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• Ethylene Glycol Poisoning in Dogs

  Ethylene glycol, a sweet-tasting, odorless liquid, is the active ingredient in antifreeze. Ethylene glycol can also be found, in lower concentrations, in some windshield de-icing agents, hydraulic brake fluid, motor oils, solvents, paints, film processing solutions, wood stains, inks, and printer cartridges. Ethylene glycol is poisonous to dogs: as little as half a teaspoon per pound of a dog's body weight can result in death. Immediate treatment is essential.

• Expanding Glues

  All glues containing isocyanate and diisocyanate can expand. Pets exposed to a very small amount of wet or liquid expanding glue may consume enough product to be problematic. Foreign body obstruction due to a mass of expanded glue in the stomach is the most common outcome in dogs ingesting expanding wood glues. After abdominal X-rays confirm the presence of a glue mass and obstruction, surgery is required to remove the mass, or endoscopy in mild cases. The prognosis for recovery from expanding glue ingestion depends on the removal of the mass.

• Eye Emergencies in Horses

  Injuries to the eye and surrounding areas of the head and face are relatively common in horses and ponies due to their inquisitive nature and as a result of "arguments" with each other and with structures such as stable doors, fence posts, trees, etc.

• Fading Puppy Syndrome in Dogs

  Fading puppy syndrome describes puppies that decline in health and die within about two weeks of birth. Neonatal puppies are fragile and so there can be many causes of this syndrome including birth defects, inadequate care from the mother, poor health status of the mother and/or infectious diseases. As well as addressing a specific cause, treatment focuses on maintaining hydration and warmth while providing adequate nutrition. Environmental hygiene is extremely important.

• Ferrets: Health Problems

  There are several common diseases or conditions that may affect the pet ferret. Like dogs, ferrets may get heartworms, distemper virus, heat stroke and a variety of cancerous conditions. Yearly veterinary health examinations are recommended to assess the presence or absence of any of the diseases listed above.

• First Aid for Bleeding in Dogs

  The sight of blood is frightening for many people, especially when an injured dog is bleeding. With quick first aid, the situation is not as scary. An injured pet is scared and in pain so be sure to take precautions to avoid being bitten. You may need to use a muzzle or have someone restrain your dog while you provide first aid. Keeping wounds covered with pressure to slow the bleeding is the first step. Minor injuries may be manageable at home, but larger wounds and internal bleeding require immediate veterinary care.

• First Aid for Broken Nails in Dogs

  Broken nails are acute, painful injuries that require first aid, and in some cases, a veterinary visit. Bleeding should initially be controlled with pressure from gauze or a towel, followed by cauterizing powder if needed. Any remaining damaged part needs to be removed, which usually requires veterinary care. Broken nails are best prevented by keeping all nails short through regular trimmings.

• First Aid for Dogs - Shock, Rescue Breathing, and CPR

  Medical emergencies occur suddenly and without warning. It is important for all dog owners to have a basic understanding of common veterinary medical emergencies and basic first aid for their pets. This handout provides guidelines you can follow in the event that your dog is experiencing shock and/or requires rescue breathing or CPR. In any emergency situation with your pet, contact your veterinarian or closest emergency facility immediately.

• First Aid for Falls in Dogs

  Dogs that fall from heights can suffer sprains, broken bones, head trauma, and chest or abdominal injuries. Toy breeds can sustain injuries from jumping off a couch or chair. If you see your dog fall, monitor him for at least 3-5 days for anything abnormal that may develop. Serious injuries need to be evaluated immediately by your veterinarian, but there are steps you can take at home to prepare your pet to be transported to your veterinary hospital.

• First Aid for Insect Stings in Dogs

  Insect stings or bites can cause mild signs of swelling, pain, and itching or can be more severe causing hives, anaphylactic reactions, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures. In more severe cases emergency veterinary attention is required to stabilize the dog, screen for organ dysfunction, and provide supportive care.