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February 2023
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February 24, 2023
CityPetCAREHEALTHTips

Hair Loss in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Hair loss in dogs, also known as alopecia, is the loss of hair from areas of a dog’s body where hair would normally grow. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including parasites, allergies, infections, hormonal imbalances, stress, and poor nutrition.

Symptoms of hair loss in dogs can include bald patches, thin or patchy coats, excessive shedding, scratching or itching, redness or inflammation, dandruff or scaly skin, and changes in skin color or texture.

To diagnose hair loss in dogs, a veterinarian may perform a physical exam, take a thorough medical history, and perform diagnostic tests such as skin scrapings, blood tests, allergy testing, and biopsies.

Hair loss in dogs can be a stressful experience for both the pet and their owner. In this blog post, we’ll cover some of the common symptoms, causes, and treatments of hair loss so you know how to best help your pup. We’ll also discuss potential solutions that may help regrow lost fur and reduce shedding.

Causes of Hair Fall in Dogs

Happy woman and her beautiful dog

Hair fall or shedding in dogs is a natural process that helps to get rid of old or damaged hair and make room for new hair growth. However, excessive hair loss can be a sign of an underlying health problem. Here are some common causes of hair fall in dogs:

  1. Seasonal shedding: Dogs often shed their hair in response to seasonal changes in temperature and daylight hours.
  2. Poor nutrition: A poor diet can lead to poor coat quality and excessive shedding. Nutrient deficiencies, especially in omega-3 fatty acids, can also contribute to hair fall.
  3. Allergies: Dogs can develop allergies to certain foods, medications, or environmental allergens, such as pollen or dust mites. Allergies can cause skin irritation and hair loss.
  4. Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and mites can irritate a dog’s skin and lead to excessive scratching, which can result in hair loss.
  5. Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease, can affect a dog’s coat and lead to hair loss.
  6. Stress: Stressful events, such as a move, the arrival of a new pet or baby, or a change in routine, can cause a dog to shed more than usual.
  7. Infections: Bacterial, fungal, or yeast infections of the skin can cause hair loss.

If you notice excessive hair loss in your dog, it’s important to take them to the vet to rule out any underlying health problems and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Symptoms of Hair Loss in Dogs

Hairdresser holding strand of gray hair client

Symptoms of hair loss in dogs can vary depending on the underlying cause of the condition. Here are some common signs of hair loss in dogs:

  1. Bald patches: If you notice circular or irregular areas of hair loss, it may be a sign of a fungal or bacterial infection.
  2. Thin or patchy coat: If your dog’s coat appears thin or patchy, it could be due to seasonal shedding or nutritional deficiencies.
  3. Excessive shedding: If your dog is shedding more than usual, it could be a sign of an underlying health problem.
  4. Scratching or itching: Dogs that are constantly scratching or biting their skin may be experiencing skin irritation, which can cause hair loss.
  5. Redness or inflammation: Inflamed or red skin around the hair loss area may indicate an infection or allergy.
  6. Dandruff or scaly skin: Dandruff or scaly skin can be a sign of a skin infection or nutritional deficiencies.
  7. Changes in skin color or texture: Changes in skin color or texture, such as thickening or darkening of the skin, can be a sign of hormonal imbalances or skin infections.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s important to take them to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can help prevent further hair loss and underlying health problems.

Treatments for Hair Loss in Dogs

Vet in blue latex gloves combs dog with metal grooming comb

The treatment for hair loss in dogs depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Here are some common treatments for hair loss in dogs:

  1. Parasite control: If hair loss is caused by a parasite infestation, such as fleas or mites, treating the infestation with appropriate medication can help stop hair loss.
  2. Nutrition: Ensuring your dog is on a well-balanced diet with sufficient nutrients, including protein, vitamins, and minerals, can improve coat health and reduce hair loss.
  3. Medications: Certain medications may be prescribed to treat hormonal imbalances, allergies, or infections that can cause hair loss.
  4. Topical treatments: Topical treatments, such as medicated shampoos or ointments, can be used to treat skin infections and promote hair growth.
  5. Allergy testing and immunotherapy: If hair loss is caused by allergies, testing can be done to identify the allergen and then immunotherapy can be used to help your dog build immunity to the allergen.
  6. Stress reduction: Reducing stress in your dog’s environment can help prevent hair loss due to stress.

