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Canine Care Guides

Acetaminophen Toxicity

Acetaminophen can be toxic to dogs and cats, but cats are 7 to 10 times more susceptible to acetaminophen toxicity than dogs are. Once swallowed, acetaminophen reaches the blood ...

Administering Injectable Medication To Your Dog

Most injectable medications given at home are administered by injection directly under the skin (known as subcutaneous injection). Do not risk being bitten or otherwise injured t...

Administering Medications to Your Dog

Before you leave your veterinarian’s office with a new medication, be sure to address any concerns or questions with your veterinary team. It is very important to follow all labe...

Administering Subcutaneous Fluids to Your Dog

The procedure of injecting a sterile fluid solution directly under the skin is referred to as subcutaneous fluid administration. The advantages of the subcutaneous fluid route in...

Adopting Instead of Buying a Pet

While estimates vary, approximately three to four million dogs and cats are euthanized (“put to sleep”) each year in the United States because too few people spay or neuter the pets they ha...

Aggression in Dogs

If your dog has become aggressive, consult your veterinarian to rule out a medical cause. Understanding the various types of aggression in dogs can help you determine why your do...

Agility Training for Dogs

Dog agility training is a great form of exercise for dogs and handlers, can harness a dog’s energy and boost his or her confidence, and can help improve the human–animal bond. Al...

Allergy Testing

Allergy testing is most commonly performed to determine if a pet has atopy, also known as atopic dermatitis or allergic inhalant dermatitis. Allergy tests can help identify the s...

Alopecia

Alopecia (hair loss) can occur when hair fails to grow at a normal rate or when hair is lost more quickly than it can grow back. Alopecia can result from a variety of medical conditions...

Anal Sac Disease

All dogs and cats have two anal glands located beside their anus. These glands are often called anal sacs. Most animals express their anal sacs when they defecate. Some animals expe...

Antibiotic Therapy for Ear Infections

Any pet can develop an ear infection; underlying allergies or other illnesses are often the cause. Bacterial infection generally occurs secondary to the inflammation and unhealthy envir...

Antifreeze Toxicosis

Antifreeze poisoning occurs when pets drink antifreeze containing ethylene glycol. The liver quickly breaks down ethylene glycol into toxic products that can lead to kidney failure and ...

Aspirin Toxicosis

High doses of aspirin can be poisonous (toxic) to dogs and cats; cats are more susceptible to aspirin toxicosis than dogs are. Toxic effects can occur within hours of the pet swallowing...

Avoiding Injury: Tips for Interpreting Signs of Aggression in Dogs

Occasionally dogs will become fractious during handling; however, steps can be taken to minimize this potential problem. Minimizing dogs’ exposure to sudden changes in the enviro...

Barking

Before attempting to resolve your dog’s barking problem, have your veterinarian examine your dog to rule out medical causes. Determine why your dog is barking before attempting t...

Bathing Your Dog

Regular bathing can help keep your dog’s skin and haircoat healthy. Medicated shampoo may be prescribed by your veterinarian. Try to make bathing a pleasant experience for yo...

Bee Stings in Dogs

Just like in people, a bee sting can be serious; dogs are more likely to be stung because of their natural curiosity and playful nature. If a dog is stung by a bee or shows signs of a b...

Bladder Stones and Kidney Stones

Urinary stones are made of minerals and can form anywhere in the urinary tract of dogs and cats. These stones can irritate the bladder lining and obstruct urine flow from the kidney to ...

Bordetella bronchiseptica

Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium associated with a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs. It is one of the leading bacterial causes of “kennel cough” in dogs. ...

Breast Cancer in Dogs and Cats

Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal mammary gland (breast) cells. Tumors occur most frequently in older, female pets that have not been spayed. Most (80% to 90%) ma...

Breeding Your Dog

There are currently more dogs in the United States than there are homes for them. As a result, millions of dogs are surrendered to shelters and euthanized each year. Breeding should onl...

