• Hypothyroidism in Dogs

    In last week’s post, I discussed hyperthyroidism is cats. You may recall that hyperthyroidism occurs quite infrequently in dogs. Rather they more commonly develop a state of low thyroid production – hypothyroidism. Remember thyroid hormones are produced by the thyroid glands in the neck, and are important in controlling growth…

  • Hyperthyroidism in Cats

    What is the thyroid gland? The thyroid gland is a two-lobed structure located in the neck, and produces several thyroid hormones. (Image courtesy of Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota; www.aercmn.com) The primary function of thyroid hormones is to control the rate at which cells function. Excess thyroid function…

  • Skin Lumps – Don’t Ignore Them!

    A common reason for a pet parent to bring his/her pet to a family veterinarian is because s/he has discovered a new skin lump/mass on his/her dog or cat. This lump can be big or small. It may cause the pet discomfort or may truly be an incidental finding. Nevertheless…

  • Laboratory Tests for Pets – Where Are They Performed?

    Evaluating blood, urine and feces (as well as other bodily fluids) to screen for and monitor disease processes is an essential component of animal healthcare. Samples can be submitted to any number of veterinary reference laboratories, gold-standard facilities with board-certified veterinary clinical pathologists and well-trained medical technologists who work with…

  • Honesty Is the Safest Policy!

    When a pet gets sick and requires the medical attention of a veterinarian, pet parents expect the veterinarian to make their pet well! They expect (and often demand) the best care, the latest treatments, and the most advanced diagnostics available. But often it is pet parents themselves who sabotage their…

  • Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury – Fixing Your Dog’s Knee

    Just like people, dog’s can tear ligaments in their stifles or knee joints, and the most common ligament injured is called the cranial cruciate ligament (in people, it is called the anterior cruciate ligament or ACL). Many veterinarians refer to the cranial cruciate ligament as the anterior cruciate ligament in…

  • Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia in Dogs and Cats

    Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is the term used to describe the destruction of red blood cells by the body’s immune system. Sometimes this disease is called autoimmune hemolytic anemia and AIHA. Causes of immune-mediated hemolytic anemia… Certain infections, vaccinations, medications and/or cancers may trigger this disease, including: Bacterial infections –…

  • Liver Sampling in Dogs and Cats – Picking The Best Test

    Liver disease is relatively common in dogs and cats, and a lot of affected animals develop icterus or jaundice, a characteristic yellowing of the skin and sclera/the “whites” of the eyes (see pictures below). But getting an accurate diagnosis can be challenging. Why? Diagnosis frequently requires sampling the liver. What do…

  • A Consultation With A Veterinary Specialist – What to Expect

    I recognize the very fact that a pet needs to see me, as a specialist, is very stressful for a family. Pet parents are often nervous, worried, and possibly even frustrated about a consultation with a veterinary specialist. Sometimes they’re downright scared! Believe me, I understand these emotions. I’ve been…