It’s important to take your dog to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Untreated hair loss can lead to further health problems, and early intervention can help prevent further hair loss and promote hair regrowth.

Diagnose Hair Loss in Dogs

Funny white dog at home

To diagnose hair loss in dogs, a veterinarian will typically perform a physical exam, take a thorough medical history, and may perform some diagnostic tests. Here are some common methods of diagnosing hair loss in dogs:

  1. Skin scrapings: Skin scrapings can help diagnose bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections that can cause hair loss.
  2. Blood tests: Blood tests can help detect hormonal imbalances, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease, which can cause hair loss.
  3. Allergy testing: Allergy testing can help identify the allergen causing skin irritation and hair loss.
  4. Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be taken of the affected area to help identify the underlying cause of hair loss.
  5. Visual examination: A veterinarian may visually examine the skin and coat for signs of parasites, skin infections, or other conditions that can cause hair loss.
  6. Diet evaluation: A veterinarian may evaluate your dog’s diet to determine if any nutritional deficiencies could be contributing to hair loss.

By using one or more of these diagnostic methods, a veterinarian can identify the underlying cause of hair loss in your dog and develop a treatment plan to address the specific condition.

Prevent Hair loss in Dogs

Beautiful and fluffy white dog

Preventing hair loss in dogs involves taking steps to maintain their overall health and addressing any underlying conditions that can contribute to hair loss. Here are some ways to prevent hair loss in dogs:

  1. Regular grooming: Regular grooming can help remove loose hair and prevent matting, which can lead to hair loss.
  2. Good nutrition: Feeding your dog a well-balanced diet with appropriate amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals can help maintain healthy skin and coat.
  3. Parasite prevention: Regular use of flea and tick prevention can help prevent infestations that can lead to skin irritation and hair loss.
  4. Stress reduction: Reducing stress in your dog’s environment can help prevent hair loss due to stress.
  5. Regular vet check-ups: Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help detect and treat any underlying health conditions that can contribute to hair loss.
  6. Proper hygiene: Keeping your dog clean and dry, especially after swimming or being outside in wet weather, can help prevent skin infections that can lead to hair loss.

By following these preventative measures, you can help your dog maintain a healthy coat and prevent hair loss. It’s important to take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups to detect any potential health problems early on.

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February 23, 2023
CityPetHEALTH

Diabetes in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Diabetes mellitus, commonly known as diabetes, is a medical condition that affects dogs as well as humans and other animals. Diabetes in dogs occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, or when the body becomes resistant to insulin.

When the body can’t produce enough insulin or use it effectively, the blood sugar levels in the dog’s body become too high, leading to a variety of health problems. Some of the signs of diabetes in dogs include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, increased appetite, lethargy, and vision changes.

There are two types of diabetes in dogs: 

  • Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin.
  • Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin.

Diabetes in dogs can be managed through diet, exercise, and insulin therapy. It’s important to work closely with a veterinarian to diagnose and treat diabetes in dogs, as untreated diabetes can lead to serious complications such as cataracts, kidney disease, and neuropathy.

Causes of Diabetes in dogs:

View of adorable chihuahua dog spending time with male owner at home

There are different causes of diabetes in dogs, and some of the common causes include:

  1. Genetics: Some breeds of dogs are more predisposed to diabetes, including Samoyeds, Poodles, Schnauzers, Beagles, and Dachshunds.
  2. Obesity: Overweight dogs are more likely to develop diabetes because excess body fat can interfere with insulin production.
  3. Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can damage the insulin-producing cells, leading to diabetes.
  4. Infections: Certain infections, such as the canine distemper virus, can damage the pancreas and lead to diabetes.
  5. Medications: Long-term use of medications such as glucocorticoids (steroids) can interfere with insulin production.
  6. Aging: Older dogs are more prone to developing diabetes, and it’s believed to be due to a decrease in insulin production.
  7. Autoimmune disease: Sometimes, the dog’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to diabetes.

It’s important to note that while these factors increase the risk of developing diabetes, they don’t necessarily cause it. The exact cause of diabetes in dogs is not always known, and it can develop due to a combination of factors.

Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs

Close up doctor petting dog

The symptoms of diabetes in dogs can vary depending on the severity of the disease. However, some common symptoms include:

  1. Increased thirst and urination: Dogs with diabetes tend to drink more water and urinate more frequently.
  2. Increased appetite: Some dogs may seem hungrier than usual because their body is not properly utilizing the glucose in their food.
  3. Weight loss: Despite eating more, dogs with diabetes may lose weight because their body is breaking down fat and muscle for energy.
  4. Fatigue or lethargy: Dogs with diabetes may seem more tired or less active than usual.
  5. Vomiting or diarrhea: These symptoms can occur due to the body’s inability to properly digest and absorb nutrients.
  6. Dehydration: Increased urination and thirst can lead to dehydration.
  7. Sweet-smelling breath: Some dogs with diabetes may have a sweet, fruity odor to their breath due to the buildup of ketones in their bloodstream.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be present in other conditions, so it’s essential to have your dog examined by a veterinarian if you notice any of these signs. Early detection and treatment of diabetes can help prevent complications and improve your dog’s quality of life.

Diagnosis:

Vet with nurse examining german shepherd

Diagnosing diabetes in dogs typically involves several steps, including:

  1. Physical examination: A veterinarian will examine your dog and look for any symptoms of diabetes, such as increased thirst, weight loss, and sweet-smelling breath.
  2. Blood tests: Blood tests can help to measure your dog’s blood glucose levels and check for other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as kidney disease or infections.
  3. Urinalysis: A urinalysis can help to detect the presence of glucose in your dog’s urine, which is a sign of diabetes.
  4. Fructosamine test: This test measures the amount of glycated protein in the blood, which provides an estimate of the average blood glucose level over the previous two to three weeks.
  5. Glucose tolerance test: In some cases, a glucose tolerance test may be done to measure how well your dog’s body processes glucose.

If your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, your veterinarian may recommend further tests, such as an ultrasound of the abdomen or chest X-rays, to check for any complications associated with diabetes.

Treatment:

Close up on veterinarian taking care of dog

The treatment of diabetes in dogs typically involves a combination of dietary changes, exercise, and medication. The goal of treatment is to regulate your dog’s blood glucose levels and prevent complications associated with diabetes.

  1. Dietary changes: A veterinarian may recommend a specialized diet for diabetic dogs that is high in protein and fiber and low in carbohydrates. This type of diet can help to regulate blood glucose levels and prevent spikes in blood sugar after meals.
  2. Exercise: Regular exercise can help to improve insulin sensitivity in dogs and regulate blood glucose levels. However, it’s important to monitor your dog’s blood sugar before and after exercise, as strenuous activity can cause blood glucose levels to drop too low.
  3. Medication: Dogs with diabetes may require medication to regulate their blood glucose levels. This may include insulin injections or oral medications, such as metformin or glipizide. Your veterinarian will determine the best type of medication and dosage for your dog based on their individual needs.
  4. Regular monitoring: Monitoring your dog’s blood glucose levels is essential to ensure that treatment is working effectively. Your veterinarian may recommend home monitoring using a glucose meter or regular visits to the clinic for blood tests.
  5. Management of complications: Diabetes can lead to complications such as cataracts, neuropathy, and infections. Your veterinarian will monitor your dog for any signs of complications and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.

It’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for your dog’s diabetes. With proper management, many dogs with diabetes can live happy and healthy life.

Summary:

In this blog, we have learned about Diabetes in dogs, a condition where their body has trouble controlling the amount of sugar in their blood. This leads to high levels of sugar in the blood, which can cause various health problems over time. 

Treatment typically involves a special diet, regular exercise, and medication such as insulin injections. With proper management, many dogs with diabetes can live happy and healthy life.

If you have trouble understanding diabetes, you can always contact us as we, City Pet Hospital have expert vets who are specialized in many diseases related to pets.

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February 21, 2023
CityPetHEALTH

Canine Distemper in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs and other animals, including foxes, wolves, raccoons, and ferrets. The virus that causes canine distemper is called the canine distemper virus (CDV). The disease is spread through contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids, such as saliva, urine, or feces.

