Pet Health Articles
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Chocolate is toxic to dogs. While rarely fatal, chocolate ingestion often results in significant illness. Chocolate is toxic because it contains the alkaloid theobromine. Theobromine is like caffeine and is used medicinally as a diuretic, heart stimulant, blood vessel dilator, and muscle relaxant.
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Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) has become increasingly more common as a residential rodenticide. While it may seem like a safer option than anticoagulants, there is no antidote available and the amount in a single block is a severe overdose in nearly all animals. This handout discusses clinical signs, treatments, and prognosis for cholecalciferol poisoning in pets.
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Choline is a vitamin supplement given by mouth and is used over the counter to treat neurological conditions such as seizures or cognitive dysfunction. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include hyperactivity. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Chondrosarcomas arise from cartilage, which is a connective tissue primarily found where bones meet with joints, as well as at other locations in the body such as the nasal cavity, and ribs. Chondrosarcoma is the second-most common primary bone tumor in dogs. Canine chondrosarcoma most commonly affects the flat bones of the body, such as the ribs, skull, nasal cavity, and pelvis, although the limbs can also be affected. Aggressive surgical removal is typically recommended, although radiation therapy may also be used, depending on location of tumor. Metastasis may occur but is relatively uncommon.
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Veterinarians generally agree that there is no single best food for all dogs or all cats. Our pets are individuals: some will prefer dry kibble, while others will prefer wet or canned food. Pet owners may also have preferences related to cost, convenience of shopping, and how a particular pet food manufacturer conducts their business. This handout briefly outlines key aspects of selecting the most appropriate food and water for your dog or cat.
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Getting a new puppy is an exciting time and there is no perfect science to picking the perfect puppy. Have a brief look over them physically with their littermates as well as seeing how they interact together and with you. Be sure to take your puppy to a veterinarian as soon as possible to check for any health problems.
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To the uninformed, the Chow Chow may bear a greater resemblance to a bear or a lion than to a dog. However, those in the know understand that this ancient, aristocratic breed makes a fine companion - especially for people who would rather not have a Velcro dog.
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Chronic bronchitis (also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD) is a slowly progressing inflammatory condition of the lower airways. The most common sign is a chronic dry cough. The diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis are outlined in this handout.
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This handout summarizes the normal function of the dog heart, and outlines the abnormalities and changes associated with degeneration of the four different valves found in the heart. An explanation is provided of clinical signs associated with valve disease, as well as the recommended tests and treatments for this condition. Staging of heart disease is also discussed.
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The kidneys have many functions. They are primarily responsible for removing waste from the body and unfortunately in some dogs they will begin to fail at this task. Various tests will be done to determine the stage of kidney disease. Treatment will be recommended to help preserve the remaining kidney function and improve quality of life. Most dogs will respond well to treatment and can live a good life.