A few days ago I was able to catch up with an emergency medicine colleague after she had finished working a hellish shift. In our conversation, she told me she had treated three patients with abscessed anal glands during her shift. I guess things really do come in threes! Her…
Diseases
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Storm & Noise Phobias in Dogs – Crash! Boom! Bang!
In North America, we are in the midst of the hazy, hot, and often humid Summer months. With this weather comes festive fireworks celebrations and the potential for severe thunderstorms. This also means some of our canine companions will be scared by booming firecrackers and the tumultuous rumbling of thunder.…
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Anticoagulant Rodenticide Intoxication in Dogs – A Dirty Rat!
Our pets encounter any number of potential toxins on a daily basis. An anticoagulant rodenticide used in rat/mice baits is one of the most common encountered in veterinary medicine. These intoxicants can cause major bleeding problems. This week I share some helpful information about rodenticide intoxication. I hope you will share the information with…
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Entropion in Dogs & Cat– An Irritating Eyelid Problem
The eyes are undeniably intricate structures. They have so many components with truly vital functions. The eyelids help protect the gorgeous orbs. But what happens when the eyelids actually damage the eyes? Entropion is an eyelid condition that can do just that! This week I share detailed information about this…
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Leptospirosis in Dogs – A Bugger of a Bacterial Infection
In the northern hemisphere we are entering the Summer season. Warmer months bring an increased risk for various health concerns for our dogs, including infectious diseases. This week I share information about a potentially lethal bacterial infection called leptospirosis. I believe you will find the topic especially relevant, and therefore, I hope you…
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Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) – Dry Eye in Dogs
The eyes of dogs are beautiful orbs with intricate parts functioning together to enable each of us to see the incredible world surrounding us. Their eyes, like ours, require constant lubrication. Without it, the conjunctiva (thin membrane of tissue covering the sclera / the “white” of the eye”) and cornea…
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Aural Hematomas – A Puffy Ear Flap Problem
A common problem affecting the ears of dogs and cats is an aural hematoma. The condition is the collection of blood inside an ear flap, and can be very irritating to an affected pet. This week I share some tidbits about this problem, and I hope you find the information…
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Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Sugar has become taboo in many kitchens, leading to the rise of non-sugar sweeteners as popular alternatives. One of the most common is xylitol, a low-calorie sugar substitute often marketed as healthier than cane sugar. While safe for people, xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs—and ingestion can be deadly. This…
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Getting Skunked – More Than Just a Stinky Situation
The smell is undeniable. Your nose wrinkles in disgust. Your eyes water. The putrid stench even leaves a bad taste in your mouth. Imagine actually getting some of that foul fluid on you? Unbearable, right?! Many of our fur babies encounter a docile skunk in the wild, but don’t recognize…
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GERD Golly Miss Molly!
Heartburn is an uncomfortable feeling caused by stomach acid splashing into the esophagus. Also called acid reflux, people often take various over-the-counter medications to alleviate discomfort associated with heartburn. Severe and/or chronic acid reflux is called gastroesophageal reflux disease, and may be associated with more serious conditions. Like humans, dogs…