The symptoms of canine distemper can vary widely depending on the infection’s severity, the animal’s age and health, and other factors. Common symptoms include fever, coughing, sneezing, discharge from the nose and eyes, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and paralysis.

There is no cure for canine distemper, but there are vaccines that can help prevent the disease. Treatment for infected animals typically involves supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, antibiotics to prevent secondary infections, and medications from controlling symptoms such as seizures. However, even with aggressive treatment, many animals with canine distemper do not survive.

Causes of Canine Distemper:

Adorable greyhound dog laying on bed-cause of canine distemper

Canine distemper is caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV) called canine morbillivirus. It is a highly contagious virus that is spread from one dog to another through contact with an infected animal’s body fluids, including urine, feces, saliva, and respiratory secretions. 

The virus can also be transmitted through airborne particles or contaminated objects like food and water bowls, toys, and bedding. Infected animals can shed the virus for weeks after they recover, and even dogs that show no symptoms can still spread the disease. 

Unvaccinated dogs and puppies are at the highest risk of contracting the disease, as are dogs that live in overcrowded or unsanitary conditions. Wildlife species such as raccoons, foxes, and skunks are also common carriers of the virus and can infect domestic dogs.

Unvaccinated dogs and puppies, as well as dogs with weakened immune systems, are most susceptible to the virus.

Symptoms of Canine Distemper:

Close up on veterinarian taking care of dog

The symptoms of canine distemper can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the affected dog’s age, immune system, and overall health condition. Some of the common symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Nasal and eye discharge
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Dehydration
  • Weight loss
  • Thickening and hardening of the paw pads and nose
  • Seizures
  • Muscle twitches
  • Paralysis
  • Behavioral changes, such as aggression or depression

In puppies, the virus can cause enamel hypoplasia, which is permanent damage to the teeth that appear discolored or with holes. 

Dogs with severe cases of distemper may develop neurological symptoms, including tremors, convulsions, and circling behavior. The symptoms usually appear within 1 to 3 weeks after exposure to the virus and can last for several weeks or months.

Diagnosis:

Portrait of a cute young small pekingese dog lying on white floor near stethoscope

Diagnosing canine distemper requires a thorough physical examination and a combination of laboratory tests and clinical signs. Your veterinarian may look for signs of respiratory, gastrointestinal, or neurological symptoms and may perform various tests, including:

  • Blood tests: A complete blood count (CBC) and a biochemistry panel can provide information about the dog’s immune system, organ function, and overall health condition.
  • Urine tests: A urinalysis can help identify any urinary tract infections or dehydration.
  • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test: This test detects the presence of the distemper virus in the blood, urine, or other body fluids and tissues.
  • Serology test: This test checks for the presence of antibodies against the distemper virus in the blood.
  • Chest X-rays: X-rays can reveal any signs of pneumonia or respiratory distress.
  • Neurological examination: A neurological examination can identify any signs of seizures, muscle twitches, or other neurological symptoms.

It is essential to provide your veterinarian with a complete medical history and information about the dog’s vaccination status, as this can help determine the likelihood of distemper infection. Early detection and treatment are crucial to managing the symptoms and improving the dog’s chances of recovery.

Treatments:

Close up on veterinary doctor taking care of pet

There is no cure for canine distemper, and treatment mainly focuses on managing the symptoms and preventing secondary infections. The treatment plan can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the affected dog’s age and overall health condition. Some of the common treatments include:

  • Isolation: Infected dogs should be isolated from other animals to prevent the spread of the virus.
  • Fluid therapy: Dehydration is a common complication of distemper, and dogs may need intravenous fluids to maintain hydration.
  • Antibiotics: Secondary bacterial infections can occur in dogs with distemper, and antibiotics may be necessary to treat these infections.
  • Anti-seizure medications: Dogs with neurological symptoms may require anti-seizure medications to manage the seizures.
  • Medications to control vomiting and diarrhea: To prevent dehydration, dogs with vomiting and diarrhea may need medication to control these symptoms.
  • Nutritional support: Dogs with distemper may lose their appetite, and nutritional support may be necessary to maintain their weight and strength.
  • Eye and nose drops: Medications such as antivirals or antibiotics may be prescribed in the form of eye and nose drops to treat ocular and respiratory symptoms.

