Care
Decoding the Foul Odor Coming From Your Senior Dog
When an older dog develops a strong, unpleasant smell, it can point to several health issues. This article explores potential causes and outlines steps you can take.
Tags: Ask A Vet
51 articles
- Care
Determining Whether Your Dog Will Require a Cesarean Section
Imaging techniques such as x-rays or ultrasounds are necessary to assess puppy size and predict if natural delivery is possible.
- Care
Swollen Abdomen in a Female Dog: Why You Shouldn't Delay Veterinary Care
A distended, firm belly in an unspayed female dog can signal pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection. Other possible causes exist, so prompt veterinary evaluation is crucial.
- Care
Senior Dog with Mammary Lumps: When Surgery Isn't an Option
A 14-year-old unspayed Beagle has two hard masses near her back nipples. Her owner asks whether surgery is advisable or if other care approaches exist. Dr. Mark dos Anjos weighs in.
- Care
Adopting a 4-Year-Old Golden: Is Neutering Worth the Risk?
Veterinarian Dr. Mark weighs in on the possible drawbacks of neutering an older dog, how it might affect temperament, and whether the procedure is truly needed.
- Care
How to Improve Life for Your Indoor Cats: 10 Practical Steps
Simple adjustments at home can keep indoor cats mentally and physically stimulated, and may also ease tension between feline housemates.
- Care
Puppy Belly Bump: What Could It Be?
A reader asks veterinarian Dr. Mark about an 11-week-old Russell Terrier with a lump between his back leg and penis. Could it be an inguinal hernia?
- Care
Choosing the Right Approach for Demodectic Mange: Evaluating Sulfur, Ivermectin, and Selamectin
Treating demodectic mange can be unpredictable, with outcomes varying widely. We examine the effectiveness of sulfur dips, ivermectin, and selamectin, and consider additional factors that influence success.
- Care
Post-Pyometra Surgery: What Kind of Care Does a Dog Need?
Dogs recovering from pyometra surgery often need more attention than a routine spay, especially if hind limb weakness or pain persists.
- Care
Leaving a Lab Outside During Work Hours: Is It Safe in Hot Weather?
JoAnn asks Dr. Mark if her Lab mix can stay outdoors in high heat while she returns to the office two days a week.
- Care
Understanding Why Cytopoint Can Lose Effectiveness in Dogs
Cytopoint works in about 87% of dogs initially, but some may stop responding over time. This article explores potential reasons, such as antibody development, increased allergen exposure, or other underlying conditions, and offers management strategies.
- Care
Postpartum Diarrhea in Dogs: What Owners Should Know
Elize's dog recently gave birth to seven puppies and now has diarrhea. Dr. Mark explains why this can happen and when to seek veterinary care.
- Care
Canine Lymphoma: 7 Non-Chemo Options to Consider
A veterinarian responds to a pet owner's question about treating a dog's lymphoma without chemotherapy, detailing seven alternative approaches such as diet, antiparasitic drugs, mushrooms, CBD, and herbs, while noting the limited evidence and practical considerations for each.
- Care
Rabies Risk After Contact With a Dog That Died: What to Consider
A reader whose dog died after showing vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness worries about rabies because the dog had bitten an unvaccinated puppy and had contact with wildlife. The dog had been vaccinated before the pandemic. This response explains why rabies is unlikely in this situation, describes typical signs, and advises seeking medical advice for possible exposure through a skin crack.
- Animals
Golden Retriever Trivia: 35 Things You Probably Didn't Know
Think you know everything about Golden Retrievers? From their Scottish origins to record-breaking feats, these 35 expert-backed facts reveal surprising details about the breed's history, abilities, and quirks.
- Care
Can Coconut Oil Relieve Constipation in Dogs? An Overview of Benefits and Safety
Coconut oil may help with canine constipation, but how does it compare to other oils, and what amount is appropriate?
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Could Hot Spots Be Behind Your Dog's Hair Loss?
Desiree writes to Dr. Mark about her Great Pyrenees, who has been losing hair across her back for weeks alongside what appear to be hot spots. She asks what might be causing the spreading and the thinning coat.
- Care
Dog Skin Reaction After Grooming: Understanding Folliculitis and Preventing Lick Granulomas
Mild folliculitis can appear after clipping, often resolving with simple home care. Early intervention to stop licking is crucial to avoid a lick granuloma.
