Removing Urinary Stones With Lithotripsy In Dogs

Lithotripsy is an alternative to surgery for removing urinary stones (uroliths) in dogs. For this procedure, the dog is placed under general anesthesia. Next, an endoscope is passed up the urethra to the stone. Once it is in the correct area, a laser is fed through the scope into contact with the stone. Energy from the …

Struvite Urinary Stones in Dogs

Struvite is the common name for magnesium ammonium phosphate uroliths (stones) found in dogs. These stones may occur anywhere in the urinary tract including the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder and urethra. Struvite stones often form when the dog has a urinary tract infection with bacteria that produce urease. This enzyme leads to over production of …

Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s Disease) in Dogs

Hypoadrenocorticism or Addison’s Disease is a serious health problem that can cause death if left untreated. In this disease, the adrenal glands fail to produce two very important hormones, cortisol and aldosterone. Cortisol is the stress hormone important for regulating heart rate and blood pressure. Aldosterone is the hormone that regulates electrolyte levels. Without aldosterone, levels of sodium plummet while potassium surges. Without …

ReliOn N Insulin For Dogs

Now that Walmart is offering an NPH insulin (RelinOn) for approximately $25.00 a vial, I am getting questions from some people wanting to switch their pets to save money. Unfortunately, not all insulin is the same which means switching may not save money. Let me explain: There are many types of insulin used in human and veterinary …

Weight Loss and Poor Appetite in Elderly Cats

Weight loss and/or poor appetite is a common problem in elderly cats. A cat who used to be a good eater suddenly becomes selective, refusing to eat any food consistently. Concerned owners try all kinds of foods including a variety of canned and dry food, human baby food and home cooking. Unfortunately, the results are disappointing, the cat will …

2014 Desert Dog K9 Police Trials

Next weekend, April 12th & 13th, 2014 is the Desert Dog K9 Police Trials. Spectators are allowed to watch the protection work held at Scottsdale Civic Stadium. Starting at 9am, watch dogs from the military, police, hospital and private security firms, show off their skills. My favorite part is a drill called the ‘recall’ (First Image) because it gives …