All About Rabies
Rabies is a preventable viral disease that affects only mammals.
Transmission is usually through the bite of a rabid animal involving contact with infected mucous membranes. The virus is usually spread from wildlife (skunks, bats, raccoons, foxes, and coyotes) to domestic animals.
What Is CBD Oil and What Does It Treat?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of many components of the cannabis plant.
Another well-known component of the cannabis plant is THC, the compound that gives marijuana its psychoactive properties.
The ratio of these components in the plant varies. Low THC cannabis is called hemp and high THC cannabis is called marijuana or just cannabis. Most CBD products are derived from hemp and not from marijuana. Regardless of which plant it is derived from, CBD is a non-psychoactive component of the cannabis plant that works in conjunction with other non-THC components to provide the health benefits.
What is Luxating Patella?
A luxating patella is when the kneecap pops out of the groove that it is supposed to sit in.
It is very common in small breed dogs, including Toy Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Pekingese, and Chihuahuas.
Luxating patellas can be due to conformation or they can develop as a result of trauma. In small dogs, it is typical that the kneecap will slide out to the inside (medially) while in larger dogs, it typically slides to the outside (laterally).
Keeping Senior Pets Healthy
Unfortunately, our pets' lifespans are much too short. In the blink of an eye, your pet can be considered a senior.
By eight years of age, dogs and cats are entering their senior years. Small dogs and cats tend to live longer than large and giant breed dogs.
Older pets tend to get the same problems as older people. Their hearing and vision start to deteriorate and they may develop arthritis or have trouble walking. Diabetes, kidney, thyroid issues, and dental disease are common in older pets and some may develop anxiety problems and dementia.
Dental Disease in Cats and Dogs
Dental disease is the most common health problem occurring in adult dogs and cats.
By three years of age, most dogs and cats have some evidence of dental disease. Bad breath is most often noted by owners. Other signs can include pawing at the mouth, dropping food when eating, or even behavioral changes.
Dental disease starts from plaque adhering to the surface of the teeth. Plaque is formed by bacteria within the mouth and eventually mineralizes to tartar which is tightly adhered to the teeth.
All About Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a lentivirus that attacks the immune system leaving the cat vulnerable to many other infections.
FIV is similar to HIV and causes feline disease similar to AIDS in humans. However, it is a species-specific virus that cannot affect people.
Infected cats can appear normal for years. Median survival time from diagnosis is five years but this varies tremendously. FIV is transmitted primarily through deep bite wounds from infected cats, not through casual contact. Aggressive male cats are the most frequently infected.
What You Need to Know About Cruciate Ligament Disease
Cruciate ligament disease is a commonly diagnosed cause of rear leg lameness in dogs of all sizes.
The cruciate ligament is one of four ligaments that stabilize the knee joint to support weight bearing while walking. It can be partially or fully torn. Injury may be from an acute event such as jumping up or down or from a slip during fast running.
When a full tear occurs, the dog will be extremely lame and not be able to bear weight on the affected leg. Medication can decrease the pain but the dog will still not be able to bear weight. If there is a partial tear, the lameness will be less severe. The dog will have a moderate lameness that will tend to get somewhat better with medication but will become lame again after the medication wears off.
Diabetes in Pets
Diabetes is a condition where the body does not produce enough insulin, resulting in blood sugar levels that are too high.
Signs of diabetes typically include:
- Excessive drinking
- Increased urination
- Weight loss despite a good appetite
Overweight cats are prone to developing diabetes, so keeping your pet at an ideal weight is important.
Thank You for Attending Our Adopt-A-Pet Day!
After a week of rain, the clouds parted and the sun shined down upon Goosepond Animal Hospital as our entire staff worked together to set up for our first ever Adopt-A-Pet Day. Soon after, the shelters, rescues, vendors, and local businesses came rolling in and started setting up for what was sure to be a memorable event. As soon as the clock struck 10:00 am, community members began to file in through the "Welcome" tent, greeted by our cheerful Goosepond Team.
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