many conditions can cause a pet to itch, including allergies, fleas, and other skin parasites.
  • Pulmonary Hypertension in Dogs and Cats  
    September 19, 2011
    Pulmonary hypertension (PHT) is high blood pressure in the arteries leading in and out of your pet's lungs. If the high blood pressure becomes too severe, it can cause disease and failure of the right side of the heart.
  • Pulmonic Stenosis in Dogs and Cats  
    August 29, 2023
    Pulmonic stenosis is the third most common congenital heart disease in dogs. It can be accompanied by additional heart defects to create a constellation of disaster or it can be mild enough to be no more than a surprising incidental finding.
  • Pyelonephritis in Dogs and Cats  
    March 3, 2020
    Pyelonephritis is an inflammation of the kidney that frequently shows no symptoms and thus it is not usually recognized until the signs become severe. It may not be diagnosed until histopathology is done on the kidney after the pet's death.
  • Pyoderma in Dogs and Cats  
    July 31, 2018
    Pyoderma is caused by bacterial infection of the skin. The causative organism is almost always Staphylococcus. Bacteria will not usually cause disease on normal skin, but other underlying skin diseases cause some changes in the skin surface making it susceptible to infection, leading to pyoderma.
  • Pyometra in Dogs and Cats  
    January 8, 2022
    Pyometra is the life-threatening infection of the uterus that generally occurs in middle-aged to older female dogs in the 6 weeks following heat. A uterus with pyometra swells dramatically and is filled with pus, bacteria, dying tissue, and toxins. Without treatment, the pet is expected to die.
  • Pyothorax in Dogs and Cats  
    January 28, 2023
    Pyothorax is one of those conditions where prognosis is reasonably good (assuming the patient is not too far gone at the time of presentation) as long as aggressive treatment is pursued. If one tries to go with inexpensive alternatives to proper treatment, a poor outcome is likely.
  • Pythiosis (Oomycosis, Lagenidiosis, Swamp Cancer, Bursatti, Leeches) in Dogs, Cats and Horses  
    November 22, 2010
    Pythiosis occurs in dogs and horses more often than in cats.
  • Rabies in Animals  
    March 7, 2023
    Descriptions of rabies go back thousands of years as rabies has classically been one of the most feared infections of all time. Rabies is a serious disease, but fortunately it can also be easily prevented in dogs and cats by proper vaccination.
  • Recessed Vulva in Dogs  
    March 22, 2022
    A recessed (or juvenile) vulva means a dog has excess skin folds that hang over her vulva, enough to potentially cause problems of one kind or another. The condition tends to be seen mostly in medium to large sized breeds, most often in obese dogs. If the skin folks of the recessed vulva are affecting both your and your dog’s quality of life, your veterinarian can provide medical management or a surgical fix, called a vulvoplasty. Generally, the prognosis after a vulvoplasty is excellent and most owners are quite pleased. 
  • Rectal Prolapse in Dogs and Cats  
    August 7, 2020
    If your pet has a rectal prolapse, you may have noticed that recently he's been spending a lot of time trying to poop
  • Renal Anemia, or Inadequate Red Blood Cells, in Dogs and Cats  
    February 14, 2023
    There are three important ways in which the kidney patient loses red blood cells. The first way is bone marrow suppression. The second way is bleeding. The third way is called hemodilution. Maintaining a stable red blood cell quantity keeps the patient energetic and spirited and is crucial to staying alive.
  • Renal Failure Dietary Therapy  
    July 19, 2023
    Diet can be used to help in many ways and we are lucky to have commercially available diets made specifically for renal patients, even for different stages of kidney failure. The goal of therapy is to prevent or at least postpone advanced uremia (poisoning by toxins that the kidneys could not adequately remove) and extend life expectancy.
  • Rhinitis in Dogs and Cats  
    May 5, 2014
    Rhinitis is the inflammation of the mucous membrane in the nose. It can occur by itself or as part of an upper respiratory illness/infection.
  • Ringworm Environmental Decontamination: How to Clean Your Home When Your Pet Has Ringworm  
    November 3, 2015
    Infected dogs and cats will shed fur containing dermatophyte fungal spores into the home environment. This fur can re-infect dogs and cats and make it difficult to treat the dermatophyte infection.
  • Ringworm in Dogs and Cats  
    May 17, 2023
    Ringworm is not a worm at all but a fungal infection of the skin. It is contagious to humans, too. This FAQ provides answers.
  • Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Dogs  
    July 21, 2014
    Rocky Mountain spotted fever is caused by Rickettsia rickettsii. This intracellular parasite is transmitted to dogs through the bite of an infected tick.
  • Salivary Mucocele in Dogs and Cats  
    March 31, 2020
    The most common place for a salivary mucocele is on or beneath the lower jaw or under the tongue
  • Salmon Poisoning in Dogs  
    December 9, 2020
    Dogs should not be allowed to eat raw or smoked-raw fish (salmon, trout, steelhead), or Pacific Giant Salamanders.