Bringing a New Kitten Home

Your kitten must receive veterinary care before being introduced to other cats. Your kitten must be vaccinated against various diseases on a schedule, beginning at 2 to 3 months ...

Brushing Your Dog's Teeth

Periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and affects most dogs before they are 3 years old. Bacteria from periodontal disease can spread to affect other organs and cause illness. ...

Canine Adenovirus Type 2

Canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) causes respiratory disease and is one of the infectious agents commonly associated with “kennel cough” in dogs. Dogs with CAV-2 typically exhibit a dry,...

Canine Anesthesia

Anesthesia is useful for many things, including performing surgery or biopsy procedures, taking x-rays, and performing dental procedures. Your veterinarian may select local anest...

Canine Arthritis

Osteoarthritis affects one of every five dogs. Thinning of joint cartilage can lead to a vicious cycle of joint deterioration, reduced mobility, and pain. Supportive care is ...

Canine Bladder Infections

A bladder infection occurs when microbes (usually bacteria) get into the bladder and proliferate. Bladder infections are more common in females than in males; however, any dog can have ...

Canine Chronic Otitis

Canine chronic otitis involves inflammation and possibly infection in one or both ears. If left untreated, scar tissue will form and further damage to structures of the ear may result in de...

Canine Clothing

Outerwear can help short-haired dogs stay comfortable longer in the cold. Don’t force your dog to wear something if he or she protests. If your dog seems to be reacting poorly to co...

Canine Coronavirus Infection

Canine coronavirus infection is a highly contagious disease. In dogs, the virus typically attacks the intestinal tract; clinical signs include diarrhea and vomiting. The disease is ...

Canine Diabetes Mellitus

Most diabetic dogs have diabetes mellitus type 1, meaning the body fails to make enough insulin to serve its needs. After treatment for diabetes begins, periodic blood and urine tests m...

Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a serious, contagious disease with a death rate that can reach 50%. Canine distemper attacks the respiratory, stomach/intestinal, and brain/nervous systems of dogs. ...

Canine Heartworm Testing

Heartworm testing is performed to determine if a pet is infected with heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis). Many veterinarians use a popular test called a “SNAP” test, which can be run in j...

Canine Hip Dysplasia

Canine hip dysplasia is a painful disease that can lead to debilitating arthritis. It affects the “ball and socket” joint of the hip. Canine hip dysplasia is a hereditary problem th...

Canine Influenza

Virtually all dogs exposed to canine influenza virus (CIV) become infected. As with human influenza, frequent hand washing and disinfection may help prevent the spread of CIV. If yo...

Canine Nutrition

A proper diet is necessary to ensure the health and longevity of your dog. Dogs are omnivores, meaning that they can eat meat and plants as their primary food sources. Look f...

Canine Obesity

Obesity (the storage of excess fat) is usually caused by excessive food intake and insufficient exercise. According to estimates, 40% to 50% of dogs are overweight and 25% of dogs are obese...

Canine Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, an organ in the abdomen that helps the body digest food. Acute pancreatitis can occur after a dog eats fatty food such as pork, beef, an...

Canine Parvovirus

Canine parvovirusis a highly contagious, serious disease with a mortality (death) rate of over 90% in untreated dogs. Canine parvovirus attacks the gastrointestinal tract and immune sys...

Canine Senior Wellness

As dogs grow older, their bodies become less able to cope with physical or environmental stress. Dogs are very good at hiding signs of illness, so health problems may seem to app...

Canine Urine Marking

Urine marking is a natural, instinctive behavior in dogs, but it becomes inappropriate when dogs urinate in the house to identify their territory. Urine marking is most common wi...

Canine Vaccine Recommendations

Vaccines are an important weapon against infectious diseases. Over the years, the widespread use of vaccines has saved the lives of millions of dogs. Vaccines are safe and ge...

Caring for Orphaned Puppies

Orphaned puppies should be taken to a veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian can give you advice on caring for puppies and might be able to provide you with contact information ...

