The larynx, which is the opening through which outside air flows into a dog’s lungs, allows for vocalization and prevents food inhalation (aspiration) — both of which are important functions. Paralysis of the larynx, otherwise known as laryngeal paralysis or “lar par” for short, means that one or both of the vocal folds do not open fully during breathing. The condition can occur in cats but is more common in dogs, and specifically in large-breed dogs. It can be hereditary in Bouviers, Huskies, Bull Terriers, Dalmatians and Rotweillers and is also commonly seen (but not necessarily hereditary) in Labs, Goldens, St. Bernards and Newfoundlands.
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PODCAST: Tremorgenic Mycotoxins
Tremorgenic mycotoxins produced by molds on foods are a relatively common — and possibly under-diagnosed — cause of tremors and seizures in pet animals. Because of their relatively indiscriminate appetites, dogs tend to be most commonly exposed to tremorgens. These toxins are produced by a variety of fungi, but tremorgens produced by Penicillium spp. are the most commonly encountered. The molds grow on practically any food, including dairy products, grains, nuts and legumes, and compost piles may also provide a source of tremorgens. Tremorgens have a several different mechanisms of action: some alter nerve action potentials, some affect neurotransmitter action, and others change neurotransmitter levels. The overall result is the development of muscle tremors and seizures.
PODCAST: Canine Distemper — Make Sure Your Dog is Vaccinated!
Canine distemper is a very serious, contagious virus found in dogs that attacks the immune system, making them more susceptible to other infections, including bacterial and parasitic infections. Sneezing, coughing, pneumonia, anorexia, fever, vomiting and diarrhea are all potential signs of this disease.
PODCAST: Ferrets as Pets?
Dr. Tripp Stewart in this quick podcast will talk about ferrets and whether they have a place as pets.
PODCAST: Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
In this installment of Vet Tips, Dr. Tripp Stewart discusses Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus in detail.
PODCAST: Heartworm Disease
In this installment of Vet Tips, Dr. Tripp Stewart discusses how heartworm disease spreads and affects dogs, cats and ferrets. He argues that prevention is the key to avoiding expensive treatment.
Nicotine Toxicity in Pets
It was not until the next morning when the owner was smoking, that she noticed several of her cigarette butts in the pile by her house were missing.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Rupture in Pets
One of the most common problems we see at Greenbrier Emergency Animal Hospital is lameness, and one of the most common causes is a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture.
Food Bloat (Overeating) in Dogs
With the holiday season right around the corner, the thought of eating oversized, high-calorie meals is probably on a lot of people’s minds (for better or worse). But for most dogs, eating a large meal is probably on their mind all the time, holiday season or not. Yes, dogs love to get into food, beyond what’s given to them in their doggie dishes, and recently Greenbrier Emergency Animal Hospital has seen an above-average number of dogs that have done just that.