Diseases

A corneal ulcer is a defect in the cornea, which is the clear, outer surface of the eye. The cornea is made of several layers of cells, and any erosion or damage to these cells creates an ulcer. Corneal ulcers are painful and require immediate veterinary attention.

When people "blow out" a knee, chances are they’ve suffered a cruciate ligament rupture. Dogs can experience the same injury. They have two cruciate ligaments in each knee (or stifle joint)—a caudal ligament and a cranial ligament, which is most commonly injured.

Just like people, dogs have disks, or round cushions of cartilage sandwiched between the vertebrae, or individual bones in the spine. Their tough outer layer and a soft inner layer, called the nucleus, act as shock absorbers.

In a healthy eye, a watery film of tears coats the eye’s surface, called the cornea. The tear film protects the cornea and lubricates the eyelids. Dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), occurs when the tear glands don’t produce enough tears and the cornea becomes dry. KCS may affect one or both eyes.

Hookworms are a common intestinal parasite found in dogs. Also known as Ancylostoma caninum and Ancylostoma braziliense, hookworms get their name from the hook-like mouthparts they use to attach to the intestinal wall. They are only about 1/8" (3 mm) long and so small that it is very difficult to see them with the naked eye. Despite their small size, hookworms ingest large amounts of blood from the tiny vessels in the intestinal wall. If your dog has a severe infestation of hookworms, she may be at risk for anemia. This problem is most common in puppies, but can occur in adult dogs. Read on for answers to some common questions about hookworms and dogs.

What are "hot spots" that affect dogs?
Acute moist dermatitis or "hot spots" are is a common skin disorder in dogs. These large, red, irritated lesions can appear suddenly and make your dog uncomfortable. "Hot spots" can appear suddenly and become large, red, irritated lesions in a short time.

I’ve heard that chocolate is toxic to dogs? Is this true?
Yes, 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 similar to caffeine and is used medicinally as a diuretic, heart stimulant, blood vessel dilator, and smooth muscle relaxant. Theobromine can be poisonous in large amounts.

I have been told that my dog is obese and must be put on a diet. Is this true?
Nearly one-third (33%) of all adults in the United States are obese. Unfortunately, this same number now applies to our pets. Obesity leads to several diseases both in pets and people. Type II diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis are the most common weight-related disorders.

What is an esophagostomy tube?
An esophagostomy tube is a small rubber tube that enters the esophagus through the skin of the neck. The esophagus is the muscular tube that transports food from the mouth to the stomach.

My dog has excessive gas. What is this called?
The excessive formation of gas in the stomach or intestine is referred to as flatulence. Flatus is the medical term used to describe air or gas expelled through the anus. The term originates from the Latin flatulentus which means "a blowing."

The size and shape of the normal eye is maintained by the amount of fluid within the eyeball. The pressure of the fluid inside the front or anterior chamber of the eye is known as the intra-ocular pressure (IOP). Fluid is constantly produced by a structure called the ciliary body. In addition to producing this fluid (aqueous humor), the ciliary body contains the suspensory ligaments which hold the lens in place. Muscles in the ciliary body pull on the suspensory ligaments, controlling the shape and focusing ability of the lens.

Ticks and fleas and worms – just the thought of them can make your skin crawl.

Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus, is a life-threatening condition in dogs. The stomach greatly distends with air, then rotates on its long axis, trapping air, food, or fluid in the stomach.

Sometimes underlying medical conditions interfere with urine’s antibacterial properties and the body’s ability to fight infection. The result is often a bladder infection. Bladder infections in dogs are similar to bladder infections in women—both cause painful urination, blood in the urine, or an urgent need to urinate when there’s little urine in the bladder.

Canine distemper is a highly contagious, often fatal viral disease in dogs that is prevented with regular vaccinations. Dogs with distemper can spread the virus to others through the transmission of body fluids, most often by sneezing and coughing. Pregnant dogs can infect their unborn puppies, leading to miscarriage or stillbirth. Most puppies who survive delivery die soon after birth.

Kennel cough, or infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs, characterized by a hacking cough. The infection is most prevalent in kennels or other facilities that house multiple dogs. Several viruses and bacteria, alone or in combination, can cause the disease. The most common culprits are canine parainfluenza virus, canine adenovirus 2, and the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria.

A dog who continually licks one spot on his body, usually on his front legs, can create a hairless, callused area called a lick granuloma. A granuloma is a type of inflamed lesion, so a lick granuloma is inflammation caused by constant licking. The condition is known as acral lick dermatitis.

Named after Lyme, Conn., where the condition was first recognized, Lyme disease is a well-known, tick-borne disease in people that can also cause joint pain and flu-like symptoms in dogs. The spirochete bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi causes the disease.

"Parvo" is an extremely contagious viral disease of dogs that causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. It occurs almost exclusively in puppies less than 1 year old, though parvo affects dogs of any age.

When an infection enters the body, white blood cells rush to the site and fight the invading bacteria. Sometimes this collection of blood cells forms a pocket of pus, or abscess, within the body's tissues, organs, or confined spaces.

Dogs have two small sacs located at the 5 o'clock and 7 o'clock positions on the anus. The walls of the anal sacs contain glands that secrete a thin, smelly substance that's squeezed out, or expressed, during defecation to mark the feces and identify the dog. If the sacs don't empty properly or if the secretions become too thick, the anal sacs become impacted. One or both sacs may be affected, and left untreated, a simple impaction can lead to a painful infection or abscess.

Anemia is an inadequate number of red blood cells, or erythrocytes, in the circulatory system. Erythrocytes carry life-sustaining oxygen to the body tissues. Without them, tissues become starved for oxygen, and weakness and tissue damage set in.

Every spring, allergy sufferers turn their thoughts—not to love—but to antihistamines. The yearly onslaught of pollen, grasses, and trees makes some dogs miserable, too. The result: atopy, a skin disease that causes extreme itching.

A bladder stone, or urolith, develops when mineral salts present in urine combine and harden. Most stones occur in the bladder and urethra, but occasionally stones form in the kidneys and ureters, the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. Dogs may develop one or multiple large or small stones. The five main types that affect dogs are struvite, calcium oxalate, urate, cystine, and silicate.

Cancer is a powerful word that elicits fear and apprehension. What makes cancer so dreadful is that the disease is most often caused by a mutation of the body's own cells. The body literally turns on itself.

If your older dog acts lost or confused, no longer recognizes familiar people, or seems less social, he may suffer from cognitive dysfunction. Cognitive dysfunction is a newly recognized disease in older dogs that resembles dementia in people. Behavioral changes once attributed to old age may actually stem from complex changes in the brain that affect memory, recognition, and learned behaviors. Some studies show that about 45 percent of dogs over 11 years old will exhibit one or more signs of cognitive dysfunction.

