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A femoral head ostectomy (FHO) is a surgical procedure that removes the head and neck of the femur (the long leg bone or thighbone) to help restore pain-free mobility to a diseased or damaged hip. This procedure is commonly recommended for smaller dogs, especially those who are at a healthy weight.
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To be classified as a fever of unknown origin (FUO), the body temperature must be above 103.5°F (39.7°C) for longer than a few days, with no obvious underlying cause based on history and physical examination. A fever is beneficial to the body, but if a fever remains above 106°F (41.1°C) for more than a few days, several consequences occur within the body and can be life threatening. If your pet has a fever, your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination, perform diagnostic blood tests, urine culture, and possibly other diagnostic tests. Antibiotics are often prescribed.
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Fibrocartilaginous embolus (FCE) or fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCEM) refers to a condition caused by a piece of fibrocartilaginous material thought to originate from an intervertebral disc, lodging in an artery or vein, causing decreased blood flow to an area of the spinal cord. This condition is more common in younger, large-breed dogs; however, certain small breeds and all ages can be affected. Confirmatory diagnosis requires MRI. Treatment is primarily supportive. Recurrence is unlikely.
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Canine hot spots, also known as pyotraumatic dermatitis or acute moist dermatitis, are red, inflamed skin lesions that appear quickly, ooze, and may contain pus. Treatment is relatively simple and may include the use of topical or oral steroids, antihistamines, bandaging the area, and using an E-collar to prevent further licking or chewing.
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Flea allergy dermatitis is a common cause of allergic reactions in dogs. The antigens in flea saliva cause an intensely itchy response in sensitive dogs. Itching and hair loss in the region from the middle of the back to the tail base and down the rear legs (the flea triangle) is often associated with this allergy. Strict flea control is essential for treatment and prevention.
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A seizure is an abnormal surge of electrical activity within the brain. Fly-biting seizures are a type of focal seizure in which a dog snaps at the air as if biting at invisible flies. The same anti-epileptic medications used for generalized seizures are typically used in managing focal seizures.
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Follicular conjunctivitis is an eye condition that primarily affects young dogs, under 18 months of age. Follicular conjunctivitis is often caused by allergens, such as dust, grass, and weeds. Mild cases of follicular conjunctivitis do not require treatment. If your dog’s eye is uncomfortable, treatment may include saline rinses, topical steroids, and possible debridement.
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Food allergies can be problematic for many dogs, especially after years on the same diet. Clinical signs may manifest as gastrointestinal or skin problems. Some animal proteins are the most common causes and strict avoidance is the best way to treat affected dogs. An eight to twelve-week elimination diet trial on a special veterinary diet is the only definitive method to diagnose a food allergy and, in some cases, the veterinary diet may need to be continued long-term.
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An angular limb deformity (ALD) is an abnormal alignment in one or more bones of the leg. ALDs are usually seen in the forelimb (front leg) of dogs, and they cause the leg to curve, twist, or become shortened.
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This handout discusses fragmented medial coronoid process (FMCP) in dogs, one of the causes of front limb lameness in young, larger breed dogs such as Bernese mountain dogs, golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, rottweilers, and German shepherds. The clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of this condition are outlined.