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Pet Health Articles

  • Preanesthetic bloodwork is an important step in the evaluation of pets undergoing anesthesia or surgical procedures. Bloodwork can help diagnose a variety of internal disorders, many of which could negatively affect your pet's anesthetic and surgical safety. By diagnosing and treating any underlying medical disorders before surgery/anesthesia, your veterinarian can make anesthesia as safe as possible for your pet.

  • Prednisolone ophthalmic is a topical steroid medication used to treat inflammatory eye conditions in cats, dogs, and other animals. Prednisolone ophthalmic is available as a sole agent or in combination with antimicrobials. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” to treat other eye conditions. Prednisolone ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop form. Avoid use in animals with viral or fungal infections, corneal ulceration, and birds.

  • Prednisone/prednisolone is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off label to treat Addison’s disease, inflammatory conditions, neoplasia (cancer), and immune-mediated diseases. Give this medication as directed by your veterinarian.

  • Pregabalin (brand name Lyrica®), is an anticonvulsant and neuropathic pain medication. It is used to treat refractory or complex partial seizures and chronic neuropathic pain in small animals. It has been used to treat other types of pain in cats and dogs. It is used "off label" or "extra label" in animals. Pregabalin comes in capsule or liquid suspension form.

  • Breeding cats can be an extremely rewarding experience. However, before undertaking a breeding program, it is essential to understand what this involves, from the time of mating to the time of weaning. Pregnancy or gestation ranges from 60-67 days, averaging 63-65 days.

  • Most pet pregnancies and deliveries go smoothly, but as a caring pet owner, you should be prepared for the unexpected. This handout outlines what you should know about common pregnancy complications.

  • Pregnancy in dogs can be diagnosed several different ways including blood tests, radiographs and ultrasound. The benefits and limitations of each test are discussed. Ultrasound is the gold standard for pregnancy detection and assessing viability.

  • Next to you, the most important person in a dog's life is your veterinarian. Keeping your dog healthy requires exercise, excellent nutrition, and consistent medical care. Your veterinarian can help you with all three components of your pet’s healthy lifestyle. Since you and your dog will make many trips to the veterinary hospital over the years, start preparing your dog for these visits as a puppy.

  • A telemedicine visit is typically conducted over telephone, text messaging, chat, email, or videoconference. This may allow a veterinarian to diagnose and treat your pet’s medical condition remotely, without the need for an in-person visit. Your appointment will be conducted by a licensed veterinarian.

  • Preparing your cat to travel to the vet is one of the most important investments you can make in your cat. Cats should visit the veterinary hospital at least once yearly. The smoother the experience, the less stress for both you and your cat.