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Hypoparathyroidism in Pets

The parathyroid glands are positioned on the thyroid glands. (Para is from the Greek meaning alongside). Both parathyroid glands are located at the front of a pet’s neck near the trachea just below the skin. The parathyroid glands secrete a hormone that regulates calcium and phosphorus levels in the body. They adjust the amounts entering […]

Dog Diseases

Parvovirus

Parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious disease. There are a number of different strains and it is a common infection in the United States. It affects the intestinal tract of the dog. Parvovirus is spread through contact with feces of an infected animal and can survive on many items in the home including dog dishes, […]

Dog Diseases

Diskospondylitis

Diskospndylitis (discospondylitis, vertebral osteomyelitis), not to be confused with diskospondylosis which is a degeneration of the spinal column from any cause, is usually seen in middle-aged and older dogs and is the most common cause of back pain. While diskospondylitis (DS) is usually seen in large and giant male dogs, especially German Shepherd Dogs and […]

Dog Diseases

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in Dogs

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is caused by a mutation in the distrophin gene which is located in the x chromosome. Distrophin is an essential part of muscle tissue. Deficiency or loss of the gene results in muscle wasting and eventually, death. After years of research, a study was conducted using a miniature version of this […]

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Encephalitis in Pets

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain or spinal cord (myelitis) due to viral or bacterial infection, skull fracture, wounds, parasites or fungi. It may be idiopathic (unknown)and can be immune-mediated where the immune system attacks the brain or spinal cord. Symptoms depend on the area of the brain affected and can appear suddenly and […]

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Osteogenesis Imperfecta in Pets

Osteogenesis Imperfecta, also known as Brittle Bone Disease, is a genetic disorder in which bones and teeth are very fragile. It is caused by a mutation of one of two genes for collagen, an abundant body protein which is the major component of skin, bones, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. Collagen is one of the main […]

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Controlling Obesity in Cats and Dogs

Obesity in cats and dogs is becoming a major problem and a cause for concern. Surveys have shown that over 40% of America’s pets are overweight. We tend to show affection by lavishing our loved ones with food not considering the damage that can be done. But overfeeding our pets to the point of obesity […]

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Zika Virus and Your Pets

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus. It’s in the family of other viruses carried by mosquitoes such as West Nile virus, malaria, yellow fever, dengue fever and more. The Zika virus was first discovered in Uganda in 1947. It was found in a Rhesis monkey whose habitat was the Zika (overgrown) Forest. Little research […]

Dog Diseases

Eyelash Disorders in Dogs

Trichiasis, Distichasis and Ectopic Cilia are eyelash disorders that can occur in dogs. They may occur at any age or in any breed, but some breeds are more prone to the disorders. Trichiasis , also known as entropion, is when the eyelash grows inward towards the eyeball or cornea. Symptoms are abnormal eye twitchews, change […]

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Colitis in Pets

Colitis is the term for inflammation of the large intestine (colon). Inflammation decreases water absorption so feces don’t remain in the colon causing frequent bouts of diarrhea sometimes with mucous and/or blood. Colitis has several causes, among them stress, infections, other illnesses, contaminated food, parasites, trauma, IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), contact with infected pets. Symptoms […]