Educational Articles

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• Joint Support and Disease-Modifying Osteoarthritis Drugs (DMOADs) in Dogs

  This handout outlines the use of disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs) in dogs, specifically the use of polysulfated glycosaminoglycans (PSGAGs). The rationale for their use, and their dosing regimen are explained.

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• Juvenile Cellulitis (Puppy Strangles)

  This handout explains juvenile cellulitis (also called Puppy Strangles) in puppies. Characterized by a sudden swelling of the face and muzzle, it can be confused with an allergic reaction or skin infection. The clinical signs are discussed, as well as diagnostic and treatment recommendations to resolve the condition should it occur.

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• Kidney Disorders in Birds

  Kidney disease is relatively common in birds, especially budgies, and may present as an acute or chronic problem. Some of the clinical signs are very characteristic of kidney disease but many others are non-specific. This handout explains these signs, as well as how kidney disorders in birds can be diagnosed and treated.

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• Knemidokoptic Mange or Scaly Leg and Face Disease in Birds

  Knemidocoptes is a type of bird mite that typically effects canaries, cockatiels and parakeets. It is commonly referred to as scaly face and leg disease. Specific antiparasitic drugs will be prescribed by a veterinarian to treat this disease.

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• Lacrimal Duct Obstruction in Cats

  The lacrimal duct is part of the nasolacrimal system, a series of narrow tubes that allow tears to drain from the eye into the nose and mouth. This duct can sometimes become blocked or fail to develop properly, resulting in tears overflowing and potentially staining the face below the eye. The clinical signs, diagnosis, and treatment options for the condition are explained in this handout.

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• Lacrimal Duct Obstruction in Dogs

  The lacrimal duct is part of the nasolacrimal system, a series of narrow tubes that allow tears to drain from the eye into the nose and mouth. This duct can sometimes become blocked or fail to develop properly, resulting in tears overflowing and potentially staining the face below the eye. The clinical signs, diagnosis, and treatment options for the condition are explained in this handout.

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• Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs

  Laryngeal paralysis is a condition that causes dysfunction of the larynx causing reduced ability to breathe deeply and can obstruct the airway. It can be a congenital condition of young dogs or may be due to a neuromuscular disease in older dogs. Clinical signs include coughing, noisy breathing, and exercise intolerance. A definitive diagnosis is made through an examination of the larynx with an endoscope or laryngoscope. Treatment of mild cases involves environmental management to reduce any stress on the larynx and medications used for flareups. More severe or congenital cases require surgery.

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• Laser Surgery for Cats

  Laser surgery is a procedure that generates a beam of light energy at a specific wavelength, resulting in the cutting of tissues. There are three major advantages of laser surgery when compared to traditional stainless steel surgical scalpels, which are decreased pain, decreased inflammation, and improved tissue healing. Routine procedures such as ovariohysterectomy and castration are commonly done with laser.

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• Laser Surgery for Dogs

  Laser surgery is a procedure that generates a beam of light energy at a specific wavelength, resulting in the cutting of tissues. There are advantages of laser surgery when compared to traditional stainless steel surgical scalpels, which are decreased pain, decreased inflammation, reduced blood loss, and improved tissue healing. Routine procedures such as ovariohysterectomy and castration are commonly done with laser.

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• Leaky Gut Syndrome in Cats

  Leaky gut syndrome refers to an increase in the permeability of the intestines. This condition may be caused by any significant insult to the intestines. Acute cases of leaky gut may be caused by infection, trauma, toxins, or medication overdoses. Chronic cases, in contrast, may be caused by food allergies, long-term NSAID use, or other causes. Your veterinarian will perform diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your cat’s intestinal disease and treatments will be targeted at the specific underlying disease that is causing your cat’s leaky gut.

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