All articles tagged with #veterinary
A Texas woman says her Belgian Malinois Ranger collapsed and died after contracting Chagas disease carried by kissing bugs; experts note rising kissing-bug–related Chagas cases in Austin and San Antonio, with dogs getting infected from bites or by ingesting the bugs, potentially causing heart damage. Treatment options for dogs are limited, so prevention through pest control and reducing exposure is emphasized.
Retired Auburn University veterinary professor Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle was tragically murdered in Kiesel Park, a place once considered safe, raising concerns about public safety. Harold Rashad Dabney III has been charged with her murder, which has devastated the veterinary community and her friends.
A 200-pound Turkish bear named Okan went viral after being treated for an upset stomach caused by overeating fruit. He was examined at Istanbul University’s veterinary faculty, received a clean bill of health, and was returned to the wildlife park where he is now healthy and playful. Okan has a history of similar incidents, and the center is adjusting his diet to prevent future tummy troubles.
A study by the University of Liverpool, published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice, identifies the average age when dogs are considered old, which varies by breed. Smaller breeds like Jack Russell Terriers age slower, reaching old age around 14 years, while larger breeds like Labrador Retrievers are considered old at about 12 years. The study highlights common health issues in older dogs, such as weight, musculoskeletal, dental, skin, and digestive problems, emphasizing the importance of early detection and care. The findings have led to the development of the Ageing Canine Toolkit to help pet owners manage their dogs' aging needs.
Kristie Pereira, who believed her sick puppy had been euthanized a year ago, was shocked to find the dog up for adoption at the same rescue organization. Despite being told the dog had severe neurological issues, the shelter's veterinarians found no such problems and treated a liver condition instead. Pereira now wants her dog back, but the rescue organization refuses to return him, citing their policy against re-homing surrendered animals to former owners.
A mysterious dog respiratory illness has been causing concern among pet owners across the U.S., with symptoms similar to kennel cough but resistant to typical treatments. The United States Department of Agriculture National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed the presence of a new pathogen, though the illness has not acted dramatically like the COVID-19 pandemic. Factors contributing to the rise in cases include disrupted vaccination schedules during the pandemic, the popularity of flat-faced dog breeds, and dogs returning to shared care facilities. While experts continue to investigate, pet owners are advised not to panic, ensure their pets' vaccinations are up to date, and consult with their veterinarians to assess individual risk.
Veterinarians are still investigating a mysterious respiratory illness causing a concerning cough in dogs, with some speculating that boarding during the holidays or exposure to unvaccinated dogs at parks may be contributing factors. A family in Tampa is treating their dog, Lily, for the illness with multiple antibiotics and an esophagus soother. Dr. Tori Rhoads of Bayshore Animal Clinic advises pet owners to be vigilant, as the illness presents as a dry, nonproductive cough, and the specific strain is still being reviewed.
Guinness World Records is reviewing the "world's oldest dog" title given to a Portuguese canine named Bobi, following complaints by veterinarians who raised doubts over his age. Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, was originally declared to have lived for 31 years and 165 days, breaking a record held since 1939. The review includes re-evaluating evidence, seeking new evidence, and reaching out to experts and those linked to the original application. Bobi's owner, Leonel Costa, defended his dog's longevity, attributing it to a steady diet of "human food" rather than pet food, and stated that all requirements requested by the GWR were met. No action has yet been taken regarding any record holders, and the GWR has temporarily paused applications for the oldest dog titles until the review is complete.
A mysterious and potentially fatal respiratory disease has been spreading among dogs in Colorado since September, with cases reported by veterinarians from over 15 states. The disease, which has not yet been identified, is causing severe pneumonia and has resulted in fatalities. The transmission method is unclear, but it is believed to be contagious through direct contact with other dogs. Colorado State University researchers are working with various organizations to collect diagnostic data and distribute testing kits. While some cases have been linked to known respiratory diseases, there are still unidentified cases. The cause of the outbreak remains unknown, but some experts speculate that the rise in cases may be related to decreased veterinary care and vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. The disease has also been reported in other states and parts of Canada. It is recommended to limit dog interactions and stay cautious during the holiday season.
An infectious dog disease has been reported in Wisconsin, causing concern among pet owners and veterinarians. The outbreak has raised awareness about the importance of vaccinations and preventive measures to protect dogs from contracting the disease. Veterinary clinics are urging dog owners to ensure their pets are up to date on vaccinations and to be vigilant for any signs of illness.
A mysterious respiratory illness affecting dogs in the US has put pet owners in Michigan on edge. While there have been no confirmed cases in the state, veterinarians are urging clients to stay calm, ensure their pets are up to date on vaccinations, and educate themselves about the disease. Samples from sick canines are being tested by researchers in Michigan to determine the cause of the illness, which can lead to a prolonged cough or pneumonia. The illness is characterized by a cough that lasts for weeks and is less responsive to antibiotics. Veterinarians are advising pet owners to be cautious in communal settings and seek early treatment if their dogs develop respiratory symptoms.
Veterinarians in Nebraska are reporting suspected cases of an unusual respiratory illness in dogs, similar to kennel cough but more serious. The illness has also been reported in other states including Iowa, Colorado, Illinois, and Michigan. The cause of the illness is unknown, and it is believed to be transmitted through respiratory droplets. Symptoms include coughing, runny nose, fever, fatigue, and heavy breathing. The illness can cause high fevers and is difficult to treat, with recovery taking weeks. Veterinarians recommend keeping dogs up to date on vaccines, limiting their exposure to other dogs, and avoiding sharing water bowls.
A mysterious respiratory illness affecting dogs has been spreading across the United States since August, with hundreds of cases reported in as many as 16 states. The illness, which has symptoms similar to kennel cough, has resulted in the death of some canines. Researchers in New Hampshire have identified a potential pathogen that may be causing the illness, although its exact cause remains unknown. The American Veterinary Medical Association is urging vets to report cases to gather more information. Pet owners are advised to avoid boarding their dogs in areas with a high number of other dogs, ensure their dogs are fully vaccinated, and monitor for signs of infection.
The Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) has issued a warning to dog owners in Indiana about an "unusual" respiratory illness affecting dogs across the state. Symptoms include a dry cough, lethargy, fever, decreased appetite, nasal discharge, respiratory distress, and pneumonia. While the exact cause is unknown, dogs with flat faces appear to be more susceptible. BOAH advises dog owners to be cautious, ensure their pets are up-to-date on vaccinations, and consult a veterinarian before administering any medications. The risk of transmission to humans is currently considered low.
Alaska's state veterinarian is urging clinics and pet owners to be vigilant for signs of a mysterious respiratory illness that has affected dogs in over a dozen U.S. states but has not yet been detected in Alaska. The illness, which produces symptoms similar to kennel cough but does not respond to normal medication, has baffled researchers. Dog owners are advised to avoid large groups of unfamiliar dogs, communal water bowls, and to keep sick dogs at home. Veterinary clinics in Alaska have not reported cases of the illness so far, but the geographical proximity of affected states raises concerns about potential spread.