Colitis literally means inflammation of the colon, which is part of the large intestine. Think of the digestive tract as one long tube, starting at the mouth and ending at the rectum. Before reaching the rectum, the byproducts of digestion pass through the colon, where much of the water content is absorbed. When a dog’s colon is inflamed, it may cause diarrhea, possibly with blood or mucus.

Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart fails to pump enough blood, causing a fluid backup (congestion).

The four chambers of the heart contain two pumps. The left side of the heart takes oxygenated blood from the lungs and pumps it to the tissues. The right side of the heart takes blood from the venous system and pumps it to the lungs for oxygenation. If the left pump fails, fluid backs up in the lungs, resulting in pulmonary edema. If the right side fails, fluid backs up in the venous system and leaks into the body cavities. Fluid in the chest cavity is called pleural effusion, and fluid in the abdominal cavity is called ascites.

Your dog didn't get those red, watery eyes from staying up all night. More likely, she's suffering from conjunctivitis. The conjunctiva is the lining of the eyelids and the tissue surrounding the edge of the eye. Inflammation of these tissues is called conjunctivitis—a common disease in both dogs.

Cushing's syndrome, or hyperadrenocorticism, occurs when the adrenal glands release excessive levels of the hormone cortisol. The pituitary gland in the brain directs the adrenal glands to secrete the hormone, so problems with the pituitary gland or the adrenal glands can cause cortisol levels to increase. Cortisol, which is a type of natural steroid, affects many body processes. For example, it influences the body's reaction to stress and infection and has many other functions, making Cushing's syndrome a complex disorder.

If your older dog seems to ignore you when you call or no longer responds to squeaky toys or hand claps, she may be losing her hearing. Hearing loss, which ranges from partial hearing loss to total deafness, affects dogs of any age. Hearing loss can occur gradually or suddenly, but pet owners usually don't notice the problem until it begins to affect their dog's behavior.

Can't bear to face another day of dog breath? Don't despair. Dental disease, one of the most common and potentially harmful health problems for dogs, is also easily avoided. What causes that special smell? Bacterial buildup along the gum line gradually leads to gingivitis, or inflamed gums, and infection. If left unchecked, gingivitis will progress to periodontitis, or inflammation of the deeper tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. In severe cases, infection in the mouth can spread through the bloodstream to other parts of the body, including the heart and kidneys.

The disease diabetes mellitus, also called sugar diabetes, results from a deficiency of—or decreased response to—insulin. The pancreas produces insulin, which helps body tissues process glucose (sugar). Without insulin or with a decreased response to insulin, blood glucose levels rise, resulting in hyperglycemia, while the body tissues remain starved for glucose. The elevated blood glucose eventually passes into the urine, creating a condition called glycosuria. As the disease progresses, metabolism changes cause ketosis, a condition in which chemicals called ketones accumulate in the blood and body tissues.

Demodectic mange is a noncontagious, nonitchy skin disorder caused by mites that results in hair loss and occasional skin infections in dogs.
As repugnant as it sounds, harmless mites live in our dogs' skin (and our skin too for that matter). Female dogs spread the microscopic Demodex canis mites to their nursing pups.

Healthy dogs’ ears are clean and odor-free. If you notice a strange smell emanating from your pet’s ears, don’t be shy about taking a closer sniff or a closer look. Chances are, your dog is harboring a stinky surprise: thick brown or yellowish green discharge in the outer ear canal.

Ear mites are tiny, crab-like parasites that live in the dark recesses of your dog's ear canals. These little critters are barely visible to the human eye, but they can cause a big itch with all their scurrying around. These bugs don't always stay in the ear canal, either. They can live on the skin around the head and neck or down by the tail, causing an itchy problem.

It is important to know how to recognize when your dog is having a seizure. Seizure disorder, or dog epilepsy, is a central nervous system disorder that causes periodic seizures unrelated to progressive brain disease. It is one of the most common neurologic problems in dogs.

All dogs are at risk for a flea infestation, and if your dog spends time outside, she is particularly susceptible to getting flea bites. Why? Many adult fleas live outside and on wildlife hosts until they find a happy home on your pet. Indoor dogs also are at risk because they can pick up fleas when they go outside to exercise or eliminate.

Dog allergies can be caused by pollen, flea bites, and even food. Food allergies in dogs occur when the immune system reacts adversely to one or several ingredients in the dog's diet. Some dogs develop an abnormally intense reaction to certain ingredients, becoming hypersensitive.

I have heard about hiatal hernias in people. What are they and do dogs get them?
A hernia occurs when one part of your body protrudes through a gap or opening into another part of the body. Many types of hernias occur in the abdominal area. Hiatal hernias, also known as diaphragmatic hernias, form at the opening (hiatus) in the diaphragm, where the food tube (esophagus) joins the stomach. When the muscle tissue around the hiatus becomes weak, the upper part of the stomach may bulge through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Hiatal hernia refers to the protrusion of the abdominal contents into the chest cavity through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm.

Gastrointestinal (GI) obstruction is a general term for a blockage anywhere along the GI tract. The causes range from a hairball that's plugging up the intestines to a tumor that's grown large enough to obstruct the rectum.

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites are worms and protozoa (one-celled organisms) that take up residence in your dog's stomach and intestines. Depending on the dog's age, her level of immunity, and the number of parasites present, the infection can range from unnoticeable to life-threatening. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and a failure to grow and thrive.

Glaucoma is a disease characterized by increased fluid pressure within the eye. Healthy eyes continually produce and drain this fluid, called aqueous humor, to maintain a constant intraocular pressure (IOP). If the drainage network becomes obstructed, IOP increases significantly, causing extreme pain and often blindness.

Heart disease is a general term for many conditions that affect the cardiovascular system. These include congenital defects; heart muscle disease; abnormal heart rhythm; cancer; and infectious, inflammatory, or degenerative diseases. Sometimes heart disease accompanies other conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, high blood pressure, and trauma.

Hypothyroidism is caused by a thyroid hormone deficiency in the body. People suffering from low thyroid levels may feel sluggish or gain weight easily. The same holds true in dogs. But affected dogs may display other symptoms because the thyroid hormone, known as thyroxine, affects just about every organ in the body.

Heartworms are long, spaghetti-like worms that inhabit the pulmonary arteries and the right side of the heart. The worms can interfere with the heart's pumping action, irritate the heart and blood vessels, and lead to death if not treated.