  • Sanitizing and Disinfecting the Environment after Parvovirus in Dogs  
    May 20, 2021
    Sanitizing is a two-step process that involves both cleaning and disinfecting
  • Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies) in Dogs  
    August 24, 2023
    Also called scabies, sarcoptic mange mite infection is extremely itchy and contagious. While difficult to diagnose, this condition is usually easy to treat.
  • Sarcoptic Mange in Dogs  
    January 16, 2023
    Sarcoptic mange is a very itchy disease caused by a small mite not visible to the naked eye. Areas where the mites tend to burrow under the skin include the tips of the ears, elbows, hocks, chest and belly. However, in a severe infestation, mites can cause problems on the animal's entire body.
  • Schnauzer Comedone Syndrome  
    November 27, 2018
    Schnauzer comedone syndrome - blackheads - cannot be curred but can be treated.
  • Scottie Cramp in Dogs  
    January 5, 2021
    Scottie cramp is a neurological disorder that temporarily affects a dog’s ability to move their limbs
  • Seasonal Flank Alopecia in Dogs  
    April 15, 2023
    With seasonal flank alopecia, a dog loses hair in the flank area on a seasonal basis. Different dogs seem to choose different seasons to lose their hair (fall and spring are popular) and when the season changes the hair generally grows back.
  • Sebaceous Adenitis in Dogs  
    May 17, 2023
    Sebaceous adenitis is inflammation of the sebaceous glands. Biopsy is required for diagnosis.
  • Seborrhea in Dogs  
    April 26, 2018
    Dogs with seborrhea have excessive scaling and flaking of the skin.
  • Seizure Disorders in Dogs  
    November 21, 2021
    Any involuntary behavior that occurs abnormally may represent a seizure. Seizures may be caused by situations within the brain (such as trauma or infection) or by situations centered outside the brain (such as low blood sugar, circulating metabolic toxins, or external poisons).
  • Senility in Dogs  
    October 6, 2017
    Treatments that may help improve cognitive dysfunction include L-Deprenyl, dietary changes, and environmental enrichment.
  • Senior Dog Health Issues  
    August 18, 2020
    Just like people, dogs go through both mental and physical changes as they age
  • Serotonin Syndrome in Dogs and Cats  
    February 16, 2022
    Serotonin syndrome is a serious drug reaction to medications that build up high levels of serotonin in the body. Serotonin syndrome can be a life-threatening situation, therefore if you think your pet is developing it, visit a veterinarian immediately. 
  • Shar-Pei Recurrent Fever Syndrome  
    March 9, 2017
    Every Shar pei owner needs to be familiar with recurrent fever syndrome.
  • Skin Biopsies in Dogs and Cats  
    March 23, 2023
    In a skin biopsy, a small piece of skin is removed through minor skin surgery.
  • Sleeping and Resting Respiratory Rates in Managing Heart Failure in Dogs and Cats  
    January 24, 2018
    For pets with congestive heart failure, it is important to check the response to medication by measuring the respiratory rate at home.
  • Spina Bifida in Dogs and Cats  
    May 31, 2023
    The spinal cord is surrounded and protected by a bony tube made up of a series of bones called vertebrae, linked together by intervertebral discs, ligaments, and muscles. This entire complex is referred to as the "spine.” Sometimes, abnormal growth and development of the spine happen before birth with both puppies and kittens, resulting in a spinal defect called Spina Bifida. 

  • Splenic Masses in Dogs (Splenectomy)  
    October 27, 2021
    Occasionally spleens grow masses. These are generally either benign or malignant tumors. In dogs, most splenic masses are either hemangiomas or hemangiosarcomas. What does the spleen do and what happens when it is removed?
  • Spondylosis Deformans in Dogs and Cats  
    December 19, 2019
    In dogs, spondylosis deformans occurs most often along lower back (lumbar) vertebrae. In cats, it tends to occur more often in the chest (thoracic) vertebrae.
  • Steroid Use in Dogs and Cats  
    November 18, 2021
    There has never been a class of drug that has more application in disease treatment than the glucocorticoid class. Indeed, this group is rivaled only by antibiotics in lives saved. But side effects from the glucocorticoid group are numerous and can be classified into those seen with short-term use and those seen in long-term use.
  • Strangles in Puppies  
    April 27, 2022
    Puppy strangles is a classic but fortunately uncommon disease of puppies less than 4 months old. It causes acute swelling of the muzzle as well as blistering pimples on the face and inner ear flaps. If left untreated it can be fatal and despite the extreme inflammation, infection is not the problem.
  • Subaortic Stenosis in Dogs  
    August 17, 2023
    Subaortic stenosis, known as SAS, is the most common congenital heart disease of large breed dogs. When a puppy with SAS is born, the stenosis is very small, barely a ridge near the valve, but over the first six months of life the stenosis grows and the murmur (hopefully) becomes more apparent.
