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Most of us are familiar with the word leukemia and are aware that it is some sort of a cancer that affects people. It is also a fairly well-known fact that leukemia is a serious condition that can be fatal. There are many different types of leukemia, which can affect not just humans, but also canines. One of the most dangerous conditions that can affect your dog is lymphocytic leukemia.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia in dogs is a serious medical condition, where their bodies produce an excessive amount of white blood cells, while there is a deficit of other important blood cells. This usually occurs because of mutations in the bone marrow. Unlike acute lymphocytic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia in dogs is a slow progressing disease. For this reason, most dogs are diagnosed with the condition only during the later years of their lives. Typically this would be when they are around 10 years or so. Instances of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in puppies are quite rare.

Symptoms of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia In Dogs

Since this condition progresses at a slow rate, the symptoms are usually noticed only in the later stages. Some of the symptoms of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in dogs include –

• Anorexia, loss of appetite and severe weight loss
• Increased tendency to bruise and bleed
• Lethargy
• Lymphadenopathy or swollen lymph nodes
• Mild anemia, characterized by pale gums
• Polydipsia (increase in thirst)
• Polyuria (increase in the frequency of urination)
• Recurrent infections, which do not heal very easily
• Splenomegaly or an enlarged spleen

Many dogs have been diagnosed with this medical condition, without displaying any prior symptoms. In more than 50% of all cases, the condition is detected during a routine blood test. If, for any reason, you suspect that your dog may be suffering from chronic lymphocytic leukemia, rush him to a vet immediately. To confirm that your pet does indeed have this condition, your doctor may need a complete blood count, as well as –

• X-rays of the abdominal areas and the chest,
• Biochemical profiles,
• Bone marrow tests,
• Urine analysis, and
• Tissue aspiration from the lymph nodes and abdominal organs.

Once the vet confirms that your dog suffers from chronic lymphocytic leukemia, you may be asked to consult a veterinary oncologist, certified by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. Your vet should be able to recommend one, if required.

Depending upon the severity of the condition and the rate at which it is progressing, the oncologist may recommend chemotherapy for your pet. Some dogs can go on for up to 2 years without chemotherapy. Your dog will also need to be given medication that reduces the quantity of white cells in the body. These alternate treatment options may also be recommended, but do keep in mind that they cannot eliminate the disease:

• Natural diets and supplements
• Herbal remedies
• Homeopathy

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Treatment In Dogs

The main aims of chronic lymphocytic leukemia treatment in dogs are –

• To slow down the progress of the disease,
• To improve the quality of life,
• To relieve the severe symptoms of the condition, and
• To strengthen the immune system, so infections & other complications can be prevented.

You can keep chronic lymphocytic leukemia under control, by ensuring that your pet is monitored by a veterinarian continuously.

References

• Heather C Workman, William Vernau, Chronic lymphocytic leukemia in dogs and cats: the veterinary perspective, Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, Volume 33, Issue 6, November 2003, Pages 1379-1399, ISSN 0195-5616, 10.1016/S0195-5616(03)00120-7.

• http://loudoun.nvcc.edu/vetonline/vet131/leukemia.htm

Elbow dysplasia in dogs can be described as an abnormal development of certain parts in the elbow joint. This is an inherited disease, which could occur during any phase of the dog’s life. Although this condition can be seen in dogs of all sizes and breeds, elbow dysplasia in dogs is more common in medium sized and larger dogs. Therefore, some of the most common breeds that have been affected by elbow dysplasia in dogs include Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Bernese Mountain Dog, Golden Retrievers and the German Shepherd. Some of the other breeds that can also be affected by this condition include a few of the Terrier breeds, the Shar Pei, Chow-chow, Springer Spaniel and Saint Bernard. Normally, elbow dysplasia in dogs affects both the elbows, but it is possible for them to suffer from unilateral elbow dysplasia.

Elbow Dysplasia In Dogs Symptoms

There are several sign and symptoms that can let a pet owner know that the dog is suffering from elbow dysplasia. Dogs that have this problem may start showing the symptoms when they are anywhere between 5 and 12 months. Some of the first signs that become evident are morning stiffness, signs of lameness in the front leg and stiffness after a period of rest. Hence the dog may develop an abnormal gait or may start limping. In fact, the way the dog sits, stands or lies down may also change significantly.

Elbow Dysplasia In Dogs Causes

The exact causes of elbow dysplasia in dogs are still not clear, but most pet experts believe that there could be a combination of  few factors that lead to this condition, which include over nutrition accompanied by rapid growth, hormonal factors, genetic factors and trauma.

Elbow Dysplasia In Dogs Treatment

The treatment of elbow dysplasia in dogs varies, as it is dependent on the severity of the condition. In some dogs, the treatment is a one time surgery, but in others, it could be an ongoing matter. The best way to treat this condition is by getting the dog operated. However, there are several people who are conscious about elbow dysplasia in dogs cost and therefore, choose more economical options, like medication. However, medicines could take up to a month to bring about any improvement in dogs. In case a dog suffering from dysplasia is overweight, it is absolutely essential to ensure that the dog loses weight as soon as possible.

