Heartworm Disease
Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis) are blood parasites that are transmitted by mosquitoes in much the same way malaria is spread in people. The adult worms can be 10 to 14 …
General Pet Articles
Food Allergies
Food allergies often cause skin disorders in dogs and cats. They can be complicated by inhalant allergies (atopy) that cause similar symptoms. In cats, food allergies may be an …
Femoral Head Ostectomy
There are many injuries, diseases, and deformities that can affect the hip joints in dogs and cats. Pain and reduced mobility are likely symptoms regardless of whether the problem …
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
The pancreas is a relatively small, yet vital organ that lies along the base of the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine called the duodenum. It …
Endoscopic Procedures
An endoscope is a tube of lenses that carries an image from inside the animal’s body to the doctor’s eye or a television monitor. Endoscopy allows a veterinarian to …
Dry Eye (KCS)
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) is commonly called dry eye. Certain breeds are more susceptible to KCS because of the anatomy of their eyes. Dogs and cats with short noses and …
Diagnostic Tests – Quick Reference
This is a quick explanation of abbreviations and terminology used for common diagnostic tests ordered by the veterinarian. It does not attempt to describe every scenario in which the …
Diabetes Mellitus Part Iv – Giving Insulin And At-home Monitoring
Many diabetic pets will be prescribed insulin injections that you will give at home once or twice daily. It is very important that you are comfortable and confident with …
Diabetes Mellitus Part II – What Causes Diabetes?
In the previous article, we briefly described the role that insulin plays in delivering glucose to the cells of the body. Diabetes is characterized by the cells’ inability to …
Diabetes Mellitus Part I – The Disease and Its Effects
Diabetes Mellitus is a fairly common illness found in dogs and cats. Just like in humans, this disease is devastating to the body when left undiagnosed and untreated. Symptoms …