Canine Health
Chronic pain due to osteoarthritis is a very common problem in many of our older patients. Hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament ruptures and patella luxations are common genetic and traumatic disorders that lead to joint instability. Over time, cartilage is degraded and pain and inflammation will…
Read More(Food Hypersensitivity, Adverse Food Reaction, Food Intolerance) A pet can develop an allergy to a food ingredient at any time during her/his life. Most commonly the food allergy develops when the pet is young. Even if the pet has been eating the same food for…
Read MoreAllergies, also known as atopy, are very common in dogs. They are due to allergens being absorbed through the skin, ingested and/or inhaled. Common allergens include food proteins, tree and grass pollens, weeds, molds, house dust mites and fleas. It has been estimated that 15…
Read MoreUnderstanding Brachycephalic Syndrome Dogs and cats with short faces are known as brachycephalic breeds. They were bred to possess a normal lower jaw and a compressed upper jaw. This caused significant health issues, including respiratory problems, inability to withstand heat, excitement and exercise, eye disorders…
Read MoreIf your dog has been diagnosed with a heart murmur and/or congestive heart failure, there are several considerations for monitoring and possible therapy to help manage this condition successfully. It is important to realize that a heart murmur is not a disease, it is a symptom…
Read MoreAlthough raising a puppy can be fun, too often the puppy is allowed to become unruly or unwanted behaviors are mistakenly reinforced. The importance of socialization, obedience training and teaching of good manners for puppies cannot be overstated. Early training is a necessity. Socialization Socialization…
Read MoreThe most rapid and successful means of housetraining a puppy is to take advantage of the instinctual desire for cleanliness. Dogs are born with a natural drive to keep their den clean. The den is a place of safety, shelter and a place to sleep. …
Read MoreGeneral Information Fleas bite both dogs and cats and are passed back and forth between these animals. Besides causing severe itching, fleas can transmit parasites such as tapeworms. If one dog or cat in a household has fleas, it should be assumed that all dogs…
Read MoreWith Minnesota’s increasing seasonal warmth and humidity, your dog has an increased risk of exposure to dangerous bacteria such as those that cause Lyme Disease and Leptospirosis. Starting vaccination early in your pet’s life will help keep them and your family safe. Lyme Disease What…
Read MoreAlmost all puppies and kittens have intestinal parasites. They are infected through the placenta, through their mother’s milk or through normal grooming and nursing behavior. As animals age, the environment plays a larger role in infection. Parasites can also be spread through fleas and through…
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