Articles
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Cervical vertebral instability (wobbler syndrome) is caused by compression of the spinal cord, usually at the base of the neck. Although the spinal cord compression occurs in the neck, the hind legs are often affected first. In severe cases, the dog may suddenly develop total paralysis of all four limbs. The condition is most prevalent in Great Danes and Doberman Pinschers. Most pets enjoy a relatively normal lifestyle following surgery.
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A cesarean section is surgery usually performed as an emergency to help deliver puppies. Complete recovery from anesthesia may take 2 to 12 hours. The puppies may also be sluggish and slow to nurse at first due to the anesthesia. The dog should be monitored for fever, abnormal vulvar discharge, and abnormalities at the incision.
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Chemotherapy medications are primarily used to treat cancer in people and animals. They can also be used to treat autoimmune disorders, certain blood disorders, or as immunosuppressive agents in organ transplant recipients. They often target and kill rapidly dividing cancer cells, but normal, healthy cells can also be damaged.
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Chlorfenapyr is a pesticide used to control nuisance and destructive insects. Poisoning occurs through ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption. Signs may occur within hours but generally take days to weeks. Due to a high risk of death, pet owners should seek immediate veterinary care if their pet is exposed.
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Chocolate is toxic to dogs. While rarely fatal, chocolate ingestion can result in significant illness. It contains theobromine and caffeine, which cause clinical signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, panting or restlessness, and increased heart rate. Signs of chocolate poisoning can take several hours to develop and can last for several days.
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Cholecalciferol is one of three main active ingredients found in rodenticides. It is commonly found as a soft bait and occasionally as a hard block or pellet. While it may seem like a safer option than anticoagulants, there is no antidote available and the amount in a single block is enough to cause a severe overdose in nearly all animals.
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This article discusses some common over-the-counter medications and supplements that are toxic for dogs, including pain medications, decongestants, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Symptoms depend on the type and quantity of toxin ingested. Early intervention is key to successful treatment.
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Congestive heart failure (CHF) refers to the heart's inability to pump adequate blood to the body. There are many causes of CHF in dogs. The two most common causes are mitral valve insufficiency (MVI), or a leaky mitral valve, and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The most common clinical sign of CHF is persistent coughing accompanied by difficulty breathing. Other signs include coughing when at rest or sleeping, an increased resting respiratory rate or excessive panting, persistent loss of appetite, a swollen belly, and pale or bluish gums.
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This handout outlines corneal ulcers in dogs, a painful eye condition often resulting from trauma. Other causes, clinical signs, diagnostic testing, and treatment options are explained.
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Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are microscopic bacteria found in fresh water, brackish water, and salt water. All animals, including dogs, cats, horses, livestock, mammals, fish, birds, and humans are susceptible to the toxins produced by cyanobacteria.