Showing posts with label dog diseases. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dog diseases. Show all posts

Tuesday, 19 March 2013

Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma) in Dogs .

Liver cancer is a tumor of the epithelial tissues of the liver, that lines the surfaces and the cavities of dogs' body structure. It is one of the most dangerous forms of the disease and is a silent killer. Because many dogs do not even show any distinct symptoms until it is too late. Liver cancer in dog affect mostly older dogs ( around 10 years and above ) more than younger dogs. So dog parents and all animal lovers need to be educate themselves as much as they can and be careful of this disease.

Types of Dog liver cancer :

There are two types of liver cancer in dogs.
1- Primary Liver Cancer, arises within the liver. It is the result of primary liver tumor that originates in the liver. The most common primary liver tumor usually does not spread to other parts of the body. It mostly occurs in older dogs ( specially in male dogs ). In rare cases Primary liver cancer in dogs can metastasize to other parts of the body.
2- Secondary / Metastatic Liver Cancer, is one that spread to the liver from other organs and common in dogs. Because the liver is the largest organ in the dog's body. It is involved in bodily functions and processes. Medications are metabolized in the liver and putting a lot of stress on the liver. This is the reason of all secondary/ metastatic cancers. Metastatic liver tumors are generally multiple aggregation of cells.

Symptoms of Dog liver cancer :
 
Sadly in the early stage of dog liver cancer, symptoms are not distinctive until the disease reaches an advanced stage.
Some of Symptoms are :
Appetite loss, anemia as a result of appetite loss/ internal bleeding, pale gums as a sign of anemia, jaundice as a result of anemia and liver disease, blood in stools as a sign of internal bleeding, lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, excessive urination and thirst, abdominal haemorrhage, weakness, behavioural symptom, etc.

Causes of dog liver cancer :
 
Causes of dog liver cancer are unknown. May be related to environmental factors such as chemical driven liver damage or causes may be toxins. Because dogs are exposed on a daily basis to such toxins and chemicals which may be contained in household cleaners/ pesticides.
If dog is being fed a low-quality commercial dog food, is constantly being exposed to harmful and some dangerous chemicals contained in the food such as artificial flavors and colouring.

Diagnosis of dog lever cancer : 

This is difficult to diagnosis early enough liver cancer in dog. If dog shows some of symptoms, do not do late to take him to a veterinarian for an immediate examination. Veterinarian will perform a physical examination on dog to see some other conditions. If dog liver cancer is suspected then it may require some following tests.
Biochemical profile, complete blood count test, urinalysis, liver biopsy, clotting tests, abdominal ultrasound, abdominal and chest x-rays. Also a microscopic test of fluid will be taken from dog liver by needle to detect a pre-cancerous change in tissues and cells. A hepatic biopsy may need to be done to make a conclusive diagnosis. 
 
Treatment in dog lever cancer :
 
Liver cancer in dog is a tough battle of life and is not easily treated. The treatment depends upon the severity of the condition. Very first veterinarian will work to stabilize dog's condition and to ease his discomfort and pain.
Disease is usually not diagnosed in the early stage. So options of treatment go down when the cancer is in an advanced stage. Dog may require a blood transfusion. If the dog has a primary liver tumor, there is possibility of a surgery to remove part of the liver. Surgery of this type is a dangerous procedure and only should be attempted when the exact location of the tumor is known. But not in all dogs. And If cancer is metastatic then radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be tried for removing cancer cells.
 
Natural remedies, herbs and diet for liver cancer in dog:
 
Though dog liver cancer has a poor worsen prognosis but one should not give up. Try various treatment options such as homeopathic, herbs, natural supplements, home made diets, etc.
Herbs are good for strengthening the immune system. They support the liver, kidneys and make the body stronger to fight against cancer.
AHCC, Avemar, Astragalus, Echinacea, red clover, burdock root, alfalfa, dandelion, essiac, milk thistle, green tea, garlic, ginger mashrooms, are good suggestions for dog with liver cancer.
Mostly veterinarians suggest homemade diet for liver cancer dog patient which should be low in carbohydrate and high in fat, high quality proteins, amino acids, beneficial vegetables.  
Also some beneficial supplements should be given. Vitamin C and E, the minerals selenium, etc.
 
