Educational Articles
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Lameness occurs due to the injury or debilitation of one or more parts of the leg: bones, muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, or skin. Depending on the cause of the limp, immediate veterinary care may be needed. If your dog is in severe pain, carefully transport your dog to your veterinary hospital or emergency hospital immediately. For non-emergency limps, you may be able to determine the cause of the limp and provide home care. If the lameness persists for more than 24 hours, seek veterinary care. Medication or surgery may be necessary to help your dog heal and reduce pain.
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Tail injuries are common and can sometimes be managed with home first aid but some cases require veterinary care. Abrasions are mild scrapes that can be treated with daily cleaning and application of antibiotic ointment. Lacerations are more serious cuts that may expose underlying muscle and bone requiring stitches and often antibiotics. Happy tail is a condition where the skin at the end of the tail becomes damaged and continues to split and bleed whenever the wagging tail hits a hard surface. Bandaging, antibiotics and pain medication may help these heal but amputation may become necessary to reduce re-injury. Tail fractures can heal well if they occur near the tip of the tail but if bones are severely damaged then amputation may be required. Nerve damage can occur from fractures, crushing injuries or severe tail pulls causing stretching or tearing of the nerves and can result in loss of fecal and urinary continence and can also result in a limp tail. Limber tail is a painful muscle condition likely caused by overexertion and treated with rest and anti-inflammatories.
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If your dog limps, or licks at his pads, he may have a foot pad that is torn, punctured, or burned. Minor injuries may be treated at home, by cleaning and covering the wound, but deeper or complicated wounds require veterinary attention. Try to avoid foot injuries in your dog by surveying the areas where your dog plays and walks.
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Fish oil is an over-the-counter supplement, given by mouth, that is commonly used to treat a wide variety of inflammatory conditions. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are not common but may include vomiting, diarrhea, or a fishy odor. Do not use concurrently with anticoagulant medications. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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The excessive formation of gas in the stomach or intestine is referred to as flatulence. The most common cause of flatulence is a change in diet or dietary indiscretion. Most cases of chronic flatulence are caused by a diet that is poorly digested. Diagnosis is based on medical history and clinical signs. Treatment is based on diagnosis and often involves a change in diet. Diet recommendations include one that is highly digestible with low fiber and fat. Medical therapy may also be recommended. Small, frequent feedings are encouraged for dogs that eat rapidly or are hyperexcitable. Your veterinarian will outline a treatment plan specifically designed for your pet.
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Flaxseed oil is derived from flax plant seeds and contains high levels of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid, and is used to treat certain inflammatory conditions. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects may include diarrhea, vomiting, delayed wound healing, or an oily coat and skin flakes. Serious side effects include persistent stomach upset, or pancreatitis. Flaxseed oil should not be used in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Flea allergy dermatitis is a common cause of allergic reactions in dogs. The antigens in flea saliva cause an intensely itchy response in sensitive dogs. Itching and hair loss in the region from the middle of the back to the tail base and down the rear legs (the flea triangle) is often associated with this allergy. Strict flea control is essential for treatment and prevention.
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Flea and tick prevention consists of a variety of products used to control flea and/or tick infestations on your pet and to prevent infestations inside the home. Fleas and ticks can be found worldwide and can live in many climate zones. Prevention is key to avoid infestations and to prevent disease; preventatives are discussed. Your veterinarian will help you find an appropriate product that works best for you and your pet.
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Fleas are the most common nuisance and parasite affecting dogs, and an infestation can lead to serious health problems. Flea control requires a three-pronged approach; they need to be eliminated from 1) your dog, 2) any other cats and dogs that you have, 3) your home and yard. There are many flea control products available and your veterinarian can help you determine which are the safest and most effective for your pets.
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Florfenicol/terbinafine/betamethasone otic (brand name Osurnia®) is a long-acting, topical ear medication used to treat the itching and inflammation associated with certain bacterial ear infections in dogs. It is labeled for use in dogs and not intended for use in cats. Florfenicol/terbinafine/betamethasone otic should only be administered by a veterinary professional.
