Thursday, 16 January 2020

How to Diagnose Epilepsy in Dogs


If you have noticed seizures and convulsions in your dog recently, please contact your vet immediately. Your dog may be having some type of epileptic episodes, but your veterinarian will need to examine the dog and make that call. Seizures may occur as a result of miscommunication of neurons in the brain. Your vet will need to run a few tests to determine if this is the case in your dog’s situation. Providing your vet with a quick health history as well as an account of what your dog was doing before the seizure occurred can help determine a possible cause. In some cases a neurological exam may be required. Laboratory tests and X-rays are often part of the examination process. In some instances, a direct cause for the seizure is unknown and considered idiopathic or genetic. In other cases, there may be a treatable cause identified. Your vet clinic Sarasota, FL can tell you more. Schedule an appointment here: https://sarasotaanimalmedical.com/

Signs of Bloat in Dogs



Canine bloat is also referred to as Gastric Dilation-Volvulus. This is a common illness in dogs that is almost always fatal due to the severity of the illness and the complexity of the treatment. Bloat can affect dogs of all ages, breeds, sizes, male or female. Bloat occurs when an irregular amount of gas, food or fluid builds up in the stomach causing it to expand. Contributing factors and causes include stress, anxiety, eating too quickly or eating too soon after activity. Typical signs of bloat may include unsuccessful attempts to vomit, abnormal behavior, anxiety, restlessness, hunched up appearance (as if in stomach pain), no normal digestive sounds in the stomach, bloated or tight abdomen, whining, pacing, foaming at the mouth, drooling, unsuccessful attempts to defecate or poop, heavy breathing, excessive drinking, weakness, and even collapse. To learn more, give your pet clinic Sarasota, FL a call.

Wednesday, 15 January 2020

Arthritis versus Osteoarthritis in Cats


Cats will most likely experience some type of arthritis in their lifetime. If they don’t develop it at a young age then you may not see it until their senior years. Arthritis and Osteoarthritis are different types of joint related illnesses that may develop. Another term for Osteoarthritis is Degenerative Joint Disease otherwise known as DJD. So what’s the difference between these illnesses? Arthritis may develop at various ages. It often shows up in cats that have trouble walking or getting up and down. Your cat may also lose balance and coordination. This is because arthritis causes inflammation around the joints. Osteoarthritis or DJD is more severe as it involves the breakdown of the cartilage around the joints. Causes for the two illnesses can include anything from genetic history to obesity or trauma/injuries. The conditions need to be diagnosed by a veterinarian professional. Call your vet Sarasota, FL to schedule an exam today.

Bunny Choke



Did you know that rabbits love to eat their hay throughout the day? Rabbits need to eat throughout the day to keep them healthy and happy. Eating carrots is also good for them as the crunchiness helps naturally keep their teeth sawed down. Sometimes, however, you may find that your rabbit eats too fast and can cough or choke on it. Rabbits often choke more on their food than other animals. Signs of choking may include coughing, heaving or hacking sounds. Your rabbit may also appear to be struggling. Call your vet immediately. Your vet may advise you to use the bunny version of the Heimlich maneuver. The maneuver involves holding your bunny on your arm, securing his head, applying pressure with your other hand to his back, lifting him head level and bringing him down quickly. This movement uses force of gravity to remove the blockage. For more tips, call your animal hospital Dahlonega, GA.

Creating a home your dog can be comfortable in


Your dog is going to become a part of your family and you are eager to spend time with her as often as you can. How can you make sure she is comfortable in your home in order to make the most of your time together?

Your dog needs to feel safe and secure in your home in order to be relaxed there. This means that she will need you to take the time to think about her needs so you can make sure she can meet some of them on her own and that you will be able to help with the rest. Think about what you can do to help her relax in your home and help her understand that she is a part of the household now. Your local vets Bend, OR can help you care for the pets in your home. More information here: https://westsidepethospitalbend.com/