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Pet Care Information

This is a list of the common diseases that we recommend taking preventative action against. Each case is individual. Ask one of our doctors to help develop the best protocol for your feline friend.

• Panleukopenia - Often fatal, this virus can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and brain damage.
• Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Chlamydia - The most common contagious respiratory infections. Signs include sneezing, nasal and ocular discharge, mouth ulceration, and can lead to pneumonia.
• Rabies - A fatal virus affecting the central nervous system. The virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected animal.
• Feline Leukemia Virus - A devastating disease that can cause cancer as well as decrease the ability of the immune system to respond to infections. A major cause of death in cats.
• Heartworms - Dirofilaria immitis are 4- to 8-inch-long worms which live in the hearts and lungs of cats. When present, they can "choke off" normal blood flow and cause congestive heart failure and death. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes. Treatment for cats with heartworms is currently not available. All cats that go outside should be on a monthly preventative to stop infection.

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Common Dog Diseases

This is a list of the common diseases that we recommend taking preventative action against. Each case is individual. Ask one of our doctors to help develop the best protocol for your canine friend.

• Distemper - Often fatal, the canine distemper virus can cause vomiting, diarrhea, pneumonia and brain damage.
• Bordetella, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza - The most common respiratory infections. Signs include cough, nasal discharge, and pneumonia.
• Rabies - A fatal virus affecting the central nervous system. The virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected animal.
• Hepatitis - A viral disease which may lead to severe liver damage.
• Parvo - A potentially fatal intestinal viral disease causing severe vomiting and diarrhea.
• Leptospirosis - A bacterial infection that often leads to permanent kidney and liver damage.
• Lyme Disease - A disease transmitted by ticks that causes fever, arthritis, and lameness. This vaccine is recommended for dogs exposed to tick infested areas.
• Heartworms - Dirofilaria immitis are 4- to 8-inch-long worms that live in the hearts and lungs of dogs. When present they can "choke off" normal blood flow and cause congestive heart failure and death. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes. Treatment for dogs with heartworms is difficult and expensive. All dogs should be on a monthly preventative to stop infection. The preventative can cause reactions in some dogs that have heartworms. Therefore, we check every adult dog annually.

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Traditionally vaccines have been given to dogs and cats on an annual basis. There is growing evidence that in very rare cases, vaccines can contribute to medical problems. The alternative to vaccinating annually is to check a vaccine titer each year. A vaccine titer is a blood test, which measures the body's ability to fight off exposure to a specific infectious disease. If the titer level is adequate, then a booster vaccination may be postponed for one year.

Please feel free to discuss your concerns and questions with us to help you make the best decision for your pet.

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Demodectic Mange

Demodex canis is the causative agent for demodectic mange. This microscopic mite can be found on normal dogs and only causes a problem when it is present in abnormally high numbers. Most of the mite's life is spent in the hair follicle on the surface of the skin. When this mite is allowed to overpopulate on the skin, hair loss, redness, and secondary bacterial infections result. The reason why mites overpopulate some dogs but not others is unclear but is linked to a deficiency in the immune system. The disease does have a hereditary component. Because of this fact, adult dogs with the disease or young adult dogs that do not respond well to the treatment are strongly encouraged to not be used for breeding purposes.

Diagnosis
Demodex mites are easily identified by exfoliative cytology (examining skin cells under the microscope).

Treatment
A solitary lesion can be treated topically with an anti-parasitic ointment (Goodwinol). Dogs with multiple affected areas (generalized) respond best to medicated dips containing amitraz, which is a prescription anti-parasitical. Eighty to ninety percent of cases respond to five medicated dips, each two weeks apart. After this regimen, the patient is retested by exfoliative cytology. If no mites are seen, treatment is stopped and the owner is advised to closely watch for signs of a relapse. If mites are still present after this treatment, the dip regimen may be changed or different medical treatments may be discussed.

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Heart Disease

The heart's job is to pump blood throughout the body. Heart failure results when the heart is no longer able to pump adequately. The heart consists of four chambers with valves and the surrounding muscle. Heart disease can be the result of leaky valves that allow blood to flow back into the wrong chamber or a weakened muscle which can no longer pump strongly enough. Most causes of heart failure in dogs and cats have a genetic component. It is typical for smaller breed dogs to develop valve problems that are caused by thickened valves (endocardiosis). Large breed dogs and cats tend to develop a weakening of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy). Other causes of heart disease in cats and dogs include infections (heartworms, bacterial, and viral), trauma, and nutritional deficiencies.

Heart failure causes pets to be lethargic and exercise intolerant, exhibit coughing episodes, and sometimes have fainting spells.

Congestive heart failure results when the heart function is no longer adequate and fluid begins to build up around the heart in the surrounding lungs.