Caring for Your New Puppy

Puppies should be fed a name-brand puppy food with the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) statement on the bag or label. Puppy food should be fed until adulth...

Cherry Eye (prolapsed nictitans gland)

Cherry eye is a condition in which the tear-producing gland of the eye appears as a red, round mass on the inside corner of the pet’s eye. The condition usually occurs in young dogs and...

Chocolate Toxicosis

Toxicosis is disease due to poisoning. Chocolate toxicosis is a common problem in dogs, but less common in cats. Depending on how much chocolate is ingested, the signs can ra...

Chronic Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a very general term used to describe several conditions that can affect the kidneys or damage kidney cells. Some types of kidney disease are reversible. Chronic kidney diseas...

Chronic Otitis

Chronic ear infections may involve bacterial or yeast overgrowth in the external, middle, or inner ear. Chronic infection can permanently damage the ear canal and cause pain, neurologic...

Coccidiosis

Coccidiosis is an intestinal condition caused by a single-celled parasite. Dogs and cats swallow cysts containing the parasite from contaminated environments, usually during grooming. ...

Cognitive Dysfunction

Cognitive dysfunction (CD) in dogs and cats can be compared with Alzheimer’s disease in humans, although the conditions are not identical. Before diagnosing CD, your veterinarian may re...

Colitis

Colitis is a condition in which the colon, the last portion of the digestive tract, is inflamed. Dogs and cats may experience colitis for a few days or for many months. Signs of col...

Common Household Poisons

Many common food items or household products can sicken or even kill animals. Be aware of what substances may be toxic to your pet, and store and use them safely. I...

Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs

Congestive heart failure is a condition in which a dog’s heart cannot deliver sufficient blood to the body. Dilated cardiomyopathy (a weakening of the heart walls) is one of the m...

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva (the tissues lining the inner eyelids and the white portion of the eye). Diagnosis is based on physical examination findings, but fluor...

Coping With Cancer

Cancer is extremely common in pets. Cancer can be successfully managed in many cases. Most pets tolerate treatment extremely well. An accurate diagnosis and proper staging of a ...

Coping With the Loss of a Pet

Grief is a natural reaction to the loss of a pet. Everyone grieves differently. Pet-loss support resources exist and may be helpful for you. The Five Stages of Grief Grief is a...

Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture

Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture is one of the most common orthopedic problems in dogs. The CCL in dogs corresponds to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in humans. An inju...

Crate Training Your Puppy

Crate training is a method of housebreaking puppies in which a crate (an indoor kennel) is used. The crate must be large enough to allow the puppy to lie down and turn around wit...

Dental Care

Without routine dental care, most dogs and cats develop periodontal (dental) disease by 3 years of age. Periodontal disease is the most common health problem in dogs and cats. ...

Dental Cleaning

85% of all pets have periodontal disease by the time they are 3 years of age. Dental disease can result in bad breath, painful chewing, and tooth loss. Bacteria under the gum...

Dental Exam

A dental exam is performed by your veterinarian to determine the overall dental health of your pet. A dental exam can help identify early signs of dental disease. Left untrea...

Dewclaw Removal

Dewclaw removal may be recommended if the dewclaw is deformed or if extra dewclaws are present. Dewclaw removal may also be recommended for hunting or working dogs or if there is a risk...

Deworming and Prevention of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Dogs and Cats

Gastrointestinal parasites can cause serious illness in pets, and some parasites can infect humans. Deworming involves administering medication to treat and control gastrointestinal par...

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is feces that is looser or more watery than normal. Pets with diarrhea may defecate more frequently than usual, have accidents in the house, and may have blood, mucus, or paras...

Dog Licenses

Most locations throughout the United States have state or local laws that require dog owners to license their dogs. Licensing your dog is usually as simple as filling out a form ...

Dog Supplies

Every well-kept dog needs some basic supplies. Many kinds of supplies are available, so your choices will depend on your and your dog’s needs and preferences. Here are some basic guidel...

Ear Cleaning

Ear cleaning can help treat or prevent ear problems. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations closely. Always put health and safety first. If the procedure seems dangerous ...