  • Swimmer’s Tail in Dogs  
    September 9, 2020
    Dogs with this condition have essentially sprained the muscles in their tail
  • Swimmer's Ear in Dogs  
    June 25, 2018
  • Symptoms of Cushing's Syndrome  
    November 16, 2022
    Excess thirst, excess urination, excess appetite, poor hair coat and a pot-bellied appearance. This is a classical disease for which lots of information is available. We have attempted to include an explanation of this complicated problem and all the latest information.
  • Syringomyelia in Dogs  
    October 20, 2021
    Syringomyelia pertains to the central nervous system: the brain and spinal cord. Anyone contemplating ownership of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel should know what it means.
  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in Dogs  
    November 18, 2014
    Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a fairly rare chronic and potentially-fatal autoimmune disease.
  • Teeth Chattering in Dogs  
    May 23, 2023
    Some veterinarians believe that the source of teeth chattering in dogs is usually dental or oral. There could be other reasons why your dog's teeth chatter. 
  • Testicular Cancer in Dogs  
    April 13, 2023
    Both testicles in a dog can be cancerous but have different types of testicular cancer.
  • Tetanus in Pets (Lock Jaw)  
    July 19, 2023
    Most people don't know much about tetanus, also called lock-jaw. In fact, pets are fairly resistant to infection, which is why tetanus shots are not included in the standard vaccine series. So what should a dog owner know about tetanus?
  • The Canine Estrous Cycle: Being in Heat  
    May 10, 2023
    The canine estrous cycle, or what we think of as being in heat, has four phases called proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus.
  • The Wrath of Grapes  
    February 27, 2014
    Grapes or raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, although doctors don't know why. Dogs who eat grapes and raisins can be treated successfully.
  • Thrombocytopenia in Dogs and Cats  
    May 24, 2021
    If your pet has a condition called thrombocytopenia, his platelet count is low. When the platelet count is low, it is harder for clotting to occur.
  • Tooth Resorption in Dogs  
    May 25, 2023
    Tooth resorption is a progressive disease that leads to loss or destruction of teeth.
  • Tracheal Collapse in Dogs  
    April 20, 2022
    The patient is almost always a toy breed dog, especially poodles, Yorkshire terriers, and Pomeranians. The disease usually becomes problematic in middle age but can occur at any age. The cartilage defect that leads to the flattened C rings seems to be hereditary.
  • Transitional Cell Carcinoma in Dogs and Cats  
    February 22, 2023
    The transitional cell carcinoma is a particularly unpleasant tumor of the urinary bladder that usually grows in the lower neck of the bladder, causing a partial or complete obstruction to urination. Bloody urine and straining to urinate are typically the signs noted by the owner.
  • Transmissible Venereal Tumors in Dogs  
    July 24, 2023
    The transmissible venereal tumor, affectionately known as the TVT, may be visible as an external fleshy growth or may simply present as genital bleeding. The tumor is common where there are large numbers of roaming dogs or in shelter situations.
  • Traumatic Brain Injury in Dogs and Cats  
    June 6, 2023
    Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when a sudden event, such as a blow or fall, happens to the head. In both humans and animals, a head injury severe enough to damage the brain is referred to as traumatic brain injury or TBI.
  • Treatment of Pituitary Form of Cushing's Syndrome  
    October 25, 2022
    Excess thirst, excess urination, excess appetite, poor hair coat and a pot-bellied appearance are the hallmarks of the classical disease called Cushing's.
  • Tremoring or Shivering in Dogs  
    August 24, 2023
    Tremors can involve only certain muscles or body areas or the entire dog. Finding the reason behind tremors is tricky as tremoring occurs for many reasons.
  • Umbilical Hernias in Puppies and Kittens  
    July 6, 2010
    An umbilical hernia is a condition in which abdominal contents (fat, intestines, etc.) protrude past the abdominal wall at the location where the umbilical cord was attached to the fetus.
  • Uric Acid Stones and Urate Urolithiasis in Dogs  
    September 1, 2022
    Dalmatians are different. Being unable to convert uric acid to allantoin is the main predisposing factor to uric acid stone formation and accounts for why 80% of uric acid bladder stones come from Dalmatians.
  • Urinary Incontinence in Dogs and Cats  
    April 27, 2021
    When a house pet develops urinary incontinence, many owners fear the worst. Urinary incontinence is usually one of easiest problems to solve so it is crucial that veterinary assistance be sought before an owner's patience is completely worn out.
  • Urinary Tract (Bladder) Infection in Dogs and Cats  
    July 28, 2021
    The urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common ailments in small animal practices.
  • Uveitis in Dogs and Cats  
    May 21, 2019
    Uveitis is an inflammation of the dark tissues (uvea) of the eye
  • Vaccine Allergic Reactions in Dogs and Cats  
    June 7, 2022
    Immunization represents stimulation of the immune system, an inherently inflammatory process. Vaccination reactions severe enough to produce shock are extremely rare and are a function of an individual pet's immune response.