Urinary incontinence is an inability to control urination. Urination is a complex process that coordinates mental awareness, voluntary and involuntary nerve input, urine storage, and muscle relaxation and contractions. Urinary incontinence occurs when some part of this process fails.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) describes a group of diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract. IBD affects is characterized by inflamed cells infiltrating the stomach, intestines, or both.

Kidney failure, also called renal failure, occurs when the kidneys fail to
remove metabolic waste products from the blood. Toxic levels of these waste products accumulate in the blood, creating a condition called uremia and producing signs of illness throughout the body. Kidney failure can occur suddenly (acute renal failure) or develop gradually over several months (chronic renal failure).

The liver is an important organ with many functions essential for life.
These functions include detoxifying poisons and drugs, metabolizing fats, storing carbohydrates, manufacturing bile, and producing blood proteins and blood clotting factors. The liver is also a key part of the immune system.

What is canine herpesvirus?
Canine herpesvirus or canine herpes is a systemic, often fatal disease of puppies caused by CHV – Canine Herpes Virus. CHV is common worldwide in dogs, coyotes, and wolves. CHV does not cause infection in humans. CHV may remain latent or “hidden and quiet” in tissues after a dog is infected and may be passed on to other dogs, particularly to fetuses developing in the mother's uterus. Stress or other illness may cause recrudescence or “re-infection” in a dog that has previously been exposed. The incubation period in puppies is 4 to 6 days, after which clinical signs develop or sudden death occurs. Herpes viruses affect different species differently. In man, the infections are sexually transmitted and primarily cause clinical signs associated with the external genitalia.

What is Horner’s syndrome?
Horner’s syndrome is a common neurological disorder of the eye and facial muscles. The condition usually occurs suddenly.  The most common clinical signs of Horner’s syndrome are:

• Drooping of  the eyelids on the affected side (ptosis) The pupil of the affected eye will be constricted (miosis)
• The affected eye often appears sunken (enophthalmos)
• The third eyelid of the affected eye may appear red and raised (prolapse of the third eyelid, conjunctival hyperemia)

What is the thyroid gland and what does it do?
The thyroid gland is one of the most important glands in the body. It is located in the neck near the trachea or “windpipe” and has two lobes, one on each side of the trachea. This gland is controlled by the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain.

What is icterus?
Icterus is also known as jaundice or yellow jaundice. It means that a yellow pigment is found in the blood and tissues. It is most easily seen in the gingivae (gums), the sclerae (white part of the eyes), and the pinnae (ear flaps). If these tissues normally have a dark color, icterus will be difficult to see in these dogs.

Addison’s disease is the common name for hypoadrenocorticism. Hypoadrenocorticism is a condition where there is diminished or lowered hormone production from the outer part or cortex of the adrenal gland.

What is a hematoma?
A hematoma is a localized mass of blood that is confined within an organ or tissue. This is also referred to as a “blood blister.” The most common type of hematoma in the dog is that affecting the pinna or ear flap. This is called an aural or ear hematoma.

The easiest way to give your dog a pill is to hide the pill in food. This usually works best if the pill is hidden in a small amount of canned dog food, peanut butter, or cottage cheese. To ensure that the pill is swallowed, it is better to hand feed a small amount of food that the dog is certain to eat rather than offering a large portion that the dog may not completely consume. Some dogs may spit out the pill, so it is important to carefully observe your pet after administering the medication.

What is hepatitis?
Hepatitis is defined as inflammation of the liver. As a specific disease, Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH) is a viral infection caused by a member of the Adenovirus family.

Two routine injections that have to be given by owners involve the administration of insulin in the treatment of diabetes mellitus and administering allergenic extract injections to control skin allergies. Your veterinarian will review the technique but the following questions and answers may be of help.

What is coccidiosis?
Coccidiosis is an intestinal tract infection caused by one-celled organisms (protozoa) called coccidia. Coccidia are sub-classified into a number of genera, and each genus has a number of species. At least six different genera of coccidia can infect dogs. These microscopic parasites spend part of their life cycle in the lining cells of the intestine. Most infections are not associated with any detectable clinical signs. These infections are called sub-clinical infections. Most clinical infections in dogs are caused by the species Isospora canis. Cryptosporidium parvum is another coccidian parasite that may cause diarrhea in some puppies.

What causes a reaction to an insect bite?
Many people and pets are sensitive to the proteins contained in the saliva or venom of many biting insects. They may be born with certain sensitivities or, more often, they may develop sensitivities if they are exposed numerous times to a particular insect bite. Bee stings and the bites of spiders, fleas, and ticks are the most common causes of insect bite reactions in dogs.

What is colitis?
Colitis simply refers to inflammation of the large intestine or colon. Colitis is most commonly used to describe diarrhea or loose stools associated with the large bowel. Large bowel diarrhea and inflammatory bowel disease are also used synonymously with colitis.

Administering ear medications to your dog can be challenging. Remember that your pet’s ears may be painful and that even a normally gentle and passive dog may respond by struggling, biting or scratching. You may need to muzzle your dog for this procedure.

What is conjunctivitis?
The conjunctiva is the lining tissue that covers the globe of the eye (the eyeball) and lines the eyelids and the third eyelid. Conjunctivitis refers to inflammation of this tissue.

The proper administration of eye medications is essential for your pet’s prompt recovery. Make sure that you wash your hands both before and after administering the medication to prevent the potential spread of infection.

Make sure that you wash your hands both before and after administering the medication to prevent the spread of infection.

What is a corneal ulcer?
The cornea is the transparent, shiny membrane which makes up the front of the eyeball. Think of it as a clear window. To understand a corneal ulcer, you must first understand how the cornea is constructed.

The easiest way to give your dog a liquid medication is to mix it with some canned food. To ensure that the medication is swallowed, it is best to hand-feed a small amount of food containing the medication, rather than a large portion that the dog may not completely consume. Some dogs may be unwilling to eat the food, or may have dietary restrictions that prevent you from using this technique. Also, some medications need to be taken on an empty stomach. If this is the case, you will need to administer the medication directly into your dog’s mouth.

What is coronavirus disease?
Coronavirus disease is a variable intestinal infection of dogs that is usually short-lived, but may cause considerable abdominal discomfort for a few days. The cause is a virus of the Coronavirus family. The virus gets its name from the fact that when viewed from above under an electron microscope the virus has a ring of projections which appear like a coronet. Different coronaviruses cause infections in many species of animals and birds. People are not affected by Canine Coronavirus.

Applying topical medications to your pet can sometimes be a challenge. The information provided in this handout may help make treating your pet easier – for both of you.