Ear Hematoma

An ear hematoma is a pocket of blood that forms inside the exterior portion of the ear. Often, ear mites or an infection in the ear canal cause a pet to scratch or shake his or her head...

Ear Infections and Your Pet

Any pet can develop an ear infection, regardless of ear shape, exposure to water (swimming), or the amount of hair inside the ear canal. Underlying allergies or other illnesses can caus...

Ear Mites in Dogs and Cats

The scientific name for ear mites is Otodectes cynotis. Ear mites are contagious to other animals but not to humans. Ear mite infestation can cause secondary ear infections, but the...

Ehrlichiosis

Ehrlichiosis is a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks. Clinical signs of ehrlichiosis may include fever, swollen lymph nodes, painful joints, and lethargy (tiredness). Ehrlichi...

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is a painful, debilitating, and typically inherited disease. The disease is a failure of the bones and cartilage in the elbow joint to grow and develop properly. The...

Entropion

Entropion is a condition in which part or all of the eyelid rolls inward toward the eye surface. As a result, eyelashes may brush against the cornea (the clear covering of the eye), cau...

Examination and Rabies Vaccine

Regular examinations are essential to maintaining your pet’s health. A thorough physical examination checks every major body system. Periodic vaccine risk assessments help en...

Exercising Your Dog

Exercise can have many health benefits for your dog. You can help your dog get plenty of exercise by scheduling regular activity. Consult your veterinarian before beginning a...

Explaining Pet Loss to Children

Our companion animals are often treasured members of the family, and we mourn for them when they die or are euthanized. It is important to recognize your feelings of loss and grief and ...

Eye Discharge

Some pets produce more tears than others, so increased wetness of the eye is not always a medical problem. Eye discharge becomes a problem when it is excessive, abnormal, or accompanied...

Fecal Analysis

Fecal analysis helps your veterinarian determine if your pet has intestinal parasites. Only a small sample of your pet’s stool is required to perform a fecal analysis. Fecal ...

Fecal Flotation and Giardia Test

Intestinal parasites can cause serious illness and even death in pets. Some parasites are zoonotic, which means they can infect humans. Fecal flotation and Giardia testing can ident...

Fecal Smear

A fecal smear is a thin layer of feces that is examined under a microscope. The smear is usually performed in combination with other tests to identify possible causes of diarrhea. I...

Feeding Your New Puppy

Veterinarians are your best source of information for making informed choices about which brand of food or treats to feed your puppy. Commercially produced puppy foods must meet ...

First Aid and Your Pet

One: Remain calm and try to keep your pet calm. Approach your pet with caution. An animal in pain may bite or scratch. Two: If some sort of stabilization is possible (for example, direct p...

Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)

Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is a severe allergic reaction to the bite of a flea. FAD can cause intense itching and painful skin wounds. Left untreated, affected animals can...

Flea and Tick Prevention

Fleas and ticks are external parasites that can cause extreme discomfort and serious illness in pets and even people. Fleas and ticks are easily prevented from bothering your pet throug...

Follow-up Examination

A follow-up examination is a physical examination that is usually performed a few weeks after the initial examination. The examination is scheduled to evaluate the effectiveness ...

Food Allergy

A food allergy is an immune response to something in the pet’s diet that did not cause problems in the past. Food allergies commonly cause itchiness and/or vomiting and diarrhea in dogs...

Fungal Culture

A fungal culture test is a method of identifying the specific fungus that may be causing an infection in or on the body. Performing a fungal culture test poses minimal risk ...

Gastrointestinal Parasites in Dogs

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites can cause serious illness in dogs; some parasites can also infect humans. Your veterinarian can recommend medications to treat and control GI parasites. ...

Getting Your Dog Back on Its Feet

The most effective way to treat lameness is to obtain an accurate diagnosis of what is wrong. Always strictly follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for rehabilitation and re...

