Articles
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Icterus is also known as jaundice. It is an excessive accumulation of a yellow pigment called bilirubin in the blood and tissues, most easily seen in the gums and whites of the eyes. Icterus can be caused by hemolysis, liver disease, or obstruction of the bile duct. Your veterinarian will perform screening tests to determine the root cause of icterus.
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Foreign body obstruction is a common and potentially life-threatening condition in veterinary practice. Some foreign bodies pass through the intestinal tract, but if an obstruction occurs, surgical removal of the blocked object is the only treatment.
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Bee stings and bites from spiders, fleas, and ticks are the most common causes of insect bite reactions in pets. Insect bites can cause mild to severe allergic reactions in many dogs. Fortunately, most reactions are minor and have an excellent prognosis for recovery. Treatment typically involves antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs.
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This handout discusses lens luxation in dogs. The lens is the transparent structure within the eye that focuses light on the retina. Lens luxation is when the support ligaments of the lens weaken or break, causing the lens to dislocate from its normal position. The various types, clinical signs, heredity of the condition, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis are outlined.
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Macadamia nuts are edible for humans, but even a few nuts are poisonous for dogs. They can also result in pancreatitis, due to their high fat content. This handout outlines signs, treatment, and prognosis for macadamia nut poisoning.
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Macrocyclic lactones are a class of deworming medication, including ivermectin, milbemycin, and moxidectin. They are frequently used as large animal dewormers and are found in many heartworm preventatives for dogs and cats, in small doses. Poisoning occurs when a dog receives or accidentally ingests a medication dose that is too high. Early intervention is key to successful treatment.
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This handout discusses meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, in dogs. The numerous potential causes, along with the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of the condition are outlined.
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Metaldehyde is a chemical commonly found in slug and snail baits. Poisoning occurs when pets ingest it, even in very small amounts. Signs generally appear within a few minutes and up to three hours after ingestion. Prognosis is good with aggressive treatment.
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Mole and gopher baits are poisonous products that are often flavored to attract unwanted pests. If a dog or cat ingests one, it can cause significant illness in your pet. The most common active ingredients used in mole and gopher baits are zinc phosphide and bromethalin. There is no antidote, so decontamination within an appropriate time is key to a good outcome.
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Mothballs are solid pesticides that slowly release a vapor to kill and repel moths, their larvae, and other insects from stored clothing and fabric. Mothballs contain a high concentration of insect repellent, and poisoning can occur when dogs ingest mothballs.