  • Vaginal Protrusions in Dogs and Cats  
    July 11, 2023
    When dogs or cats develop masses protruding from their vaginas, it can be alarming for an owner. Fortunately, they are not common and are rarely seen in spayed pets.
  • Vaginitis in Puppies  
    May 14, 2020
    Puppy vaginitis is a sticky, cloudy, white or yellowish vaginal discharge.
  • Valley Fever (Coccidioidomycosis) in Dogs and Cats  
    April 3, 2023
    The fungus lives only in one area: the Lower Sonoran life zone. An animal or person who is sick is not contagious; infection is only through inhalation of a fungal spore released from dirt but only a few spores are necessary for infection to occur.
  • Vascular Accidents (Strokes) in the Brains of Dogs and Cats  
    September 29, 2021
    Most of us know that stroke involves some kind of blood clot lodging or forming somewhere and plugging an important blood vessel, preventing an important area from receiving circulation.
  • Vestibular Disease in Dogs and Cats  
    September 24, 2019
    Most people think their pet has had a stroke, but in fact a problem with the vestibular apparatus is to blame. The vestibular apparatus is the neurological equipment responsible for perceiving one's body's orientation relative to the earth (determining if you are upside-down, standing up straight, falling etc.).
  • Viral Papillomas of Dogs  
    July 19, 2023
    Most everyone knows that dogs get warts, but did you know that some of these warts are infectious? Find out what they are and how to deal with them.
  • Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada-Like Syndrome in Dogs  
    April 21, 2023
    True VKH syndrome is a human disease, well described for nearly a century. A similar disease in dogs has been described but since we do not know the relationship between the canine and human disease, we are hesitant to call the canine version VH syndrome as well. Until we know what is really going on in the dog, we will leave it at VK-H-LIKE syndrome or, more accurately, uveodermatologic syndrome.
  • Vomiting or Regurgitation in Dogs and Cats?  
    December 19, 2019
    How can you tell the difference between vomiting and regurgitation? Your veterinarian will ask so see these videos before you take your pet in.
  • Von Willebrand's Disease in Dogs  
    July 15, 2023
    Von Willebrand's disease is an inherited blood clotting defect and breeds at high risk should be screened before being allowed to breed.
  • What to Expect From Your Pet’s Echocardiogram  
    July 29, 2022
    An echocardiogram is a type of ultrasound that looks closely at the heart as well as inside and around it

  • What To Expect When Your Dog Is in Season  
    August 20, 2023
    Whether you plan on breeding your dog or having her spayed, if you’ve never gone through it before, it’s good to know what to expect if she goes into season.
  • When You Need Antibiotics for Your Pets, and When You Don’t  
    October 26, 2022
    Antibiotics can be literal life savers for your pet when prescribed and used for the kind of infection that responds to the medication. But when given for something where they are not appropriate — such as a virus — antibiotics can create a long-lasting problem of antibiotic resistance.
  • Wobbler Syndrome in Dogs  
    May 15, 2022
    “Wobbler syndrome” is the common term used for the spinal disease cervical vertebral instability, (CVI). The name comes from the weak, uncoordinated gait dogs with the condition have, giving the appearance of “wobbling” as they move. MRI is the preferred method for evaluating CVI because it best identifies the nature and severity of the disease. 
  • Wound Care for Pets  
    February 2, 2021
    Wounds bigger than a small cut are almost always worse than they look
  • Yeast Dough Dangers in Pets  
    May 27, 2021
    The buildup of gas and rising dough in the stomach is painful and can lead to bloat

  • Care and Husbandry  

  • CBD Use in Dogs: An Update  
    March 11, 2022
    Cannabidiol, or CBD, has been used for several years in dogs. One study did show decreased aggression from anxiety and, in many dogs, improved behavior. There are still many unknown facts about CBD in dogs, but studies are slowly being performed to answer these questions. 
  • AAFCO Pet Food Labeling  
    November 21, 2018
    Pet food labeling does not provide detailed nutritional information and it’s easily misunderstood by pet owners
  • Abdominal Ultrasounds in Pets  
    January 30, 2020
     An x-ray is a still photograph, but an ultrasound is like a video.
  • Air Travel with Your Pets  
    January 26, 2021
    Most airlines require pets to be 15 lbs or less to fly in the cabin with their owners (this weight includes both the pet and the carrier). Remember that you will need a USDA Health Certificate in most cases. Check with the airline as to how recent the certificate must be issued.
  • Alternative Diets for Dogs and Cats  
    July 27, 2021
    There are about as many diet options for your pet as there are for you, so which one is best? Breed, age, weight, allergies, medical conditions, and finances are some of the contributing factors that need to be considered when choosing an alternative diet.
