Frequently Asked Questions - Canine Health
Growing library of feline-specific FAQs covering a variety of dog-specific health topics for dogs. Please see All Disease & Parasite FAQs for additional articles on a variety of topics. variety of topics.
My pet has bad breath. How can I care for my pet's teeth at home?
Ideally, your veterinarian should evaluate your pet's teeth and gums prior to starting at home dental care for your pet. A professional cleaning (and removal of any diseased teeth) will make home dental care easier and often with better long term success. This FAQ discusses different types of pet dental care products and where to find them.
Ideally, your veterinarian should evaluate your pet's teeth and gums prior to starting at home dental care for your pet. A professional cleaning (and removal of any diseased teeth) will make home dental care easier and often with better long term success. This FAQ discusses different types of pet dental care products and where to find them.
My pet was spayed, but now looks as if she is in heat. How can this be?
This FAQ is taken from the Veterinary Medicine forum, where NIGHTSTARR1221 asks: "Our female dog was spayed when she was 4-5 months old. She is now 1-1/2 years old and bleeding; our male dog keeps trying to mate with her. The vet told my husband that sometimes this happens and that the way the dogs uterus is sometimes they miss an ovary and have to go back in. I cannot see that this is possible if they removed the uterus. Does anyone know if this is possible?"
This FAQ is taken from the Veterinary Medicine forum, where NIGHTSTARR1221 asks: "Our female dog was spayed when she was 4-5 months old. She is now 1-1/2 years old and bleeding; our male dog keeps trying to mate with her. The vet told my husband that sometimes this happens and that the way the dogs uterus is sometimes they miss an ovary and have to go back in. I cannot see that this is possible if they removed the uterus. Does anyone know if this is possible?"
What is an ectopic ovary?
Veterinary Quesstion - A viewer asks: what is an ectopic ovary?
Veterinary Quesstion - A viewer asks: what is an ectopic ovary?
What Is A Cuterebra Parasite?
A Cuterebra parasite is an opportunistic parasite found under the skin of small mammals. This parasite is the larval stage of the Cuterebra fly, who uses animal hosts to complete its life cycle. Learn more about this parasite most commonly seen in summer and fall in this FAQ.
A Cuterebra parasite is an opportunistic parasite found under the skin of small mammals. This parasite is the larval stage of the Cuterebra fly, who uses animal hosts to complete its life cycle. Learn more about this parasite most commonly seen in summer and fall in this FAQ.
What are the best methods to control fleas on my pet and in my house?
Fleas have a complex, 4 stage life cycle. Control of fleas on your pet and in your home must address all stages of this life cycle to stop the problem of flea infestation. This article will cover several different methods that are effective at controlling fleas when used properly.
Fleas have a complex, 4 stage life cycle. Control of fleas on your pet and in your home must address all stages of this life cycle to stop the problem of flea infestation. This article will cover several different methods that are effective at controlling fleas when used properly.
What is the life and life cycle of the flea, and why is flea control so difficult?
Fleas. They make pets' lives miserable, and humans begin to itch just at the thought of them. Vets are often asked what pill, drop, dip, collar, or shampoo works the best to get rid of these persistent parasites. The answer is that there is no single method or insecticide that will completely eradicate (or at least control) a flea problem. The flea life cycle is fairly complex, and understanding the various stages will make it easier to get rid of them.
Fleas. They make pets' lives miserable, and humans begin to itch just at the thought of them. Vets are often asked what pill, drop, dip, collar, or shampoo works the best to get rid of these persistent parasites. The answer is that there is no single method or insecticide that will completely eradicate (or at least control) a flea problem. The flea life cycle is fairly complex, and understanding the various stages will make it easier to get rid of them.
What Makes Chocolate Toxic To Pets, And What Are The Signs Seen With Toxicity?
Chocolate is a popular treat all year round. Care must be taken when animals are around, though. Chocolate can be toxic, and sometimes even fatal, for animals. Dogs are most commonly affected, due to their ability to find it and the common 'sweet tooth' they seem to have. It is important to remember that cats and other species are susceptible to the toxic effects of chocolate, too.
Chocolate is a popular treat all year round. Care must be taken when animals are around, though. Chocolate can be toxic, and sometimes even fatal, for animals. Dogs are most commonly affected, due to their ability to find it and the common 'sweet tooth' they seem to have. It is important to remember that cats and other species are susceptible to the toxic effects of chocolate, too.
