Hypothyroidism in Basset Hounds

Have you heard of people with hypothyroidism? It’s usually associated with weight gain and once diagnosed, medication can help set things straight and bring weight back to a normal level. Did you know this can happen to dogs like the Basset Hound? Hypothyroidism is a condition that causes a deficiency in hormones T4 and T3, which is why it is sometimes referred to as a Thyroid Hormone Deficiency. The lack of hormones T4 and T3 causes the body’s metabolism to go haywire so to speak. If your dog has hypothyroidism then he may shows symptoms like lethargy, weakness, unexplained weight gain, hair loss, excessive shedding, poor hair growth, mental dullness, skin infections, intolerance to cold, tilting of the head to one side and even seizures or infertility. Some cases are seen in medium sized dogs between 4 to 10 years of age although it can happen to any dog no matter the age or breeding. Talk to your veterinarians Downingtown, PA for more information.

Can Gerbils Choke?

Have you ever owned a gerbil? How about now? Gerbils are a lot of fun and great pocket pets. They have big appetites for such little creatures too. Sometimes a gerbil may try to eat his food too fast and end up choking on his meal. Most of the time the gerbil will be able to cough and clear his own airways. Sometimes, however, your gerbil may choke pretty bad. If this happens, give your vet a call right away. Signs of choking include coughing, liquid coming from the mouth or nose, or gagging like noise. Your vet may give you instructions to help your gerbil immediately by gently tapping your gerbil on the back in much the same way you do a child or infant when choking. Always double check instructions with your vet and take your gerbil in for a follow up with your animal hospital Downingtown, PA.