Lungs are a vital organ essential for delivering oxygen to the lungs and expelling carbon dioxide from the body. In various disease states, the lungs become damaged, and fluid can inappropriately swamp them with fluid. This fluid accumulation in the lungs is called is called pulmonary edema and can dramatically impede oxygenation and ventilation. In … [Read more…]
Pediatric patients – humans, dogs, and cats, alike – can get into things they shouldn’t when left unattended and to their own devices. Cupboards full of potential toxins. Drawers full of sharp objects. One potential household hazard for our pets is electrical cords. Puppies and kittens love to chew on things, including cords plugged into … [Read more…]
The heart is unquestionably a vital organ. Unfortunately, sometimes it doesn’t develop properly in utero, and these congenital defects can range from minor and inconsequential to life threatening. This week I share information about a relatively common congenital heart defect called subaortic stenosis. Please consider sharing it with other pet parents. Happy reading! Subaortic Stenosis … [Read more…]
Lameness is a common problem in dogs. Muscle injuries like an iliopsoas muscle strain and ligamentous injuries like a cranial cruciate ligament rupture are frequently diagnosed in dogs. Every once and a while, a lameness is more serious than a strain or ligament problem. Sometimes it’s cancer, specifically a cancer in the bone called osteosarcoma. It’s … [Read more…]
Everybody knows the most famous rodent in the world – Mickey Mouse. We all also know Bambi’s beloved woodland buddy – Thumper. But did you know Mickey and Thumper could pose a risk to everybody’s lasagna-loving cat, Garfield? That’s right! Rodents and rabbits can transmit a potentially fatal disease called tularemia to our feline friends. … [Read more…]
When people hear the word infection, the majority think only about bacteria. Unfortunately, there are many different types of infectious organisms, including protozoal, parasites, and fungi. This week I’m sharing some information about a relatively common fungal infection called histoplasmosis. This organism can wreak havoc if not identified and treated promptly so I hope this … [Read more…]
A common clinical scenario I encounter is a pet referred to me for evaluation of enlarged lymph nodes. Parents may incidentally discover the swellings while petting or playing with their pet. At other times family veterinarians find the enlargements during an annual preventative healthcare examination. Given the commonality of this medical problem, I wanted to … [Read more…]
Veterinarians order radiographs (often called X-rays) for their patients on a daily basis. These special pictures of bones, joints, and internal organs help us figure out what may be causing our patients to be sick. Some of these ill and injured pets are ultimately referred to board-certified veterinary specialists for further evaluation and care. Occasionally … [Read more…]