Skip to main content

Library

Dogs + Emergencies

  • Urticaria, or hives, is a skin condition characterized by raised red skin welts caused by direct contact with a substance that causes an allergic reaction. These substances include insect bites, food, pollens, molds, vaccinations, and medications. If the swelling progresses to the throat, breathing can be compromised and result in a medical emergency called anaphylaxis. Injectable antihistamines and corticosteroids usually bring about a dramatic improvement, sometimes in as little as a few minutes.

  • Pets face a variety of potential hazards during the holidays, including tinsel, electrical cords, string from meat, ribbons, Christmas tree water, holiday plants, and foods like chocolate and bread dough. By observing a few commonsense guidelines, you can share a safe and healthy celebration with your dog.

  • If your pet had an emergency crisis, how would you manage it? Ask your veterinary hospital how they handle after-hour emergencies. Use this handout to help you plan ahead and be prepared in the event of a pet health emergency.

  • Hypokalemia is a low concentration of potassium in the blood. Potassium is vital for the normal function of muscles and nerves. The underlying cause of hypokalemia is often chronic kidney failure. Hypokalemia and its associated clinical signs may be quickly corrected by potassium supplementation.

  • Ibuprofen is commonly used in humans to treat fever, pain, and inflammation. Ibuprofen poisoning occurs when a dog ingests a toxic dose of ibuprofen, either through misuse or by accident. Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can be extremely harmful in dogs, and small doses can cause adverse effects and poisoning.

  • Icterus is also known as jaundice. It is an excessive accumulation of a yellow pigment called bilirubin in the blood and tissues, most easily seen in the gums and whites of the eyes. Icterus can be caused by hemolysis, liver disease, or obstruction of the bile duct. Your veterinarian will perform screening tests to determine the root cause of icterus.

  • Parvovirus in Dogs

    La infección por parvovirus canino es una enfermedad relativamente moderna que apareció por primera vez en 1978. Debido a la gravedad del proceso y su rápida propagación en la población canina, la parvovirosis constituye un problema de interés público.

  • Foreign body obstruction is a common and potentially life-threatening condition in veterinary practice. Some foreign bodies pass through the intestinal tract, but if an obstruction occurs, surgical removal of the blocked object is the only treatment.

  • Bee stings and bites from spiders, fleas, and ticks are the most common causes of insect bite reactions in pets. Insect bites can cause mild to severe allergic reactions in many dogs. Fortunately, most reactions are minor and have an excellent prognosis for recovery. Treatment typically involves antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs.

  • Contenido en español actualizado.
    Translated from the original English article Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs