Discover the expert in you.
Discover the expert in you.
Dogs, like humans, can suffer from spinal problems that cause pain and lack of mobility. Some breeds, such as dachshunds and shih tzus, have specific structural weaknesses that can lead to severe spinal deformities. A number of other conditions can cause this calcification, which may lead to bulging discs and progressive deterioration of the spine. Surgery is often the only recourse to relieve pain and restore mobility in recurring cases.
Lipomas are benign fatty tumors typically found under the dog's skin. While any dog can be affected, certain dogs are more predisposed. While the cause for the development of lipomas is still misunderstood, a few causes appear to make their appearance more likely. Understanding what may cause the eruption of such tumors may help dog owners better understand this condition. Always consult an experienced veterinarian should you notice any unusual lumps or bumps on your dog.
It’s always best to have your veterinarian check any abnormality in your dog’s appearance to make sure it isn’t something serious. If your dog’s eyelid is swollen and appears red or purple, she probably has a hematoma, or bruise. While it may be harmless and easily treatable, a hematoma on the eyelid could be an indication of a more serious condition. Regardless of the cause, seeking immediate medical attention is always in your dog’s best interest.
Unlike humans, which can express themselves through language, dogs must rely on barking, whining and growling. While growling is a natural form of communication for canines, excessive amounts of growling may denote an underlying problem that your dog is trying to convey. Figuring out why your dog is growling requires attentiveness to its daily behaviors.
Pregnant dogs can have miscarriages, or spontaneous abortions, due to bacteria, viral infections, parasites, hormonal imbalance and other reasons. Some of the causes are treatable with therapy, while other causes cannot be treated. Some causes will not have any visible symptoms. Knowing some of the most common reasons for miscarriage in dogs, though, may help you understand why it happens and could possibly lead to diagnosis or treatment.
Excessive adrenal production in dogs is caused by Cushing's Disease, a condition that occurs when the adrenal glands, which are situated at the top of the kidneys, produce too much of the stress hormone, cortisol because of an adrenal or pituitary tumor. Cushing's Disease can often be successfully managed and treated with medication. Early detection is vital because the condition is potentially fatal if left untreated for a long period of time.
Dog dander and naturally occurring oil often causes allergies in humans. Some dogs, however, are less prone to incite allergic symptoms because they are hairless, shed very little or secrete minimal oil. If you are allergic but still want a dog, consider a hypoallergenic breed that won’t exacerbate your condition.
Allergies and the accompanying symptoms of sneezing, coughing, stuffy nose and watery eyes create misery in the lives of those afflicted. The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that an estimated 10 percent of the American population is allergic to animals. That statistic does not preclude the allergy sufferer from enjoying the companionship of man's best friend. Simply select from the hypoallergenic dogs known to cause the least allergies.
There are three main causes of allergies in dogs, and to confuse matters further, some allergy-prone dogs can be reactive to multiple allergens. The most common allergens are atopic or inhalant: airborne pollens, dust mites and molds. Flea allergies are also prevalent and easy to diagnose and manage. True food allergies account for about 10 percent of all itchy dogs. Many allergic dogs have an underlying weak immune system and the constant assaults on their bodies causes secondary infections such as ear, urinary tract and skin infections. Certain breeds are more susceptible to allergies. These include brachycephalic dogs like pugs…