  • Antibiotic Use in Pets  
    January 28, 2019
    Antibiotics are useless against viruses and will not cure viral infections. Previously, people and pets with viruses were given preventive antibiotics to prevent secondary infections, but this approach is not favored anymore because of the bacteria's ability to develop antibiotic resistance.
  • Assessing Quality of Life & Euthanasia in Companion Animals  
    December 5, 2021
    The decision to euthanize a pet should be one that you always look back upon and know that the best decision was made and that you would make the same decision again in the same situation. So how do you know if it is time?
  • Bad Breath in Dogs and Cats  
    June 21, 2016
    Halitosis, also called bad breath, is as an offensive odor emanating from the oral cavity. Bad breath is a common presenting pet odor complaint. Causes may be commonly be related to the mouth or rarely related to other health problems.
  • Bandaging: First Aid  
    August 1, 2023
    We use bandages for several reasons: to protect wounds from the environment, protect the environment from wounds, and to discourage the pet from licking or irritating a wound.
  • Behavior Supplements in Dogs and Cats  
    April 1, 2021
    Many colleagues and pet owners ask about the use of supplements in the treatment of behavioral issues. There is limited documented evidence on the use of these supplements, but to address this demand for information, here is what we know is being used and impressions from what experience and data are available.
  • Behavioral Euthanasia and Quality of Life Decisions  
    February 15, 2023
    Sometimes the decision to euthanize a pet is not clear. If you are considering euthanasia for behavioral reasons, there may be alternative options to consider first.
  • Birthing Puppies  
    October 27, 2021
    Preparing for the pitter-patter of little paws? What can you expect and what should you watch for?
  • Blood Work is a Basic Evaluation Tool  
    May 24, 2021
    Blood work - presurgical or otherwise - is usually a combination of a complete blood count (CBC) and a blood chemical analysis. Blood work is a basic evaluation tool. Pets, particularly senior ones, should have a CBC at every annual examination.
  • Breathing Problems: First Aid  
    August 13, 2023
    Respiratory distress recognized by increased effort to breathe; noisy breathing; cyanosis (a bluish tinge to the lips and mucous membranes); inability to inhale or exhale.
  • Breeding Information for People Who Want to Breed Dogs  
    July 2, 2013
    Valuable information for those wishing to breed dogs.
  • Brushing your Dog's Teeth  
    December 2, 2013
    What would happen if you stopped brushing your own teeth? Even if you only ate hard food as most dogs do, there still would be problems. You should be brushing your dog's teeth twice daily if you can manage it. It's not as difficult as you might imagine.
  • Capturing Desirable Behaviors  
    February 2, 2023
    By focusing on the desirable behaviors your dog does naturally rather than correcting the undesirable ones, you are building a stronger relationship without force or stress.
  • CBD Use in Pets  
    July 8, 2019
    The use of CBD products in our pets has not been tested
  • Clean Houses are Possible, Even With Pets!  
    February 22, 2022
    If you are trying to make your house clean and still pet-friendly, here are some purr-fect housekeeping tips.
  • Clinical Signs of Oral or Dental Disease in Pets  
    December 18, 2014
    If you see any of these clinical signs, take your pet to your veterinarian for a complete oral examination.
  • Coat Clipping: Other Options to Keep your Dog Cool  
    August 12, 2021
    Does coat clipping or shaving help dogs keep cool? 
  • Conditioning Your Dog to Nail Trims  
    July 27, 2022
    Teaching your dog to be calm and comfortable with the nail trimming process is necessary for your pet’s well-being.
  • Dental Care and What to Expect if your Pet Needs it  
    June 21, 2016
    Root canals, dental x-rays, orthodontics, crowns, caps, implants, and periodontal surgery for pets? You must be kidding? Not at all. Dental procedures are routinely performed in veterinary practices daily. How does a loving pet owner know if dental care is needed and where can a pet owner go for advanced dental care.
  • Dental Home Care for Dogs and Cats  
    March 1, 2023
    Imagine how your teeth would look and feel if you didn't brush them daily. The same applies to your pet's teeth. Here are some ways you can care for your pet's teeth at home.
  • De-Skunking Your Dog or Cat  
    November 2, 2020
    Getting sprayed by a skunk happens to curious dogs who stick their noses into places that annoy skunks. It happens to cats, too, just not nearly as often. Unless your pet has been skunked, you may not realize that the odor stuck to your pet is not the same minor one that you smell driving down a road where a skunk has released its scent. The up close and personal smell won’t just make you wrinkle your nose and gag a bit; it’s a bit like the acrid smell of burning rubber or chemical fire that grasps your lungs and hurts your eyes.
  • Digging Deeper: Getting the Facts on the Dangers of Antifreeze and Your Pets  
    June 27, 2018
    Would you know what to do if your pet got into antifreeze?
