Senior pets have a special place in my heart. While they often take lots of time and extra care to accommodate for the changes seen in old age, they still give their all to their human family members. Adopting a senior pet is a selfless act of caring, in my opinion. The stories of seniors up for adoption are usually heartbreaking - an owner dies or is too ill or elderly to care for the pet, the f…
Guest author Richard Young DVM, ABVP shares this interesting case report of Joey, a deaf terrier mix who was losing his hair. It was a very symmetrical pattern of baldness (alopecia) in an otherwise very healthy dog. Dr. Young was puzzled about this case, so he referred him to a veterinary dermatologist. What they found was not only interesting, it serves as a great warning for keeping our pets s…
Canine health therapist Heather Sanders works with veterinarians to provide a variety of massage, acupressure and holistic healing services to help pets stay healthy. Learn more about the pets she helps and what types of certifications are available for this type of work.
Pain management and rehabilitation therapies once thought to be available only for humans are now becoming more mainstream treatments for pets in many areas. This is the first part of a series of interviews with various animal therapists working to help animals heal after an injury and deal with various painful conditions, including arthritis.
Small Animal Massage and Hydrotherapy - Interview with an animal massage and hydrotherapist
Pain management and rehabilitation therapies once thought to be available only for humans are now becoming more mainstream treatments for pets in many areas. This is the first part of a series of interviews with various animal therapists working to help animals heal after an injury and deal with various painful conditions, including arthritis.
Discovering a lump on your pet is often a scary finding. The first thing to do is make an appointment with your vet for help in determining what the lump may be, especially if your pet is lethargic, in pain, or bothering the lump. If your vet says to "watch the lump" for growth, what is the best way without worrying daily? I have shared a lump-monitoring tip here. Do you have any tips for monitor…
It is unsettling to find a lump on your pet. Any and all lumps should be checked out by your veterinarian, especially if your pet is acting sick. Your vet will assess the location, duration, firmness, and size. A needle aspirate may also be taken to look at what type of cells make up the lump. Here is a collection of "lumps and bumps" resources and photos to answer questions about common lumps in…
Discovering a lump on your pet is often a scary finding. The first thing to do is make an appointment with your vet for help in determining what the lump may be, especially if your pet is lethargic, in pain, or bothering the lump. If your vet says to "watch the lump" for growth, what is the best way without worrying daily? Here is a tip to keep things in perspective and on record.
Lipomas are fatty tumors found commonly in dogs. They appear in middle-aged and senior dogs, usually on the belly or upper legs, but can appear anywhere. Most lipomas are just watched and not surgically removed, but if they are large, impede movement or function, or suspected of being malignant, they are removed surgically. This is a surgical step-by-step of a lipoma removal. Note: photos are gra…
Hemorrhagic GastroEnteritis (HGE) in dogs is a sudden-onset episode of vomiting and diarrhea, often very bloody in nature. The exact cause is unknown, but there are many theories: diet, a bacterial infection or bacterial toxin, virus, reaction to an intestinal parasite, etc. Stress may play a role in the development of HGE. HGE can affect any breed, gender, and age. Quick veterinary treatment and…
You recognize that your pet is overweight. Your veterinarian has sent home a diet and exercise plan for your pet. That said, old habits and patterns can be hard to break. What worked for your pet to break those snack and couch potato habits? How did you get (and keep) your pet on the road to a fit and healthy life? Share what worked here.
This is my interview with Nancy Kay DVM DACVIM, the author of Speaking For Spot, a book about pet patient advocacy. Readers will learn how to recognize signs of illness in their pet, find a veterinarian, learn about medical conditions and procedures, confront money issues, and finally, get help knowing when it is "time" to say goodbye to a beloved pet.
Puppies and kittens lose their "baby" teeth in the first year. Getting your pet used to having their mouth examined and teeth brushed is a good start to healthy teeth and gums. As pets age, dental tartar and plaque may affect not only the teeth, but gums, heart and internal organs as well. Here are some dental health resources to keep your pet healthy.
Oliver the Cat's Weight Management Diary is a photo "project" examining Oliver the cat and his diet and exercise program. Bonnie Vengrow (my editor at About.com) adopted Oliver in August of 2008. I haven't met Oliver in person yet, but Bonnie is dedicated to making sure that Oliver stays healthy. Even though he is a big cat, his estimated weight is currently 18-20 pounds. Bonnie is hoping it is b…
Veterinarians use the term "looking for zebras" to describe oddball medical cases, and to serve as a reminder to keep in mind the more common (and anticipated) diagnoses. The "zebras" are fun, though, and they serve as a good reminder to expect just about anything when it comes to animals.
People are finally learning about the dangers of sun exposure. Now this sun care attention is turning to our pets. White animals and those that have a summer hair cut or with naturally thin (or nonexistent!) hair coats are particularly sensitive to the sun, and may suffer the same ills as humans: sunburn and skin cancers. This Quick Tip offers ideas and cautions for protecting your pet on those sunny days.
Stem cells have been in the news in recent years because they can grow and differentiate into many types of cell types. For cells originating from human embryos, there are many ethical and legal debates about usage of these cells. Scientists are now focusing on adult stem cells; cells from adult animals that do not harm the animal to procure the cells. Treatment potential spans many types of diseases and injury. Learn more in this article on stem cell therapy in animals.
