Articles
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This handout explains syringomyelia and Chiari-like malformation in dogs, in which fluid-filled cavities in the spinal cord develop, leading to an abnormal sensation in affected dogs. The clinical signs of the condition, along with diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis, are described.
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Systemic hypertension describes high blood pressure throughout the body. Hypertension in dogs is often due to an underlying disease (secondary hypertension). When there is no underlying disease, it is called primary hypertension. The course of hypertension in dogs, and treatment, depends on the underlying cause. Signs, treatment, and prognosis are discussed.
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Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an immune-mediated disease that causes the immune system to see the body’s own cells and related matter as foreign substances. The dog’s immune system mistakenly starts to attack parts of its own body instead of protecting it.
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Telmisartan (brand name Semintra) is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure in cats and off-label to treat kidney disease in both cats and dogs. This medication is given by mouth in the form of a liquid or tablet.
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Diarrhea can be a simple diagnosis or a complex one. A thorough history and physical exam may be enough to determine the cause; however, in less obvious cases, various tests may be needed. Pending the results, a treatment plan can be developed.
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Various conditions can cause increased thirst (polydipsia) and urination (polyuria). Based on your pet's history and a thorough physical examination, your veterinarian will recommend diagnostic testing to determine the cause. This handout describes several tests that can be performed along with the conditions the results from these tests may indicate.
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A pet with vomiting may suffer from an isolated incident, or it could be a sign of more severe problems. If the cause for vomiting is not obvious from history and examination, screening tests may be done to eliminate possible causes and determine a treatment plan. Results can also provide a prognosis for recovery and long-term outlook.
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Weakness can be caused by many different problems and can involve a variety of body systems. Finding the cause of your pet’s weakness starts with a complete history and physical examination. The most commonly recommended screening tests for weakness include complete blood count, serum biochemistry profile, urinalysis, and in a dog, total thyroxine. Additional tests may be recommended based on the results of these screening tests.
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Tetanus is a medical condition caused by a toxin. This toxin affects the nerves, spinal cord and brain, leading to hyperexcitability, resulting in muscle spasms. Dogs are less susceptible to the effects of tetanus toxin than humans and horses.
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Nutrition plays an essential role in treating and preventing urinary stones (uroliths). Since the diet can affect urine dilution, composition and pH, pet foods can be critical to the success or failure of treatment and prevention. Important factors are covered, such as the importance of water intake, diet composition, relative supersaturation (RSS) testing, and urinary diets.