  • Effects Spay and Neuter Timing on Cancer in Dogs  
    December 29, 2020
    Even though veterinary recommendations for spaying and neutering pets have become common and there is a lot of information available about its benefits, you may have questions or concerns about how it could affect your dog long term. You may also wonder if there is a correct age for spaying and neutering since recommendations seem to vary.
  • Epulis Tumor in Dogs' Mouths  
    November 11, 2013
    Epulis is the fourth most common tumor found in the canine mouth. There are three types.
  • Esophagostomy Tube (E-tube) Care  
    February 7, 2014
    The esophagostomy or E-tube makes feeding the sickly pet easy and free of mess.
  • False Pregnancy in Dogs  
    July 4, 2023
    We get a lot of questions about female dogs having their menstrual periods. In fact, the menstrual cycle is a primate phenomenon; dogs have an estrus cycle that includes a period of false pregnancy. This false pregnancy can last for weeks with the dog producing milk and sometimes mothering a soft toy.
  • Feeding Tubes for Dogs and Cats  
    December 14, 2017
    There are several types of feeding tubes, and your veterinarian will choose the most appropriate one. Which type to use depends on how long the tube needs to be in place and whether a permanent tube might be needed in the future.
  • Flea and Tick Control Products for Dogs and Cats  
    November 21, 2019
    The comparison charts - one for dogs, one for cats - allows side-by-side glimpse of available products so you can determine what is best for your pets.
  • Fleas: Know your Enemy  
    April 12, 2017
    Fleas are not just a nuisance; they can kill, cause serious skin disease, and transmit infections and parasites.
  • Fluid Delivery Systems in Dogs and Cats  
    June 9, 2022
    Getting a dehydrated body rehydrated is one of the most important capabilities in medicine, whether veterinary or human. Fluids are given medically in all types of supportive care
  • Giving Oral Medications to Dogs and Cats  
    September 17, 2014
    Sadly, some estimates of veterinary compliance are as low as 20% to 30%, which means many pets aren't healing as well as they could be, and money is being spent for little value.
  • Home Cooked or Raw Diets for Dogs and Cats  
    September 15, 2023
    Neither VeterinaryPartner.com nor its parent, Veterinary Information Network, believes that a home cooked or raw diet is best for pets. However, many people would like to use home cooked or raw diets for their pets. We suggest that people wishing to feed one of these diets first consult with a veterinarian.
  • Hospice and Palliative Care for Pets  
    August 12, 2022
    The goal of hospice care is to improve comfort at the end of your pet's life. There are steps you can take to make your pet comfortable and peaceful to help them enjoy life as much as possible until their time comes. 
  • How Does Anesthesia Work?  
    May 19, 2020
    It works by interrupting nerve signals in your pet's brain and body.
  • How to Find a Good, Responsible Breeder  
    November 4, 2022
    A responsible breeder is one who cares about their animals-and you as their potential family-more than their own profit. Here are some ideas on how to find a good one. 
  • Jerky Dog Treats from China may be Associated with Kidney Issues  
    May 16, 2012
    The chicken jerky treats made in China have been associated with kidney disease for a few years. Ever since the association between these products and illness was made in 2007, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned consumers to not give these treats to their pets.
  • Keeping your Pet Healthy and Happy  
    May 12, 2016
    Other than spending time with them, how can you ensure that your pet - the one who shares your home and heart - remains as happy and healthy as possible? What's needed besides lots of love and time?
  • Low Stress Toothbrushing  
    April 14, 2021
    Recommended by veterinarians, daily toothbrushing is one of the best ways to slow the progression of dental disease, lengthen the time between professional cleanings, and has many other benefits to your pet’s overall health. When you brush your pet’s teeth it’s okay if you aren’t perfect. It is more important for your pet to be comfortable and willing to accept frequent brushing.
  • Lymphoma Treatment Includes Nutritional Therapy for Dogs  
    November 22, 2021
    Obviously it is important for a cancer patient to maintain appetite. A good appetite and enjoyment of food is one of the four criteria of life quality that are considered when deciding on euthanasia. Beyond maintaining body condition and getting proper nutrients, however, there are actual nutrients and nutritional strategies that have anti-cancer properties.
  • Microchipping Could Save your Pet's Life  
    July 15, 2023
    A microchip can reunite you with a lost pet, serve as proof of ownership in a dispute, or even mean the difference between euthanasia and medical care in an emergency. A chip can be implanted in a matter of seconds while you wait.
  • MRSP Dogs and Spaying  
    September 2, 2013
    Spay-associated infections are quite rare, so whether or not to spay your dog with methicillin-susceptible S. pseudintermedius is becoming a more common question.
  • Nebulizer Use for Dogs and Cats  
    December 20, 2017
    A nebulizer is a machine that aerosolizes medicine into a fine mist; it is like spraying medicine. You hold a face mask to your pet so that the pet inhales medicine deep into the respiratory tract.
  • Neutering Your Male Dog  
    February 2, 2023
    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.
  • No Bones About It - Chewing Bones is Bad for Dogs' Teeth  
    July 29, 2023
    Are any bones safe for your dog's teeth? No. The pieces can get stuck in your dog's palate (roof of the mouth) and cause infection, and break teeth. 
  • Normal Joints Look Like This in Dogs and Cats  
    May 3, 2023
    A pet does not have to be a senior citizen to require joint care supplements or physical therapy. Degenerative arthritis can result from an injury or can be the result of genetics and joint conformation.
  • Nutrition and Exercise for Growing Puppies  
    April 26, 2023
    With the proliferation of large breed-specific and all-life-stage diets, it's sometimes difficult to know what is marketing hype from pet food manufacturers, what level of exercise is safe, and what the veterinary community recommends. The choices can impact the puppy's health in years to come, so it's best to understand the recommendations so you can make an informed choice.
  • Obesity is Unhealthy in Dogs and Cats  
    October 11, 2019
    Obesity has become an extremely important health problem in the Western world, not just for humans but for dogs and cats as well. Recent estimations suggest that up to 35% of dogs and cats in the U.S. suffer from obesity.
  • Omega Three Fatty Acids for our Pets  
    June 2, 2021
    Cold water fish oils are an excellent source of DHA and EPA for pets.
  • Oral Joint Health Supplements #2  
    April 27, 2009
    Dr. Stacey Oke has developed a system for horse owners to help them choose a product that may be of better quality than some others.
  • Oral Masses/Ulcers in Dogs and Cats  
    June 21, 2016
    Some dogs and cats develop growths in their mouths. Similar to humans, these growths may be benign or malignant. Once a mass is noticed, analysis must be made to determine the cause of the growth.
  • Orphan Puppy & Kitten Care  
    July 22, 2023
    Spring is kitten season. If you have some unexpected additions to your family and are not sure what to do, orphan care is not that hard when you know what to do.
  • Orthodontics for Pets  
    June 21, 2016
    Just as you would want to cure a painful skin condition or sore joint in your pet, you should also consider relieving pain in your pet's mouth. When an oral problem is caused by poorly aligned teeth, orthodontic treatment may be needed.
  • Pain Drugs for Dogs and Being an Informed Owner  
    October 19, 2017
    A decade ago, few drugs were available to treat pets in pain at home. Pups were spayed or neutered at the animal hospital, stitched up, and sent home without pain medication. And dogs with painful arthritis limped along without drugs that were safe and effective for long-term use.
  • Pain Reliever Facts for Dogs and Cats  
    September 26, 2019
    It is important that you are aware of potential side effects when administering drugs to your pets.
  • Periodontal Disease in Dogs and Cats  
    June 22, 2016
    Periodontal disease is inflammation of some or all of a tooth's support. When compared to gingivitis, periodontitis indicates bone loss. If left untreated, periodontitis may cause loose painful teeth as well as internal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque (bacteria).
  • Periodontal Disease in Pets  
    March 7, 2017
    More than 85% of dogs and cats older than 4 years have periodontal pathology.
  • Pet Insurance Fact Sheet  
    March 22, 2018
    Considering getting pet insurance? Learn what to ask for and what's best for your situation.
  • Pet Treats...What to Look Out For  
    July 7, 2022
    Salmonella-contaminated pig ear treats are historically the main offender, but any animal-based treat that is not processed to kill pathogens (e.g. cooking, pasteurization, irradiation) is a concern.
  • Physical Rehabilitation of Dogs Following TPLO  
    February 20, 2014
    Physical rehabilitation for pets is still a rather new veterinary discipline, as it has only exist since approximately 2000. However, the discipline continues to grow, as does the awareness of benefits to dogs.
  • Post-Operative Care for Pets  
    April 19, 2021
    After your pet has surgery, post-operative care is critical in terms of comfort, safety, and recuperation. Proper post-op care aids healing, minimizes the risk of requiring additional corrective surgeries, speeds recovery and is vital to a successful outcome.
  • Pregnancy Termination in Dogs and Cats  
    July 15, 2023
    Unwanted pet pregnancy happens and some choices have to be made. Let's review your options: Have the babies, spay during pregnancy, or medical abortion.
  • Pregnant Dog Care  
    August 31, 2021
    Are you getting ready for the pitter-patter of little paws? As with humans, one can minimize complications with proper care in pregnancy. Having puppies may sound easy and it may seem like the dog does all the work, but that is not always how it turns out.
  • Preparing Puppies for Veterinary Visits  
    January 17, 2023
    The veterinary hospital can be a scary environment for puppies. With a little bit of preparation at home, you can make veterinary visits low stress.
  • Rattlesnake Bites in California  
    July 15, 2020
    Rattlesnakes can be found in rural areas as well as suburban areas where there is sufficient natural habitat. In Northern California snakes will hibernate during cold months and are active March through September. In Southern California they are active all year round. Photographs of rattlesnakes native to California are shown.
