Recently, I was asked to write a blog about how to help dogs lose weight. Here are my recommendations: 1) Exercise – As my professor in veterinary college wisely noted; “If the dog is overweight, the owner needs more exercise.” Start out slowly with low impact activities and add five minutes every week. Before starting, check …
Author Archives: kristennelsondvm
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Call your veterinarian right away. These spider bites can be very painful in addition to causing serious reactions. Without knowing your dog and her medical history, I can only general advice. Your veterinarian will be able to help you with exact doses of medications. Do not delay!
Comment on Welcome To Ask The Vet
dog got bit by wolf spider and her face swelled. What can we do?
Wild Toucans at Iguassu Falls
One of the highlights of my trip to South America, was Iguassu Falls. This is one of our world’s most spectacular sites. It is located on the borders of Brazil and Argentina and is near Paraguay too. Fortunately, the falls are located in a large park system that protects the beauty of the falls, as well as, the surrounding ecosystem. …
Preventative Care for Therapy Dogs Interacting with Young Children
Humans derive many health benefits from interacting with animals. Unfortunately, animals carry a few diseases that can be transmitted to people. These zoonotic diseases are most common in young children who haven’t learned the importance of good hygiene. I worry the most about toddlers who seem to put everything into their mouths. Here are my recommendations for dog …
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Veterinary, Medical & Dental College
One of my greatest joys the past several years has been assisting young people pursue their dream of professional school. This is the time of year when college juniors who aspire to Veterinary College, Medical College and Dental College face the prospect of writing a personal statement (also called the personal comments essay). This is …
Aloe Vera for Animals
Aloe vera has been used to treat skin conditions in humans and animals for many years. Although there are a lot of personal testimonies regarding its therapeutic effects, I have not found many controlled research studies to back up the claims – until now. Dr. Mahsa Tarameshloo and colleagues conducted a study comparing aloe vera to …
Ginger for Animals
When I hear the word ginger, I automatically think of gingersnaps and gingerbread houses. But there is far more to ginger that simply using it as a spice. Ginger may be used to treat nausea and promote digestion. It is thought to act by reducing stimulation within the gastrointestinal tract thereby blocking nausea signals to the brain. I recommend …
Flamingos at Parque das Aves
In April, I had the privilege of visiting Parque das Aves, a bird park located in Iguassu Falls, Brasil. This park is dedicated to four core principles: 1) Rescue and shelter 2) Reproduction of native species 3) Reforestation 4) Environmental education. While touring the facilities, I encountered an exhibit of flamingos. I was surprised to …
You Make The Diagnosis: Swelling In A Puppy With Parvo
Finn, is an 8 week old mixed breed puppy who presented for severe vomiting and diarrhea. Testing revealed that he had parvovirus, a severe viral infection in dogs. Finn was hospitalized for intensive care including I.V. fluids, antibiotics, medication to help with the nausea and more medication to protect his gastrointestinal system. Finn continued to vomit and had large amounts of bloody …
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