Illustrated Articles
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This handout discusses fragmented medial coronoid process (FMCP) in dogs, one of the causes of front limb lameness in young, larger breed dogs such as Bernese mountain dogs, golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, rottweilers, and German shepherds. The clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of this condition are outlined.
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The Frenchie is a quiet but sociable dog who continues to love snoozing on human laps and otherwise cuddle at every opportunity.
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Frostbite is the damage that is caused to the skin and other tissues due to extreme cold. The paws, ears, and tail are the most common tissues to be affected. If you suspect your dog has frostbite, you should seek medical attention immediately. Mild cases of frostbite usually resolve with little permanent damage, while more severe frostbite may result in permanent disfiguration or alteration of the affected tissues.
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Furosemide is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off label to treat many conditions, including congestive heart failure and fluid retention. Common side effects include increased urination, diarrhea, or constipation. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or in those that are unable to make urine.
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Fuzapladib sodium (brand name Panoquell®-CA1) is an intravenous injection used by veterinarians to manage the clinical signs of acute pancreatitis in dogs. Potential side effects include reduced appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and jaundice. Call your veterinary office immediately if you suspect an adverse reaction to the medication.
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Gabapentin (brand names: Neurontin®, Aclonium®, Equipax®, Gantin®, Gabarone®, Gralise®, Neurostil®, Progresse®) is an anti-seizure and pain medication that is used with other medications to treat seizures and chronic pain, primarily nerve pain, in dogs and cats. It has also been used in cats to treat fear and anxiety associated with veterinary visits. It is given by mouth in the form of a capsule, tablet, or compounded liquid.
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Gastritis is defined as inflammation of the lining of the stomach. The most common clinical signs associated with gastritis are sudden vomiting and decreased appetite. Other clinical signs may include dehydration, lethargy or depression, increased thirst, blood in the vomit or feces, and abdominal pain. In acute cases, only minimal diagnostics such as blood and urine tests are required. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Most acute cases resolve without medical intervention.
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Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (stomach and the intestines). It can be caused by infection with bacteria, viruses, parasites, medications, or even new foods. The condition often causes abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and other clinical signs. The principal treatment for gastroenteritis is rehydration and restoring blood electrolyte balance
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Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which stomach acid flows from the stomach to the esophagus. In dogs with GERD, stomach acid passes through the lower esophageal sphincter and enters the esophagus. Possible signs associated with GERD include decreased appetite, difficulty swallowing, licking the lips, change in bark, chronic cough, appearance of generalized discomfort, pacing, or restlessness at night. Gastrointestinal reflux disease is often diagnosed on the basis of endoscopy. There are a number of different treatments for GERD. Most dogs require a combination of treatments, each of which addresses the problem differently. Most dogs experience a rapid improvement in clinical signs with treatment.
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Gastrointestinal endoscopy uses a flexible tube with a camera or viewing port to inspect the esophagus, stomach, proximal small intestine, or colon for evidence of disease-causing clinical signs characteristic of gastrointestinal disease. Foreign bodies can often be retrieved. Biopsies are taken of abnormal and normal tissue, as not all conditions cause gross changes to the stomach or intestinal surface. The endoscope cannot reach all areas of the small intestine, so other tests may be needed to diagnose disease in these areas. Endoscopic pinch biopsies are not full thickness so if diagnosis is not achieved with endoscopic biopsies, additional testing including surgical biopsies may be needed. 12-18 hours fasting and enemas are required prior to endoscopy depending on the area being studied.
