Library
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This article reviews the advantages and limitations of the different food forms available for dogs, including dry, canned, and semi-moist foods. Dry food, or kibble, is easy to portion control and can be fed in puzzle toys. Canned food is a good option but more expensive than kibble and does not last as long once opened. Semi-moist foods are generally not recommended as the main diet due to their high sugar and sodium content, as well as difficulty with portioning. Feeding a combination of canned and dry daily is an option and can help with acceptance of a variety of textures later in life.
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E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices used to create and inhale an aerosol composed of nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. If a companion animal ingests an e-liquid, signs of nicotine poisoning occur rapidly. The nicotine associated with e-cigarettes, even without tobacco, poses a serious health threat to dogs and cats.
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Ear canal tumors are abnormal growths that can develop from any part of the ear canal (the skin, the glands of the skin that produce earwax and oil, and the underlying connective tissues, muscles, and bones). Initially, these tumors may appear as one or more pink, white, or purple nodular masses in the ear canal. If benign, they may grow to a certain size and may or may not be problematic. If malignant, they may grow, ulcerate (break open) and bleed, and nearly always become infected, causing recurrent or chronic ear infections. The treatment of choice for ear canal tumors is surgical excision.
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Infection of the external ear canal (outer ear infection) is called otitis externa and is one of the most common types of infections seen in dogs. Some breeds, particularly those with large, floppy, or hairy ears (e.g., Cocker Spaniels, Miniature Poodles, Old English Sheepdogs, etc.), are more prone to ear infections, but they can occur in any breed. Nearly all ear infections that are diagnosed and treated can be successfully managed. However, if an underlying cause remains unidentified and untreated, the outcome will be less favorable.
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The ear mite is a surface mite that lives on cats, dogs, rabbits, and ferrets. It is usually found in the ear canal but it can also live on the skin surface. Mites are barely visible to the naked eye. Clinical signs of infestation vary in severity and may include ear irritation, leading to scratching at the ears or head shaking, dark waxy or crusty discharge from the ear, areas of hair loss resulting from self-trauma, a crusted rash around or in the ear, and an aural hematoma. Your veterinarian will advise you about which insecticidal products are suitable. Your veterinarian may want to re-examine your pet to ensure that the mites have been eliminated after the initial treatment has been performed.
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Echinacea is given by mouth and is used over the counter and off label to improve immune system function and reduce inflammation. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting and diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Echinococcosis refers to being infected with a tapeworm of the genus Echinococcus and is primarily a parasite of coyotes and foxes. Infected dogs are usually asymptomatic, but in both dogs and humans the parasite can cause large cysts to form within the lungs and liver. E.multilocularis is treated with praziquantel and in most cases the prognosis is good.
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Eclampsia in dogs is an emergent condition of hypocalcemia that generally occurs one to four weeks after whelping but can also occur shortly before giving birth. Risk factors include a poor diet, small breed dogs, abnormal parathyroid gland, and calcium supplementation during pregnancy. Signs of eclampsia start as restlessness, panting, and stiffness and can progress to disorientation, tremors, inability to walk, and convulsions. Treatment includes intravenous fluids, careful intravenous calcium supplementation, and other supportive medications. This is followed by oral supplementation and weaning puppies as soon as possible or supplementing their diet with milk replacer.
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Ectopic cilia can be an irritating eye problem for many dogs. Growing abnormally through the conjunctiva (the pink part of the eye), they come into contact with the cornea and can cause chronic discomfort to the eye and corneal ulceration. Surgery is necessary to help to correct the problem and help dogs live a more comfortable life. The prognosis for surgical correction of this condition is generally good.
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An ectopic ureter is an anatomical defect that is present at birth in some dogs. In a dog with ectopic ureters, the ureters do not attach to their normal location in the bladder. Dogs with ectopic ureters may dribble urine or be prone to frequent bladder infections. Signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis are discussed.