Fleas are tiny pests that can cause skin infections, hair loss, anemia and tapeworm problems for dogs. Because they are so hard to see, you usually will identify a flea problem when your dog starts scratching or when you spot flea residue - which looks like specks of pepper - on furniture and bedding. Read on for answers to common questions about fleas and dogs.

What is cryptorchidism?
Cryptorchidism is the medical term that refers to the failure of one or both testes (testicles) to descend into the scrotum.

Food allergy is one of the five most common allergies or hypersensitivities known to affect dogs. Most people know someone who is allergic to certain foods, such as strawberries or nuts. It is only recently that food allergies have become recognized in dogs. The signs are usually itchy skin or an upset stomach. Other more subtle changes can also occur, including hyperactivity, weight loss, lack of energy, and even aggression.

What are allergies and how do they affect dogs?
Allergies may be defined as the body’s response to foreign proteins. For our purposes, we will consider allergies to be any of the common reactions or responses to pollens, flea bites, and so on that result in itching.

Is there more than one type of allergy?
Yes, there are at least five common types of allergy in the dog:

a) Flea
b) Inhalant
c) Food
d) Contact
e) Bacterial Hypersensitivity

What is cystitis?
The term cystitis literally means "inflammation of the urinary bladder." This term is rather general and applies to any disease that causes inflammation of the urinary bladder.

An allergy is a state of over-reactivity or hypersensitivity of the immune system to a particular substance called an allergen. Most allergens are proteins. The allergen protein may be of insect, plant, or animal origin. Initial exposure of the dog, or more likely multiple exposures, to the allergen may over-sensitize the immune system, such that a subsequent exposure to the same or related allergen causes an over-reaction. This means that the immune response, which normally protects the dog against infection and disease, can actually be harmful to the body.

What is a disc, and what is its purpose?
The spinal cord is one of the most important and sensitive organs in the body. If it is damaged, the nerve cells do not regenerate but are replaced with fibrous or scar tissue. Spinal cord injuries usually result in permanent damage. Therefore, the spinal cord is protected in a very special fashion. It goes through a bony canal within the spine and is surrounded by protective bone everywhere except the junction of two vertebrae. These junctions are filled by rubber-like cushions called intervertebral discs. They allow the back to move up and down and sideways without allowing contact between the bones of the spinal column. This extreme protection of the spinal cord reflects its importance and fragility.

Dog mange is a parasitic skin disease caused by microscopic mites. Two different mange mites cause skin disease in dogs, demodectic mange and sarcoptic mange. One lives just under the surface of the skin, while the other resides deep in the hair follicles. Although both mites share similar characteristics,  its is important not to confuse the two types of mange because they have different causes, treatments, and prognoses. This article will focus primarily on demodectic dog mange; click here for more information on sarcoptic dog mange.

Anal sac disease is very common in dogs. The sacs frequently become impacted, usually due to blockage of the ducts. The secretion within the impacted sacs will thicken and the sacs will become swollen and distended. It is then painful for your dog to pass feces. The secreted material within the anal sacs forms an ideal medium for bacterial growth, allowing abscesses to form. Pain increases and sometimes a red, hot swelling will appear on one or both sides of the anus at the site of abscessation. If the abscess bursts, it will release a quantity of greenish yellow or bloody pus. If left untreated, the infection can quickly spread and cause severe damage to the anus and rectum.

An anaphylactic reaction or anaphylaxis is an immediate hypersensitivity (allergic) reaction to a foreign substance, especially a foreign protein.

Anemia is a medical term meaning a reduced number of red blood cells (RBC’s), hemoglobin, or both. It is not a specific disease but the result of some other disease process.

What is Diabetes insipidus?
There are two forms of diabetes in dogs: diabetes insipidus ("drinking diabetes") and diabetes mellitus ("sugar diabetes").

Worms can make your dog very sick and can even cause death. There are a number of different types of worms that can infect your dog including roundworms, tapeworms, whipworms, and heartworms, among others.  Read on for answers to common questions about worms in dogs.

One of the most common questions asked by an expectant parent or grandparent is how to introduce a new infant to the family dog, particularly if the dog has not been exposed to infants before. Most dogs readily accept infants after an initial period of curiosity. However, there have been unfortunate incidents where infants have been injured by family dogs. It is because of these incidents that the following information is provided.

What is diabetes mellitus?
There are two forms of diabetes in dogs: diabetes insipidus and diabetes mellitus. Diabetes insipidus is sometimes called "drinking diabetes" and diabetes mellitus is also known as "sugar diabetes." Diabetes insipidus is a very rare disorder that results in failure to regulate body water content. Diabetes mellitus is more common in dogs, and is frequently diagnosed in dogs five years of age or older. This is also known as Type II or adult-onset diabetes. There is a congenital form that occurs in puppies called Type I or juvenile diabetes, but this is rare in

What is keratoconjunctivitis sicca?
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a condition that is also commonly referred to as "dry eye." The medical term means inflammation of the cornea and surrounding tissues from drying.

There are a number of possible causes for dog coughing, and they range from not serious to life-threatening. Kennel Cough is a broad term covering any infectious or contagious condition in dogs where coughing is one of the major clinical signs. Several viruses and bacteria can cause kennel cough, often at the same time. These include adenovirus type-2 (distinct from the adenovirus type 1 that causes infectious hepatitis), parainfluenza virus, and the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica. Because the infection spreads when dogs are housed together, it is often seen soon after dogs have been in kennels, hence the name "kennel cough." Read on for answers to some common questions about dog coughing and Kennel Cough.

What does "Chronic Kidney Failure" mean?
Many people see the term "chronic kidney failure" and conclude that the kidneys have quit working and are not making urine. This is not the case. By definition, kidney failure is the inability of the kidneys to remove waste products from the blood. This term can be confusing because kidney failure doesn't mean the inability to produce urine. Ironically, most dogs in kidney failure produce large quantities of urine, but the body's wastes are not being effectively eliminated.

What is lameness?
Lameness refers to the disability of one or more limbs. It is most often associated with pain or injury resulting in a dog holding the injured limb up or avoiding using it. The most common causes of acute lameness in dogs are injury to a joint, bone fracture, or dislocation. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia also cause lameness in dogs. Lameness can affect dogs of any age, from growing puppies to senior dogs.

What is laryngeal paralysis?
The larynx or "voice box" is composed of a series of separate plates of cartilage that form a "box" in the throat. The stability of this box is maintained by the laryngeal muscles. When the nerves of these muscles become weak (paretic) or paralyzed, the muscles relax and the cartilages tend to collapse inwards.

What is Leishmaniasis?
Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by a protozoan parasite found in dogs and certain rodents in many parts of the world. It is an important disease because humans can also contract Leishmaniasis. There is no direct transmission from dog to man, or vice versa. You cannot become infected with Leishmaniasis from your dog.

The lens is the transparent structure within the eye that focuses light on the retina. It is a flattened sphere held in place by tiny ligaments around its circumference.

There are two main conditions affecting the lens: cataract formation and lens luxation.

What is leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease of dogs and other mammals that primarily affects the liver or kidneys. There are many species and serovars of Leptospira and the usual serovars that affect dogs are Leptospira canicola and Leptospira. icterohemorrhagiae. In recent years other species have become important in some areas. These include L. pomona, L. grippotyphosa, L. australis, and L. bratislava. There are other serovars that may infect dogs without apparently causing any signs or disease.

What is a lick granuloma?
Also known as acral lick dermatitis, this problem begins as an area of hair loss and reddened skin most commonly on the top of the wrist or carpal joint on the front legs. It often looks like a "hot spot." These differ from "hot spots" in that they persist despite treatment. They are often associated with chronic, persistent licking, especially when the pet is alone or when the family is sleeping.

What is cauda equina or lumbosacral syndrome?
Cauda equina or lumbosacral syndrome is a disease that occurs at the lumbosacral junction in the lower back. The term lumbo refers to the lumbar vertebrae. These are the bones in the lower part of the spinal column. The term sacral refers to the sacrum, which is the part of the spine that joins the lumbar spine and the pelvis.

 What is a luxating patella?
The patella, or knee cap, is normally located in the center of the knee joint. The term luxating means "out of place" or "dislocated." Therefore, a luxating patella is a knee cap that moves out of its normal location.

What is a diaphragmatic hernia?
The diaphragm is the muscular partition that separates the abdomen and the chest. Tearing or disruption of this thin muscle is called a diaphragmatic hernia or diaphragmatic rupture. The terms are often used synonymously. One form of diaphragmatic hernia, a peritoneal-pericardial diaphragmatic hernia (PPDH) is congenital, and is due to defective development of the fetus. This condition is most often found in puppies and should be considered separately from the traumatic type of diaphragmatic herniation or rupture. Congenital diaphragmatic hernias are a recognized problem in Weimaraners and cocker spaniels.

What causes diarrhea?
Diarrhea is not a disease but a symptom of many different diseases. Many mild cases of diarrhea can be resolved quickly with simple treatments. Others are the result of serious or life-threatening illnesses such as cancer. Even diarrhea caused by mild illnesses may become fatal if treatment is not begun early enough to prevent severe fluid and nutrient losses.

What is Lyme disease?
Lyme disease is caused by a spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi. A spirochete is a type of bacterium. It is transmitted to dogs through the bite of a tick. Once in the blood stream, the Lyme disease organism is carried to many parts of the body and is likely to localize in joints. It was first thought that only a few types of ticks could transmit this disease, but now it appears that several common species may be involved. The most common type of tick to carry Lyme disease is the Deer Tick.

What is malabsorption and bacterial overgrowth?
Bacterial overgrowth is a condition of the small intestine resulting in increased numbers of bowel bacteria. Of primary concern is small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

Why should I have my dog neutered?
Neutering should be considered if you are keeping any male dog as a pet. Remember that Guide Dogs for the Blind, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, and Dogs for the Disabled are all routinely neutered.

How common are ear infections in dogs?
Infection of the external ear canal (outer ear infection) is one of the most common types of infections seen in dogs. It is called otitis externa. Some breeds, particularly those with large, floppy, or hairy ears like Cocker Spaniels, Miniature Poodles or Old English Sheepdogs, are more prone to ear infections, but ear infections may occur in any breed.

What is a microchip?
A microchip is a tiny transponder, about the size of a grain of rice, that is encoded with a unique identification number. It is used for permanent identification. The technology is relatively recent, but is becoming widely available.

What is canine ehrlichiosis?
Ehrlichiosis is an infectious disease of dogs. It first gained attention as a significant disease when military dogs returning from Vietnam during the 1970’s were found to be infected. The disease seems to be particularly severe in German shepherds and Doberman pinchers.

What is the mitral valve?
The heart has four chambers. The upper chambers are called atria (the singular is atrium) and the lower chambers are called ventricles. The heart is also divided into right and left sides.

This condition is also known as Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, Legg-Perthes disease, Perthes disease, coxa plana, and aseptic or avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

What is Legg-Calve-Perthes disease?
The hip is a "ball and socket" joint. Necrosis or death of the femoral head means that the "ball" part of the joint is no longer properly functioning.

What is Orchidectomy?  
• Orchidectomy is the removal of one or both testicles.
• Neutering is a bilateral orchidectomy.

In recent years, veterinarians have made great progress in understanding how dogs feel pain and the best ways to manage that pain. Many dogs will instinctively hide their pain as a survival mechanism, which, in the past, led to incorrect assumptions about the ability of dogs to feel pain. Because we now understand more about how dogs feel pain, we now know how to recognize and manage it.

What is pancreatitis?
The pancreas is a vital organ which lies on the right side of the abdomen. It has two functions: 

1) To produce digestive enzymes that assist in food digestion

2) To produce hormones such as insulin 

When the pancreas becomes inflamed, the disorder is called pancreatitis. It is a disease process that is seen commonly in the dog. There is no age, sex, or breed predisposition.

What is pannus?
Pannus or chronic superficial keratitis is an immune-mediated condition affecting the cornea or clear part of the eye. It occurs primarily in middle-aged German Shepherd Dogs, but other breeds may also be affected.

When my dog was discharged from the hospital she was wearing a large plastic collar. Is this really necessary?
Elizabethan collars or E-collars are often used to prevent interference with any surgery site, wound, or dressings. It is natural for dogs to lick their wounds but this can seriously delay healing and result in infection or injury. It is important that a protective collar be used, especially when the dog is unattended and could inadvertently injure himself.

What is "parvo"?
Canine parvovirus (CPV) infection is a relatively new disease that appeared for the first time in dogs in 1978. Because of the severity of the disease and its rapid spread through the canine population, CPV has aroused a great deal of public interest. The virus that causes this disease is very similar to feline panleukopenia (feline distemper) and the two diseases are almost identical. Therefore, it has been speculated that the canine virus is a mutation of the feline virus. However, that has never been scientifically proven.

Medical emergencies occur suddenly and without warning. It is important for all dog owners to have a basic understanding of common veterinary medical emergencies and basic canine first aid.

