Your Dog's Health

What is Atopy or Atopic Dermatitis?

Canine atopy is one of the causes of a very itchy or as we say ' chronically pruritic' dog. They bite and scratch themselves so much that they cause a secondary skin infection with loss of fur typically in these places:......more

Should I brush my dog's teeth?

Yes, you should brush your dog's teeth as a responsible pet owner, but only if you have started brushing when they are very young and only if they co-operate. There are small fingerbrushes or pet toothbrushes that you can buy as well as 'toothpaste' especially for your pet. Never use human toothpaste as the foaming can panic some dogs, even if they like the minty taste and it may also irritate their stomach if swallowed...more

Does your dog's urine scald the grass?

When your dog squats everyday on your lawn, this urine scald can leave ugly yellow stains scattered all over your carefully manicured lawn. Being a nation of gardeners AND pet lovers, the combination is not good. The damage is said to be caused by the acid in the dog's urine....more

Osteoarthritis in your old pet

Osteoarthritis is inflammation of the cartilage, bone, membrane and fluid of the joints. We see it very commonly in small animal surgeries. It is estimated that 20% of dogs over 1 year of age suffer from osteoarthritis which may even be an underestimate especially in certain breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and Rottweilers.....more

Incidence of cancer and common cancers in various dog breeds

Below is a list of dog breeds that are at a high risk of developing cancer. Unfortunately they also tend to make the most popular pets. The list comes from a wide variety of sources....more

Should we throw sticks for dogs?

This article describes the dangers of what can occur if you throw sticks for your dog...more

Clipping dogs' claws - are you brave enough to do it yourself?

Many owners are quite happy when it comes to clipping their dogs' claws, but PLEASE be careful not to cut the quick (or sensitive area with nerve endings and blood vessels). If you do, this results in a dog that is terrified of having his nails touched or even having his feet looked at forever.....more

Bladder Stones in dogs

Could your dog suffer from bladder stones as a patient of mine has? A little fat Norfolk Terrier called Tess came in today with yet another bout of cystitis or bladder infection.....more

Womb Infections or a Pyometra

Pyometra is a common disease in female dogs and although it is easy to diagnose, it can be very worrying in your old pet. Older female bitches that are not spayed and are one to two months beyond their season are at high risk of developing a pyometra....more

Pancreatitis in a Dog

I was so happy to send little old Poppy home today. She had Yorkshire Terrier written on her files but she looked like a little overweight, balding grey crossbreed. She has been in the hospital for 4 days as we diagnosed pancreatitis. This condition is extremely painful..............more

What is an aural haematoma and what causes it?

An aural haematoma is an obvious swelling of the pinna (the ear flap) which is filled with blood or serum (blood without the red cells). This can be small or may affect the whole ear. It is usually very uncomfortable to your pet and they will shake their head or hang their head to the side..........more