Library
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Von Willebrand disease causes an inability for blood to clot resulting in excessive bleeding. If this disease is suspected, initial screening tests include a complete blood count (CBC), buccal mucosal bleeding time, and a coagulation profile. More advanced diagnostics include assays that assess the quantity and functionality of vWF. DNA testing is available and most commonly used to evaluate animals used in breeding programs.
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Vulvoplasty, also called episioplasty, is a surgical procedure used to correct a recessed vulva, in which excess skin folds partially cover the vulva and can lead to irritation or infection. During a vulvoplasty, a small amount of tissue is removed above the vulva to expose the vulva more normally.
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Walking is an excellent way for dogs to burn more calories while working toward weight loss. A short leash and head halter or harness are recommended to keep the walk going at a consistent pace. Gradually work up to several 30-minute walks per day.
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Cancer is a disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. These diseases most often result in an abnormal mass of tissue (tumor). Cancer develops when damaged or abnormal cells survive and continue to divide when they should have died. This handout outlines some factors that can contribute to the development of cancer, as well as signs, tests, and treatments.
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Dogs will always lick, but it is sometimes embarrassing when they lick their private parts. Licking after eliminating is normal; however, if your dog licks more frequently, or you notice other signs such as discharge; swollen or red penis, vulva, or anus; pustules; discoloration of the skin; or if your dog strains to urinate, see your veterinarian for help. Appropriate medical therapy can reduce your dog's discomfort.
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Xanthine bladder stones are an uncommon type of urinary stone that can occur in both dogs and cats. Xanthine is produced when purines (a component of animal proteins) are broken down within the body. Most dogs can further break down xanthine into other substances that are easily excreted, but some dogs are deficient in an enzyme that is required for this breakdown to occur. These dogs develop elevated levels of xanthine in the urine, resulting in xanthine stones forming within the urinary tract. They can also form secondary to administration of a medication called Allopurinol. Xanthine urinary tract stones are typically removed surgically. Affected dogs require long-term care with specialized diets to prevent recurrence.
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Yeast dermatitis (Malassezia dermatitis) is a common skin disease in dogs caused by a fungus. This fungus is normally found on the skin, but when it grows abnormally, it can cause inflammation of the skin. Signs include itchiness, redness, scaly or crusty skin, and foul odor.
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Zinc-responsive dermatosis in dogs is a skin condition that results from zinc deficiency in the body. The deficiency can be due to an inability to adequately absorb zinc from the diet, zinc binders in dietary supplements, excess calcium (juvenile large breeds) or less commonly, an inadequate amount of zinc in the diet. Signs and treatment are discussed.