  • Retained Baby Teeth in Dogs and Cats Need Surgical Extraction  
    May 5, 2020
    When deciduous (baby) teeth don't fall out to make way for the permanent teeth, they are called retained deciduous teeth. Retained deciduous teeth should be extracted surgically soon after they are discovered because they will cause dental problems (overcrowding in the mouth, plaque buildup, malocclusion, etc.).
  • Reverse Sneezing in Dogs  
    May 13, 2020
    Reverse sneezing is a disconcerting event in which a dog makes unpleasant respiratory sounds that sound like it is dying -- or will die in the next few minutes. However, reverse sneezing is a simple condition that usually does not need any treatment.
  • Roundworms in Dogs and Puppies  
    August 9, 2022
    This common parasite can cause diarrhea and vomiting in cats and dogs, and some pet owners become very concerned when their pet expels a worm up to 7 inches in length. Roundworms are also one of the few dog or cat parasites that can be dangerous when transmitted to humans.
  • Runny Eyes (Epiphora) in Dogs  
    June 3, 2023
    Many dogs and cats have tear-stained faces from chronic excessive tears. Why is this and why is this problem considered one of the hardest to solve in veterinary ophthalmology?
  • Ruptured Cranial Cruciate Ligaments in Dogs  
    January 26, 2021
    The ruptured cruciate ligament is the most common knee injury of dogs. Chances are that any dog that suddenly has rear leg lameness has a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament. The history usually involves a rear leg suddenly so sore that the dog can hardly bear weight on it. If left alone, it will appear to improve over the course of weeks but the knee will be notably swollen and arthritis will set in quickly. Dogs can be presented in either the acute stage (shortly after the injury) or in the chronic stage (weeks or months later).
  • Safe Toys for Puppies  
    June 3, 2021
    There is little across-the-board consensus on which toys are "safest"
  • Shar-pei Special Needs and Cautions  
    April 12, 2023
    The Chinese Shar-pei, famous for its wrinkles, has gone from the rarest dog breed listed by the Guinness Book of World Records to its current status of popularity. This breed is famous for its aloof temperament and its special medical issues, still, most Shar-pei owners would not trade their breed for any less controversial one.
  • Snake Bite Prevention and Treatment for Dogs  
    July 9, 2018
    Most snakes will try to avoid you or your pets; snakes typically bite only as a last resort. But while you may wisely decide to simply walk away when you encounter a snake, dogs and cats will often harass the sliding invader -- and may get bitten as a result.
  • Spaying Your Female Dog  
    February 7, 2023
    Spaying your pet dog is very important not only to keep down pet overpopulation, but also for the health of your dog as well.
  • Subcutaneous Fluids Can Be Given at Home for Dogs and Cats  
    August 10, 2023
    Lots of animals require extra fluids, either temporarily or indefinitely, to insure that they receive adequate hydration. The technique is simple, but sometimes daunting to the beginner. Here is a pictured guide to assist with the learning experience of giving subcutaneous fluids to your pet at home.
  • Sunscreen for Pets  
    June 20, 2023
    Sunscreen can and should be used on cats and dogs. Animals that have light-colored noses and thin, very short, or missing fur are most in need of protective sunscreen.
  • Taenia Species Tapeworms in Dogs and Cats  
    January 18, 2023
    We have generated some confusion regarding tapeworms not contracted from fleas. There actually is another tapeworm besides the common tapeworm whose segments might be seen on a pet's anal area or on their feces.
  • Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum) in Dogs and Cats  
    January 7, 2023
    Noticing something like grains of rice that move, something that looks like sesame seeds in your pet's bedding? Where do tapeworms come from, how can you eliminate them, and why do they come back?
  • Teeth Chattering in Dogs  
    May 23, 2023
    Some veterinarians believe that the source of teeth chattering in dogs is usually dental or oral. There could be other reasons why your dog's teeth chatter. 
  • Tick Paralysis in Pets  
    July 5, 2016
    Tick paralysis is caused by neurotoxins secreted in saliva by certain species of female ticks. Death can occur in untreated dogs from paralysis of the respiratory muscles.
  • Ticks Are Arthropod Parasites for Mammals  
    March 19, 2018
    Ticks are skin parasites that feed on the blood of their hosts. Ticks like motion, warm temperatures from body heat, and the carbon dioxide exhaled by mammals, which is why they are attracted to such hosts as dogs, cats, rodents, rabbits, cattle, small mammals, etc. The bite itself is not usually painful, but the parasite can transmit diseases and cause tick paralysis.
  • Toothbrushing and Dental Prophylaxis in Cats and Dogs  
    June 21, 2016
    Why should I brush my dog's or cat's teeth?
  • Topical Therapy for Skin Conditions in Dogs and Cats  
    November 8, 2016
    Applying shampoos, rinses, ointments or wipes to your pet's skin can be important when managing your pet's skin condition.