Posts highlighting some non-specific information about veterinary specialty medicine
You’ve probably seen the viral videos. You know the ones. A veterinarian uses forceps to gently pull a wriggling critter from under the skin of a kitten. To a lay person, the sight is both enthralling and grotesque. To a veterinarian, it is wholly gratifying. What did the veterinarian actually remove? A larvae of Cuterebra … [Read more…]
I love cats. Seriously, I’m a cat guy, and I’m not embarrassed to admit it. There can be no doubt they definitely are not small dogs. They have so many unique health issues, including a problem called triaditis. I recently received a message requesting more information about this syndrome. So, this week’s post is all … [Read more…]
With recent devastating wildfires in California, my social media newsfeed has been filled with tragic stories, including those of animals who perished in the flames and smoke. Indeed, smoke inhalation can be deadly to both humans and pets, alike. This week I wanted to shed some light on this topic to increase awareness. Happy reading! … [Read more…]
I’m not a fan of cold weather. So, the rapidly approaching winter months of the Midwest USA does nothing for me. With the colder weather comes the increased use of ethylene glycol, a common type of antifreeze. Pets find ethylene glycol antifreeze to be quite tasty. Unfortunately, it’s exceedingly toxic, able to cause death very … [Read more…]
Can you imagine straining so much during defecation that you prolapse your rectum? Perhaps that’s too personal a question, but for some dogs and cats the possibility is real. This week’s post is dedicated to the medical predicament we call rectal prolapse, and I hope you find the information intriguing. Happy reading! Rectal Prolapse – … [Read more…]
Dogs and cats can develop a variety of airway and lung conditions like chronic bronchitis and asthma. Unfortunately, they can also develop a lesser known but debilitating condition called pulmonary fibrosis. This week I wanted to spend some time discussing this lung condition. I hope you find the information interesting and helpful. Happy reading! Pulmonary … [Read more…]
Growing up and through college, I had long curly Greek blond locks of hair whenever I let my hair grow. Yet as my maternal grandfather had male pattern baldness, I knew I wouldn’t have my hair forever. Indeed, in veterinary school my receding hairline became obvious. Hair loss or alopecia had set in. I had … [Read more…]
If you’re like me, you don’t monitor every elimination your dog or cat makes. You don’t observe every urination. Yet at some point in a pet’s life, they will inevitably develop blood in their urine. This is a condition called hematuria. It’s actually pretty common, so I wanted to dedicate some time explaining this important … [Read more…]
Chronic diarrhea is a common problem for our furry companions. So too are constipation and diabetes mellitus for dogs & cats. All of these medical problems may benefit from increased dietary fiber. Many veterinarians recommend supplementing meals with canned pumpkin as a means of increasing fiber in the diet. Is this effective? Read this post … [Read more…]
Who doesn’t love a relaxing vacation? Fun adventures. Sun & sand. Boat drinks. Making memories with friends and family. But, often times our furry family members have to stay behind while we’re galivanting on holiday. This week I share some important tips for pet parents as they prepare for vacation without their pets. Happy reading! … [Read more…]