Information about specific dog and cat diseases for which a pet may be referred to a board-certified veterinary specialist
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 (hyperthyroidism) is one of the … [Read more…]
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 determining if a mass is … [Read more…]
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 an attempt to not confuse … [Read more…]
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 – Mycoplasma spp., leptospirosis, pyometra (uterine … [Read more…]
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 I mean by sampling? Sampling … [Read more…]