Very Important Note : The goal of treatment for dog liver cancer should be to try to improve his quality of life. A dog with liver cancer is under a lot of stress, physically as well mentally. Always try to help relax the mind of the dog. Do everything for his well being and to keep his mind calm. 
The best thing is always keep the dog with liver cancer in under observation and visit for regular medical checkups.
In advanced stages,there is not so much that can be done to cure the cancer. Vet may bring up the possibility of euthanasia.   
Remember If discovered early, dog liver cancer may be treatable. 
Never give up the hopes.

Tuesday, 22 January 2013

Cancer Disease In Dogs (Part-1)

Cancer is pretty leading cause of death in senior dog. It is curable also if caught early. Cancer cause a lot of pain and discomfort to dogs and can significantly shorten their lives.
 
There are some different types of dog cancer .
Brain tumors, breast cancer, bone cancer, mouth cancer, skin cancer, bladder cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, thyroid cancer, hemangiosarcoma leukemia, melanoma, prostate cancer, mast cell tumors ( a type of granular basophil cell in connective tissue that releases heparin, histamine and serotonin during inflammation and allergic reaction ).
 
Causes of dog cancer :
All forms of dog cancer start by genetic mutations that convert normal cells into cancer cells though still unclear the exact causes. It is believed that mutations are usually caused by chronic inflammation/ excessive oxidation. It is not difficult to find a lot of substances that may cause inflammation/ excessive oxidation in dog's body.
Here are some examples :
* Low quality  dog foods, contains artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, etc.
* Pollutaed air example gas exhaust, cigarette smoke, then water also.
* Toxins, harmful chemicals found in some common products ( dog flea,tick products, pesticides, household cleaners, etc )
* Radiation
* Over vaccination
* One cause can be If dog is suffering from mental stress like anxiety, depression, boredom have also an adverse effect on d dog's immune system which become weak and it develop the cancer disease.
 
Symptoms of dog cancer :
Some symptoms are shown by dog that suffering from cancer. But remember it may be caused by some other forms of illness as well. By diagnosis only it can be confirm the disease.
* Lumps and Bumps, that can arise on dog's skin from different forms of cancer. The way to tell whether a lump is cancerous or not is by examine under the microscope.
* Acute Coughing and sneezing, that caused by some kind of infection/ allergies/ heartworm infection/ lung fungal infection/ heart disease/ sneezing accompanied by a bloody nasal dischare from one side of the nasal cavity.
* Acute Diarrhea and Vomiting, can be the cause though several dog illness that can cause the same symptom. 
* Appetite loss, that can be done by proper diagnosis for cancer.
* Chronic skin disease, such as wounds that do not heal, itching, skin sores, etc.
* Urinary Incontinence/ blood in urine, these symptoms can be caused by some types of dog cancer.
* Pain, cancer can cause a lot pain to a dog.
* Lameness, some types of dog cancer like bone cancer can cause lameness.
* Weakness and lethargy, is the most common symptom of dog cancer. Dog become weak and lethargic.
* Swelling in bones and bad breath, oral cancer in dog can cause bad breath.
* Seizures, dog suffering from brain tumor can cause seizures. 
#One important note is a lot of the above symptoms of dog cancer may not cause to cancer. The disease can be diagnosed by examines and tests only.
 
Diagnosis of dog cancer :
If dog shows any symptom of dog cancer, without delay take him/ her to experienced veterinarian. He will ask dog's medical history, current vaccination status and past vaccination history, medications, dog's diet, etc. After getting medical history and physical examination dog will be given some tests that may includes :
* Urinalysis - this test will provide information that can identify the cause of the dog's symptoms. A urinalysis may be done to see if there is blood in the dog's urine.
* Blood tests - CBC, blood profile. OnoPet diagnostics.
* X-rays, CT Scan, MRI, Ultrasound - X-rays are necessary for the  to properly evaluate cancer in dog. If x-ray can not reveal any abnormalities then  CT scan or MRI may be required for evaluate the disease in dog. During the scans dog is usually put under anesthesia.
* Biopsy - tumors are surgically removed. A portion of the tissues is sent for examination microscopically in pathology.
* Fine needle aspiration - that is a easy and quick way to determine the growth of a tumor. A tiny amount of cells/fluid pulling back on the plunger of the syringe and then examined under the microscope for proper diagnosis of cancer in dog.
 
