Obesity in pets can lead to a variety of health problems including diabetes mellitus, joint problems and a decreased life span. Recent estimates in the United States show a rising number of overweight dogs and cats each year. Generally, if your pet is at an ideal weight, you should be able to easily feel their ribs with…
by Lesley Kovar, DVM A few weeks ago, I traveled to San Andres Island (politically part of Columbia, but geographically off the coast of Nicaragua) as a member of a World Vets team—a non-profit organization that provides free veterinary care to communities in undeveloped countries. Last fall was my first experience with this wonderful program,…
The mere mention of “cancer” often conjures thoughts of angst, fear, and grief. Unfortunately, at Bothell Pet Hospital, as in most veterinary clinics, we deal with cancer on a daily basis. It seems as though everyone knows someone who is fighting cancer, if not themselves; and it is no different in our dog and cat…
“Neurologic disease” refers to disease affecting the nervous system, which is comprised of the brain, spinal cord and nerves throughout the body. Very similar to ours, a dog or cat’s nervous system can be affected by numerous disease processes. These processes can be traumatic, inflammatory or infectious, degenerative, neoplastic and sometimes idiopathic—meaning we do not…
This month’s topic is allergies. So many of our patients are affected that it was hard to select just one “case of the month.” The most common types we see here are atopy (inhalant allergies), food, and flea. The diagnosis can be difficult, especially since some patients have multiple reactions. Achooooo!!! An allergy occurs because…
The upcoming 4th of July holiday is one that most of us humans love, but it can be terrifying for most dogs and cats. The noise from fireworks can cause pets anxiety and fear, and many pets will bolt at the sound of the loud explosions. Below are some steps you can take to help…
Ever wonder what it feels like for a dog helplessly trapped in a hot car? Watch this brief video by Veterinarian Ernie Ward to get an idea: Within just 30 minutes, even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside the car climbed to a sweltering 117 degrees. While most of us here in the Northwest…
What are some of the most common diseases we encounter in middle-aged and older cats? Just ask Lynda H. and her 15-year-old cat Ripley. They have experience with two of these diseases: feline hyperthyroidism and chronic renal (kidney) failure. Poll several of your friends with geriatric cats and one of them is sure to say…
Vomiting is a common complaint in many of our patients—whether dogs or cats. The list of things that can cause vomiting is endless and it can sometimes be challenging to pinpoint a specific diagnosis. Sometimes the cause of vomiting is obvious. A young dog that got into the garbage, for example, is clearly suffering the…
Periodontal disease is one of the number one health problems in cats and dogs. In fact, by the age of two, it is estimated that 70% of cats and 80% of dogs have some degree of periodontal disease. Untreated periodontal disease may cause more than just oral discomfort and tooth loss. The bacteria associated with…