Pet education

By: Athena Eberle, DVM [printer-friendly version] What is pericardial effusion? Pericardial effusion is an abnormal build-up of fluid within the sac surrounding the heart. There is normally a very small amount of fluid present within this space so when an increased volume accumulates, the heart’s ability to pump effectively is impaired causing secondary effects. Most…

By: Athena Eberle, DVM [printer-friendly version] Lameness, or limping, in cats can be caused by a variety of underlying problems. A cat may start to limp in response to an injury, abnormal anatomy, and/or be related to pain. The lameness may be affecting one leg or multiple legs and can be constant or come and…

By: Ivan Alvarez, DVM [printer-friendly version] What are mast cells?  Mast cells are important immune system cells that help in inflammatory responses of the body. They are activated to fight off parasites and aid in allergic responses, and they do so by releasing inflammatory biochemicals such as histamine.  Mast cells in dogs  In dogs, the…

By: Anna Adams, DVM [printer-friendly version] Delivering puppies at home can be an exciting, captivating, and scary experience! Understanding all of the proper steps before the big day comes can help the process to run much more smoothly for both you and your dog. Furthermore, knowing when to call a veterinarian for assistance can put…

By: Anna Adams, DVM [printer-friendly version] A caesarean section (C-section) is a surgery performed to manually deliver a litter of puppies. C-sections are used to improve the survival rates of both the mother and her puppies. In dogs, C-sections are not routine and are typically performed on an emergency basis. Occasionally, a C-section is scheduled…

By: Carley Gates, DVM [printer-friendly version] Lameness/limping is a change to the normal canine gait. There are several differentials/possibilities as to the cause for the change in gait.  CAUSES: Autoimmune – immune system attacks joints Developmental, Degenerative – congenital abnormalities or arthritis Inflammatory, Infectious – bacterial arthritis or tick-borne diseases Neoplastic – tumor or cancer…

[printer-friendly version] What is Giardia? Giardia is a protozoal parasite that causes diarrhea in pets. It is transmitted through water, soil, or food contaminated with feces (fecal to oral). Your pet’s veterinarian can test for Giardia via fecal analysis. Can people get Giardia? Some strains of giardia are transmissible to humans. Consult your doctor if…