A comment that I hear frequently (and say myself!) is that pets don't live long enough. As veterinary medicine advances and pet lover's awareness grows, longer and healthier lifespans are possible. Average pet lifespan varies greatly between dogs, cats and breeds. Being aware of the changes age brings will help owners prepare for optimal pet health in the senior years.
Pets are naturally curious, and the "newness" of holiday decorations, gifts, and toys (even those intended for pets) can be enticing to check out, or chew up. This Quick Tip is a reminder of items that pose a hazard for a condition known as a
Medical Conditions That Can't WaitWhile we endeavor to take the very best care of our pets, sometimes it is confusing to know if they are sick or not, if is it an emergency, or if we can wait and watch to see if they will improve. This list is by no means the absolute list to know if you should take your pet to the vet or not (always call your vet if you have [i]any[/i] question about your pet's health", but rather it is a list o…
Most cat owners have been faced with giving their cat a pill at sometime or another. Here are some tips to make the process easier for you and your cat.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Cryptorchidism is when one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum. This condition is a fairly common problem; seen in dogs, cats and other animals. This is a well-documented genetic trait -- animals with this condition should not be bred. Find out why in this FAQ.
Good grooming isn't just for looks -- keeping your pet groomed is important for overall health, too. Learn why "good grooming" is more than brushing your pet's coat -- it is an healthy way to view your pet's home care and prevent costly (and often unnecessary) trips to the vet's office.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
SpayDay USA is held each year in February to promote awareness about the serious pet overpopulation problem in the United States. In addition to sharing information about pet overpopuplation, responsible pet ownership and the health benefits of neutering your animal (spay or castration surgery), Spay Day promotes several avenues for low-cost surgery options so no one is left out.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at About.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
People often ask: Is my pet really sick, or can it wait? Or: I don't know what to do - I don't have enough money for an emergency vet. What should you do when you suspect that your pet is ill and your vet's office is closed? Tips to help figure out the best plan of action for the health of your pet.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Lianne McLeod, Guide to Exotic Pets at ABout.com and a veterinarian, has written an extensive "diary" account of her two dogs who suffer from itchy skin and hair loss. Learn what is involved in a veterinary referral work up; how skin diseases are examined and ruled out, the topical medications, oral medications and special diets that veterinary dermatologists use to diagnose and return their patients to good health.
Most pet owners have experienced a torn toenail, especially dog owners. This How To describes how to take care of an injured nail until it can be examined by a veterinarian.
It can be hard to resist those soulful eyes, that wagging tail, and that earnest face. However, with pet obesity being one of the top health concerns for our pets, a quick assessment of optimal body weight could help lengthen your pet's life. Find out how to objectively assess your pet's body condition in this article.
Forum member TRISHA1920 asks: "My dog had his Bile Acid test today and I won't get the results until early next week. Does anyone know what a Bile Acid test is? It sounds like something to do with Acid in the gullet..." Find out the answers to these questions and more in this FAQ.
Here are some questions to consider when evaluating the quality of life for your pet. A general rule of thumb is when "the bad days outnumber the good days", but that can be difficult to assess. Becoming familiar with these guidelines will help pet owners determine when it is time to say goodbye to a terminally ill pet.
Just like people, animals suffer from seasonal allergies too. Fall allergens such as ragweed and molds are common causes of allergic reactions. Find out what to look for and how to minimize your pet's exposure to allergens in your environment in this pet news press release.
This press release announces the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) approval of a pet allergy laboratory in Texas to screen allergic pets and create "allergy shots" (immunotherapy) for the lessening of allergic symptoms in pets. Learn allergy basics in this forward to the press release.
Step-by-step "how to" on how to give your cat or dog liquid medication using a dropper.
In this press release from Farnam Companies, Inc., learn about a new product that stops the mosquito life cycle where it begins; the larval stage that matures in areas of standing water (ponds, lakes, even bird baths and pet water sources). Farnam reports that this product is safe for humans, pets and livestock.
New product announcement - Tissumend II Sterile, by Veterinary Products Laboratories (VPL), the first and only sterile synthetic absorbable tissue adhesive that effectively closes surgical wounds and internal tissues.
It is the start of a new year, and people's thoughts often turn to diet and exercise, making up for holiday indulgences. But there are more things to consider than simply diet and exercise when it comes to being a good pet owner and animal lover. Here, in no particular order, are 10 tips to a healthier lifestyle for animals in need and our own pets.
Is my pet really sick, or can it wait? I don't have enough money for an emergency vet. What should you do when you suspect that your pet is ill and your vet's office is closed? Tips to help figure out the best plan of action for the health of your pet.
A viewer asks: "Does the color of the coat of a dog make much difference in the dog-days of summer?" Learn the answers to this interesting seasonal question.
Viewer-submitted piece describing her pet's diagnosis with diabetes, followed by blindess in both eyes. Thankfully, the diabetes is under control, and a successful eye surgery regained her pet's sight.
Veterinary Products Laboratories (VPL) has introduced an easier way to apply its patented Tissumend™II--the only synthetic, absorbable surgical tissue adhesive available to veterinarians with the new MicroDose™ syringe.