1. A physical examination is the first step in diagnosis of heart disease. Signs vary for each patient but range from no detectable symptoms to a mild heart murmur to severe congestion and heart arrhythmias.
   
2. Chest x-rays help determine the size of the heart. Heart failure can result in an increased heart size. Different types of heart failure will result in different areas of heart enlargement. Also, congestion (fluid around the heart) can be detected with an x-ray.
3. An electrocardiograph (ECG) will show arrhythmias, which can help differentiate types of heart disease.
4. An echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) is sometimes the best test to evaluate heart function and disease potential.
5. Bloodwork and a urinalysis are performed to detect underlying disease, which can further compromise patients with heart disease.

1. Diet - a salt-restricted food (CNM, n/f, or c/v)
2. Furosemide (Lasix) - a diuretic which helps remove excess fluid
3. Enalopril (Vasotec) - an ACE inhibitor (blood pressure medication), which prolongs the life of patients with heart disease
4. Digoxin (Lanoxin, Cardoxin) - improves the strength of the heart contraction and also helps control some arrhythmias
5. Anti-arrhythmia drugs (Procainamide), Beta Blockers (Propanolol), and calcium channel blockers (Diltiazem) are also used depending on the degree and type of heart disease.

Monitoring
Each patient's condition varies, but as a minimum baseline, bloodwork is performed every six months. An ECG and chest x-ray are usually performed annually once the disease process is stable. Most heart conditions continue to change. Regular monitoring helps assure that your pet is getting the best possible treatment.

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Itchy Skin Disease in Dogs and Cats

Itchy skin is extremely common in dogs and cats. Some pets will continually scratch, bite, and chew at their skin causing hair loss, reddened skin and even open sores. This problem can progress to severe discomfort to the pet and severe unnerving to the owner. Over time these conditions tend to worsen and become less responsive to common treatments. Most skin diseases do not have a "quick fix," but there are many diagnostic and therapeutic options to allow for a diagnosis to be made along with appropriate treatments. Sometimes this requires patience and persistence on everybody's part to allow for a manageable outcome. Listed below are some of the more common diseases associated with itchy skin in dogs and cats. 

Ectoparasites
Fleas are by far the most common cause for itchy skin. Some dogs and cats are actually allergic to the bite of a flea and can have reactions for weeks from one flea bite. Flea Allergy Dermatitis is characterized by biting and scratching at the tail base region and hindquarters. Medication is usually indicated to control the scratching but the ultimate treatment is to eradicate the fleas. Your veterinarian can advise you on the most effective and safe flea control. 

Mites invade the hair follicle leading to hair loss and severe itching in dogs and cats. There are two types of mange mites, only one is contagious. These tiny insects can be diagnosed by examining skin cells under the microscope. Treatment may be recommended based on appearance of the skin, since some mites are difficult to detect. 

Food Allergies
Food allergies can develop in any age and on any type of diet. The hallmark of this disease is that the itchiness occurs with the same intensity throughout the year. Your veterinarian may recommend a hypoallergenic diet trial for ten weeks. 

Atopy 
Atopy is a condition in which allergy symptoms develop from inhaling small particles (pollen, dust). This condition is considered once flea and food allergies have been ruled out. This is a condition a dog or cat will always have, but it can be managed. Blood tests can help determine which substances your pet is allergic to. Vaccinations are given to desensitize the body to these particles if they can not be eliminated from the environment. 

Contact Dermatitis
This condition results from a local reaction to carpet cleaners, shampoos, and many other substances. The allergy symptoms are usually contained to the contact site. Symptomatic treatment is usually required until the substance causing the reaction can be removed. 

Treatment Options

Cortisone (Prednisone, Methylprednisolone) is often given for short periods of time to stop the itching and discomfort of allergies. These medications are extremely helpful but can only be given safely for short periods of time due to various undesirable side effects. 

Antihistamines (Atarax, Diphenyhydramine) are usually used in combination to help lower the dose of cortisone. These medications are very safe, but unfortunately are rarely effective in controlling allergy symptoms when used alone. 

Fatty Acid Supplements (3-V caps) are helpful in restoring the normal skin makeup, especially in dry, flaky skin conditions. These compounds will also help decrease itchiness in about forty percent of skin allergies. Dogs with recurring allergy problems may benefit from year round fatty acid supplements. 

Antibiotics may be necessary to control secondary bacterial infections. Some allergic skin diseases will allow conditions to develop which favor bacterial infections of the skin. 

Shampoos and Creme Rinses are often used to help the skin return to normal as well as preventing some allergic skin diseases from proliferating. Due to differences in concentration and pH, human shampoos should not be used on pets. Many over the counter shampoos are too harsh and will actually worsen your pet's skin condition. There are different types of shampoos made for different skin problems, so be sure to consult your veterinarian on the best product for your pet's condition. 