Prevention is the best strategy against distemper, and vaccination is the most effective way to protect dogs from the virus. Regular veterinary checkups and maintaining a healthy immune system can also help prevent the disease.

Summary:

The pretty girl embarcing a basket with dog

In this article, we learn about canine distemper which is a highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs and other animals, including raccoons, foxes, and ferrets. 

The virus attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of the infected animal, causing symptoms such as fever, coughing, sneezing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and paralysis. The disease is often fatal and Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent canine distemper.

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February 18, 2023
CityPetHEALTH

Canine Parvovirus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs, especially puppies, and causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. 

It is transmitted through direct contact with infected feces or contaminated surfaces, and can also spread through indirect contact with objects or people who have come in contact with infected dogs. 

There is no cure for parvovirus, and treatment is mainly supportive, including IV fluids, anti-nausea medication, and antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections. Prevention through vaccination and good hygiene practices is the best way to protect your dog from this potentially fatal disease.

Causes of Canine Parvovirus:

cause of canine parvovirus: a woman is hugging a pug

Canine parvovirus is caused by the highly contagious canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) virus, which attacks rapidly dividing cells in the body, particularly those in the intestinal lining, bone marrow, and lymph nodes. 

The virus is shed in large amounts in the feces of infected dogs and can survive in the environment for months, making it easily transmissible to other dogs. The primary causes of canine parvovirus are:

  1. Direct Contact with Infected Dogs: Dogs can contract the virus by coming into contact with infected feces, saliva, or vomit of an infected dog.
  2. Contaminated Objects: The virus can be transmitted through indirect contact with objects or surfaces contaminated with the virus, such as food dishes, toys, bedding, or clothing.
  3. Lack of Vaccination: Dogs that have not been vaccinated or have an incomplete vaccination schedule are at higher risk of contracting parvovirus.
  4. Weakened Immune System: Dogs with a weakened immune system, such as young puppies, elderly dogs, or dogs with underlying health conditions, are more susceptible to the virus.

It is essential to take steps to prevent the spread of the virus by following good hygiene practices, vaccinating your dog, and isolating infected dogs.

Symptoms:

a cute white sick dog with brown ear

The symptoms of canine parvovirus can vary in severity, but often include:

  1. Loss of appetite
  2. Vomiting
  3. Diarrhea, often bloody or watery
  4. Lethargy or weakness
  5. Dehydration
  6. Abdominal pain or bloating
  7. Fever
  8. Rapid heartbeat or breathing

In severe cases, the virus can cause sepsis, which can lead to shock, organ failure, and death. The disease is most severe in puppies, as they have weaker immune systems and are more susceptible to dehydration and secondary infections. 

However, adult dogs can also contract the virus, especially if they are unvaccinated or have weakened immune systems. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the recovery of dogs with parvovirus.

Diagnosis:

A veterinarian can diagnose canine parvovirus through a combination of physical examination, clinical symptoms, and laboratory tests.

  1. Physical Exam: The veterinarian will examine the dog for signs of dehydration, fever, and abdominal pain.
  2. Fecal Test: A fecal sample is taken and tested for the presence of the virus. The test detects the virus’s genetic material using a technique called polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and can confirm a diagnosis within a few hours.
  3. Blood Test: Blood tests can help determine the severity of the disease, check for dehydration, and monitor the dog’s response to treatment.
  4. Imaging: In severe cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasounds may be used to evaluate the dog’s organs and detect any complications.

It is essential to consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has parvovirus. Quick diagnosis and treatment are critical for a positive outcome.

Treatments:

Treatment for canine parvovirus focuses on managing symptoms, preventing dehydration, and supporting the immune system while the dog’s body fights off the virus. Treatment typically involves hospitalization and may include:

  1. Fluid Therapy: Intravenous (IV) fluids and electrolyte solutions are used to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
  2. Medications: Antibiotics are used to prevent secondary bacterial infections. Anti-nausea medications and pain relief medication may be administered.
  3. Nutritional Support: Nutritional support is given through a feeding tube or intravenously to provide the necessary nutrients and energy to the dog.
  4. Isolation: Infected dogs should be isolated to prevent the spread of the virus to other dogs.
  5. Hospitalization: Dogs with severe symptoms may require hospitalization.
  6. Vaccination: Prevention is key in the fight against parvovirus, so vaccination is the most effective way to protect dogs against the disease.

