A basal cell tumor is a slow-growing skin tumor found in the structures of the skin such as hair follicles and their subaceous and sweat glands. Basal cell tumors are more common in older cats and long-haired cats. They are less common in dogs where they are usually found on the head and neck. Basal […]
Dog Health
Keeping our dogs healthy and happy is our primary concern in pet care. This section covers a broad spectrum of dog health issues, including nutrition, disease, handicaps and routine medical care.
Caring for Your Pet’s Paws
Your cat’s and dog’s paws should be checked regularly, daily if they spend lots of time outdoors. If your pet limps, that’s a sure sign that something is wrong. Burrs or other foreign bodies can get stuck between toes. Sometimes they are so deeply embedded they are hard to see. These can be gently removed […]
Zinc Toxicity in Pets
Zinc is an important mineral for both humans and animals to maintain good health. But zinc is necessary only in very small amounts. Ingestion of excessive amounts of zinc can lead to poisoning. Zinc becomes toxic when released by stomach acids. It is then absorbed and travels to other parts of the body such as […]
Detecting Early Heart Disease
The risk of heart disease in pets generally rises with age. However there can be genetics involved. Heart disease is often referred to as a “silent killer” as diagnosis may be made too late to save the pet. The most common heart diseases seen in pets are: Mitral Valve Disease – a leaky valve allowing […]
When euthanasia goes wrong
My 180 pound Alaskan Malamute was taken to Three Trails Animal Hospital on December 10, 2012, where Dr. Rhodes’ opinion was that Grizz had lymphoma. I left with a prescription for prednisone, and no hope. In the early morning hours of December 21, Grizz could no longer walk, so in a few hours myself, roommate, […]
Blowfish and Pufferfish Toxicity
Blowfish and Pufferfish carry a deadly toxin. Called Tetrodotoxin, it is an extremely potent poison and is stored in the skin and internal organs of the fish. Affecting the nervous system, Tetrodotoxin continues to be poisonous when the fish is dead. Even eating a small amount of these fish can be deadly. While Blowfish and […]
First Aid Kits for Cats and Dogs
An essential piece of equipment is a First Aid Kit for your cat and dog in case of emergencies. When you can’t get to the vet immediately, having a first Aid Kit and knowing what to do will help deal with problems. Most of these items are in our first aid kits too. rounded end […]
Greens for Your Dog
While cats are obligate carnivores and can do without a bunch of green stuff in their diet, what about dogs. Actually dogs can do with a little greening in their meals. Lets look at the reasons. Plants contain a substance called chlorophyl that allows them to absorb energy from sunlight. Except for one atom, chlorophyl […]