Treatments of dog cancer :
There are three main types of cancer treatment for dog.
* Surgery - It depends on the type, size, location of the tumor. Some times canser is not cured by surgery but it helps in relieving  pain and discomfort.
* Chemotherapy - These drugs help to stop the cancer cells from reproducing, growing and spreading but only temporarily. Side effects like fever, vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, hair loss, do arise in this treatment.
* Radiation - This therapy utilizes high energy to kill cancer cells more readily in dog. It may be used before surgery to shrink cancer tumors or after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells. Side effects like soreness in the mouth or throat, localized skin burn, localized hair loss do arise in this treatment.
 
Dog cancer Prevention :
Cancer is one of the most feared of dog disease. There are some certain things one only can help minimize the chance of the dog's developing cancer which includes eliminating stress in the dog's life, minimizing exposure to toxins, feeding the dog a natural healthy diet with supplements, strengthening the dog's immune system using essential oils and herbs.
Do not feed the dog a low-grade grain based commercial dog food at all. Low grade dog foods contain artificial flavors/ colors, chemical preservatives. Grains may feed cancer. The best diet is home made natural diet. It consists of vegetables, fat, protein, etc. And about water also one should be careful. Dietary supplements are very important to protect the dog's body against damage by free radicals. Even Organic coconut oil and Vitamins A, C, E are an excellent antioxidant that help prevent and make less severe inflammation and other problems.
Some herbs like green tea, ginger, garlic, turmeric, curcumin, mushrooms, etc, that have been found to have anti cancer properties and are good to help in dog cancer.
 
Final Note :
Do not keep attitude of wait and see if a dog has a disorder, does not respond to treatment for some days and is showing certain symptoms of dog cancer. Immediate action and diagnosis can save the dog's life !
 
Do not care only for your pet but care for all animals/ stray animals. They desperately need our help, love and care. Do not let them die on the streets. They deserve happiness. They have right to live their lives without pain and sufferings !

Wednesday, 16 January 2013

Diabetes In Dogs :

 
The growing diabetes disease is not limited to humans but it is increasing among dogs as well. It is a common disease in dogs. According to researchers, one in 150 - 200 dogs will develop the Diabetes.The average age for this disease is 6 - 9 years.
 
What is diabetes in the dog ?
Animal lovers, pet owners should know about the disease well.
Diabetes is a result of inadequate (lacking) production of insulin by the islet (the pancreas contains clusters of cells that produce hormones.These clusters are known as islets) cells in the pancreas. Insulin enables glucose to pass into cells. There it is metabolized to produce energy for metabolism. Insulin deficiency results in high blood sugar and high urine sugar. Diabetic dog passes large volumes of urine and sometimes this creates dehydration so the dog urge to drink large amount of water.
3.44 - 6 mmol/L and 62 - 108 mg/dL is considered as normal glucose values range for dogs.
 
There are two types of diabetes in dogs.
Type 1 diabetes is insulin-dependent/ juvenile. This is analogous to the type which affects virtually all dogs.
Type 2 diabetes is adult onset. This type is the result of insulin resistance linked to diet and obesity.
 
Symptoms :
Here are some common symptoms of diabetes in dogs.
Dizziness, confusion, excessive thirst, increased urination, lethargy, depression, weakness, loss of balance, trembling, vomiting, weight loss despite normal/increased food consumption, some times loss of consciousness, cataracts and blindness can also be a symptom, etc.
 
Causes :
*Heredity - If dog's parent s had diabetes, there is high chance dog may develop diabetes. or sugary foods are consuming high amounts of sugars and carbohydrates. It affects the blood glucose levels.
*Obesity - Is a common and important reason. Fattening or sugary foods are consuming high amounts of sugars and carbohydrates. It affects the blood glucose levels. In result dog may develop diabetes.
*Steroids - If dog is need to be given steroid shots to help with other ailments so it may affect the pancreas. In results an imbalance of insulin levels. This may be the cause of diabetes.
*Diseases - Some diseases affects the pancreas and in results abnormal production of insulin in the dog's body. So in future it may cause of diabetes.
 