Is it OK to vaccinate my pet if she is pregnant or nursing?
Is it OK to vaccinate your pet if she is pregnant or may be pregnant? What about if she is nursing? Will the kittens or puppies be harmed? The answers to these questions can vary, and it is not always as simple as yes or no. Read this FAQ to find out the safest basic guidelines.
Is it OK to vaccinate your pet if she is pregnant or may be pregnant? What about if she is nursing? Will the kittens or puppies be harmed? The answers to these questions can vary, and it is not always as simple as yes or no. Read this FAQ to find out the safest basic guidelines.
What is a recombinant vaccine, and how does it work?
Learn how has veterinary vaccination medicine changed and improved over the years. Recombinant technology allows for safer vaccination for our pets with less risk of disease or allergic reaction and better protection from natural disease.
Learn how has veterinary vaccination medicine changed and improved over the years. Recombinant technology allows for safer vaccination for our pets with less risk of disease or allergic reaction and better protection from natural disease.
The Fallacy of Titer Tests
Guest author Will Falconer, DVM, a Certified Veterinary Homeopath, discusses pet vaccinations and vaccine titers.
Guest author Will Falconer, DVM, a Certified Veterinary Homeopath, discusses pet vaccinations and vaccine titers.
Euthanasia - How Will I know When It Is "Time" To Put A Pet To Sleep?
Having to make the decision to end a pet's life is never easy. How to evaluate "quality of life", and make a decision that that won't be filled with regret and guilt.
Having to make the decision to end a pet's life is never easy. How to evaluate "quality of life", and make a decision that that won't be filled with regret and guilt.
Frequently Asked Question: Why does my dog (or cat) eat grass?
Many people ask why their dog eats grass. The reasons can vary from they like the taste to possibly an empty or upset stomach.
Many people ask why their dog eats grass. The reasons can vary from they like the taste to possibly an empty or upset stomach.
Is it OK to feed my dog corn on the cob?
Most people are aware of the dangers of feeding pets a diet of table scraps that are high in fat (trimmings, gravy, etc.), especially pets who do not consume table scraps on a regular basis. This FAQ addresses feeding pets corn on the cob, which may seem like a healthy alternative, but real dangers exist and this food item is not recommended for pets.
Most people are aware of the dangers of feeding pets a diet of table scraps that are high in fat (trimmings, gravy, etc.), especially pets who do not consume table scraps on a regular basis. This FAQ addresses feeding pets corn on the cob, which may seem like a healthy alternative, but real dangers exist and this food item is not recommended for pets.
How long is the gestation (pregnancy) period of dogs?
How long is a dog pregnant for? Do female dogs experience menopause? What health benefits can be gained from spaying (ovariohysterectomy) surgery? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this FAQ.
How long is a dog pregnant for? Do female dogs experience menopause? What health benefits can be gained from spaying (ovariohysterectomy) surgery? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this FAQ.
Is anesthesia necessary to do a dental cleaning on my pet?
Anesthesia is necessary to do a complete dental cleaning in pets. This includes full oral exam, treatment/removal of diseased teeth, removal of plaque and tartar, and finally polishing the teeth.
Anesthesia is necessary to do a complete dental cleaning in pets. This includes full oral exam, treatment/removal of diseased teeth, removal of plaque and tartar, and finally polishing the teeth.
Veterinary Q & A - Itching, Scratching, and Hair Loss in Dogs & Cats
Veterinary Q & A - Itching, Scratching, and Hair Loss. Why is my pet scratching, and how can it be helped?
Veterinary Q & A - Itching, Scratching, and Hair Loss. Why is my pet scratching, and how can it be helped?
What does BSE stand for, and why is it called "Mad Cow" disease?
The first case of BSE, or Mad Cow Disease was discovered on 12/23/03 in the US. The purpose of this FAQ is to educate about the disease terminology in cattle. For human health and current political issues concerning BSE, please visit with your local health care provider or refer to local/national/Internet news sources.
The first case of BSE, or Mad Cow Disease was discovered on 12/23/03 in the US. The purpose of this FAQ is to educate about the disease terminology in cattle. For human health and current political issues concerning BSE, please visit with your local health care provider or refer to local/national/Internet news sources.
What Does AIHA stand for, and What Should I Know About This Disease?