With prompt and aggressive treatment, many dogs can recover from parvovirus. However, recovery can take several weeks and requires close monitoring by a veterinarian.

Summary

It is a highly contagious disease that can spread rapidly among dogs but does not typically affect other animals.

However, there are different strains of the parvovirus that can infect other animals, such as feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) which causes similar symptoms in cats, and parvovirus strains that infect other wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes. 

These strains are not interchangeable with the canine parvovirus and cannot be transmitted to dogs. It is essential to vaccinate your dog against canine parvovirus to prevent the disease from spreading and to protect your dog’s health.

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February 17, 2023
CityPetHEALTH

Epilepsy in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Epilepsy in dogs is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent seizures or fits. Seizures are the result of abnormal electrical activity in the brain and can manifest as sudden, uncontrolled movements or behavior changes, convulsions, loss of consciousness, or display of other abnormal behaviors.

Epilepsy is a chronic condition that can be managed with medication, but not cured. Dogs with epilepsy can live full and happy lives with the right care and support from their owners and veterinarians.

While epilepsy is a chronic condition, it can often be managed with medication and other forms of treatment. If you suspect that your dog may be having seizures or may have epilepsy, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to receive a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.

Causes:

Epilepsy in dogs is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures that can be caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It can occur at any age, and it affects both male and female dogs of any breed. 

The exact cause of epilepsy is often unknown, but it can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as: 

  • Genetic predisposition 
  • Environmental triggers
  • Brain tumors
  • Infections 
  • Head Trauma  
  • Metabolic disorders. 
  • Exposure to toxins.

Some breeds of dogs are more prone to develop epilepsy than others, such as Beagles, Golden Retrievers, and Labradors.

Symptoms:

The main symptom of epilepsy in dogs is seizures, which can manifest as sudden, uncontrolled movements or behavior changes and range in severity from mild to severe. Symptoms of epilepsy in dogs can vary, Other signs may include: 

  • Loss of consciousness
  • Drooling 
  • Urination  
  • Defecation
  • Drooling 
  • Staring 
  • Twitching 
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control, 
  • Confusion and disorientation.

The severity and frequency of seizures can vary depending on the individual dog, and they can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes.

Diagnosis:

To diagnose epilepsy, a veterinarian will typically perform a thorough physical exam and may also recommend blood tests, diagnostic imaging such as an MRI or CT scan, and other diagnostic tests to rule out other underlying medical conditions. 

A definitive diagnosis of epilepsy is often made based on the dog’s complete clinical history and the presence of characteristic seizure activity on electroencephalogram (EEG) testing. 

A neurological exam may also be conducted to assess the function of the dog’s nervous system. 

Treatments:

The treatment of epilepsy in dogs typically involves:

  • Medication: Treatment for epilepsy in dogs typically involves the use of anticonvulsant medications, such as phenobarbital or potassium bromide, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
  • Diet: change in diet or lifestyle may be recommended. 
  • Seizure response medication and medical alert tags or collars may also be recommended. 
  • Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended as a last resort. 
  • Alternative therapies: such as acupuncture may be recommended to manage seizures.
  • Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are important to monitor the dog’s condition and adjust the medication as needed.

The dose and frequency of medication will be determined by the veterinarian, and regular blood tests may be required to monitor the dog’s liver function. 

It is important to work with a veterinarian to develop an individualized treatment plan for your dog’s epilepsy, as treatment may need to be adjusted over time to ensure that it remains effective.

Summary:

Overall, while epilepsy in dogs can be a challenging condition to manage, with proper treatment and management, most dogs with epilepsy can lead happy, healthy lives.

In addition to medication, there are also several lifestyle changes that can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs with epilepsy. These may include reducing stress, maintaining a consistent routine, and avoiding triggers such as bright lights or loud noises.

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February 15, 2023
CityPetHEALTH

Enlarged Liver In Dogs- Symptoms, Cause, & Treatments

This article discusses the symptoms, causes, and treatments for enlarged livers in dogs. 