Diagnosis :
The diagnosis of diabetes in dog is easy to confirm. There are simple tests of sugar (glucose) in the blood and urine. If the blood glucose concentration is consistently higher than normal it means dog's pancreas is not enough insulin. Dog is suffering from diabetes mellitus. Because of diabetes dog may get some other diseases like enlarged liver, ketones in urine, elevated cholesterol/triglycerides low blood phosphorus levels, increased urine specific gravity resulting from dehydration, etc. So there should be test done for these diseases.
 
Cataract and blindness :
Most of dogs develop cataracts / blindness within few months/a year of being diagnosis with diabetes. Cataract can develop fast and it left untreated. It can lead to blindness and glaucoma. Catracts can be surgically removed. So proper diagnosis and treatment should be followed.
 
Preventions of dog diabetes :
The best way to prevention is keeping dog at a healthy and balanced diet and normal weight. Regular exercise will prevent obesity in dog. As this is important to know if dog's parents have a history of diabetes so it will help in prevention. Cut out fattening and sugary food.
 
Treatments of dog diabetes :
There are different treatment options including home remedies are available to treat dog's diabetes.
 
Insulin therapy - There are several types of insulin like Humulin, Humalog, Novalog,etc. 
 
The Humulin N -  is used along with insulin for the treatment of diabetes..It helps to control the dog's sugar/glucose level.The amount of insulin needed according to size and level of diabetes dog has.
 
Diet for diabetic dog -  There should be the right and healthy diet for diabetic dog. It is very important. Fattening or sugary food should not be given to a diabetic dog. Dietary fiber in moderate amount is good for diabetic dog. It slows gastric emptying/ the digestion of carbohydrates, which slows the release of glucose. Other dietary control and daily injections of insulin will help to keep diabetic dog active and healthy.
 
Blood sugar level testing kits - There are kits available to help monitor dog's diabetes. So you can monitor and keep watching dog's condition regularly. It includes a glucose monitor, test strips, syringes.
 
Home remedies/ Natural treatments for dog's diabetes :
There are some good home remedies/natural treatment options which can help to keep the dog's diabetes not cured but in control.
*Karela - It can stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin. It helps to improve the absorption of food.
*Cinnamon - It works by substituting insulin in the blood. Very small amount only can be given into dog's food.
*Bejak - It is a herb which helps to reduce the presence of blood sugar. It also helps for urination related problems in dog's diabetes.
*Chromium - This is a mineral in the body. It is important and necessary to help the pancreas create natural insulin. It may be given to diabetic dog as a supplement to balance glucose level in the body.
*Vitamin - E - It helps reduce insulin dependency. Can be given daily.
Also Apple cider vinegar and grapefruit can help in control excess weight of dog.
 
If you see the signs of hypoglycaemia in dog you can give honey, corn syrup, pancake syrup. This should be rubbed on dog's gums/ under the tongue. One gram of glucose can be given in hypoglycaemia. Since glucose acts fast and quickly so response of dog should be seen within a minute or two. Everything should be given according to size and weight of the dog.
 
Diabetes disease Complications in the dog :
Ketones, Nonketotic hyperosmolar syndrome, dehydration, Cushing's disease, rental, liver and cardiac insufficiency, chronic inflammation, cancer, severe obeysity, etc.
 
Finally - Diabetes can not be cured. It is lifelong process but it can be controlled. An experienced veterinarian is the best advisor.
 
Always take care of not only your pet but also take care of all animals/stray animals. They need your love,care,help and support as well as your pets.

Monday, 24 December 2012

Arthritis in dogs :

Arthritis in dogs is very painful disease just like in humans. It can develop at any age of dog and can make dog's life miserable. It is an inflammation of the joints. Joints are the site of the junction of two or more bones and the joints of the skeletal system are responsible for co-ordinating the movement of a dog. All activities of dog like jumping, running, etc require the use of him/her's leg joints. Arthritis cause the severe pain for the dog because it causes stiffness in the joints and muscles. So early diagnosis can save dog from discomfort.

Types of Arthritis:There are two types of arthritis in dogs.
Degenerative arthritis (DJD)/ Osteoarthritis - which result from damage to the cartilage cushioning the bones of the joint. Cartilage  protects the bones that make up the joints . Normal stress from years on abnormal joints can cause destruction of the cartilage. Hip dysplasia and malformation of the hip sockets, loose knee caps, trauma are the example of normal stress on abnormal joints. Constant jumping,stretching,injuries because of accident or fall, are the examples. Since cartilage has no nerve, it lost ability to protect the bone surfaces and the damage can progress with no outward symptoms.