AIHA, or Auto Immune Hemolytic Anemia, is a disease where the body's own immune system fails to recognize red blood cells as "self" and begins destroying these cells as if they are foreign invaders. Learn about this immune-related disease in this FAQ.
AIHA, or Auto Immune Hemolytic Anemia, is a disease where the body's own immune system fails to recognize red blood cells as "self" and begins destroying these cells as if they are foreign invaders. Learn about this immune-related disease in this FAQ.
My vet said that my pet has a Lipoma. What is that, and should I be worried?
Lumps on dogs are fairly common as dogs age. Most are not serious, but some can be quite serious. Any time that you notice a lump on your pet, please have it examined by your veterinarian to rule out cancer or other health problems.
Lumps on dogs are fairly common as dogs age. Most are not serious, but some can be quite serious. Any time that you notice a lump on your pet, please have it examined by your veterinarian to rule out cancer or other health problems.
What are the clinical signs seen with Ethylene Glycol (antifreeze) toxicity in dogs and cats?
Acute cases of antifreeze toxicity (when an animal consumes antifreeze) often present as if the animal is intoxicated with alcohol. This is an emergency situation, and life threatening within hours. Please see your veterinarian immediately. Success of treatment depends on quick treatment.
Acute cases of antifreeze toxicity (when an animal consumes antifreeze) often present as if the animal is intoxicated with alcohol. This is an emergency situation, and life threatening within hours. Please see your veterinarian immediately. Success of treatment depends on quick treatment.
What is Ringworm, and how do pets get it?
Ringworm is not a worm, it is a fungus that can infect the skin of animals and humans. Read this FAQ to learn more.
Ringworm is not a worm, it is a fungus that can infect the skin of animals and humans. Read this FAQ to learn more.
What is Fly Strike, also known as Myasis?
Flies are common in the warmer months, and lay eggs in dead tissue/rotting material, and the eggs develop into larvae that need to eat. They larvae eat the dead and rotting tissue, and look like small, white grub worms. They appear quite fast (8-12 hours), and will eat away tissue on your pet if the right conditions are present. Learn how to prevent this undesireable condition in your pet.
Flies are common in the warmer months, and lay eggs in dead tissue/rotting material, and the eggs develop into larvae that need to eat. They larvae eat the dead and rotting tissue, and look like small, white grub worms. They appear quite fast (8-12 hours), and will eat away tissue on your pet if the right conditions are present. Learn how to prevent this undesireable condition in your pet.
Just the Facts: Anal Sacs
Learning to observe what is normal and and what is not in animals that can't talk takes time and patience. The purpose of this FAQ is to serve as a basic guideline to know when to consult your vet to see if an examination is in order. Questions about scooting are common. Learn reasons why your pet may scoot in this FAQ.
Learning to observe what is normal and and what is not in animals that can't talk takes time and patience. The purpose of this FAQ is to serve as a basic guideline to know when to consult your vet to see if an examination is in order. Questions about scooting are common. Learn reasons why your pet may scoot in this FAQ.
Pet Health: My dog's nose is dry. Is he sick?
Learning to observe what is normal and and what is not in animals that can't talk takes time and patience. The purpose of this FAQ is to serve as a basic guideline to know when to consult your vet to see if an examination is in order.
Learning to observe what is normal and and what is not in animals that can't talk takes time and patience. The purpose of this FAQ is to serve as a basic guideline to know when to consult your vet to see if an examination is in order.
How to Give Your Dog or Cat a Flea Bath
How to get the most out of a flea bath, the start of a good flea control program. Not every itchy dog (or cat) has fleas, though. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian if your pet is itching or has inflammed skin before initiating treatment or special shampoos.
How to get the most out of a flea bath, the start of a good flea control program. Not every itchy dog (or cat) has fleas, though. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian if your pet is itching or has inflammed skin before initiating treatment or special shampoos.
Are prophylactic antibiotics a good idea for routine neuters or spays?
Should pets be given antibiotics for routine "healthy" surgeries such as spays and neuters? Read this FAQ (Frequently Asked Question) to find out.
Should pets be given antibiotics for routine "healthy" surgeries such as spays and neuters? Read this FAQ (Frequently Asked Question) to find out.
How To Soothe A Hot Spot - Some Quick Tips
Also known as "pyotraumatic dermatitis", these common pet skin lesions are usually caused (and made worse) by biting, licking, or scratching. Here are some quick tips for relieving the itch and inflammation to give your pet some relief.
