Posts highlighting some non-specific information about veterinary specialty medicine
Nobody likes cancer. Unfortunately, it’s a fact of life even for our furry companions. Previously, we’ve discussed lymphoma in both cats and dogs, mast cell tumors, and even anal gland tumors. This week I’m sharing information about another cancer that can affect our pets: thymoma. So, I hope you find the post interesting and share-worthy. … [Read more…]
I’ve previously written about a common kidney disease that affects our middle aged and older feline friends called chronic kidney disease. This week I wanted to share information about another kidney disorder that also can affect the same population. It is called polycystic kidney disease or PKD. I hope you find the post helpful and … [Read more…]
Proper nutrition is just as important for our pets as it is for us. Unfortunately, when our cats and dogs become ill, their appetites often decrease or disappear altogether. Despite this worsening of appetite, the need for adequate nutrition doesn’t decrease. Indeed, it often increases! The use of temporary supplement feeding tubes is a minimally … [Read more…]
A couple of weeks ago I shared a post about eosinophilic pneumonia. Some of you asked me to write about this week’s topics – feline eosinophilic granuloma complex. Ask and ye shall receive! It’s time to spread some more eosinophil love by discussing an important skin condition that affects our feline friends. Happy reading! What … [Read more…]
This week a colleague asked me if I had a favorite biochemical abnormality. I’d never been asked that before, nor had I ever really thought about it. Most who know me as a clinician know I geek out over changes on a complete blood count, the non-invasive blood test that yields important information about red … [Read more…]
Coughing is one of the most common reasons pet owners bring their pets to veterinarians for evaluation. In previous posts, I’ve shared information about some well-recognized causes of coughing, including asthma in cats and “kennel cough” in dogs This week I have information for you about an under-recognized, yet important, cause of coughing: eosinophilic pneumonia. … [Read more…]
Every pet owner will need to give their pets medications by mouth at some point in their lives. As a veterinarian, I realize making recommendations to give oral drugs is a lot easier said than done. Not every family can easily “pill” their cats and dogs. This week I’m sharing some of my favorite foods … [Read more…]
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is the term used to characterize a group of chronic intestinal diseases. It’s common in both cats and dogs and is thought to be related to a variety of triggers: Reactions to food antigens – an antigen is a foreign substance that triggers an immune response. Commonly implicated antigens are protein … [Read more…]
Unquestionably our lives have temporarily changed due to the COVID19 pandemic. Most states have stay-at-home and shelter-in-place orders in effects. We’re spending more time at home with our two-legged and four-legged family members. Essential businesses are allowed to operate, but we’re practicing social distancing when patronizing these establishments. As I discussed last week, veterinary team … [Read more…]
In the past week, several pet owners have asked me how they can help veterinarians during these unprecedented times of the COVID-19 pandemic. I found myself at a loss for words. To be honest, I was humbled to even be asked such a compassionate question. After all, I’m not fighting on the proverbial frontline of … [Read more…]