What is pododermatitis?
Pododermatitis is a term used to describe inflammation of the feet or paws.

What is endocarditis?
Endocarditis refers to infection and inflammation of the heart endothelium, particularly the heart valves. It is also referred to as endocardiosis.

What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is derived from the Greek word epilepsia which means seizure or falling sickness. It is a brain disorder characterized by recurrent seizures in the absence of any known cause or abnormal brain lesion. In other words, the brain appears to be normal but functions abnormally.

What is a liver shunt?
The portal vein is a large vein that collects blood from the systemic circulation and carries it into the liver, where toxins and other byproducts are removed. A liver shunt occurs when an abnormal connection persists or forms between the portal vein or one of its branches, and another vein, allowing blood to bypass or shunt around the liver. In the majority of cases, a liver shunt is caused by a birth defect called a congenital portosystemic shunt. In some cases, multiple small shunts form because of severe liver disease such as cirrhosis. These are referred to as acquired portosystemic shunts.

What is the prostate?
The prostate (commonly mispronounced as "prostrate") is a gland located near the neck of the urinary bladder of male dogs. The urethra passes through it shortly after leaving the bladder. The purpose of the prostate is to produce some of the fluids found in semen.

What causes sarcoptic mange?
Sarcoptic mange is caused by a parasitic mite that burrows just beneath the surface of the skin, Sarcoptes scabiei. The mite feeds on material in and on the skin. It is also known as scabies and is a zoonotic disease or a disease transmissible from pets to people.

What is exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is the inability to produce sufficient pancreatic enzymes to digest fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. Because there is poor digestion and resulting malabsorption of nutrients, weight loss commonly occurs despite an increased appetite.

What is fading puppy syndrome?
Fading puppy syndrome is a term used to describe the situation where puppies are apparently normal at birth but gradually "fade" and die within the first two weeks of life. Normal pre-weaning losses in dogs, including stillborn puppies, can be up to thirty percent, with about half of these deaths occurring within the first week of life.

My dog always seems to have fleas. What can I do?
Successful flea control involves:

1. Eliminating fleas from your dog
2. Controlling fleas in the environment

What is canine hemorrhagic gastroenteritis?
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE) is an acute disorder of dogs characterized by vomiting and bloody diarrhea.

What is Giardia?
Giardia is sometimes confused with "worms" because they invade the gastrointestinal tract and can cause diarrhea. Giardia is a one-celled parasitic species classified as a protozoa.

What is pruritus?
Pruritus is the medical term for itching. It is common in many types of skin disorders. Itching and scratching are commonly associated with flea allergy dermatitis and other allergic skin diseases.

What is dilated cardiomyopathy?
Cardiomyopathy is defined as degeneration of the heart muscle. As a result of this degeneration, the muscle becomes thinner, particularly the thick muscle wall of the left ventricle. The pressure of the blood inside the heart causes these thin walls to stretch resulting in a much larger heart. This condition is described as Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM).

What is pyoderma?
Pyoderma is defined as a bacterial skin infection. It comes from the Greek words pyon, meaning "pus" and derma, meaning "skin." Pyoderma may also be referred to as impetigo, especially in puppies.

What is heart failure?
Heart failure is defined as the inability of the heart to maintain sufficient blood circulation to meet the body's needs. Heart failure usually describes a failure of the heart muscle (myocardial failure) or heart valve (mitral valve insufficiency or MVI). This can affect the right or the left ventricle. MVI is the most common cause of heart failure in dogs. MVI is more common in small breeds than large bre

Raising an orphaned puppy is a noble and rewarding experience. The bonding that occurs between you and the newborn pups during the first few days will likely last for many years. However, orphaned puppies are very fragile and raising them can be challenging. Do not be disappointed if you are unsuccessful. The fact that you are trying to help is often reward enough.

What is congestive heart failure?
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is a term that refers to the heart’s inability to pump adequate blood to the body. There are many causes of CHF in dogs. The two most common causes are mitral valve insufficiency (MVI) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

What is pyometra?
Pyometra is defined as an infection in the uterus. The uterus is also known as the womb and is where the developing fetus is located. It is a serious and life-threatening condition that must be treated promptly and aggressively.

What causes heartworm disease?
Heartworm disease or dirofilariasis is a serious and potentially fatal disease in dogs. It is caused by a blood-borne parasite called Dirofilaria immitis.

What is heat stroke?
Heat stroke is a term commonly used for hyperthermia or elevated body temperature. Generally speaking, if a pet’s body temperature exceeds 103°F (39.4°C), it is considered abnormal or hyperthermic. Body temperatures above 106°F (41°F) without previous signs of illness are most commonly associated with exposure to excessive external or environmental heat. The critical temperature where multiple organ failure and impending death occurs is 109°F (42.7°C).

What is Rabies?
Rabies is transmitted by a virus and is one of the most devastating diseases affecting mammals, including dogs and humans. The danger of a bite from a rabid dog was described in writings dated from the 23rd century BC.

After a walk through tall grass or the woods, it’s not uncommon to find a tick or two (or more!) on your dog. A tick infestation has the makings of a good horror movie: bloodsucking parasites lurking in the shadows, seeking out warm-blooded victims for their next meal. Unfortunately, this scene isn’t Hollywood fiction, and the next warm-blooded victim may be your dog. As such, dog owners should know how to identify and remove ticks and—better yet—how to prevent them from biting you and your dog in the first place. Read on for answers to common questions about dog ticks.

I know that children have tonsillitis, but I did not realize that dogs do too. Is it common?
Since dogs have tonsils, they can also develop tonsillitis. It is more common in small dog breeds than in large dogs.

What is a collapsing trachea?
The trachea, or windpipe, is the tube connecting the throat to the lungs. Small rings of cartilage along the tracheal wall maintain the tubal shape. In the dog, these rings do not completely encircle the windpipe, but go about 5/6 of the circumference. A thin membrane of tissue completes the circle. If the cartilage loses some of its turgidity or the membrane becomes slack and sags, the tracheal rings will flatten when air is drawn into the airway during inspiration. This is called tracheal collapse. It makes it difficult for air to get to the lungs.

I have been told I can have my female dog scanned to see if she is pregnant. What does this involve?
An ultrasound examination, also known as ultrasonography or echosonography, is an imaging technique that allows internal body structures to be seen by recording echoes of ultrasonic waves. Unlike x-rays, which are potentially dangerous, ultrasound waves are considered to be entirely safe.

What is urethral incontinence?
Urethral or urinary incontinence is the loss of voluntary control of urination. It is usually observed as involuntary urine leakage.