Also known as "pyotraumatic dermatitis", these common pet skin lesions are usually caused (and made worse) by biting, licking, or scratching. Here are some quick tips for relieving the itch and inflammation to give your pet some relief.
Dog Days of Summer - What is a "hot spot"?
Also known as "pyotraumatic dermatitis", these common pet skin lesions are usually caused (and made worse) by biting, licking, or scratching.
Also known as "pyotraumatic dermatitis", these common pet skin lesions are usually caused (and made worse) by biting, licking, or scratching.
Frequently Asked Question: Swollen paw -- should I wait and see, or call my vet?
Soft tissue swelling in an animal's paw may mean a few things: insect bite or sting, infection and abscession, or blunt tissue damage. First question to ask: is the paw painful? Learn more in this FAQ.
Soft tissue swelling in an animal's paw may mean a few things: insect bite or sting, infection and abscession, or blunt tissue damage. First question to ask: is the paw painful? Learn more in this FAQ.
Why won't my vet just refill my pet's regular medication without an exam or blood test?
Pet owners commonly ask why they can't get a medication refilled for their pet without an examination. Whether for a recurring infection or a chronic condition that requires medication, your vet will likely want to see your pet on a regular basis prior to dispensing medication. Read this FAQ to learn the reasons why a check-in with the vet is required in most cases.
Pet owners commonly ask why they can't get a medication refilled for their pet without an examination. Whether for a recurring infection or a chronic condition that requires medication, your vet will likely want to see your pet on a regular basis prior to dispensing medication. Read this FAQ to learn the reasons why a check-in with the vet is required in most cases.
My pet is "not herself" lately. Should I watch her, or call the vet?
Learning what is "normal" and what isn't for your pets can be tricky at times. If your pet is not actively sick (vomiting, diarrhea) or injured (bleeding, limping), but not his or her normal bouncy self either, it is time to check in with your vet before becoming more serious.
Learning what is "normal" and what isn't for your pets can be tricky at times. If your pet is not actively sick (vomiting, diarrhea) or injured (bleeding, limping), but not his or her normal bouncy self either, it is time to check in with your vet before becoming more serious.
Quick Tip - Protect your pet against Fly Strike (Myiasis)
Late summer is the most common time of year to see Fly Strike (Myasis). This unpleasant problem is caused when flies lay their eggs on diseased tissue or drainage of living animals and maggots are born. Maggots are the larve (immature form) of flies, and can cause very serious health problems for the host animal.
Late summer is the most common time of year to see Fly Strike (Myasis). This unpleasant problem is caused when flies lay their eggs on diseased tissue or drainage of living animals and maggots are born. Maggots are the larve (immature form) of flies, and can cause very serious health problems for the host animal.
Quick Tip - Protect your pet against Cheat Grass and Foxtail!
Late summer is the time to be on alert for various "invaders" from the plant world. As grasses and weeds dry out and seeds begin to scatter, this can mean trouble for pets (and annoyances for people). Daily checks and quick removal are the key to preventing serious problems in the future.
Late summer is the time to be on alert for various "invaders" from the plant world. As grasses and weeds dry out and seeds begin to scatter, this can mean trouble for pets (and annoyances for people). Daily checks and quick removal are the key to preventing serious problems in the future.
Quick Tip for itch relief - oatmeal shampoo
If your pet suffers from inhalant allergies or an itchy skin condition, a gentle oatmeal shampoo may be beneficial. It is important to visit your veterinarian to address the root cause of the itchiness and to reduce secondary problems due to scratching, chewing, and licking. An oatmeal-based shampoo is often a welcome addition to most "itch reduction" treatment plans.
If your pet suffers from inhalant allergies or an itchy skin condition, a gentle oatmeal shampoo may be beneficial. It is important to visit your veterinarian to address the root cause of the itchiness and to reduce secondary problems due to scratching, chewing, and licking. An oatmeal-based shampoo is often a welcome addition to most "itch reduction" treatment plans.
Is Benadryl® safe to give to my pet?
Benadryl® is a commonly used drug in human medicine. Can it also be used for allergic reactions in pets? This is a common question for many pet owners. This FAQ offers general information about Benedryl; as with any pet-specific information, the only correct answer is to check with your veterinarian.
