Educational Articles

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• Spider Bites

  The two groups of spiders responsible for most medically significant spider bites include the widow spiders (Latrodectus spp., including the black widow spider) and the recluse spiders (Loxosceles spp., including the brown recluse). The clinical signs and treatment of black widow and brown recluse spider bites vary significantly due to differences in their venom.

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• Squamous Cell Carcinomas in Cats

  Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a tumor of the cells that make up the contact or upper layer of the skin. UV light exposure has been described as a developmental factor in people and appears to be associated with its development in cats. Areas affected include the ear tips, skin, toes, or peri-ocular region. Fine needle aspiration or biopsy may be performed for diagnosis. The metastatic rate does not appear overly clear, though staging is always recommended. SCC of the toe can occur as a primary tumor or may have spread from the lung (lung-digit syndrome). Surgery is almost always recommended in any case of SCC; the role of chemotherapy is controversial. Radiation therapy has an excellent response rate in cats with the SCC affecting the nasal planum and may give long-term tumor control.

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• Squamous Cell Carcinomas in Dogs

  Squamous cell carcinoma is a tumor of the cells that make up the contact or upper layer of the skin. UV light exposure has been described as a developmental factor in people, though it is still in question as to the role for dogs. Several breeds are known to be predisposed to this type of cancer. About 30% of dogs with the digital form of the disease will have evidence of spread. Regardless of the location, surgery is typically the treatment of choice, and staging is usually recommended prior to any surgery.

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• Staphylococcal Dermatitis and Staphylococcal Hypersensitivity in Dogs

  Staph (or staphylococcal) dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that the skin caused by a group of bacteria called Staphylococcus. Any disorder that causes itching or a change in the skin’s environment can create the ideal conditions to allow Staphylococcus to become a problem. This handout discusses Staphylococcus dermatitis in dogs, as well as a hypersensitivity (allergic) reaction to this bacteria. The clinical signs of these conditions, along with diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis, are outlined.

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• Stem Cell Therapy

  Stem cells are unspecialized cells that are capable of renewing themselves though cell division. Under certain conditions, they can become a specific tissue or organ cell. Stem cell therapy commonly refers to the process of placing stem cells from the body into diseased or damaged tissues, such as a torn ligament in the knee or perhaps an arthritic joint. This process is often referred to as regenerative medicine. Adult stem cells are capable of repair and regeneration of various tissues because they have the potential to differentiate into specialized cells of an organ. The most common use of stem cell therapies has been in the treatment of osteoarthritis in dogs and cats. Currently, there are no current guidelines with respect to stem cell therapy. Stem therapy should only be performed by a veterinarian with special training, who understands the benefits and limits of this therapy. It is important to have realistic expectations as positive outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

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• Steroid Treatment - Effects in Cats

  This handout discusses the use of corticosteroid (such as prednisone or dexamethasone) in the cat. Reasons for their use as well as the common short-term and long-term side effects of these drugs are outlined, along with strategies to avoid these effects.

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• Steroid Treatment – Effects in Dogs

  This handout discusses the use of corticosteroid (such as prednisone or dexamethasone) in the dog. Reasons for use as well as the common short-term and long-term side effects of these drugs are outlined, along with strategies to avoid these effects.

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• Stomach Tumors

  Stomach tumors are uncommon in dogs and cats. There are many kinds, including leiomyosarcomas, lymphomas, adenocarcinomas, mast cell tumors, fibrosarcomas, plasmacytomas, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), and carcinoids (all malignant); and leiomyomas, adenomatous polyps, and adenomas (benign). Most tumors are malignant. Stomach tumors are more prevalent in older animals, males, and certain breeds. The signs of stomach tumors include chronic vomiting, inappetence, lethargy, and weight loss. Sometimes tumor ulceration will cause anemia. Paraneoplastic syndromes are possible with the muscle tumors. Stomach tumors may be diagnosed with imaging, endoscopy, or surgery, with a biopsy. Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

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• Subcutaneous Fluid Administration in Cats

  Administering supplemental fluids can benefit cats with a variety of medical conditions. Giving injections is outside the comfort zone for almost anyone outside the medical profession; however, subcutaneous fluid administration is not nearly as difficult as it sounds. Your veterinary healthcare team will provide you with all the equipment that you will need to administer fluids to your cat. They will go through the steps with you in person. Do not use the fluid bag if cloudiness or discoloration develops in the fluids.

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• Subcutaneous Fluid Administration in Dogs

  Administering supplemental fluids can benefit dogs with a variety of medical conditions. Giving injections is outside the comfort zone for almost anyone outside the medical profession; however, subcutaneous fluid administration is not nearly as difficult as it sounds. Your veterinary healthcare team will provide you with all the equipment that you will need to administer fluids to your dog. They will go through the steps with you in person. Do not use the fluid bag if cloudiness or discoloration develops in the fluids.

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