Articles
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There are many possible explanations as to why dogs eat grass including gastrointestinal upset. However, most grass-eating dogs are not sick beforehand and do not vomit afterwards. Dogs may eat grass if they are bored, lonely, or anxious. Some dogs will eat grass as a reflection of their ancestral heritage and the need to scavenge, or dogs may simply enjoy the texture and taste of grass in their mouths.
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Dogs will always lick, but it is sometimes embarrassing when they lick their private parts. Licking after eliminating is normal; however, if your dog licks more frequently, or you notice other signs such as discharge; swollen or red penis, vulva, or anus; pustules; discoloration of the skin; or if your dog strains to urinate, see your veterinarian for help. Appropriate medical therapy can reduce your dog's discomfort.
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A dog's ability to smell is far more advanced than ours. Dogs use their keen sense of smell, along with a visual assessment, to provide vital information about a new canine acquaintance. The way dogs sniff rear ends can set the foundation of their relationship. Dogs also have a good scent memory that can identify other dogs they have not seen for years.
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Dogs tilt their heads so they can see and hear better when looking straight ahead. Different breeds may act differently based on ear and face shape. Sometimes a head tilt may be a sign of a medical problem, especially if it is persistent or not associated with a given audible cue.
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Dog ancestors turned around before bedtime for their health or protection. These innate habits remain to this day, but if your dog seems to be doing it excessively, it could be a sign of underlying medical problems, such as arthritis or neurological disorders. Contact your veterinarian if your dog appears to have difficulty settling down.
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Xanthine bladder stones are an uncommon type of urinary stone that can occur in both dogs and cats. Xanthine is produced when purines (a component of animal proteins) are broken down within the body. Most dogs can further break down xanthine into other substances that are easily excreted, but some dogs are deficient in an enzyme that is required for this breakdown to occur. These dogs develop elevated levels of xanthine in the urine, resulting in xanthine stones forming within the urinary tract. They can also form secondary to administration of a medication called Allopurinol. Xanthine urinary tract stones are typically removed surgically. Affected dogs require long-term care with specialized diets to prevent recurrence.
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Yunnan Baiyao is a Chinese herbal blend used to control bleeding in many species, including dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and horses. It is recognized as a herbal supplement in the U.S.
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Zinc gluconate (neutralized) topical (brand name Maxi/Guard®Zn7 Derm) is an anti-irritant that may provide relief from the dry skin and itching associated with irritating skin conditions in cats, dogs, and other animals. Zinc gluconate (neutralized) topical comes in gel and liquid spray forms.
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Zinc-responsive dermatosis in dogs is a skin condition that results from zinc deficiency in the body. The deficiency can be due to an inability to adequately absorb zinc from the diet (most commonly seen in arctic breeds), zinc binders in dietary supplements, excess calcium (juvenile large breeds) or less commonly, an inadequate amount of zinc in the diet. Clinical signs include crusts and scaling around the eyes, mouth, scrotum and muco-cutaneous junctions. The haircoat can also, be dry and dull. Lethargy, inappetence, and lymphadenopathy may also occur. Diagnosis includes a history and physical exam and a skin biopsy. Treatment may include zinc supplementation, dietary change and ensuring a dog isn’t receiving any supplements that will interfere with zinc absorption.
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Zonisamide is an off-label, oral, systemic medication used to treat seizures alone or with other anticonvulsants. Side effects include sedation, uncoordinated walking, inappetence, liver disease, urinary stones, and metabolic acidosis. It is contraindicated in patients with liver disease or in pregnant or breeding animals.
