Canine Health

 by Amber King Difficult to diagnose, Cushing’s disease is a condition affecting a dog’s endocrine system–the glands that produce and secrete hormones throughout the body. One of those hormones, cortisol, is responsible for stress management and balancing the immune system. Cortisol is essential for healthy body function, but too much or too little can cause problems. A dog dealing with increased levels of cortisol has hyperadrenocorticism—more commonly known as Cushing’s disease. Causes There are three types of Cushing’s disease in dogs. The most common is caused by a benign tumor on the pituitary gland located in the brain. This is called pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH) and represents around 80 percent of all naturally occurring cases of Cushing’s disease. Rarely, pituitary tumors are malignant, which means they metastasize to other areas of the body. The other form of naturally occurring Cushing’s disease is adrenal-dependent hyperadrenocorticism (AHD). The adrena...

The most common allergens for dogs fall into three general categories:  Environmental (also known as Atopy) . This often includes the same things that make humans sniffle and sneeze that your dog inhales, such as plant pollens, mold spores, dust mites—and even cats!  External parasites. Uncontrolled fleas can pose a big problem. However, some dogs might also be overly sensitive to ticks and ear mites. Food. Yes, your fur baby can be allergic to certain foods, including gluten, soy, dairy, and various proteins. 'Seasonal' allergies in dogs can be somewhat misleading, as some pets might be affected by environmental irritants all year long. Because plants vary by season and environment, symptom severity is often seasonal in nature. A change of geographical location can sometimes exhibit or resolve allergic reactions. This allergic response is known as canine atopic dermatitis or atopy skin disease. Most dogs that suffer from atopy begin to show signs in young adulthood, typicall...

  Our furry companions rely on a healthy gut just as much as we do. A well-balanced digestive system is essential for their overall well-being. When your pet's gut health is compromised, it can lead to various issues that affect their comfort and quality of life. In this article, we will discuss four common signs that your pet's gut needs attention and provide solutions to help improve their digestive health.   1. Out-of-the-Ordinary Bowel Movements One of the most noticeable signs that something might be amiss in your pet's gut is a change in their bowel movements. If you notice diarrhea, constipation, or frequent and unexplained trips to the litter box or outdoors, it's time to pay attention. Loose stools, bloody stools, or straining during bowel movements can all be indicative of gut issues. What You Can Do: Start by keeping a close eye on your pet's diet. Ensure they receive high-quality, balanced nutrition. If the issue persists, consult your veterinarian, who ...

  We all know that smoking is detrimental to our health, but did you know that it can also harm our furry companions? Secondhand smoke, the involuntary inhalation of smoke from someone else's cigarette, cigar, or pipe, poses a significant threat to our canine friends. Recent research has shed light on the alarming connection between secondhand smoke exposure and an increased risk of cancer in dogs. In fact, studies show that dogs living in smoking households are twice as likely to contract cancer. In this article, we will explore the dangers of secondhand smoke for our canine companions and why it's crucial for pet owners to take action to protect their furry family members.   The Link Between Secondhand Smoke and Canine Cancer Secondhand smoke contains a cocktail of toxic chemicals and carcinogens that are harmful not only to humans but also to dogs. When dogs are exposed to these harmful substances, they can suffer a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, he...

Yes, dogs can get kidney stones. But what are they and how do they form? In the simplest terms, kidney stones are bits of minerals that form in a dog's kidneys. Kidney stones in dogs develop when an overproduction of normal mineral salts in the urine builds up into crystals. If enough of these crystals unite, they form small sand-sized granules that eventually become larger clusters. ​ Both gender and breed can play a role in the development of kidney stones in dogs. Females are more prone to stones than males. However, male dogs are at higher risk for serious complications due to their long, narrow urethras where stones can become lodged. ​ While any dog can develop kidney stones, certain breeds are more susceptible. Miniature Schnauzers, Lhasa Apsos, Yorkshire Terriers, Min iature Poodles, and Shih Tzus top the list of “stone former” breeds. ​ In addition to gender and breed, kidney stones in dogs can also be caused by metabolic disorders, certain birth defects, urinary tract inf...