Giardiasis

Giardia is a parasite that is found worldwide and in every region of the United States. Giardiasis (the disease that Giardia causes) can cause diarrhea, appetite loss, and vomiting. ...

Grief in Dogs and Cats

Based on observed changes in behavior, it is thought that some dogs and cats grieve after losing a close human or animal companion. Dogs and cats seem to show a wide variety of response...

Grooming Your Dog

Regular brushing, bathing, and trimming can help keep your dog’s skin and haircoat healthy. Groom your dog when he or she is relaxed, and start with short sessions. Try to ma...

Heart Murmurs in Dogs

A heart murmur is an abnormal sound that a veterinarian hears when listening to the heart through a stethoscope. A murmur is not always a cause for concern, but it can be an indication ...

Heartworm Disease in Dogs

Heartworm disease attacks the lungs, heart, and related blood vessels. It is serious and potentially fatal. Dogs are highly susceptible to heartworm. Nearly all exposed dogs will become...

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when body temperature reaches 106°F to 109°F. Being left in a hot car and exercising in hot weather are the most common causes of ...

Helping Your Itchy Pet

In some cases, multiple problems contribute to itching in pets. Scratching can quickly lead to skin damage, bleeding, hair loss, scabs, and secondary skin infections with bacteria or fu...

Hookworms

Hookworms are internal parasites that live in the small intestines of dogs and cats. People can be infected with hookworms when a hookworm larva penetrates their skin or when they unkno...

How to Administer a Topical Medication to Your Dog

Many conditions in dogs require medicine to be applied to the skin. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations closely. Always put health and safety first. If the proc...

How to Administer Ear Medication to Your Dog

Many outer ear infections in dogs require medicine to be put directly into the ear. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations closely. Always put health and safety fi...

How to Administer Eye Medication to Your Dog

Many eye conditions in dogs require medicine to be put directly into the eye. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations closely. Always put health and safety first. I...

How to Find a Reputable Breeder

Thorough research is important to ensure the breed fits with your lifestyle. Ask for recommendations, research websites, then interview and visit several breeders before making a decisi...

How to Give Your Cat Liquid Medicine

Liquid medications are prescribed to treat a variety of conditions. It is important to use only medicines prescribed by a veterinarian and to treat for the full length of time pr...

How to Give Your Dog a Pill

Medicines in pill or capsule form are prescribed to treat a variety of conditions. It is important to use only medicines prescribed by a veterinarian and to treat for the full le...

How to Give Your Dog Liquid Medicine

Liquid medications are prescribed to treat a variety of conditions. It is important to use only medicines prescribed by a veterinarian and to treat for the full length of time pr...

How to Tell if Your Dog Is Sick

Any change in your dog’s normal behavior, such as increased lethargy, loss of appetite, or weight loss, may indicate that your dog is ill. If you suspect that your dog is sick, contact ...

Human Foods That Are Dangerous for Dogs and Cats

Some human foods can cause serious illness (and even death) in dogs and cats. Pets should not be given human food unless recommended by your veterinarian. If you suspect your pet ma...

Hypertension and Your Pet

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, can affect dogs and cats. In people, the most common type of hypertension is known as primary or essential hypertension, which means tha...

Ibuprofen and Naproxen Toxicosis

Ibuprofen and naproxen can be toxic to dogs and cats, but cats are much more susceptible to this toxicity than dogs are. A single 200-milligram ibuprofen tablet can be toxic to a cat or...

Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys red blood cells. IMHA can be a primary condition, or it can be caused by an...

Injectable Medication

Some medications can only be administered by injection and must be given by a trained veterinary professional. Your veterinary care team will be glad to address any questions or ...

Intervertebral Disk Disease

Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) occurs when a disk between the vertebrae (bones of the spine) ruptures and pushes against the spinal cord. While IVDD can happen in cats, it’s more co...

Keeping Your Pet at a Healthy Weight

Nearly 50% of adult dogs and cats in the United States are overweight or obese. Obesity increases the risk for other serious health problems. Follow your veterinarian’s advic...

Kenneling Your Dog

Even being in the best kennel is stressful for many dogs. If your dog does not tolerate boarding well, consider using a pet sitter or arranging for your dog to stay with a friend or ...

Kidney Disease in Pets

Kidney disease is a very general term used to describe any one of several conditions that can affect the kidneys or damage kidney cells. Clinical signs associated with kidney dis...

Laryngeal Paralysis

The larynx is the structure at the back of the throat that opens to allow airflow in and out of the trachea and closes to prevent fluid and food from being inhaled into the lungs. In ca...

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a serious and potentially fatal bacterial disease that can be transmitted to humans. The disease typically attacks the kidneys and liver of infected dogs. It is tra...

Lick Granuloma

A lick granuloma is a thickened, hairless area of skin that results from excessive, repetitive licking or chewing. Signs of a lick granuloma include brown-stained hair around the lesion...

Lipoma

A lipoma is a benign (noncancerous) mass made of fat cells. These lumps may appear just under the skin anywhere on the body or inside the chest and abdomen. Middle-aged and older fe...

Macadamia Nut Toxicosis

Macadamia nuts are a common ingredient in cookies and candies. In dogs, eating macadamia nuts is associated with illness. Once eaten, toxic effects can occur within 12 hours. It is ...

Medical Causes of Weight Loss

A variety of medical conditions can cause weight loss. Weight loss is not a disease—it is a sign of an illness. Therefore, the treatment for weight loss depends on the underlying cause....

Medication Monitoring

Medication monitoring can help ensure that your pet is not experiencing unwanted side effects from a medication. It can also tell your veterinarian whether the medication may need to...

Microchipping Your Pet

Many lost pets are never returned to their owners because they do not have any form of identification. Microchips are a way of permanently identifying your pet. Microchips mu...

Motion Sickness in Dogs

Motion sickness can cause your dog to develop a fear of riding in a vehicle. If your dog seems to have motion sickness, take him or her to your veterinarian. Do not give your...

Neutering

Neutering is a surgical procedure in which the testicles are removed in a male animal. Neutering prevents unwanted reproduction and can help eliminate negative behavioral effects of mal...

Nipping and Mouthing by Dogs

Nipping and mouthing should be discouraged starting in puppyhood. If you suspect that your dog is nipping, mouthing, or biting because of aggressive behavior, please consult a ve...

Obesity in Pets: Tipping the Scale in Your Favor

Approximately half of the pets in the United States are either overweight or obese. The health consequences of obesity include increased risk for joint disease, heart and respiratory proble...

OraVet' Dental Sealant

OraVet Dental Sealant is an invisible, polymer sealant that is applied to your pet’s teeth by your veterinarian after a dental cleaning. The sealant adheres to teeth to create an invisi...

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the pet’s patella (kneecap) slips out of its normal position on the femur bone, causing pain, lameness, and instability in the knee. Severity of patellar l...

Periodontal Disease in Dogs

More than 85% of dogs over 4 years of age have periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a progressive inflammation of the supporting structures around the teeth. Signs of periodo...

Pet Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

If your pet has a cardiac arrest, you can help save his or her life by performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). By distributing much-needed oxygen and blood throughout a p...

Pet Health Insurance: What's Right for Your Pet?

Pet insurance can help you budget for unforeseen medical expenses for your pet. It’s important to take a hard look at your budget and decide what you need in an insurance policy. “B...

Pet Sitter Instructions

To help ensure that your pet is properly cared for, give your pet sitter detailed written instructions, and discuss them with the sitter. Make sure the sitter knows the dates of coverag...

Pet Toy Safety

To keep your pet safe, it’s important to know about pet toy hazards and how to avoid them. If you are worried about the safety of your pet’s toys, talk to your veterinarian. ...

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Physical therapy and rehabilitation involve the use of therapeutic exercises to help patients recover from acute and chronic health conditions resulting from illness, trauma, or surgery. ...

