Library
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Von Willebrand’s disease is a bleeding disorder that results from the lack of von Willebrand factor (vWF), a protein needed to help platelets clump together and seal broken blood vessels. Affected dogs have varying amounts of vWF. Doberman Pinschers are the most common breed affected but they are mildly affected compared to Scottish terriers and Chesapeake Bay retrievers. Dogs can develop bleeding at any time in their life. Certain drugs that interfere with platelet function should be avoided in affected dogs. Treatment of severely affected dogs requires a blood or plasma transfusion. Screening of breeding animals is recommended to reduce the incidence of the disease.
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Vulvoplasty, also known as episioplasty, is a surgical procedure that your veterinarian may recommend to correct a conformational issue known as a recessed vulva. Your veterinarian will remove a crescent-shaped piece of tissue from above the vulva, allowing the skin to be pulled upwards into a more normal conformation. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Your pet will be intubated with an endotracheal tube. After surgery, you will need to give pain medications and antibiotics as directed and keep your dog confined/restricted for approximately two weeks. Skin sutures, if used, can typically be removed 10-14 days after surgery.
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The streamlined, steel-gray Weimaraner (Weim) was bred to sustain long hours of hunting birds and even large animals. A great companion for runners or agility enthusiasts, the Weim is ready for any physical activity.
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The Welsh Springer is a hunter at heart, and thrives on days spent in the field. But he's equally at home playing with the kids or snoozing by the fire. He's an easygoing, affectionate fellow that is more of a one-family dog than are most spaniels, steady with his family but aloof, even a bit shy, around strangers.
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These sociable, merry dogs are curious, spunky and – like most terriers – utterly fearless. Owners with a good sense of humor - and, perhaps, earplugs - are in the best position to appreciate the virtues of this talkative canine clown.
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Like most terriers, Westies love to chase things and could get scrappy with other dogs, but the West Highland White Terrier is among the more trusting and gregarious of the Scottish terriers.
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Cancer is the result of genetic damage to cells. While some breeds may be more predisposed to certain forms of cancer, age-related changes and environmental factors are also often at fault. Some tests can be performed to determine the type of cancer present. Treatment options are available but do not necessarily cure cancer.
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Most Whippets are quiet, gentle, and well-behaved inside the house, and love to join their people on the couch (and to keep the couch warm when their people aren't sitting on it!). They're friendly to visitors – no watchdog here – and aren't afraid to show how much they adore their owners.
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Whipworms are intestinal parasites that cause bloody diarrhea. They are diagnosed by finding eggs on microscopic examination of the stool. These eggs, however, are difficult to find. Several medications are effective against whipworms. All medications must be repeated monthly for three months to clear the infection.
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Dogs were built to chew. That is a fact. Bones can lead to a number of health problems from minor injuries to severe illness. Our job as pet parents, is to provide them with chewing options that do not put them in jeopardy. Happy chewing!
