Diseases

  • Mammary Tumors in Dogs – Don’t Ignore a Lump!

    Each October in the United States, various organizations strive to raise awareness of and funds for finding a cure for breast cancer in humans. Breast cancer, also called mammary cancer,  in dogs has both similarities and differences to the human condition. To end the month of October, I review the…

  • Urinary Bladder Cancer in Dogs

    The urinary tract of dogs is comprised of two kidneys, two ureters (tubes that connect the kidneys to the urinary bladder), the urinary bladder, prostate gland (male dogs only), and the urethra (tube that connects the urinary bladder to the outside world). The urinary bladder is the most common site…

  • Hypercalcemia (High Calcium Levels) in Dogs

    A common reason for which dogs are referred to me for further evaluation is an elevated blood calcium level (called hypercalcemia). Sometimes affected patients are incredibly sick while others have no outward clinical signs of illness. An accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause of a dog’s hypercalcemia is truly important.…

  • Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs and Cats

    Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are relatively common in companion animals. Given the frequency of UTI diagnosis, the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Disease (ISCAID) developed guidelines for the diagnosis and management of urinary tract infection. One should not confuse guidelines with “standards of care”, as the former are simply…

  • Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome – A Vexing Airway Problem

    With the warmer and more humid weather of the summer months comes an increased incidence of heat related events like heat stroke. Patients with shorter snouts/muzzles often have more difficulty acclimating to this type of environment due to the conformation of their airway. This week I discuss the implications of…

  • Otitis Externa – A Common Ear Problem in Dogs

    One of the most common ear problems in dogs is inflammation and/or infection of the outer ear; this is called otitis externa. This week I discuss some key features of this ailment with a sincere hope you will find the information helpful and share worthy. Happy reading! Otitis Externa – What…

  • Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs – A Common Voice Box Problem

    Last week you learned from Dr. Odunayo some wonderfully helpful tips to keep your pets safe in the summer months. You may remember her comments about taking steps to help animals, particularly dogs, acclimatize effectively to warmer weather. Some dogs have more trouble than others adjusting to increased heat and humidity because…

  • Chronic Kidney Disease in Dogs & Cats

    For the past several weeks, I’ve had a survey on Because Pets Can Have Specialists Too asking about what you want to know more. Well you requested and I’ve responded! You wanted to know more about kidney diseases in dogs and cats so this week I’m giving you a post about…

  • Heart Murmur – Should You Be Worried About Your Pet?

    For many families the mere mention of a murmur or heart disease instills fear, a sincere concern about an illness that could negatively affect their fur baby’s quality of life. In an effort to provide useful information, I’m pleased to welcome another guest blogger, Dr. Kacie Schmitt, a board-certified veterinary cardiologist who…