Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is one of the most important acquired bleeding disorders seen in small-animal medicine. Dogs are affected far more commonly than cats, and patients often present with dramatic clinical signs—petechiae, bruising, nosebleeds, gastrointestinal bleeding, or lethargy due to anemia from blood loss. Fortunately, ITP is highly treatable, and…
It should come as no surprise to anybody who follows this blog that I love hematology and immunology! In previous posts I’ve written about various immune-mediated problems, including immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, and immune-mediated polyarthropathy. This week I’m sharing information about another immune-mediated condition: immune-mediated neutropenia or IMN. I…
Pediatric medicine is both fulfilling and challenging. Who doesn’t like caring for puppies and kittens? Unfortunately, these little ones can have some unique health problems including cleft palate. This week I discuss this condition to raise awareness, and I hope you find the information helpful. Happy reading! Cleft Palate –…
Winter is rapidly approaching – at least here in North America. With the advent of this season comes bone-chilling temperatures in many regions. Dogs and cats – just like humans – are at risk for developing subnormal body temperatures, a condition known as hypothermia. This week I’ve dedicated some blog…
Those who consistently read my blog know I love blood. That’s sounds weird, doesn’t it? Yet, it’s true. Blood is awesome – platelets, clotting factors, white blood cells, and of course, red blood cells! This week I’m dedicating space to share info about erythrocytosis or too many circulating red blood…
An old English proverb states “the eyes are the window of the soul.” I’m quite certain there isn’t anything more soulful than the eyes of a beloved dog or cat. Yet sometimes those beautiful orbs of sight are injured or become diseased. A common eye disorder is glaucoma, and this week I…
Pets, like people, can be afflicted with cancer in the lungs. Early identification is key to maximize the likelihood of a positive outcome. In an effort to increase awareness of lung tumors in our fur babies, this week I dedicate some time to explain lung cancers in dogs and cats.…