Pregnancy in Dogs

In dogs, pregnancy lasts 56 to 70 days, or about 2 months. Diagnosis is usually made by manually feeling the puppies in the uterus or by radiography (x-rays) and/or ultrasound. Whil...

Preventing Heartworms and Fleas

Heartworms and fleas are parasites that can cause serious problems. Fortunately, these parasites can be prevented by using safe, effective, and easy-to-administer medications. Heartworm...

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that compete with harmful bacteria to restore the proper bacterial balance in the intestines of dogs and cats. Probiotics are administered when...

Puppy or Adult Dog: Which Is Right for You?

If you are looking for a dog, ask your veterinarian about reputable breeders in your area, but don’t forget that shelters, rescue societies, and adoption organizations are also great option...

Puppy Socialization

Socialization is the learning process through which puppies become accustomed to being near various people, animals, and environments. Proper socialization can help eliminate behavior p...

Puppy Training

Puppy training is an important step toward a lifetime of good behavior. Puppies respond better to positive reinforcement than punishment. Puppies should always be supervised or shou...

Pyometra

Pyometra is a severe bacterial infection of the uterus that can be life threatening. It can occur in any unspayed female cat or dog. Older, unspayed female dogs that have not had a lit...

Rabies

Rabies is a deadly disease that is generally fatal in all species. It is transmitted through contact with saliva of an infected animal. There is no effective treatment in animals. I...

Refilling Medications

Remembering to refill prescriptions on time helps protect your pet’s safety and health. Some veterinarians require 24 hours’ notice for prescription refills, so be sure to allow enough ...

Rehabilitative Medicine for Dogs With Osteoarthritis

A rehabilitative medicine program can dramatically increase strength and mobility, improving overall quality of life for dogs with osteoarthritis. Pain is often ...

Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin, hair, and/or nails in dogs and cats. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be transmitted from animals to humans. The infection i...

Rodenticide Poisoning

Many mouse and rat poisons contain ingredients that can be toxic and even fatal to your pet. These toxins may cause blood clotting problems, nervous system problems, or kidney failure. ...

Roundworms

Roundworms are parasites that live in the intestines of dogs and cats. Roundworm infections can be transmitted from animals to humans. Depending on the type of roundworm, pets can b...

Seizures and Epilepsy

A seizure (convulsion) is the sudden transmission of nerve impulses from the brain that causes involuntary muscle activity. Epilepsy is a condition in which seizures occur periodically ...

Selecting a Groomer

Groomers are not regulated or licensed by a government agency. When looking for a groomer, seek recommendations from friends, veterinarians, trainers, and boarding facilities. When ...

Selecting a New Puppy

Before choosing a puppy, it’s important to research dog breeds to find one that fits into your lifestyle. A healthy puppy should be bright and alert, without signs of coughing, s...

Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a behavior problem in which a dog panics after (and sometimes before) being left alone. The signs of separation anxiety can be associated with other behavio...

Skin Problems and Your Pet

A variety of skin problems can affect dogs and cats, including allergies, bacterial and fungal infections, and parasite infestations. The signs of skin problems in pets can be very similar...

Spay Surgery

A spay is a surgical procedure in which the ovaries and uterus are surgically removed. Spaying prevents unwanted pregnancy and discontinues heat cycles. Spaying may also be p...

Spaying or Neutering Your Pet

Spaying and neutering are surgical procedures to remove reproductive organs. These procedures are typically recommended for puppies and kittens before they reach sexual maturity ...

Submissive Urination in Dogs

Submissive urination occurs when dogs perceive some kind of threat. Submissive urination is most common in puppies but can happen at any age. Dogs may interpret a harsh tone ...

Summer Hazards and Your Dog

When temperatures outside reach dangerous levels, the temperature inside the house can, too. Keep fresh water available, and make sure your dog has a cool place to spend the day. Bring ...

Tapeworms

Tapeworms are long, flat, parasitic worms that live in the intestines of dogs and cats. Pets generally become infected by ingesting fleas that contain tapeworm larvae during grooming. ...

