Top Veterinary Articles of the Week: More on Influenza Outbreak, Gastrointestinal Biopsies, and more ...

New canine influenza strain affecting Chicago outbreak

As if a flu outbreak wasn't bad enough, it is one with a new virus, not identified in North America until now.  Apparently introduced from Asia. Makes me feel lucky that we live virtually in the middle of nowhere, though there are other challenges that come with that.

If your dog is showing any signs of coughing, retching, increased respiratory rate, etc., please seek veterinary attention immediately.

So...how did Asian H3N2 canine flu get here?

Since this flu doesn't affect humans, one can only figure it was brought in with an infected dog. It is impossible to confirm but how else would it get here?

I think that dogs from meat farms certainly need rescuing. But perhaps better regulations are needed or offshore resources established ... ?

Gastrointestinal Biopsies – Big Bite Or Little Bite?

There are some gastrointestinal diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which can be conclusively diagnosed only by doing a biopsy. Anything shorter of that is just guessing. Jasmine's IBD was diagnosed this way. Back in that day, Jasmine had an exploratory surgery and the biopsy was done that way.

Endoscopic biopsies are available these days, which are much less invasive. While you wouldn't think so, each method has its advantages and disadvantages.

Decubitus Ulcer, Pressure Sores/Bed Sores in Dogs. How you can treat and cure this in your home 

After a week of being virtually immobile after her hyperthermia horror, Jasmine came home from the hospital with two pressure sores. Seeing those made the whole thing ever more sad than it already was. The bottom of the ICU cages were a metal wire frame type of thing. I could just imagine poor Jasmine having to lay on that until somebody came to turn her around.

Fortunately, once she came home and was able to rest on her ever-favorite water bed, and started being able to get around some, the sores resolved quickly.

Find our how Dr. Krista's patient's sore was treated.

Laser therapy is great for sores.

Top Ways to Prevent your Dog from Developing Arthritis- Part 1 Healthy Weight Maintenance

Last week hubby was visiting his kids while down for a conference. All of the dogs packed on a bunch of extra pounds. It makes me sad. If there is a number one thing you can do to give your dog healthier, happier and longer life, it is keeping them at ideal weight.

There are so many ways obesity is involved in disease, it is not just a mechanical issue of carrying extra weight around. If you want to do something awesome for your dog, keep them thin.

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