The uvea comprises the iris, the ciliary body, and the choroid within the eye. The choroid is the middle or vascular tunic or coat of the eye between the sclera – the fibrous protective outer coat (the white of the eye) – and the retina which is the light-sensitive surface within the eye.

My dog has been diagnosed with "reverse sneezing." What is it?
Some dogs have a condition known as paroxysmal respiration or, as it is more commonly called, "reverse sneezing." With this condition, the dog rapidly pulls air into the nose, whereas in a ’regular’ sneeze, the air is rapidly pushed out through the nose. The dog makes a snorting sound and seems to be trying to inhale while sneezing. 

One of a veterinarian’s greatest frustrations occurs when a dog develops a disease against which he has been vaccinated. There are five possible reasons for this.

What is ringworm and what causes it?
Ringworm or dermatophytosis is the common name given to a fungal infection of the superficial layers of the skin, hair, and nails. The name comes from the classical appearance of a C-shaped, red, raised ‘ring’ marking the boundary of inflammatory lesions of the infection in people. The fungi responsible for ringworm belong to a specialized group known as dermatophytes that can cause disease in both man and animals. There are many distinct species of dermatophytes. Some species only infect man or certain animals, whereas others can be spread from animals to man.

What is a vaccine?
The word vaccine comes from the discovery of an English country doctor, Dr. Edward Jenner. Dr. Jenner discovered that people given a preparation or vaccine of material from the common cattle disease, cowpox or vaccinia, developed only a mild skin infection, but when those vaccinated individuals were exposed to the deadly smallpox virus (a virus closely related to cowpox) they remained healthy. They were immune. More than one hundred years after Jenner’s findings, the great French scientist Louis Pasteur and his colleagues found that they could protect animals and people against a variety of diseases, including rabies, by administering injections of the infectious microorganism in an altered form. The two main alterations of these microorganisms were "inactivated vaccines" using killed virus or "attenuated vaccines" using still-living virus but changed into a harmless form.

Roundworms (nematodes or Ascarids) are intestinal parasites that live freely in the intestine, feeding off of partially digested intestinal contents. Their name is derived from their tubular or "round" shape.

What is a seizure?
Seizures are one of the most frequently seen neurological problems in dogs. A seizure is also known as a convulsion or fit.

What is vaginitis?
Vaginitis refers to inflammation of the vagina or vestibule.

What is skin fold pyoderma?
Pyoderma is the medical term for a bacterial skin infection. Skin fold pyoderma is one of the major forms of skin infection. One of the more common forms of skin infection is associated with acute moist dermatitis or "hot spots."

What is vestibular disease?
The vestibular system is responsible for maintaining normal balance.  It has central components located in the brain, and peripheral components located in the inner and middle ear. Vestibular disease refers to a sudden, non-progressive disturbance of balance. It is more common in older dogs. It is also referred to as canine geriatric vestibular syndrome and canine idiopathic vestibular syndrome.

My dog has been bitten by a snake. Will he die?
It depends on the species of snake. There are approximately three thousand species of snakes in the world with fewer than five hundred venomous species. In North America, there are about twenty-five species of venomous snakes. 

What is von Willebrand's disease?
Von Willebrand's disease (VWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder of both man and dogs. It is caused by a deficiency in the amount of a specific protein needed to help platelets, the blood cells used in clotting, and to seal broken blood vessels. The deficient protein is called von Willebrand factor.

Why should I have my dog spayed?
We recommend spaying all female pets. The benefits to your pet’s health and to help reduce the pet overpopulation crisis make this decision easier. It should be remembered that owners of Guide Dogs for the Blind, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, and Dogs for the Disabled routinely have their dogs spayed.

What is this problem?
Staphylococcus is a name of a group of bacteria commonly found on the skin. Dermatitis is a term that means inflammation of the skin. This condition is also referred to as Staphylococcal pyoderma or Staph. pyoderma. Pyoderma is a medical term for bacterial skin infection.

What are whipworms?
Whipworms are intestinal parasites which are about 1/4 inch (6 mm) long. They live in the cecum and colon of dogs where they cause severe irritation to the lining of those organs. This results in watery, bloody diarrhea, weight loss, and general debilitation. They are one of the most pathogenic worms found in dogs.

What is a gastrostomy tube?
A gastrostomy tube is a rubber feeding tube that enters the stomach through the skin. It goes directly into the stomach to deliver food and water to the patient.

Do dogs have strokes?
 "Strokes" or cerebral vascular accidents (CVA) are rare in dogs. A stroke is defined as a sudden interruption in blood supply to any part of the brain.

Administration of supplemental fluids can benefit dogs with a variety of medical conditions. Most commonly, this is recommended for dogs with kidney disease or chronic renal failure (CRF). We recommend that you learn this technique for your dog. Don’t be alarmed - it is normal to feel reluctance about administering any treatment to your pet. Giving injections is outside the comfort zone for almost anyone outside the medical professions. However, subcutaneous fluid administration is not nearly as difficult as it sounds. The benefits provided to your dog will make it well worth your time to learn this simple technique.

Your dog is recovering from major surgery, which requires continued nursing care at home to ensure a successful outcome. Your job during the recovery period at home is just as important as the surgical procedure just completed.

Canine lymphoma also called lymphosarcoma or malignant lymphoma, is one of the most common types of cancers that affects dogs. This type of dog cancer originates in lymph nodes or other organs that contain lymphoid tissue, such as the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Lymphoid tissue supplies lymphocytes—cells that contribute to immunity—to the blood. When a dog gets lymphoma, the abnormal cancer cells overtake the healthy ones, leading to deadly infection, anemia, and organ failure.

If your dog's lost his girlish figure, he's not alone. Obesity, or excessive body fat accumulation, is the most common nutritional disease of dogs. In fact, an estimated 30 percent to 50 percent of U.S. dogs are overweight.

Pancreatitis means inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas lies within the abdominal cavity beside the small intestine. It produces insulin for blood sugar regulation and many of the enzymes necessary for digestion. When the pancreas suffers an insult (trauma, inflammation, bacterial or viral infections), the digestive enzymes can activate while still within the pancreatic tissue. These enzymes start to digest the pancreas and cause pain and inflammation. Pancreatitis can result in mild symptoms or life-threatening disease. It can arise suddenly (acute pancreatitis) or become a recurrent or persistent disease (chronic pancreatitis).

Who ever dreamed that something as pure and delicious as chocolate could be toxic to dogs? In fact, a variety of medicines, plants, pest control products, antifreeze products, cleaning agents, and even foods can poison—and kill—dogs. The symptoms of poisoning are as varied as the dangers listed above. They include vomiting, diarrhea, labored or fast breathing, increased urination, excitability or lethargy, drooling, muscle tremors, seizures, and coma. Some affect the body within minutes—others may take a few days.