Prescription Food is required when a food allergy is suspected or a food allergy diagnosis needs to be eliminated before other allergy tests are performed. The prescription diet most often used has a very small-sized protein so that an allergic reaction is not triggered. This diet is fed exclusively for ten weeks. No treats, bones, or human food can be given. 

Allergy Testing involves drawing a blood sample and having it analyzed for potential causes of allergic reactions. These tests can give specific information about your pet's allergy. Sometimes the factor causing the allergy can be eliminated from the environment. If the substance can not be eliminated, a vaccine can be made that desensitizes the body to these allergic substances. This treatment usually takes about six to nine months for results to be seen. Allergy desensitization is a safer and more effective way of treating skin allergies as compared to continually using cortisone and antihistamines. 

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Periodontal Disease

Plaque, food particles, and bacteria accumulate on the tooth leading to separation of the gum line from the tooth. This process results in periodontal disease. Some form of periodontal disease occurs in 80% of cats and dogs over the age of four years.

What can happen if left untreated?
1. Infections in the heart, liver, and kidneys are common because gum disease allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream.
2. Your pet may experience pain when trying to eat and chew.
3. Tooth loss.

What can I do to help ensure my pet has a long and happy life?
1. Schedule a teeth cleaning today.
2. Follow up with regular brushing.

What is involved in cleaning my pet's teeth?
An ultrasonic scaler is used to remove tartar above and below the gum line. A polisher is then used to produce a smooth tooth surface. This is usually a day procedure, with your pet being able to go home the afternoon of the procedure.

How does this prevent infections in the bloodstream?
Tartar below the gum line is removed, therefore, significantly reducing bacteria, thus preventing infection from spreading throughout the body.

Is it safe?
We use only the safest type of anesthesia available. ECG, blood pressure, and blood oxygen levels are closely monitored for all anesthetized patients. Bloodwork performed before anesthesia can aid in detecting underlying health problems.

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Seizures

A seizure is a brain disorder in which an activity is rapidly repeated over a given time period. A seizure can range from a short loss of consciousness to a complete loss of motor control. Any type of seizure is considered abnormal. There are many possible causes of seizures including genetic predisposition, metabolic disorder, cancer, toxins, infectious diseases, and trauma.

Once a patient has a seizure, a minimum work-up is needed to help differentiate the cause. This work-up includes a physical and neurological examination, bloodwork, and a urinalysis. Some conditions such as a brain tumor are not easily detected with routine testing. These diseases may not respond well to medication. If the seizures are determined to be severe enough, medication is given to help control the condition. The goal of medication is to reduce the duration and frequency of seizures; some patients may continue to have seizures.

There are several types of seizure medication. The most commonly used is phenobarbital. Common side effects of this medication include temporary sedation, increased water drinking and urination, and increased appetite.

Two weeks after starting phenobarbital a blood test is performed to determine if the drug is in a safe range for the patient. Afterwards, a chemistry panel and phenobarbital level are performed every six months to monitor for any organ damage (especially liver).

Some patients may require adjustments in the phenobarbital dose or even switching to a different seizure medication if their seizure activity is not well controlled.

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Thyroid Disease

Hypothyroidism is caused by a decreased serum thyroid hormone. Most cases are caused by an autoimmune type disorder, which attacks the thyroid gland resulting in low thyroid levels. Common signs seen with this disorder are obesity, dry and brittle hair coat, cold intolerance, lethargy, increased chance of infections, heart and neurological problems. This low thyroid level results in a "slowing down of the body's processes." 
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and blood work (decreased thyroid hormone, increased cholesterol).

Treatment involves administering a thyroid supplement once or twice daily. Once therapy is initiated, a thyroid blood level is performed at six weeks and then annually if the disease state remains stable.

Hyperthyroidism is caused by an increased serum thyroid hormone. Most cases are caused by an overactive thyroid gland, which can be related to a benign (98%) or malignant (2%) tumor. Common signs seen with this disorder are weight loss, increased appetite, weakness, nervousness, diarrhea, and heart disease. This elevated thyroid results in a "speeding up of the body's processes." 
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and blood work (increased thyroid hormone, liver and kidney abnormalities).

There are three major types of treatment. 
1. Medication (Tapazole) - side effects (liver, kidney, bone marrow problems), have to permanently administer medication.
2. Surgery - anesthetic risk, potential surgical complications, most surgeries have low recurrence rate.
3. Radioactive Iodine - very few side effects, optimal results, involves extended hospitalization.

All three require periodic monitoring of the thyroid and other organs. 

If the medication treatment is elected, bloodwork is performed 2 weeks after initiating therapy and then every six months.

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