Benadryl® is a commonly used drug in human medicine. Can it also be used for allergic reactions in pets? This is a common question for many pet owners. This FAQ offers general information about Benedryl; as with any pet-specific information, the only correct answer is to check with your veterinarian.
Clean out that medicine cabinet - safely dispose of expired medications
Time flies, and it is easy to "save this medication for later" only to find it is a few years out of date when you check it again. Learn why you should not used expired medications for your pet (or you) and how to safely dispose of old medications.
Time flies, and it is easy to "save this medication for later" only to find it is a few years out of date when you check it again. Learn why you should not used expired medications for your pet (or you) and how to safely dispose of old medications.
What is the pancreas, and why is it needed?
Most everyone has heard the anatomical term "pancreas", but just what is the pancreas, anyway? What is the function of the pancreas, and what happens when it isn't working properly? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this FAQ.
Most everyone has heard the anatomical term "pancreas", but just what is the pancreas, anyway? What is the function of the pancreas, and what happens when it isn't working properly? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this FAQ.
My pet is terrified of the vet. What are some tips to help my pet?
Many times pet owners put off going to the vet because their pet gets very stressed, or in some cases, agressive, when faced with the carrier, the car ride and the veterinary office. If the visit involves the difficult decision about putting a pet to sleep (euthanasia), many pet owners want to avoid the unfamiliar or stressful time at the veterinary office. Here are some tips to help reduce veterinary office stress.
Many times pet owners put off going to the vet because their pet gets very stressed, or in some cases, agressive, when faced with the carrier, the car ride and the veterinary office. If the visit involves the difficult decision about putting a pet to sleep (euthanasia), many pet owners want to avoid the unfamiliar or stressful time at the veterinary office. Here are some tips to help reduce veterinary office stress.
Canine Physiology and Anatomy Facts
What is a "normal" body temperature for your dog? How many teeth do dogs have as puppies and adults? What is the normal heart rate ranges? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this article.
What is a "normal" body temperature for your dog? How many teeth do dogs have as puppies and adults? What is the normal heart rate ranges? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this article.
What to expect after your pet's dental or surgical procedure
Most veterinarians send home printed handouts after an anesthetic procedure detailing the pet's post-procedure care. This is helpful because in the busy discharge time of most clinics, coupled with excitement at seeing their pet, many owners don't hear all of the details or think of questions until after they are home. This article discusses general post-procedure care. Please call your veterinarian with specific questions about your pet's recovery.
Most veterinarians send home printed handouts after an anesthetic procedure detailing the pet's post-procedure care. This is helpful because in the busy discharge time of most clinics, coupled with excitement at seeing their pet, many owners don't hear all of the details or think of questions until after they are home. This article discusses general post-procedure care. Please call your veterinarian with specific questions about your pet's recovery.
My Dog's Teeth Are Worn Down. Should I Be Concerned?
This FAQ looks at a common problem, especially for dogs: worn down teeth. What causes teeth to wear, and what should you do about worn down teeth in your pet?
This FAQ looks at a common problem, especially for dogs: worn down teeth. What causes teeth to wear, and what should you do about worn down teeth in your pet?
My 8 month old puppy has two sets of "fangs" on top - is this a problem?
Like humans, dogs and cats have baby (deciduous) teeth that are replaced by permanent teeth as they mature. In some cases, the animal will gain the permanent tooth but fail to lose the baby tooth, resulting in what is termed a "retained deciduous tooth". Find out what to do about this condition in this FAQ.
Like humans, dogs and cats have baby (deciduous) teeth that are replaced by permanent teeth as they mature. In some cases, the animal will gain the permanent tooth but fail to lose the baby tooth, resulting in what is termed a "retained deciduous tooth". Find out what to do about this condition in this FAQ.
My dog is licking his paws. Is this just a bad habit or is something wrong?
Dogs licking their paws is a common complaint. Is this a medical problem or a behavioral one? How can I stop this often annoying activity? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this FAQ.
Dogs licking their paws is a common complaint. Is this a medical problem or a behavioral one? How can I stop this often annoying activity? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this FAQ.
What are the signs seen with a urinary tract infection?
Urinary problems are commonly seen in dogs and cats. Symptoms can range from "obviously sick" to very few signs seen, depending on the length and severity of infection. Being familiar with possible warning signs could help save your pet's life. Learn more in this FAQ entry.