Inflammatory Joint Disease ( IJD) - can be caused by infection/ by underlying immune-mediated diseases. Fungal infection, bacteria, tick-borne disease also can be the cause of inflammatory joint disease. It affects multiple joints. It cause fever, stiffness, anorexia ( lack or loss of appetite for food/ desire to lose weight by not eating food.

One more rare type of arthritis is Rheumatoid arthritis. It is rare in dogs.  
Types of arthritis can be distinguished by their causes and symptoms.

Causes :
Age, obesity, hip dysplasia and related to it diseases, injuries, improper nutrition, poor breeding practices, pain in the legs, etc.

Symptoms :
Stiffness, intermittent lameness, swollen joints, reluctance to move/ rise, depression, lethargy, irritability, weight gain, painful joints, sleeps/rest more than usual, loss of appetite, aggression when joints are touched, disinterest in physical activity, visible joint deformities, while walking abnormal stance, limping, lagging behind on walks, yelping when touched, difficulty in changing position, etc.
Dog arthritis usually so mild and appear gradually then slowly worsen over time that's why owners/ animal lover people may miss them. Affected dog may become three-legged lame.

Diagnosis :
Because infectious joint disease and immune-mediated joint disease call for different treatment protocols so no doubt diagnosis must be accurate. A complete physical examination  can help to see the location of dog's joint pain. MRI ( Magnetic Resonance Imaging)  and CT ( Computed Tomography ) will help to diagnosis arthrisis in dog. Also it may be diagnosis by present symptoms, history, sample and analysis of synovial fluid and lubricating inside of the joint capsule may help to diagnosis of infected joints.
 
Treatments :
There are Surgical and non-surgical types of treatment in dog's orthritis. These options can improve in dog's comfort. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ( NSAID's,drugs like Rimadyl, Deramaxx are the example which may advised by vet), vaccines, surgery, joint fluid modifiers, natural cures, etc.
According to veterinary doctor If surgical/surgery is not advisable then vet may suggest for non-surgical treatments like massage therapy, weight management, diet, supplements, acupuncture, rest, etc. which are the best ways to improve dog's comfort in orthritis.
There are some Natural cure treatments like massage oils, herbs, vegetable's intake, these are the natural remedies which will help in dog's arthritis. But be sure, in dog's arthritis any type of treatment surgical/non-surgical/natural cure, should be given under veterinary care only.
 
Animal lovers and pet lovers should be aware of all diseases of dogs/cats/stray animals. All diseases are painful. Arthritis in dogs is really a worse disease.
 
Make a difference by taking care of not only your pets but be kind to all stray animals and take care of them. They desperately need your help. By helping them every time you will be saving voiceless innocent lives.

Monday, 17 December 2012

Tick fever (Ehrlichiosis) in dogs :


Tick bite fever is generally a chronic disease, although acute deaths may occur. Many people are not aware that this disease is caused by a bacteria Ehrlichia which is a rickettsial bacteria belonging to the family Ehrlichiaceae. In most cases an early diagnosis and treatment will lead to recovery, but diagnosis is difficult in a large proportion of cases. Dog owners and all animal lovers are requested not to delay taking a sick dog to the vet as early, timely treatment is important to keep animals in good shape.

Causes :
Dogs get tick fever from the brown dog tick. When it bites an ehrlichia organism passes into the bloodstream.One another cause of disease is blood transfusion of dog from an infected dog.

Stages :
There are three stages of  Ehrlichiosis. The acute stage, The subclinical (subacute) stage, The chronic stage.
*Acute stage lasts for several days after infection and lasting for upto a month or so. It can lead to fever and low peripheral blood cell counts.
*Subclinical/ subacute stage may last months/ can last for the whole life.During this period dog remains infected with the organism.But during this time some dogs are able to successfully eliminate the disease.
*Chronic stage is the most serious stage of infection. After a period of months/ years the dog's immune system is broken down. So low blood cell counts. In results the chances of bleeding, lameness, bacterial infection, ophthalmic disorders, kidney disease, neurological, etc. It can be fatal.

