Veterinarian, Speaker & Author
There are many orthopedic conditions in dogs that have a genetic basis. Pictured below are the front legs of a mixed breed dog. This happy-go-lucky guy has a unique confirmation of his front legs. Study the image and then answer the following questions: 1) What is the name of this condition? 2) What breed is …
Continue reading “You Make The Diagnosis: Orthopedic Condition in Dogs”
A thorough examination of the mouth should be part of every physical examination of all animals. I never know what to expect when I lift the lip or open a pet’s mouth. Recently, I lifted the upper lip of a dog and found severe dental disease. The upper incisors were infected and the gum had …
On January 8, 2014, the Arizona Department of Agriculture announced vesicular stomatitis was diagnosed in two horses living in Santa Cruz County, Arizona. This viral disease causes painful blisters and ulcers on the mouth, nose and tongue of horses. In cattle, it also affects the hooves and udder. The virus may infect people causing flu-like …
Continue reading “Two Horses Confirmed with Vesicular Stomatitis Virus in Arizona”
One of the most devastating side effects of diabetes mellitus in dogs is blindness from cataracts. In dogs with normal sugar metabolism, glucose in the lens is metabolized by an enzyme called hexokinase into small molecules that diffuse out of the lens. When the glucose levels are high, hexokinase cannot keep up and the excess …
Continue reading “Prevention of Cataracts in Dogs with Diabetes Mellitus”
Several months ago, I performed an annual exam on a lovely Chihuahua mix. This handsome boy let me look in his mouth, listen to his heart and feel his abdomen. Look at the picture below and then answer the following questions: What is wrong with this dog’s eyes? Does it affect his vision? List some …
Continue reading “You Make The Diagnosis: Cloudy Eyes in a Dog”
Pets love their people unconditionally. As a veterinarian, I see their unconditional love displayed in a variety of ways. Most of my patients still like me even after an uncomfortable treatment. I am amazed by how many dogs wag their tail for me after I vaccinate them. Cats often rub their faces on me and purr …
Continue reading “Unconditional Love from Pets – A Tribute to Mat the Cat”
The two most common health problems I see in dogs are dental disease and obesity. In Arizona, the hot summer weather keeps people and dogs indoors. The lack of exercise packs on the pounds. Most dogs come into the clinic 3 to 5 pounds heavier every fall then slowly lose the extra weight over the …
Thanksgiving is a time for celebration. Unfortunately, it is a time for pet accidents as well. The family dog escapes while guests unload their cars and leave the front door open. The family cat burns their fur on a holiday candle. Here are my tips for keeping animals safe during the holidays. 1) Keep purses and …
When I see a puppy for their first post adoption visit, the family often asks me to determine the pup’s age. Since weight and size are dependent on nutrition, I use teeth instead. Here are the guidelines I use for determining age in puppies: Please note that baby teeth are also called deciduous teeth. 2-3 weeks – …
When I see a kitten for their first post adoption visit, the family often asks me to determine the kitten’s age. Since weight and size are dependent on nutrition, I use teeth instead. Here are the guidelines I use for determining age in kittens: Please note that baby teeth are also called deciduous teeth. 3-4 weeks old-Deciduous incisors …