Pyometra, meaning "pus-filled uterus," is a life-threatening infection of the uterus that affects female dogs. It’s most common in unspayed dogs older than 6, and the condition is a medical emergency.

Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the brain, resulting in a wide range of symptoms. The rabies virus, which is present in saliva, is usually spread by animal bites and can infect any warm-blooded mammal, including people.

Despite its name, ringworm isn't actually a worm. It's a fungal infection of the hair, skin, and nails that affects all mammals, including dogs, cats and people. Different species of fungus cause ringworm, but Microsporum canis is the most common culprit in dogs.

Pyoderma is a general term for any bacterial skin infection. The infection can affect the skin's surface layers, the deeper layers, or the hair follicles. Bacteria normally live on the skin's surface, but natural defenses protect dogs against infection. Infections occur when those defenses break down, either from another skin disease or systemic illness.

Sarcoptic mange is an extremely irritating, highly contagious skin condition of dogs that occurs when microscopic female mites burrow into a dog's skin to lay their eggs.

After a walk through tall grass or the woods, it’s not uncommon to find a tick or two (or more!) on your dog. A tick infestation has the makings of a good horror movie: bloodsucking parasites lurking in the shadows, seeking out warm-blooded victims for their next meal. Unfortunately, this scene isn’t Hollywood fiction, and the next warm-blooded victim may be your dog. As such, dog owners should know how to identify and remove ticks and—better yet—how to prevent them from biting you and your dog in the first place.

Unfortunately, anthrax is being used as a method of bio-terrorism and dogs can be infected, as can most mammals. Birds are normally resistant to the disease. Different animals have different levels of susceptibility to anthrax infection. Herbivores (animals that eat plants, such as cattle, sheep, and horses) are the most susceptible to anthrax. Humans are also susceptible to anthrax, while dogs are less susceptible to infection. Under normal circumstances, cases of anthrax in dogs are very rare.

Arthritis is a complex condition involving inflammation of one or more joints. There are many causes of arthritis in dogs. In most cases, the degree of arthritis is related to the age of the animal.

Babesia infection or babesiosis refers to infection with a protozoal parasite from the species called Babesia. Merozoites or piroplasms are the stage of Babesia that invades mammalian red blood cells, causing anemia.

Bladder stones (uroliths or cystic calculi) are rock-like collections of minerals that form in the urinary bladder. They may occur as a large, single stone or as collections of stones the size of large grains of sand or gravel.

Blastomycosis is a fungal disease caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis. This fungus most commonly infects humans and animals through the respiratory tract. After the fungal spores are inhaled, they settle in the small airways and begin to reproduce. The organism then spreads throughout the body and may infect other organs. Rarely, infection occurs through contamination of an open wound.

Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening disorder most commonly seen in large, deep-chested dogs. The term refers to a gas-filled stomach (bloat) that then twists upon itself. It is a medical emergency that requires surgery to correct.

Many owners say that they will never leave their dog in a boarding kennel. However, situations may occur in which you are unable to take your dog with you.

What are tapeworms?
Tapeworms are flattened intestinal worms that are made up of many small segments, each about ¼ – ½ inch (3-5 mm) long. Unlike roundworms that live freely in the intestinal tract, tapeworms attach to the wall of the small intestine by hook-like mouthparts.

There are many causes of limping and lameness in young dogs. Most of these are relatively minor and will resolve without medical or surgical intervention. However, there are also causes that are more serious and, if not treated promptly, may result in permanent lameness or arthritis. The large breeds of dogs (typically dogs whose adult weight is over sixty pounds) have several bone diseases that occur during the period of rapid growth (up to two years of age).

How does tartar form, and what does it do?
Plaque is a gummy substance that forms on the teeth within a few hours after a meal. Within 24 hours, plaque hardens into tartar.

What is thrombocytopenia?
Thrombocytopenia is a decrease in the number of blood platelets or thrombocytes circulating in the blood.

Primary vaccination is essential in order to prevent the once-common puppyhood diseases that caused high levels of fatality from returning. However, recent research indicates that all vaccines may not require yearly booster vaccines.

What is campylobacter infection?
Campylobacter infection or Campylobacterosis is a bacterial intestinal infection cased by Campylobacter jejuni. It is a major cause of human bacterial enteritis, although it is a normal bacterium in the intestinal tract of many animals and birds.

Inside the eye is a lens that focuses light on the back of the eye, or the retina. Vision occurs at the retina. The structure of the eye is similar to a camera, which has a lens to focus light on the film. If the lens becomes opaque this is called a cataract.

Cervical stenosis is also known as cervical vertebral instability, cervical spondylopathy, or Wobbler syndrome. It is caused by compression of the spinal cord, usually at the base of the neck.

A cesarean section or c-section is major surgery performed to remove puppies from the uterus. Most dogs recover quickly from this procedure; however, if your dog was in labor for several hours before surgery was performed, her recovery will be slower, and she will need extra attention and help with her litter.

Cherry eye is a common term for prolapse of the third eyelid gland. Many mammals, including dogs, have an “extra” or third eyelid located inside the lower eyelid. This serves as an additional protective layer for the eye, especially during hunting or fighting. The third eyelid contains a gland that produces a significant portion of the tear film. When this gland prolapses or “pops out,” the condition is known as “cherry eye.”

Cheyletiellosis is a highly infectious skin parasite caused by Cheyletiella spp. mites. It is also referred to as “walking dandruff” due to the appearance of the large, whitish mites as they crawl across the skin and fur, and the excessive scaling that accompanies the infection.

In his prize-fight against cancer, my dog Sam is looking like a champ to me.

Sometimes, several people have to travel many miles to help one dog beat a dangerous disease.

My dog Sam’s report has returned from the lab: Six of his tumors were benign, but the seventh was a malignant plasmacytoma. The strategy of the doctors at the Center for Specialized Veterinary Care in Westbury, N.Y., is to remove any and all lumps before they have a chance to mutate into something fatal that could spread to Sam’s vital organs.

I waited a while before trying Neoplasene on my dog Sam. This powerful medicine made of alkaloids from the bloodroot plant is touted as an exciting new hope in the fight against cancer, but it’s also somewhat controversial: some veterinarians flat-out refuse to even consider it.

By now, you’d think my dog Sam would be getting suspicious. For the past two weeks, it’s been raining extra-special treats: hot dogs, pizza, falafel, liverwurst, cheddar cheese, burgers (both the meat and meatless variety).