Animal health

A transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) can affect both male and female dogs. The sex of the individual dog is not as important, however, as their rate of sexual activity. If dog guardians want to know how to best prevent venereal tumors in dogs, then we need to stress the importance of sterilization. Neutering...

As with all mammals, a dog's liver is a vital organ and as such carries out functions necessary to maintaining life. Specifically, the liver removes toxins in the blood and passes them out as part of various biological cycles. For example, ammonia is converted to urea which is then exited the body via...

Anaphylactic shock in dogs is a veterinary emergency that requires rapid action in order to prevent it from having fatal consequences for an animal. This life-threatening allergic reaction can be avoided and making sure that you as a dog owner can recognize the symptoms is vital! In this AnimalWised...

The ‘E’ in E-collar stands for Elizabethan. Wrapping round the cat's neck, it provides a similar look to the late English queen and her penchant for wearing soft fabric ruffs. Unfortunately, if a cat is wearing an Elizabethan collar, it is not because they are looking for vintage style points. The E-collar...

Gastrointestinal issues in cats are fairly normal. Many will happily eat various items in their environment, whether inside or out, much of which can lead to problems with digestion. They may feel unwell for a while or even become a little bloated, but it is often nothing to be concerned about. However,...

Have you observed that your dog has been struggling to breathe? When faced with such a situation, it is essential to act quickly. When it comes to dogs and breathing difficulties, they are often related to pathologies that need to be diagnosed and treated as fast as possible. Respiratory difficulties in...

The syndrome of sensory deprivation in dogs and other animals consists of the development of fears and phobias that cause an instability in the dog. This instability this leads the dog to perform unwanted or irrational behaviors. These behaviors may include; excessive barking in certain situations,...

A dog's eyes are a very sensitive part of their anatomy. As with all mammals, their eyes have adapted to their environment over time. This means they are not as good at discerning detail as human eyes, but they are much better at seeing in the dark. This does not means their eyes do not need protection....

A dog's penis health is not always apparent. We may not pay much attention to that area of their body unless we are giving them a bath or if they lie down to expose their belly. This is why it is so important to observe any behavioral changes in our pet. If they are excessively licking their genital...

Warts on dogs can appear relatively frequently, especially as the dog ages. Warts are characterized as benign superficial tumors which usually do not have any serious ramifications for canine health. We do need to be careful as there can be complications if the dog's wart starts bleeding. The warts may...

Here at AnimalWised we often stress the importance of preventative action for the animals in our care. Vaccination schedules, deworming programs and proper socialization are some of the key aspects of this type of care. However, there are some occasions when, despite our best efforts, something happens we...

Beagles are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. However, like any other dog breed, they can suffer from common diseases specific to their physiology. Beagles commonly suffer from ear, eye and skin problems. Beagles, despite being lovely, active and friendly pets, have an insatiable appetite...

With advancements in veterinary medicine and a greater general knowledge about canine health, dogs have a better chance than ever to live a long life. Unfortunately, with an older dog population come more diagnoses of certain diseases exacerbated by age. Lymphoma is one such disease. Lymphoma is the...

Although human beings can contract various diseases through birds, that does not mean that they cannot be kept as pets. The probability of contracting a zoonotic disease varies according to a space’s hygiene, our own body hygiene or the animal’s state of health. It is important to remember that regular visits...

It is relatively common that cats, especially if they are young, experience eye infections. Eye infections in cats should receive veterinary treatment as soon as possible. Although they can be treated easily, if left untreated for too long it can result in a perforated cornea, resulting in: blindness....

When a dog ingests a snail, it can be difficult to know the dangers. Since they can be very adventurous when it comes to what they eat, dogs may find irresistible some things we find completely repugnant, including slugs and snails. While snails are a foodstuff eaten in many cultures around the world,...

Urinary incontinence in dogs is defined as an involuntary evacuation of urine. Urinary incontinence highlights that of a dog losing control over their bladder. In such cases it is normal for a dog to experience, for example, nocturnal enuresis, that is, when a dog urinates in their sleep. You may also...