Urinary problems are commonly seen in dogs and cats. Symptoms can range from "obviously sick" to very few signs seen, depending on the length and severity of infection. Being familiar with possible warning signs could help save your pet's life. Learn more in this FAQ entry.
Dealing with guilt -- did I do everything I could?
Pets depend on us for food and shelter and cannot directly tell us how they feel, so when something happens to our pet (i.e. illness, accident, death), the feelings of "letting our pet down" often turn to feelings of guilt and anger or denial. What can be done to ease the guilt when we are feeling low? Read this FAQ for some tips on dealing with grief and guilt.
Pets depend on us for food and shelter and cannot directly tell us how they feel, so when something happens to our pet (i.e. illness, accident, death), the feelings of "letting our pet down" often turn to feelings of guilt and anger or denial. What can be done to ease the guilt when we are feeling low? Read this FAQ for some tips on dealing with grief and guilt.
What is a "reverse sneeze"?
Reverse sneezing is a fairly common respiratory event seen in dogs (rarely cats) that, while harmless, can be quite frightening for dog owners to witness. Find out what happens during reverse sneezing and what some possible causes are in this FAQ.
Reverse sneezing is a fairly common respiratory event seen in dogs (rarely cats) that, while harmless, can be quite frightening for dog owners to witness. Find out what happens during reverse sneezing and what some possible causes are in this FAQ.
What is Apathetic Hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is an endocrine disease that is very common in senior cats. This disease is caused by an overproduction of circulating thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. There are many possible clinical signs; animals will present a few or many of the signs. The most common signs seen in cases of hyperthyroidism are often absent in what is known as Apathetic Hyperthyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism is an endocrine disease that is very common in senior cats. This disease is caused by an overproduction of circulating thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. There are many possible clinical signs; animals will present a few or many of the signs. The most common signs seen in cases of hyperthyroidism are often absent in what is known as Apathetic Hyperthyroidism.
Where is the thyroid gland and what does it do?
Diseases of the thyroid gland are common in dogs and cats (humans, too). Dogs with thyroid disease are more commonly hypothyroid (underactive gland) and cats with thyroid disease are more commonly hyperthyroid (overactive gland). This article discusses thyroid anatomy, common conditions and treatment options for dogs and cats with thyroid disease.
Diseases of the thyroid gland are common in dogs and cats (humans, too). Dogs with thyroid disease are more commonly hypothyroid (underactive gland) and cats with thyroid disease are more commonly hyperthyroid (overactive gland). This article discusses thyroid anatomy, common conditions and treatment options for dogs and cats with thyroid disease.
Why does my pet itch and scratch so much?
Pets itch, scratch, bite, and lick themselves for many reasons. Some of the more common itch-inciting causes include: skin parasites, bacterial or fungal skin infections, stress or boredom, contact irritants and inhalant allergies. This FAQ examines inhalant allergies, otherwise known as atopy.
Pets itch, scratch, bite, and lick themselves for many reasons. Some of the more common itch-inciting causes include: skin parasites, bacterial or fungal skin infections, stress or boredom, contact irritants and inhalant allergies. This FAQ examines inhalant allergies, otherwise known as atopy.
Is my pet acting this way due to old age or is he sick?
Changes happen as pets age, similar to the changes seen as people age. Sight and hearing may be diminished, pets may sleep more, and so on. These are expected changes. However, people often miss potentially serious signs of illness in their pets by writing off symptoms as "just old age" when a veterinary exam is in order. This FAQ outlines what to watch for as your pet enters the senior years.
Changes happen as pets age, similar to the changes seen as people age. Sight and hearing may be diminished, pets may sleep more, and so on. These are expected changes. However, people often miss potentially serious signs of illness in their pets by writing off symptoms as "just old age" when a veterinary exam is in order. This FAQ outlines what to watch for as your pet enters the senior years.
Tips and tools for home dental care for pets
Now that your pet has been examined by your vet and the teeth have been professionally cleaned (if necessary), what's next? These tips will help you find the best "tools" and techniques for your pet's dental needs.
Now that your pet has been examined by your vet and the teeth have been professionally cleaned (if necessary), what's next? These tips will help you find the best "tools" and techniques for your pet's dental needs.
Is this post abodominal (spay) surgery lump "normal"?
A question that is commonly asked after a routine spay surgery is: "should I be concerned about the lump in the incision area?" This is especially true for cats. Is a post-operative swelling "normal" or cause for concern? This FAQ cannot offer a diagnosis or treatment, but will point out some common findings and when a call to your vet is warranted.
