Osteochondrodysplasia is the term for a number of disorders where there is malformation and growth of cartilage and bone. Osteo means bone, chondro is cartilage and dysplasia is abnormal development. It is a hereditary disorder resulting in abnormal skeletal development. Deformities that occur often result in shortened limbs. In severe cases, surgery is often necessary […]
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Osteochondritis Dissecans
Osteochondritis Dissecans usually affects large breed dogs between the ages of 5-8 months and may be due to rapid growth. It can affect any joint but the most common is the shoulder. An area of shoulder cartilage thickens and breaks off, falling into the joint. A loose lump is formed called a “joint mouse” which […]
Cats and Upper Respiratory Infections
Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs) are more common complaints for cats in shelters or those that live or allowed outdoors. Cats are affected by URIs more than dogs because of their flatter faces (difficulty breathing), especially breeds like Persians. Kittens, because of their immature immune systems, are most at risk. There are 2 viruses that are […]
Sporotrichosis in Cats
The fungus, Sporothrix schenckii is found in soil, plants and spagnum moss. It is an infection as it is transferable from pets to humans. Sporotrichosis can infect the skin, respiratory system, bones and even the brain. Cats usually have skin lesions which make it easier to transmit the infection to other animals and humans. Symptoms […]
Histoplasmosis
Cats, dogs and humans can be infected with Histoplasmosis, a fungal disease. The fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum, is found in soil mainly in humid areas particularly near bodies of water. Outdoor cats and dogs are more prone to histoplasmosis, especially hunting dogs who travel over all sorts of terrain. While infection can occur at any age, […]
ALERT-Western Feed Recall
The FDA reports the following recall of Western Feed for Horses: Western Feed, LLC is voluntarily recalling two lots (M718430 and M720280) of Kountry Buffet 14% feed because it may contain monensin sodium (Rumensin). The feed is packaged in 50 lb. bags bearing the Payback logo with the attached tag identifying the product as Kountry […]
The 10 Canine Commandments
The 10 Canine Commandments was originally by The Dog Listener. We’ve changed one word – instead of “buy”, we’ve used “adopt.” 1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. ANY SEPARATION FROM YOU WILL BE PAINFUL TO ME. Remember that before you adopt me. 2. GIVE ME TIME TO UNDERSTAND what you […]
Bonding with Your Chinchilla
Chinchillas are social animals and in the wild they live together in what is called herds. As prey animals, they are very cautious and can be shy and frightened when faced with new situations. When bringing your chinchilla home, give him/her time to get used to the new surroundings. As they are so easily startled, […]
Signs of Heart Disease in Dogs and Cats
Just as in humans, the heart of a pet is muscle consisting of four chambers. Valves separate the chambers preventing blood from flowing back. Blood is sent to the lungs where it receives more oxygen and then travels throughout the body. If dogs develop heart disease, it is usually in the valves, occasionally in the […]
Horse Breeding
The Bedouin of the Middle East are the earliest known horse breeders. They created the Arabian Horse, which was a fast breed. The Akhal-Teke of West-Central Asia was bred for war and racing in ancient times. Medieval Europeons bred large horses specifically for war, called destriers. These large horses provided more power for the knight’s […]