Enlarged liver, also known as hepatomegaly, is a common condition in dogs. It is a result of the liver growing in size beyond its normal limits. This condition is often caused by the progression of infectious canine hepatitis or the development of chronic hepatitis. If the liver tissue is benign, there are a few potential causes of enlarged livers in dogs.

If you’re concerned that your pet may have an enlarged liver, check with your veterinarian immediately. The most common causes, symptoms, and treatments are as follows:

Causes:

There are various causes of an enlarged liver in dogs, including:

  1. Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver can cause it to enlarge.
  2. Infectious diseases: Bacterial, fungal, or viral infections such as leptospirosis, Lyme disease, and canine distemper can cause an enlarged liver.
  3. Toxicity: Ingestion of toxic substances such as pesticides, drugs, and heavy metals can damage the liver and cause it to enlarge.
  4. Cancer: Tumors in the liver can cause it to enlarge. 
  5. Congenital abnormalities: Some dogs may be born with liver abnormalities that can cause them to enlarge.
  6. Canine adenovirus: It is another potential cause for enlarged livers in dogs; however, this is usually paired with clinical signs such as fever, anorexia, lethargy, and a high white cell count on blood work.
  7. Hepatitis portosystemic shunts: In some cases, dogs may have a form of liver disease known as hepatitis portosystemic shunts or shunts liver disease.
  8. Canine herpesvirus: It can also be a factor in this condition.
  9. Other causes: viral diseases and liver dysfunction and severe reduction in the use of the liver due to diseases like cirrhosis or inflammation and scarring.

Symptoms:

This is a genetic condition and can cause more severe symptoms than other forms of liver disease in dogs. Common signs of this condition are:

  • Abdominal distension
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Weight loss
  • Seizures
  • Lethargy and weakness
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Abdominal pain
  • Vision problems 

In more severe cases, dogs may experience 

  • Hepatic encephalopathy (a severe brain condition), 
  • Including coma and 
  • Eventual blindness. 

Unfortunately, this disease progresses quickly if not caught early in your dog’s life. 

Dogs born small or with a liver shunt can set off more severe symptoms such as ascites buildup, which is the accumulation of fluid in the belly that causes abdominal swelling.

Diagnosis 

The veterinarian may perform diagnostic tests to identify the cause and severity of the condition. 

  • A recommended liver biopsy is the only way to accurately diagnose.
  • The vet will want to look at the entire liver region and may order x-rays or radiographs to see if any tumors are present. 
  • If a tumor is present, further imaging such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be needed to reveal scar tissue or other types of tumors. 
  • Your vet may also take a tissue sample from the liver to determine if any cancer cells, bacteria, or other foreign bodies are present. 
  • This will help them distinguish between the benign and malignant nature of the tumor. 
  • Once the cause for the enlarged liver has been determined, your veterinarian can begin devising a treatment plan depending on the severity stage and cause the severity of symptoms. 
  • To prevent future issues related to an enlarged liver in dogs it’s important to schedule regular exams with your veterinarian so they can monitor any changes that occur over time.

Treatments:

During exams, your vet will detect if your dog’s liver is enlarged and can recommend treatment plans. The prognosis of your dog’s condition depends on the underlying cause of the enlargement. 

Treatment may include reducing liver inflammation, diet supplements, additional vitamins and minerals, steroids, antibiotics, and antioxidants. Depending on the stage of cirrhosis or hepatitis present in your dog’s abdominal area, symptoms will vary and so will their prognosis.

Treatment may include:

  1. Medications: Depending on the cause of the enlarged liver, medications such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroids may be prescribed.
  2. Diet: Dogs with an enlarged liver may require a special diet to reduce stress on the liver. This may include a protein increase, reducing salt intake, and avoiding processed foods.
  3. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be required to remove a tumor or correct a congenital abnormality.
  4. Supportive care: Dogs with an enlarged liver may require supportive care such as IV fluids, anti-nausea medications, pain relief, subcutaneous (SQ) fluids, and antibiotics to reduce inflammation as well as scarring in the liver.

Summary

In summary, an enlarged liver in dogs can have various causes and symptoms. Diagnosis for enlarged livers can be done through palpation (feeling for abnormalities) as well as through blood work to reveal any underlying problems or cancers.  Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to ensure the best outcome for the affected dog. If you suspect that your dog has an enlarged liver, consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible

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