Skip to main content

Educational Articles

  • Gentamicin + betamethasone ophthalmic is a steroid anti-inflammatory eye medication with antibiotic used for the treatment of external eye infections and inflammation of the eye in dogs. It is also sometimes used to manage pannus or pigmentary keratitis in dogs. It may be used off-label in cats and horses.

  • Gentamicin topical formulations are used to treat bacterial infections. The ophthalmic formulation is used off label to treat external ear infections by topically applying the medication directly to the ear canal. Side effects may include increased redness or inflammation. If these effects occur, discontinue the medication and call your veterinarian. If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately.

  • Gentamicin topical is an antimicrobial medication used to treat bacterial infections of the skin. It is approved for use as a spray in dogs to treat surface bacterial infections of the skin. It can be found in combination medications to treat other types of surface infections in dogs, including ear infections. It is used “off label” or “extra label” in other animals.

  • If you are planning to add another dog to your family, take time to consider the personality, size, and sex of your current household dog. Introduce the dogs gradually, watching for subtle signs of fear or aggression. Supervise the dogs for as many weeks as needed to assure long term success.

  • Gingival hyperplasia is the abnormal growth of excessive gum tissue. The gums may appear reddened or inflamed and may become so enlarged that it is difficult to visualize the teeth. In some cases, gingival hyperplasia may be localized to specific areas and its appearance may mimic the appearance of a mass or tumor. Gingival hyperplasia is most commonly treated with the surgical removal of the excessive proliferative tissue, referred to as gingivoplasty. Although it results in a significant improvement in clinical signs, gingivoplasty does not typically cure the condition.

  • This handout describes the benefits of performing examinations at home between regularly scheduled veterinary visits. It outlines the different parts of the body to examine, how to examine and what to look for as abnormals.

  • Globoid-cell leukodystrophy, also called Krabbe disease or lysosomal storage disease, is a rare disease caused by a mutation in a dog’s DNA. It results in abnormal processing and storage of an enzyme critical for producing myelin, the substance that coats and protects the nerves throughout the brain and spinal cord. Clinical signs emerge at an early age, including tremors, muscle weakness, and loss of control of the limbs. Most dogs must be euthanized due to their neuromuscular decline about two to six months after the onset of clinical signs.

  • Grapiprant is given by mouth in the form of a chewable tablet to treat pain and inflammation in dogs. Do not use this medication in pets that are allergic to it, or in pets concurrently using corticosteroids or other NSAIDs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.

  • Dogs, in general, are amazing creatures. But service dogs like guide dogs, are true stand outs. In addition to traditional canine companionship, they play an integral role in the lives of the visually impaired.

  • Head down. Eyes averted. Shoulders hunched. Tail thumping the floor. Body retreating. Your pet looks guilty, maybe even apologetic, right? WRONG! Your pet’s body posture and attitude do not indicate guilt or remorse but represent a response to your body posture and attitude.