Articles
-
Contenido en español actualizado.
Translated from the original English article Pruritus: Itching and Scratching in Dogs -
Pruritus is the medical term for itching. Itching and scratching are commonly associated with flea allergy dermatitis (an allergy to flea bites) and other allergic skin diseases. Consult your veterinarian about what tests and treatments can help bring relief.
-
Oomycosis (“swamp cancer”) is a waterborne infection of dogs that can affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, skin or internal organs of dogs. It can cause extreme weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, skin lesions, or sudden death. It is more common in southern regions.
-
Contenido en español actualizado.
Translated from the original English article Recommendations for New Puppy Owners: Veterinary Care -
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is spread by various species of ticks and is not confined just to the Rocky Mountain regions of North America. Clinical signs can be non-specific and affect multiple body systems. Early diagnosis and treatment give the best prognosis for recovery after treatment with antibiotics. Prevention of tick bites and prompt removal of ticks is important.
-
Roundworms are the most common gastrointestinal worm found in dogs and can also be transmitted to people. They are of most concern to puppies when present in large numbers, causing stunted growth, a pot-bellied appearance, and recurrent diarrhea. Diagnostic testing, treatment, and preventive measures are explained in this handout.
-
Salmon poisoning is a bacterial infection that occurs when dogs eat raw or undercooked salmon, trout, steelhead, or Pacific giant salamanders infected with a parasitic flatworm that is infected with a particular bacteria. If the infection is not treated, most dogs will die within two weeks.
-
Sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, is caused by a parasitic mite that burrows just beneath the surface of the skin. The presence of the sarcoptic mite causes intense itching; an affected dog will constantly chew and scratch his skin. Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious to other dogs and humans.
-
Tapeworms are parasites that infect the gastrointestinal tract of dogs, other animals, and humans. Several types of tapeworms are known to infect pets, but the most common species observed in dogs is Dipylidium caninum, which is transmitted through fleas. Risk factors, clinical signs, treatment, and prevention are explained in this handout.
-
Lyme disease is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, commonly carried by the deer tick (black-legged tick). Dogs generally become infected after a tick has been attached for 1 to 2 days. Common tests can detect antibodies to Borrelia as early as 3 to 5 weeks after a dog is bitten by an infected tick.