Pet Health Articles
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Hepatic encephalopathy is a neurologic condition in cats and dogs that is caused by an underlying liver condition. It can cause lethargy, seizures, problems with balance and coordination, and coma. Common causes, methods to diagnose the condition, and its treatment options are explained in this handout.
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This handout explains hepatic microvascular dysplasia, a condition where microscopic blood vessels within the liver are underdeveloped or absent, resulting in decreased blood flow to the liver. As a result, the liver is less capable of dealing with toxins or producing the vital proteins needed for good health. Methods to diagnose the condition and its treatment options are also explained.
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Hiatal hernia refers to the protrusion of the abdominal contents into the chest cavity through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm. In most veterinary patients hiatal hernias appear to be congenital. Diagnosis is based on medical history, clinical signs, and X-rays (radiographs).
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The most common cause of hip dislocation is blunt force trauma such as a fall or an automobile injury. Most dogs with a hip dislocation will have severe hind limb lameness and pain and may not be able to put any weight on the affected limb. A diagnostic radiograph will show the direction of dislocation and whether a fracture of any part of the hip joint has occurred. In many cases, it is possible to replace the femoral head in the acetabulum by manipulation under general anesthesia. If the femoral head has been successfully replaced and the correct post-operative treatment has been adhered to, it is unlikely that the hip will dislocate again.
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Hip dysplasia is a deformity of the hip that occurs during growth. The result is laxity of the joint, followed by degenerative joint disease (DJD) or osteoarthritis (OA), which is the body's attempt to stabilize the loose hip joint. Hip dysplasia is a genetic disease that is affected by factors such as diet, environment, exercise, growth rate, muscle mass, and hormones. It is predominantly seen in larger dogs. Treatment depends upon the pet's clinical signs and amount of discomfort the pet is in.
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Histoplasmosis is an infection caused by histoplasma, a fungus found in moist soils and especially prevalent around the Ohio, Mississippi, Missouri, and St. Lawrence rivers, as well as the southern Great Lakes and Alberta. Fungal spores are inhaled or ingested and cause infection in many sites including the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, eyes, joints, and spleen. This handout outlines signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Histoplasmosis is transmissible to humans, especially if they are immunocompromised.
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Urticaria, or hives, is a skin condition characterized by raised red skin welts caused by direct contact with a substance that causes an allergic reaction. These substances include insect bites, food, pollens, molds, vaccinations, and medications. If the swelling progresses to the throat, breathing can be compromised and result in a medical emergency called anaphylaxis. Injectable antihistamines and corticosteroids usually bring about a dramatic improvement, sometimes in as little as a few minutes.
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Taking care of a paralyzed pet comes with many challenges. This handout reviews the needs of a paralyzed pet and how an owner can help them at home.
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Horner's syndrome is a common neurological disorder of the eye and facial muscles and can occur suddenly. Horner's syndrome is caused by dysfunction of the sympathetic nerves of the eyes and surrounding facial muscles. It may be due to an injury such as a bite wound or blunt trauma, a tumor, intervertebral disc disease, or middle or inner ear disease. If an underlying cause can be identified, treatments will target that issue; however, many cases spontaneously recover after some time.
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Canine hot spots are red, inflamed skin lesions that appear quickly, ooze, and may contain pus. They are the result of a dog excessively scratching, licking, or chewing at an itch. There are several possible underlying causes of the itch and it is crucial to determine what it is to successfully treat the problem. This handout explains these possible causes and the treatment(s) required to resolve them.