Library
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Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a serious and often fatal condition in medium to larger breed dogs. Signs may be sudden or progressive in onset. Some signs include rapid breathing, increased effort with breathing, restless sleeping, coughing, or gagging, among others. Early and proper diagnosis is key, followed by treatment to give the best quality of life.
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Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), also known as cutaneous lupus erythematosus, is an autoimmune disease that causes the skin to crust and scab, usually starting around the nose, and often lose skin pigmentation in the affected area. If untreated, DLE can make dogs more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer).
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Discospondylitis is a bacterial or fungal infection of the intervertebral disks and the adjacent vertebral bones. It primarily affects dogs, though rarely can affect cats. It affects large breed dogs more often and generally starts clinically as back pain. The diagnosis and treatment of this condition are outlined in this handout.
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Distemper virus is a highly contagious disease that can affect multiple body systems and is potentially fatal. Puppies are most susceptible, and respiratory, gastrointestinal, or neurologic signs may be seen. Vaccines are available and are highly effective at preventing disease.
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Distichiae can be an irritating eye problem for many dogs. The abnormally growing extra eyelashes can cause chronic discomfort to the eye and potential vision problems. A thorough eye examination is necessary to assess the extent of any accompanying corneal injury and to rule out other causes of the dog's clinical signs. Various treatment options are available. The prognosis is excellent for dogs that do not show any clinical signs associated with their distichiae. For dogs with mild clinical signs, the likelihood that the condition can be managed with conservative treatment is good.
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Infection of the external ear canal (outer ear infection) is called otitis externa and is one of the most common types of infections seen in dogs. Some breeds, particularly those with large, floppy or hairy ears like Cocker Spaniels, Miniature Poodles or Old English Sheepdogs, appear to be more prone to ear infections, but ear infections may occur in any breed.
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The ear mite is a surface mite that lives on cats, dogs, rabbits, and ferrets. It is usually found in the ear canal, but can also live on the skin surface. Mites are barely visible to the naked eye. Clinical signs of infestation may include ear irritation leading to scratching at the ears or head shaking, dark discharge from the ear, areas of hair loss from self-trauma, a crusted rash around or in the ear, or aural hematoma.
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Eclampsia, also referred to as hypocalcemia or puerperal tetany, is an emergency medical condition associated with a life-threatening drop in blood calcium levels that occurs in nursing mothers. Mothers that are especially attentive to their puppies seem to be more likely to develop eclampsia. Signs and treatment are discussed.
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Ectopic cilia can be an irritating eye problem for many dogs. Growing abnormally through the conjunctiva (the pink part of the eye), they come into contact with the cornea and can cause chronic discomfort to the eye and corneal ulceration. Surgery is necessary to help to correct the problem and help dogs live a more comfortable life. The prognosis for surgical correction of this condition is generally good.
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An ectopic ureter is an anatomical defect that is present at birth in some dogs. In a dog with ectopic ureters, the ureters do not attach to their normal location in the bladder. Dogs with ectopic ureters may dribble urine or be prone to frequent bladder infections. Signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis are discussed.
