One of my tasks as a board-certified veterinary internal medicine specialist is interpreting a wide variety of diagnostic tests. One of the most common laboratory abnormalities for which patients are referred to me is elevation of an enzyme called alkaline phosphatase, often abbreviated as SAP, SALP, and ALP. There are numerous potential reasons for the … [Read more…]
In recent weeks, the emergency team with whom I work has treated several patients for an uncommon toxicity: zinc and aluminum phosphide. So, this week – in the interest of increasing awareness – I’ve written a post about it. I hope you’ll share it with other pet owners to help me reach as many of … [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…]
As a new home owner, I’m in the process of landscaping my property. Suffice it to say, I want a lot of greenery – plants and shrubs, galore! Yet one type of plant I plan to avoid like the plague is the sago palms. Why? They are intensely toxic to dogs. This week, I’ve dedicated … [Read more…]
I love mice and rats. I think they make great first pets for children. I also know not everybody shares my adoration for these rodents. Indeed, many go out of the way to expunge them from their homes, employing various traps and poisons. One common type of rodenticide contains a toxic chemical called bromethalin. When … [Read more…]
One of the most common drug toxicities in companion animal medicine is accidental ingestion of over-the-counter non-steroid anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications. One way or another, pills spill onto the floor or pets knock bottles to the ground. Unfortunately, these medications are quite toxic, and ingestion can be lethal without prompt intervention. So, this week I’ve dedicated … [Read more…]
Every pet parent dreads “The Big C” for their fur babies. Cancer strikes fear in the hearts and minds of pet-owning families. As a board-certified critical care specialist, one of the most common cancers I diagnose and treat is called hemangiosarcoma. I wanted to dedicate some time explaining this cancer, as some encouraging news about … [Read more…]
The liver is a unique organ with several important functions in the body. For various reasons, the liver can become inflamed, resulting in a clinical syndrome called canine chronic hepatitis. This week, I discuss this important disease entity including details about diagnosis and treatment. Happy reading! Canine Chronic Hepatitis – What is it? The liver … [Read more…]
Attentive pet parents perpetually look over the pets for signs of problems. Does their pet have any new lumps and bumps? Does their fur baby resent being petted at a certain location? Are the gums pink and moist? Occasionally families note a yellowing of a pet’s skin, their gums, and/or their sclera (“whites of the … [Read more…]
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 will share it with other … [Read more…]