Hamsters have become an increasingly popular domestic pet. Although they require little space and relatively simple care, this does not mean they are invulnerable to stress. These rodents need special attention when it comes to their behavior and animal welfare. In the wild they serve as prey to many...

There are many diseases unique to the animal world which cannot be transmitted to human beings. We can spend time with a dog affected by such a disease and not worry about getting sick ourselves. There are also many diseases which have both human and canine forms, but which cannot pass between species....

Rabbits are great companion animals. Rabbits are not however like dogs and cats, and therefore need specialized care. If you have a rabbit, you have to make sure you take it for regular veterinary checkups and offer it a quality diet. Knowing whether your rabbit is ill is incredibly important in making...

Basset Hounds are a French dog breed which was originally employed for hunting, so they are capable of chasing and tracking when they want to. Families with a Basset Hound know they are their own dog. This is represented by their look which gives off an air of extreme aloofness, but looks can be deceiving....

Ticks are one of the most common ectoparasites that can affect the health of our dogs, especially if our furry friends enjoy the outdoors and nature. Ticks are hematophagous, which means that feed attached to a host (living being) on blood. It is during this exchange in which ticks can transmit various...

Petting our cat has many benefits for both the feline and ourselves. Not only does it reduce stress and strengthen our bond together, it gives us an opportunity to observe them for any problems. If we pass our hands over their ears and feel a warm temperature, it might be cause for concern. If a cat has...

It's not hard to understand why cats like curling up in a spot of sunshine or even chasing after their favorite toy. When they chase around a spider and happily pop them into their mouths, we may not see the same appeal. As cats are obligate carnivores, they need at least 20% of their diet to consist...

As with many edibles designed to improve our health, medications can often taste unpleasant. If your cat has already experienced ingesting medicine, they may begin to shake if they think you are going to administer them. It can be a very stressful situation for both pet and caregiver. For this reason it is very...

Considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds, the Belgian Shepherd Malinois also stand out for their excellent health and great physical endurance. It is a working dog which stands out particularly for their high activity levels and need for sufficient exercise. If this is provided along with adequate...

Have you recently noticed that your fish are covered with small white dots? What in principle may seem like dirt or small specks, is actually a protozoan capable of making your fish seriously ill. Although it is rare in home aquariums, white spot disease in fish should not be neglected. In the long run,...

Usually the precursor to feline infectious anemia (FIA), feline mycoplasma are parasitic cells which often go unnoticed in the individuals which carry them. They are bacteria which go under the classification Mycoplasma haemofelis and, despite their hidden nature, can manifest in severe anemia symptoms in...

When a cat has a bloody nose, they have epistaxis. This is the scientific name for a nosebleed, something which can cause understandable concern for a cat guardian. While nasal bleeding is often associated with physical trauma, it is possible the blood is generated due to other problems. These can range...

Ticks are only trying to survive in their own way. Unfortunately, this way is often to attach themselves to the skin of animals and feed off the blood of other animals. This includes dogs as well as us humans. While any loss of blood is minimal, the tick themselves are vectors for certain diseases. One...

External and internal deworming is incredibly important for the health of our dogs. Many dog owners are however, still unaware of the importance antiparasitics. Owners who do not deworm their dogs, leave their animals exposed to infestations that can cause: discomfort, diseases and even death. Some of these...

Have you recently adopted a guinea pig and are wondering how to care for it? If you have a guinea pig it is very important to make sure that you maintain its health accordingly. If you believe that your guinea pig may be ill, we suggest consulting your veterinarian as soon as possible. If they are suffering...

Rabies is generally associated with dogs. We may fear stray dogs in case they are rabid, especially if they seem aggressive, but the same fear rarely occurs when encountering cats. However, in a 2008 study by the American CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), it was shown that more rabies cases...

There are different reasons a dog may have black skin, some of which should be concerning. This is the case when it a symptom of an underlying condition. This can be a hormonal imbalance which is causing changes in their physicality and likely their behavior. It is also important to remember that black...

