Library
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The most common disorder of the thyroid gland in dogs is hypothyroidism. Diagnosis of hypothyroidism includes a complete blood count, biochemistry profile, urinalysis, and thyroid-related hormones. Mild anemia, elevated cholesterol and mildly elevated liver and kidney enzymes are supportive of a diagnosis of hypothyroidism. A combination of clinical signs and measurements of total T4, free T4 by equilibrium dialysis, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is generally used to confirm a diagnosis.
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Thyroid tumors can be benign or malignant and functional or non-functional. In dogs, they are usually malignant and non-functional, whereas in cats, they are usually benign and functional. A swelling in the neck may be the only sign in a dog; however, a change in bark, coughing, difficulty swallowing, facial swelling, rapid breathing, breathlessness, weight loss, and a loss of appetite are possible. In cats, the signs are related to excess thyroid hormone production (hyperthyroidism). Thyroid tumors are diagnosed with a physical examination, bloodwork, various forms of diagnostic imaging, and in dogs, a tissue biopsy. In dogs, staging is required to determine the presence of spread. A variety of treatment options are available.
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Ticks are parasites that feed on the blood of their host and can in turn transmit diseases to your pets or even you. They are prolific breeders, and their life cycles can extend through multiple seasons. Prompt removal or use of preventatives limit or prevent the spread of disease or kill the ticks.
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Helping your pet lose weight may be challenging at first, but with a little patience and persistence, you can be successful. Research has shown that small amounts of weight loss help improve the quality of life for overweight pets: they feel better, move easier, play more often, and live healthier lives. This handout focuses on commonly asked questions and tips for owners to help their overweight pet successfully achieve some weight loss.
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Toad poisoning occurs when a dog is exposed to the toxins secreted by certain species of toads. The two most common species of toads that cause poisoning in the United States are the cane or marine toad and the Colorado River or Sonoran desert toad. While there are toads in Canada that secrete toxic substances, their effects are much less severe than the toxins secreted by the cane or Sonoran desert toads. Death can occur quickly and immediate treatment is required.
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Tobramycin ophthalmic is an antimicrobial medication used to treat eye infections in cats, dogs, and exotic companion animals. Tobramycin ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop suspension form. Caution when using this medication in pets with kidney disease and/or glaucoma. Do not confuse this medication with combination products containing tobramycin and a steroid.
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Toceranib phosphate is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat mast cell tumors and other cancers in cats and dogs. Common side effects include diarrhea, decreased or lack of appetite, lameness, or weight loss. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, are breeding, pregnant, or lactating, are less than 24 months old, weigh less than 11 lbs (5 kg), or that are having or have had surgery in the past 2 weeks. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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The tonsils are similar to lymph nodes, and the role of both of these structures is to fight infection. There is a pair of tonsils located in small pouches at the back of the throat that enlarge during infection or inflammation. Tonsillitis usually occurs as a result of another disease that affects the mouth or throat. If an underlying source of the infection can be found, it must be treated.
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Tooth resorption in dogs is a painful condition with no known cause. It is categorized into two types with subcategories of each: internal or external. Tooth resorption is usually only visible on intraoral radiographs. Although the premolars of the lower jaw are most affected, lesions can be found affecting any tooth. Signs and treatment are discussed.
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A tooth root abscess develops when bacteria enter the exposed root canal of the tooth. The abscess may leak directly into the oral cavity or may leak out onto the skin. A tooth root abscess is painful and must be treated as soon as possible. Signs and diagnosis are discussed. Treatment options include root canal therapy or extraction.