Symptoms :
During the course of the disease  at any stage, the following symptoms may be seen. 
Partial or total loss of appetite, high fever, vomiting and diarrhea, coughing, weight loss, excessive salivary flow, pussy discharge from the nose and may be from eyes, bleeding from the nose/gums, pale gums due to anemia, lameness, weakness/paralysis, swelling of the hind limbs, acute death due to severe internal bleeding,etc.

Diagnosis :
Very small percentage of cases the organisms are seen in a blood smear. Diagnosis is achieved by serologic testings of the blood, routine tests for the disease. In the mejority of cases, specially subclinical (subacute) and chronic cases, the organisms are seldom seen.The other diagnostic methods are necessary to confirm the disease. The tests should be repeated. Polymerase chain reaction test ( PCR test) can be done to detect genetic material of bacteria. During the subclinical (subacute) and chronic disease many times PCR test shows a negative result. If the disease is present, blood tests may show abnormalities in the numbers of white blood cells, red blood cells and blood platelets. A diagnosis can be made by looking under a microscope at a blood smear for the presence of morula (mulberry). A new DNA test is available which at once looks at 11 different tick borne diseases. This test is extremely sensitive, especially if a biopsy from the lungs or spleen is tested.

Treatments :
Vitamins are prescribed to increasing appetite.Good nutrition is important to give the dog.It is the best chance to fight with the infection.Coagulants may be tried if bleeding occurs.If severe bleeding is there then a fresh blood transfusion is to be done.Antibiotics for a period of at least six to eight weeks can be given but response to the drugs may take one month.So to build dog's strength sometimes steroids may be required. Dog which has clinical signs, must be provided supportive care.

Prevention :
Tick control in dog is the most effective method of prevention . There is no vaccine available against tick bite fever so it is necessary to improve dog's immunity against tick fever.Regular dipping, tick collars, tick sprays is helpful for prevention. As it is generally a chronic disease and it can be fatal so an early diagnosis and treatment only can save dog's life. Do not delay taking a sick dog to the experienced veterinary doctor.
 
Do not care for only your pet. Make a difference by taking care for all animals, specially who are homeless and suffering on the streets. They desperately need our support and help.

Wednesday, 12 December 2012

Diarrhea in dogs :

Diarrhea in dogs means loose, unformed stools. Food takes about eight hours to pass through the small intestines. A normal stool contains no undigested food or blood. But with rapid transit through the bowel, food arrives at the rectum in a liquid state, unformed bowel movement. And this type of rapid transit calls diarrhea in canine.

Causes :
Dietary indiscretion is a common cause. Dogs have tend to eat garbage and decayed food, wild and ornamental plants, grass, dead birds/animals, paper,wood, plastic, many indigestible substances, food intolerance (chicken, egg, fish, spices, fats, beef, meat, etc) and many of these are irritating to the stomach and in results liquid form of stools. Even some antibiotics and medicines and circumstances, depression also can cause diarrhea.

Intestinal parasites are another common cause of acute and chronic diarrhea in both puppies and adult dogs. Hookworm, threadworms,roundworms,whipworms are the main cause for diarrhea. Kidney disease, liver disease, cancer, distemper, parvovirus, etc.

Symptom and colour :
Several small stools in an hour,with straining or 4-5 large stools in a day, weight loss, vomiting, fever, pain, lethargy, depression, loss of appetite, standing anxiously standing at the door and needs to get out quickly and when it is out it runs urgently.
Colour of stool is greenish or yellowish, black and tarry in diarrhea and some times contains blood.

Treatments of diarrhea :
Home treatment :
The most important and first step in diarrhea is to stop giving food for 12-24 hours. Do not give milk. Give fresh drinking water as much as dog wants. Consider giving canine supplemental electrolyte solution with water. After 24 hours watch condition of dog and start giving healthy well balanced home cooked diet which is low fat. Boiled chicken with soup, cooked white rice with chicken soup, cooked oatmeal, cottage cheese in chicken soup or other easily digestible foods. Give 2-3 small meals only in a day. If you are switching food to the dog, then lowly switch the diet back to the dog's normal and regular food or dog might again have diarrhea.