Taluremia is a disease which is common in the wilds of Asia, Europe and North America. However, it is fortunately not one which is very common in domestic rabbits. This doesn't mean it is impossible for a rabbit to contract it, however. While uncommon, if a rabbit is infected there is a chance of fatality,...

You may or may not have heard of Horner's syndrome, but it is something which can affect any dog. This is because it is essentially nerve damage, resulting in various symptoms which affect the eyes. This symptoms are such that they are generally easy for guardians to spot in their dogs, especially if you...

Following a vaccination schedule for cats is incredibly important and necessary in terms of the health and safety of the animal. Vaccines keep an animal safe from serious diseases, specifically for animals that travel or live in groups. However, as with most drugs, vaccines can present a series of adverse...

Cats can become dehydrated easily, especially if they are not cared for properly. They are sensitive animals and can also be fussy with what they consume. Not only do we need to provide water, but it needs to be fresh and clean. If they only eat dry kibble, they won't have enough moisture in their food...

The first thing to know about Shar Pei fever is that is is not fatal if caught in time. In fact, with adequate treatment, symptoms should start to resolve themselves relatively quickly. It is important to know that all Shar Pei dogs have the potential of contracting the disease. Unfortunately, the reasons...

Anemia is not a disease in itself, but a blood disorder which often results from disease, as well as other causes. It describes the condition of low red blood cells and/or low hemoglobin in the dog's blood. There are several types of anemia, each with its particular characteristics and respective treatments....

Hamsters will scratch harmlessly as part of their daily grooming routine. Whether they are scratching themselves, licking to remove dirt or scratching at their cage to move bedding into a more comfortable position, a certain amount needs to be tolerated. However, when this behavior is repeated too frequently...

Maggots in dogs occur when a fly imbeds eggs into the skin of the animal which later develop into larvae. It is these larvae of various fly species which are known as maggots. When this occurs, it is known as canine myiasis. Various Diptera species can infest dogs with their larvae. While most do so...

Filariasis is a parasitic disease caused by the dirofilaria immitis, otherwise known as the heartworm. This condition is spread through a parasitic roundowrm that is shared through hosts, i.e. mosquitoes. Heartworm is incredibly dangerous, this is because the adult form of this parasite install themselves in...

Vomiting and diarrhea are relatively common in dogs and can sometimes worry their owners. This situation can become increasingly worrying if it doesn't desist or if there is an appearance of blood in the vomit or feces. Some symptoms such; anorexia, apathy or fever can even worsen this clinical case. In...

Dogs can sometimes experience skin irritation which can appear as red or itchy areas on the skin. This irritation can cause severe discomfort for our canines. Skin irritation is dogs is known as dermatitis. The causes for skin problems in dogs can vary, therefore, if you notice that your dog is experiencing...

Kidney failure or renal insufficiency in dogs refers to a disease that affects one or both kidneys. This condition causes alterations to the function of these organs. Kidney failure can manifest acutely or chronically. This happens when the failure of a dog’s kidneys progressively degenerates. In this...

A dog's nervous system is incredibly complex. Carrying signals from the brain to the rest of the body to control function and activity, even the slightest alteration can result in significant impairment. Dogs are susceptible to certain neurological disorders just as we are. When these neurological issues...

Dehydration is a condition that does not only affect humans, but animals too. Dehydration in our dogs can appear due to many different causes. Dehydration has different degrees of severity. It is incredibly important that dog owners are familiar with the signs and symptoms of dehydration in dogs. Dehydration...

Although ticks in dogs are more common in dogs, cats can also be affected by these ectoparasites. This is specifically prevalent in cats that do not receive adequate preventative medicine. Ticks feed on blood and can cause intense itching for our felines. In addition, ticks can also transmit serious diseases...

The Doberman Pinscher is a remarkably elegant, intelligent and sensitive dog. This dog stands out among the 5 smartest dog breeds. According to Stanley Coren, psychology professor and neuropsychological researcher, Dobermans are able to learn, memorize and reproduce with great excellence and speed. In...