Library
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A gastropexy is a surgical procedure that is sometimes performed in large-breed dogs to prevent gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), also known as bloat – a life-threatening condition. This handout explains how the procedure works, how it is used preventatively and in emergency situations, risk factors, and post-operative care.
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Bites wounds are one of the most common reasons dogs are seen for emergency appointments with their veterinarians. The dog's teeth and jaws are very powerful and the wounds they inflict can crush or tear muscles and skin, penetrate through the chest wall and cause lung collapse, or cause serious or fatal damage to intestinal organs. All bite wounds are considered to be contaminated and/or infected. Left untreated, the bacteria in an infected bite wound will cause a localized abscess or more generalized cellulitis that spreads through the surrounding area. All bite wounds should be treated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Treatment will depend on the extent of the injuries, your dog's general health, and the location of the wounds.
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Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes of the body caused by inadequate oxygen levels. Cyanosis is an emergency, and the root cause may be life-threatening and may or may not be reversible. Once back home, homecare instructions must be followed carefully.
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Anaphylaxis is an acute severe allergic reaction caused by an overreaction of the body's immune system to an allergen such as a food protein, medication, vaccine antigen, or other chemical. The most common signs include itching, cutaneous edema, hives, excessive drool, vomiting, diarrhea or respiratory distress. Diagnosis is made based on history and physical exam.
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Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency that occurs when there is not enough insulin in the body to control blood sugar (glucose) levels. It is important for your veterinarian to perform appropriate tests in order to diagnose this disease as similar signs can occur with other medical conditions. Treatment involves hospitalization with IV fluids, short acting insulin and electrolyte replacement. The most important step in prevention is ensuring proper insulin dosing is being administered.
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Urticaria, or hives, is a skin condition characterized by raised red skin welts caused by direct contact with a substance that causes an allergic reaction. These substances include insect bites, food, pollens, molds, vaccinations, and medications. If the swelling progresses to the throat, breathing can be compromised and result in a medical emergency called anaphylaxis. Injectable antihistamines and corticosteroids usually bring about a dramatic improvement, sometimes in as little as a few minutes.
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Anemia is a medical term that refers to a reduced number of circulating red blood cells, hemoglobin, or both. Anemia has a wide variety of causes and appropriate treatments based on the specific cause. Signs of anemia include the loss of the normal pink color of the gums, loss of energy or stamina, weight loss, labored breathing, loss of appetite, a faster than normal heart rate, or signs of blood loss. Several tests are performed to diagnose anemia and additional testing may be required to determine the specific cause. Toxins, infectious diseases, or cancer are some possible causes. Prognosis is variable depending on the underlying cause and how early anemia is diagnosed.
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Pyometra is a serious and life-threatening infection in the uterus, occurring in female dogs who have not been spayed. The condition must be treated quickly and aggressively. The preferred treatment is to surgically remove the uterus and ovaries by performing an ovariohysterectomy. There is a medical approach to treating pyometra, although the success rate is highly variable and not without considerable risk and potential long-term complications.
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Diabetes mellitus results from an inadequate production of insulin from the pancreas. The primary treatment is replacement by insulin injections. The body's response to the injections needs to be regularly monitored using an at-home glucometer or continuous glucose monitoring system. Insulin must be stored and reconstituted carefully to ensure dosing is accurate. Giving subcutaneous injections of insulin can seem daunting at first, but by following the directions in this handout, it will quickly become second nature to both you and your pet.
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This handout summarizes the normal function of the dog heart, and outlines the abnormalities and changes associated with degeneration of the four different valves found in the heart. An explanation is provided of clinical signs associated with valve disease, as well as the recommended tests and treatments for this condition. Staging of heart disease is also discussed.
