Hip Dysplasia
Introduction “Ranger has been running funny and has had trouble getting to his feet after a nap,” Sally told Dr. Jones when she brought the two-year-old family pet for his annual checkup. She described Ranger’s bunny-hopping gait and reluctance to climb stairs; after a thorough physical exam, Dr. Jones suggested hip x-rays for the big dog. The x-rays confirmed the suspicions: Ranger had mild hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joints that causes arthritis. Dr. Jones outlined the options: surgery, drug therapy, an exercise regime, nutritional therapy, chiropractic treatment, or...
read moreLeptospirosis
Introduction Canine outbreaks of leptospirosis in several states are sparking discussion and controversy about vaccination practices for prevention of the disease and concern for transfer of the disease to humans. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection cause by a family of organisms known as Leptospira interrogans. Until recently, vaccines were available for only two strains (Leptospirosis canicola and L. icterhaemorrhagiae), but vaccines for two additional types (L. grippotyphosa and L. pomona) are now on the market. Controversy arises because some dogs are allergic to the carrier in the...
read morePuppy Viruses
Introduction Puppy buyers are constantly reminded to look for clean conditions when considering the source of that new family pet. Whether looking at puppies at a breeder’s kennel, a shelter, a pet store, or in the neighbor’s garage, the puppy and his living area should be clean. This caution is not merely a matter of housekeeping, it is a matter of life and death for the puppy and potential heartbreak for the owner. Distemper and parvovirus thrive in dirty conditions. These viruses can strike in a matter of hours, especially if the litter was born to an unvaccinated mother and the pups...
read moreWeight Management
Diet & Weight Control Obesity is one of the most common medical conditions affecting dogs and cats in the U.S., according to recent studies indicating that 30 to 40 percent of U.S. pets are overweight and 25 percent of pets in the U.S. are obese. Similar to people, too much weight causes health issues in pets such as respiratory problems, diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. Overweight pets also have a greater chance of tearing ligaments and wearing down their joints, both of which make getting around painful. Pets weigh much less than people, so an extra pound or two makes a big...
read moreUnderstanding your Dog
Clues to Detecting Fluffy and Fido’s Painful Secrets To protect themselves from predators, animals naturally hide their pain. Your pet may be suffering even though he isn’t showing obvious signs. Advancements in veterinary science have decoded subtle telltale signs of animal distress. Observing your pet’s behavior is vital to managing his or her pain. How well do you know your pet? Use these five clues from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) to help you understand your pet’s body language. Clue 1: Abnormal chewing habits If your pet is showing abnormal chewing habits,...
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