Educational Articles
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Addison’s disease, also known as hypoadrenocorticism, is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough glucocorticoids (steroids) and is considered rare in cats. When normal adrenal gland tissue is destroyed, cats often have a history of waxing and waning periods of lethargy, decreased appetite, and weight loss.
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Afoxolaner is a chewable tablet used to treat and prevent flea and tick infestations in dogs. It has also been used off-label to treat certain types of mange and mites. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset or neurologic symptoms. Do not use in pets with a history of seizures. If a negative reaction occurs, please call the veterinary office.
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Afoxolaner/moxidectin/pyrantel (brand name Nexgard Plus) is a prescription combination parasiticide used in dogs. It is labeled for use as a preventative for heartworm caused by Dirofilaria immitis in dogs; to treat and control tick infestations in dogs caused by black-legged ticks, brown dog ticks, American dog ticks, and lone star ticks; to treat and control adult roundworm and hookworm infections in dogs; to kill adult fleas on dogs and to treat and prevent flea infestations.
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African greys are vulnerable to both calcium and/or vitamin A deficiencies, as well as obesity. Feeding a well-balanced diet and making sure your parrot consumes the proper proportions of foods offered will help prevent the development of these conditions. Pellets are the ideal food for your pet African grey and should represent approximately 75-80% of your bird's diet. The remainder of the diet should be comprised of fresh fruits, vegetables, and a small amount of seed (if any).
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African grey parrots are highly intelligent birds and are now commonly bred in captivity as pets. The African grey has a charming personality and is recognized as one of the best talkers among all pet parrots. It is important to keep these smart birds busy, as boredom can lead to problems, such as feather picking and screaming. African greys require regular, preventative veterinary health checkups.
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Aggression may be defined as any threatening or harmful behavior directed toward another individual or group. There are many causes of aggression in dogs, including underlying illness, pain, fear, anxiety and frustration. Aggression at any age and any level should be discussed with your veterinarian.
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An agility trial is a competitive canine sporting event where dogs of various breeds navigate obstacles and are judged on speed and accuracy. Agility training can be a fun activity with many benefits for you and your dog.
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Ethanol overdose by ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption leads to alcohol poisoning. Isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol/rubbing alcohol) and methanol (methyl alcohol) can also cause alcohol poisoning. If a pet is not showing clinical signs, decontamination may be performed, including inducing vomiting (for ingestions) or bathing (for skin exposure). Other therapies are discussed. Recovery is expected within 24–36 hours of the onset of signs.
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Alendronate is a bone resorption inhibitor used to treat high levels of calcium in the blood in cats and dogs. It may also be used as part of the treatment plan for some types of bone cancer. It has been used to treat feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORLs or tooth resorption) in cats. Alendronate comes in tablet and liquid suspension forms.
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Allopurinol is an oral medication typically used to prevent uric acid and calcium oxalate stones in dogs. It is also used off-label to treat leishmaniasis and gout in dogs and other species. Side effects are uncommon but may involve stomach upset. Caution must be taken when allopurinol is used in conjunction with certain other medications. It should not be used in pets with liver or kidney dysfunction or in red-tailed hawks.