A question that is commonly asked after a routine spay surgery is: "should I be concerned about the lump in the incision area?" This is especially true for cats. Is a post-operative swelling "normal" or cause for concern? This FAQ cannot offer a diagnosis or treatment, but will point out some common findings and when a call to your vet is warranted.
Make sure your pet gets the correct medications while you are away
Pet owners get in a routine with their pets, and it becomes automatic to give vitamins, arthritis medications, and any other reqularly required treatments. Here is a quick tip to ensure the routine continues if your pet is in a kennel or under a petsitter's care.
Pet owners get in a routine with their pets, and it becomes automatic to give vitamins, arthritis medications, and any other reqularly required treatments. Here is a quick tip to ensure the routine continues if your pet is in a kennel or under a petsitter's care.
What is a histiocytoma?
The appearance of a raised, hairless and bright red "angry" looking skin lump on a young dog is characteristic of a histiocytoma. Is it cancerous? Is this something to be worried about? Read this FAQ to find out more about histiocytomas.
The appearance of a raised, hairless and bright red "angry" looking skin lump on a young dog is characteristic of a histiocytoma. Is it cancerous? Is this something to be worried about? Read this FAQ to find out more about histiocytomas.
My dog's tail is painful and he can't wag it - what happened?
Your otherwise healthy dog comes in from the backyard, a swim or a day playing with dog friends and you are shocked to find that he can't lift his tail all of the way. What happened? Is this an emergency? Read this FAQ to find out more about this fairly common tail occurrence of large breed dogs.
Your otherwise healthy dog comes in from the backyard, a swim or a day playing with dog friends and you are shocked to find that he can't lift his tail all of the way. What happened? Is this an emergency? Read this FAQ to find out more about this fairly common tail occurrence of large breed dogs.
My neighbor's dog had GME. What does this mean, and what is the cause?
The acronym GME stands for Granulomatous MeningoEncephalomyelitis, a disease of the brain and spinal cord. Read this FAQ to learn about common symptoms and prognosis for this disease.
The acronym GME stands for Granulomatous MeningoEncephalomyelitis, a disease of the brain and spinal cord. Read this FAQ to learn about common symptoms and prognosis for this disease.
My pet is needs to be seen by a vet, but is afraid of the car. What should I do?
Sometimes pet owners are unsure if they should take their pet to the vet. Other times, they know that their pet needs to be seen by their vet, but worry that the car trip stress will make their pet worse. IF your pet is truly sick or injured, the need to be seen as soon as possible outweighs the unpleasantness of the car ride. Here are some tips to help determine when a vet visit is necessary.
Sometimes pet owners are unsure if they should take their pet to the vet. Other times, they know that their pet needs to be seen by their vet, but worry that the car trip stress will make their pet worse. IF your pet is truly sick or injured, the need to be seen as soon as possible outweighs the unpleasantness of the car ride. Here are some tips to help determine when a vet visit is necessary.
My senior dog is drinking lots of water and urinating everywhere. Is it just old age?
No matter what age your pet is, a noticeable increase in water intake (drinking) or urination often means there is an underlying medical problem. Also, a change in urinary habits, such as urinating in the house or where the pet sleeps, increased urge to urinate, or very dilute urine needs to be evaluated as soon as possible.
No matter what age your pet is, a noticeable increase in water intake (drinking) or urination often means there is an underlying medical problem. Also, a change in urinary habits, such as urinating in the house or where the pet sleeps, increased urge to urinate, or very dilute urine needs to be evaluated as soon as possible.
Do those "doggie breath mints" at the pet food store really work?
If your pet has bad breath, will those "doggie breath mints" really help? First thing to consider is why is the breath bad? A trip to the veterinarian is in order first to rule out dental or gum disease.
If your pet has bad breath, will those "doggie breath mints" really help? First thing to consider is why is the breath bad? A trip to the veterinarian is in order first to rule out dental or gum disease.
What Is Kennel Cough, And How Can I Protect My Dog?
Most people have heard of "kennel cough", but what are the signs seen? Is the disease serious? How can I protect my pet? Learn these answers and more in this FAQ.
Most people have heard of "kennel cough", but what are the signs seen? Is the disease serious? How can I protect my pet? Learn these answers and more in this FAQ.