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 –…
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Urethral Obstruction in Male Cats: A Life-Threatening Emergency
Urethral obstruction is one of the most common and dangerous emergencies affecting male cats. This condition occurs when a blockage prevents urine from leaving the bladder. As a result, pressure builds rapidly within the urinary tract and kidneys. Without prompt treatment, urethral obstruction can lead to severe electrolyte abnormalities, kidney…
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Rescue Inhaler Intoxication – Don’t Let Your Pet Inhale!
I’ve just returned from a week in Cartagena, Colombia where I had the privilege of presenting several lectures at the 41st World Small Animal Veterinary Association Congress. As I was hurriedly maneuvering through the airport, I saw a young woman use an inhaler after she had clearly run to her…
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Chronic Inflammatory Enteropathy in Dogs
Often Called Inflammatory Bowel Disease, but Not Quite the Same Thing Chronic gastrointestinal disease is one of the most common and challenging problems encountered in canine medicine. Dogs with persistent diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, or poor appetite often experience a diminished quality of life, and their caregivers understandably want clear…
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Chocolate Toxicity in Dogs: What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know
Everybody loves chocolate, right? Many of us can’t resist a juicy strawberry dipped in dark chocolate. Unfortunately, our dogs often feel the same way, and that craving can turn deadly. Chocolate toxicity in dogs is one of the most common veterinary emergencies, and understanding the risks can save your pet’s…
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Leptospirosis in Dogs – A Bugger of a Bacterial Infection
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…
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Acute Pancreatitis in Dogs: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How It Is Treated
What Is Acute Pancreatitis? The pancreas is a boomerang-shaped organ within the abdominal cavity. It performs several essential functions. Most importantly, it produces digestive enzymes that allow dogs to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Acute pancreatitis develops when the pancreas becomes suddenly inflamed. Normally, digestive enzymes activate in the…
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Vomiting Cats
This is a statement I hear from pet parents almost on a daily basis. When I ask them where they heard such a concept, the response is usually, “that’s what my vet said.” Furthermore their family veterinarians have usually simply treated the vast majority of these cats symptomatically with diets…