Articles
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This handout discusses the growing trend for designer dog breeds – the crossing of pure dog breeds to create dogs that combine “the best of both worlds.” The pros and cons of this practice are highlighted, along with some of the more common designer breeds currently available.
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Dexmedetomidine is a sedative/tranquilizer used primarily in cats and dogs as a pre-medication injection for anesthesia or for chemical restraint. It is also used orally in dogs for short-term anxiety management. The most common side effect is a low heart rate. Dexmedetomidine should not be used in patients with severe heart liver or kidney disease. It should be used cautiously in young, old, or weak animals. Consult your veterinary office immediately if you suspect a negative reaction or overdose.
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Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) is an autoimmune condition that causes skin sloughing particularly around the nose causing scabbing and erosions that can become infected with bacteria. It can also affect the ear flaps, genitals and rarely spread through the entire body. DLE is diagnosed by submitting skin biopsies of affected areas for histopathological analysis. As well as antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections, treatment involves suppression of the immune system including tacrolimus or steroid ointments/creams applied to the affected area. Some dogs will need tetracycline and niacinamide or stronger anti-inflammatories such as cyclosporine or corticosteroids. These treatments can be weaned once lesions resolve but flare-ups will likely occur, needing rechecks and repeat therapy. Sun exposure must be minimized as UV light can worsen the disease. If untreated, lesions can develop into squamous cell carcinoma.
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Discospondylitis is a bacterial or fungal infection of the intervertebral disks and the adjacent vertebral bones. It primarily affects dogs, though rarely can affect cats. It affects large breed dogs more often and generally starts clinically as back pain. The diagnosis and treatment of this condition are outlined in this handout.
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Just like people, your dog can mourn when there has been a loss in their world, and the symptoms are similar. There are ways that you can help, with some guidance from your veterinarian or a behaviorist if needed.
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The simple answer to a complicated, much researched question is, yes! Dogs do recognize our facial expressions which makes them wonderful family members.
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Behavior problems with your dog may need to be addressed by a trainer, certified animal behaviorist, or boarded veterinary behaviorist. Determining what level of help you need depends on the problem and if medical issues have been ruled out. Behavioral problems can take time and patience is a must.
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What is normal and what is not? The answer is: when the behavior is harmless or just annoying, it is probably normal. When the behavior is destructive, disruptive, or places people or other pets at risk, it is not normal. Addressing the problems early, before they become ingrained, is the best hope for avoiding future problems. Dogs will be dogs, but people are still ultimately responsible for them.
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On your marks, get set, go! Dogs running, jumping, catching balls, making razor sharp turns, and racing to a finish line; that's the canine sport of flyball.
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Dogs love to run. Dogs love to jump. Dogs love to swim. If your dog likes to do all three, why not investigate the relatively-new canine sport of Dock Diving?