The Wellness Examination

A wellness exam is an overall general health assessmentthat may include blood tests, urinalysis, and parasite screening. A wellness exam is recommended for most pets at least ann...

Thyroid Level Test/Thyroid Profile Tests/Canine Hypothyroidism

A thyroid level test is a blood test that allows the veterinarian to evaluate the function of the thyroid gland. Blood is drawn from the pet and sent to a laboratory for the measurement...

Ticks and Your Dog

Ticks can transmit dangerous diseases, like Lyme disease, when they attach to a host and feed. Your veterinarian can recommend safe and effective products to help protect your dog from ...

Tracheal Collapse

Tracheal collapse occurs in dogs when the cartilage of the trachea loses some of its stiffness, causing the wall of the trachea to collapse inward as the dog breathes. Clinical si...

Training Your Dog

Even if you’re just looking for a pet to be a companion, training is still important to the relationship you hope to share with your dog. You may choose only “basic” training, like learnin...

Training Your Dog to Wear a Muzzle

The following training technique can be used to train your dog to wear a nylon or basket muzzle. Your dog should think that learning to wear a muzzle is a fun game. You will know whethe...

Traveling With Your Dog

Bring enough of your dog’s regular food and medication for the duration of the trip. If you plan to travel with your pet, let your veterinarian know ahead of time; your dog may need a h...

Treating Heartworm Disease

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition that damages the heart, lungs, and related blood vessels. Dogs and cats are at risk for becoming infected with heartworms....

Trimming Your Dog's Nails

Nail trimming should be a calm, stress-free experience for you and your dog. If your dog experiences pain from nail trimming, you will probably have trouble trimming his or her n...

Understanding Pet Food Labels

Understanding pet food labels is the first step in choosing the right food to help make an optimal nutritional plan for a pet. Animals require specific nutrients from the ingredients in...

Urinalysis and Early Kidney Disease Detection

In kidney disease, the kidneys do not function properly. Acute (sudden) kidney disease may be reversible, but chronic (long-term) kidney disease is usually progressive, meaning t...

Urinary Tract Disease in Dogs

Urinary tract disease is a very general term used to describe any one of several conditions that can affect any part of the urinary tract. Clinical signs associated with urinary tract d...

Urine Culture Test

A urine culture test is done to identify the specific bacteria that are causing a urinary tract infection. Ideally, a sample of urine is collected by cystocentesis in which a nee...

Vestibular Disease

Vestibular disease is a medical condition that affects the nervous system. Clinical signs of vestibular disease include incoordination (instability when trying to stand or walk),...

Vomiting

Vomiting is the forceful emptying of the stomach. If vomiting is prolonged, it can lead to dehydration. Vomiting can be associated with several medical conditions ranging from motio...

Weight Check

A weight check is the measurement of your pet’s weight and the evaluation of your pet’s body condition. A weight check should be performed at every veterinary examination and any...

When to Consider Euthanasia

Euthanasia is the painless, humane termination of life. The decision regarding when to euthanize is fraught with medical, financial, ethical, religious, moral, and sometimes lega...

Whipworms

Whipworms are small parasites that can live in the large intestines of dogs and, rarely, in cats. Dogs become infected by eating the whipworm eggs in the soil, usually during gro...

Why Do I Need To Vaccinate My Pet?

Vaccination is an important weapon against infectious diseases. Some diseases, like rabies, are transmissible to humans, so protecting your pets also protects your family members and co...

Winter Hazards and Your Dog

Winter can be hazardous for dogs, and it is important to be aware of the dangers to keep your pet healthy. There are indoor and outdoor winter threats to dogs, especially around ...

Xylitol Toxicosis

Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is safe for people but can cause low blood sugar and liver damage in dogs. Toxic effects of xylitol in dogs can occur within 10 to 15 minutes, but may...

Your Pet's Prescribed Diet

If your pet is on a prescribed diet, keeping him or her on that diet is essential for the best possible health and quality of life. Your veterinarian has carefully selected your pet’s p...