Category: Illness
Everything You Need To Know About Deworming
Many clients routinely have questions about deworming their pets. There are many parasites that can affect dogs and cats, and it can be difficult to discern when a dewormer is needed and the type. Intestinal parasites are typically contracted through consuming worm eggs from the soil in the environment, nursing from an infected mother, eating infected wildlife, or in utero...Read More
My Dog Has A Heart Murmur, Now What?
Don’t panic! Heart murmurs are quite common in dogs, and many live a normal life span. Murmurs are diagnosed when your veterinarian listens to the heart during the physical exam. Breeds that are more likely to develop a murmur include Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, and Yorkshire Terriers. A murmur can be caused by...Read More
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Feline Arthritis
Most people recognize arthritis in dogs. But what about your cat? Degenerative joint disease (DJD) is a very common but under-diagnosed condition in cats. Frequency among age groups was EQUAL from cats as early as 6 months to 16 years! Signs worsen with age. Feline DJD is difficult to detect because of the cat’s ability to hide pain as a...Read More
Holiday Dangers For Pets
While the Holidays are the “most wonderful time of the year” for people, they can be a dangerous and stressful time for our pets. Here are some ways to keep your four legged family members safe during the holidays. 1) AVOID Holiday Food Items That Could Cause Problems For Your Pet: A general rule of thumb is to avoid feeding...Read More
Diabetes and Pets
Just like people, diabetes is a fairly common disease of dogs and cats. Blood sugar regulation is performed by the pancreas by producing insulin. Most diabetic cases are Type 1, or insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, in which the pet requires insulin therapy for control of blood sugar. Cats sometimes will have Type 2, or non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, in which diet and...Read More
My Dog Ate What?!?
Dogs and cats can be very picky about their food, or sometimes they can consume things we would not even imagine would be edible. One of the most common appointments we have is the vomiting dog or cat. Oftentimes we may ask you if they are the type to “eat things” and by this we mean exactly that – will...Read More
Reverse Sneezing
Ever wonder what that funny sneezing/honking sound was that your dog just made? It may have even seemed like he couldn’t breathe for a few moments or like he was choking on something. A reverse sneeze, also known as pharyngeal gag reflex, is a common condition seen in dogs. Fortunately, it’s usually a benign process that rarely requires treatment. Reverse...Read More
What is a Hot Spot?
“The spot came up on my dog overnight, and now they won’t leave it alone!” This is usually how the conversation goes with panic-stricken clients that have just noticed the huge, bald sore that is red and oozing. After telling them it looks or sounds like they are describing a hot spot, the next question is typically, “What is a...Read More
Is Anesthesia Safe?
General anesthesia is used on a daily basis in most veterinary hospitals. A common conversation with clients is over concern regarding the safety of anesthesia for their pet. The good news is that modern anesthesia is very safe. Today we have access to much better drugs. This allows us to tailor the anesthetic plans to each patient’s individual needs. The risk of...Read More
Demodex: A Mitey Problem
We’ve all heard of mange. The term probably brings to mind a pitiful, skinny, bald little shelter animal in one of those heart-wrenching Sarah McLachlan ads on TV. Before you reach for the tissues, fear not! We can deal with mange! It’s not such a mighty problem! But it is a MITEY problem. There are several types of mange (like...Read More
