Dogs

Introduction Rabies is a zoonotic (spread from animals to people) viral disease of warm blooded animals (you won't see Rabies in birds and reptiles) that occurs world wide, with significant human health significance due to its fatal nature. Various outbreaks have occurred in the United States in the last decade. Adequate vaccination of dogs and cats is the primary line of defense in preventing outbreaks. The main animals that infect humans are dogs, cats, cattle and horses, because they are exposed to these animals much more than wildlife. In addition to bite wounds, the virus can rarely be transmitted through

Introduction A common problem in dogs is ear mites, especially in young dogs. These mites can cause significant discomfort, fortunately most dogs rapidly respond to treatment. Those that do not should be investigated for underlying problems. What are Ear Mites in Dogs? Ear mites are microscopic ectoparasites that live in the ear canals and skin of cats. They are prevalent in kittens and outdoor cats, and are highly contagious. They are highly irritating in a sensitive part of your cat's ears. It is possible for your dog to get them from your cat. Causes of Ear Mites in Dogs Ear

Introduction Hip dysplasia is a congenital disease of the hip sockets. What is Canine Hip Dysplasia? Hip dysplasia is a laxity in the socked of the hip joint where the head of the femur fits into the pelvis. It causes weakness and lameness to the rear quarters, and eventually leads to painful arthritis. This arthritis goes by several names; degenerative joint disease, arthrosis, osteoarthritis. Cause of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs This is a congenital  disease, so it is inherited. Several breeds get it more commonly than others: Himalayans Persians Maine Coons Obesity is a major external factor in predisposing a

Introduction A shunt can occur where the blood flowing to and through the liver has a problem. There are several variations on this problem blood flow. In this page we will be correcting the blood flowing from a blood vessel that is directing the blood away from the liver and not into the liver like it should. This is called a liver shunt, also known as a porto systemic shunt (PSS). This page shows a surgery to correct an extra-hepatic PSS (porto systemic shunt) in a cat using an ameroid ring. More than one year after surgery this cat is doing

Introduction Demodectic mange (Demodecosis) is caused by an external parasite that is also present in low numbers on healthy animals and pets, including people. Whether or not a pet shows symptoms of this disease depends primarily on their immune status. We tend to see this disease much more often in dogs than in cats, especially in puppies, although any immunocompromised dog is susceptible. What is Demodectic Mange? This is a disease that is caused by a microscopic mite. It resides in the skin and hair follicles of many animals as a regular part of flora. It is when there is