Articles
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Pyothorax is the presence of inflammatory fluid or pus within the chest cavity, usually caused by a bacterial infection. This handout outlines causes, signs, treatment, and prognosis.
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Pyrethrin insecticides are naturally derived from the Chrysanthemum flower, and pyrethroids are the synthetic versions. Pyrethroids are commonly found in products around the home for insect control, as well as topical flea and tick preventives. The use of pyrethrins and pyrethroids is generally safe in dogs, but cats and fish are very sensitive to these products.
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Sago palms are highly toxic to dogs and cats. They naturally occur in warmer areas of the United States and serve as indoor decor in many colder climates. All parts of the sago palm are poisonous, but the seeds (nuts) are the most toxic to pets. As with all poisoning cases, early detection and treatment increases the rate of success.
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Salmon poisoning is a bacterial infection that occurs when dogs eat raw or undercooked salmon, trout, steelhead, or Pacific giant salamanders infected with a parasitic flatworm that is infected with a particular bacteria. If the infection is not treated, most dogs will die within two weeks.
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Seizures and syncope are commonly confused with one another due to similarities in the appearance of these episodes. Both present with collapse but there are several details, explained in this handout, that can differentiate between them, which is important for determining treatment. The prognosis for each condition varies depending on the underlying causes.
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A seizure, also known as a convulsion or fit, is a temporary, involuntary disturbance of normal brain function. If abnormal brain activity occurs in the motor cortex of the brain, it may cause uncontrollable muscle activity. Epilepsy involves repeated seizures that may occur alone or in clusters. Seizures are one of the most frequently reported neurological conditions in dogs.
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Shar-Pei recurrent fever syndrome is a hereditary condition that affects nearly one in four Shar-Pei dogs. Affected dogs experience recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation, with no identifiable underlying cause. Recurrent fever episodes can lead to increasing amounts of amyloid being deposited in the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure over time.
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Skunks spray volatile compounds from their anal sacs if they feel threatened by a potential predator such as a dog. If sprayed in the face your dog may need veterinary care, as corneal damage can occur if sprayed in the eyes, and vomiting, diarrhea, or anemia can result if sprayed in the mouth.
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Smoke inhalation injuries are caused by a combination of heat and airborne toxins. Clinical signs of smoke inhalation vary, depending on the materials contained within the smoke and how much smoke the dog inhales. Common signs include coughing, shortness of breath, eye injuries, and burns. Neurologic signs can also occur, especially in cases of carbon monoxide inhalation. Treatment typically involves oxygen therapy and other supportive care measures.
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The most common venomous snakes in North America include rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths, and coral snakes. Clinical signs vary, but generally there is extensive swelling that often spreads rapidly. Venomous snakebites are medical emergencies requiring immediate attention.