When you should seek veterinary doctor's clinic :
Pay close attention to dog. If diarrhea continues for more than 24 hours to dog, dog appears weak and depressed, running a fever, blood in stool, then do not waste time. Seek Vet assistance immediately. It is important to bring a sample of dog's stool veterinary doctor because it will help vet identify cause for the diarrhea.
If the case is severe or if dog has an organic disease such kidney, liver, thyroid then all can be tested through a blood test. The vet might consider to put him or her on IV fluids to put liquids back into his/her body to hydrate or vet might give medication according cause, dog's body weight, condition.
Take care of not only your pet but also strays. They desperately need your help, support, love and care.

Always remember, treat animal by experienced and qualified veterinary doctor.

Do not buy a pet, consider saving a life by adopting homeless animal from streets, animal shelters, foster homes. Save voiceless innocent lives.

Wednesday, 21 December 2011

Canine Kidney Problems






Some signs of kidney problems in canine
§  Pale gums
§  Vomiting
§  Loss or decreased appetite
§  Depression and restlessness
§  Change in water consumption
§  Blood in urine
§  Change in volume of urine produced
§  Pale gume
§  Weight loss
§  Mouth ulcers
§  Stumbling
Various forms of canine kidney diseas
§  Acute kidney failure
§  Kidney failure due to Lyme/othertick born diseas
§  Chronic kidney failure
§  Glomerulonephritis
§  Congenital kidney failure
There are three possible outcomes from the first phase of treatment of kidney failure in dogs.
§  The kidneys will resume functioning and continue to function for a few weeks to a few years.
§  The kidneys will resume functioning during treatment but fail again as soon as treatment stops.
§  Kidney function will not return. Unfortunately, there are no reliable tests that will predict the outcome.
The second phase of treatment in dogs is to keep the kidneys functioning as long as possible.

Here are some steps to give your pet the very best chance at recovery.
§  Diet:  The  diet should be low in phosphorus, low in protein and it shoud be not acidified. This type of diet will help you  to keep the blood tests as close to normal as possible, and your pet will feel better.
§  Fluids: Fluids should given at home. Once your  pet is stabilized, fluids can be given under the skin (subcutaneously). It will restart the kidney function and will help your pet function begins to fail again. Initially it should done daily then once weekly. Its  depending on the degree of kidney failure.
§  Pure drinking water: Clean and pure filtered drinking water should be given to  canine.Tap water can be poison for him.
§  Calcium and Phosphorus must remain  in blood of canine. Ratio: approx 2:1, A drug to regulate the parathyroid gland and calcium levels. The increase in blood phosphorus level, as mentioned above, stimulates the parathyroid gland to increase the blood calcium level by removing it from bones. This can be helpful for the sake of the normalizing calcium:phosphorus ratio, but it can make the bones brittle and easily broken.
§  Hydrotherapy: This therapy utilizes alternating hot and cold water on the affected area, which promotes rapid healing. Hydrotherapy is found beneficial in repairing injured and torn muscles more quickly by bringing more blood, oxygen and nutrients to the affected area. This therapy can  heal a canine from chronic sinus infection, repair torn ligaments.
§  Phosphorous should  be removed from the body by filtering through the kidneys ( a phosphate binder). Once the filtration process is impaired, phosphorous begins to accumulate in the blood. Certain drugs will bind excess phosphates in the intestinal tract so they are not absorbed, resulting in lower blood levels of phosphorus.
§  Exercise: This is the thing many neglect when pet is sick. Many owners don’t realize that exercise not only stimulates circulation and strengthens muscles it also strengthens your canine’s organs, intestines and stomach and creates wonderful healing chemicals within the body. But  if your  canine is extremely sick so you should always start off slowly,  with short walks and build up day by day.
§  Many canines in kidney red blood cell count, anemia, synthetic forms of erythropoietin. A drug to stimulate the bone marrow to produce new red blood cells and will correct the anemia in most canine .But  it is sad that for some dogs, the drug cannot be used long termfailure have a low    
If your canine shows any symptoms, please take him/her to see your veterinarian immediately.It does not matter what stage your dog is at, the sooner you start doing everything you can to naturally support his body in the healing process, the better his chances will be for recovery.
Always treat your pets by an experienced and qualified Veterinary Doctor only.