When a dog experiences acute limping on a back leg, it's crucial to seek veterinary advice promptly. The vet's approach includes: Initial Assessment: Gathering history on the onset and nature of the limping. Physical Examination: Analyzing gait, palpating the leg for signs of pain or swelling, and checking joint mobility. Diagnostic Imaging: Using X-rays, and potentially MRI or CT scans, to diagnose issues like fractures, ligament injuries, or other internal problems. Common Causes and Treatments: Trauma: Might need surgical repair or conservative management like rest. Strains/Sprains: Treated with rest, medication, and therapy. IVDD: Requires rest or surgery depending on severity. Infections/Inflammation: Managed with medication. Management: Includes pain relief, physical therapy, and weight management. Immediate vet care is necessary if severe symptoms are present. Preventive measures like regular vet visits and weight control are also advised to minimize future risks. Read more

Dogs eating grass is a common and often perplexing behavior for pet owners. Here's a summary of the key points from the veterinary community regarding this behavior: Digestive Aid: While some suggest dogs eat grass to induce vomiting or aid digestion, studies show this isn't the primary reason for most dogs. Fiber Intake: Grass can provide dietary fiber, potentially helping dogs with digestion, particularly if their diet lacks enough roughage. Nutritional Deficiency: Although less common, dogs might eat grass due to a lack of certain nutrients in their diet, though this is more debated since most commercial dog foods are balanced. Boredom or Anxiety: Grass consumption can be a sign of boredom or a coping mechanism for anxiety, especially in understimulated dogs. Parasite Control: Historically linked to expelling parasites, this theory is less relevant today with modern parasite treatments. Natural Behavior: It might be an inherited behavior from wild canids who consume grass for various reasons, including nutrition or intestinal cleansing. While grass eating is generally harmless: Caution with Chemicals: Grass treated with pesticides or herbicides can be harmful. Excessive Consumption: Overconsumption can lead to blockages or other health issues. Frequent Vomiting: If grass eating frequently leads to vomiting, it might signal an underlying condition. In summary, grass eating in dogs is mostly a benign behavior, possibly linked to natural instincts, dietary needs, or psychological factors. However, if it's excessive or accompanied by symptoms like lethargy or diarrhea, a vet visit is recommended to check for any health issues. Read more

This blog post addresses the persistent issue of fleas for pet owners, explaining why over-the-counter flea products often fail and providing a straightforward, effective strategy to eliminate and prevent fleas: - **Flea Problem**: Fleas are common and troublesome for pets, with many owners finding over-the-counter treatments inadequate due to issues like short duration of action and incomplete adult flea kill. - **Solution**: The blog advocates for a simple four-step method: 1. **Get Effective Products**: Buy monthly flea prevention from a veterinarian. 2. **Treat All Pets**: Ensure all pets in the household are treated, including dogs, cats, and rabbits. 3. **Follow Instructions**: Administer the product as directed, typically once every 30 days. 4. **Consistency**: Continue monthly treatment without fail. - **Recommended Products**: It lists effective prescription products for dogs (Simparica, Credelio, NexGard) and cats (Revolution Plus, Credelio, Cheristin). - **Effectiveness**: Following these steps will eradicate fleas within 3 months, with significant reduction starting in 24 hours. - **Cost-Effectiveness**: Despite the initial cost, veterinary products are more cost-effective over time than ineffective over-the-counter solutions. - **Final Advice**: The blog encourages strict adherence to these steps to achieve a flea-free life for pets. Read more

Ultrasound can be a useful tool in diagnosis, treatment and prevention for your pet. Read more

What is Leptospirosis?  Why is my veterinarian asking me to vaccinate my dog for this disease? One of the most common questions during a  veterinary visit is “what is that for?” Read more