While there are alternative treatment options for the condition too, all pet owners should ensure that all instances of elbow dysplasia in dogs are monitored by vets.

Dog bloat is a very serious health risk and should be treated immediately as soon as it is observed in dogs. It has been seen that dog bloat causes nearly as many deaths as cancer. Dogs that have deep chests are especially at risk of developing this fatal condition. Some of the breeds that are more susceptible than others include Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Doberman Pinschers. Dog bloats can kill dogs very quickly, and therefore, the dog should be taken to a doctor immediately. There are many cases where bloating in dogs may be completely harmless, but since it can be potentially fatal, it is best if you do not wait.

Dog Bloat Symptoms and Diarrhea

Dog bloat is known as gastric dilatation volvulus. In most cases, bloating in dogs is related to excessive swallowing of air. Abnormal accumulation of fluids, air, foam, or foods in the stomach can cause bloating. Stress is another major contributing factor in cases of dog bloat. Dog bloat symptoms are extremely characteristic. These include twisting of stomach, appearance of bulging and bloated chest and belly, and diarrhea. Dog bloat diarrhea is usually the earliest of symptoms. It is only after the dog begins to experience vomiting and diarrhea that the stomach begins to swell up. The dog may not act like its usual self, may be seen trying to vomit unsuccessfully, may show restlessness and anxiety, may emit funny gurgling sounds from the stomach, and may begin to avoid eating food. Other dog bloat symptoms include pale gums, whining, heavy drooling, and pacing. The dog may drink excessively, may only be able to stand spread legged, may have heavy panting, and may refuse to lie down or even sit.

Dog Bloat Surgery and Treatment

As the stomach swells, it often twists and traps air as well. The veins in the abdomen can often get entwisted with the stomach, therefore causing low blood pressure and severe damage to other neighboring organs. The pain and the shock of the twisted stomach is often enough to kill a dog. Dog bloat treatment should be received as soon as the first symptoms begin to appear. If the stomach has become twisted, dog bloat surgery may have to be performed. Dog bloat cure may be sought by using antacids and gas relieving medications. However, these are not substitutes for veterinary care.

You, as a dog owner, can help prevent dog bloat by avoiding stressful situations for the dog. Minimize stress as much as possible and do not let your dog eat very rapidly. Also, instead of giving one large meal to your dog, give several smaller ones.

Colitis is condition in which the colon becomes inflamed. Dog colitis is very similar to colitis in humans, and in this condition, the large intestine, especially its lower part, gets inflamed. There are mainly two types of colitis. There is acute colitis and the other is chronic colitis. In acute colitis, the inflammation of the intestine occurs in a short duration and has a sudden onset. On the other hand, in chronic colitis, the onset is slow and the inflammation is caused due to an underlying condition.

There are some dogs that are especially susceptible to colitis. These are poodles, boxers, schnauzers, and Great Danes. The exact cause of this is not known. Fortunately, dog colitis, both chronic and acute, can be completely treated. They also do not pose any great risk to the health of the dog suffering from them.

What is Dog Colitis?

Dog colitis is most common in boxers. This is because their anatomy is such. Colitis is a condition in which your dog may continue to behave normally, even when the dog is unwell. The dog may have streaks of blood and mucus in their feces. This is usually the first and only sign of colitis in dogs. If the dog remains untreated, it may keep losing weight. It also becomes lethargic and shows poor appetite. Fever and persistent abdominal pain are usually the second most significant symptoms in dogs that have colitis.

Dog Colitis Causes and Symptoms

Dog colitis does not always come with symptoms. Dog colitis symptoms, though distinct, are quite rare. Most dogs that are suffering from this condition will continue to behave normally until the condition becomes very severe. Dog colitis causes include spasms in the colon, parasites, bacteria and food allergies.

Stress, parasites, sudden changes in diet and dietary indiscretion are usually behind chronic colitis. Though dog colitis does not pose a great threat to the dog’s health, it can make the dog malnourished. In case there is deep ulceration in the stomach, the situation becomes extremely serious.

Dog Colitis Treatment, Medicine and Diet

To diagnose colitis in dogs, the vet will perform a rectal exam. Dog colitis natural treatment is preferred by a lot of pet owners, but according to the diagnosis given by the doctor, more conventional dog colitis medicine may be prescribed. If there is deep ulceration in the colon, the situation becomes very serious. In such a case, dog colitis treatment may require amputation of part of the large intestines. Dog colitis diet may include a variety of bland foods which do not irritate the large intestines.

Dog stomach cancer is one of the rarest forms of cancers seen in dogs. Dog stomach cancer accounts for only 1% of all kinds of cancers found in the species. This cancer is usually found in older dogs. It has also been found in studies that male dogs are more susceptible to dog stomach cancer than females. There are many different cancers that are found in dogs. The most common kind of cancer in the stomach is adenocarcinoma. This often metastasizes to the other organs of the digestive system. Dogs suffering from adenocarcinomas in the stomach are often seen to develop tumors in the lungs, liver, and the lymph nodes as well. Since this is a cancer that is primarily found in the glands of the animal, it is common to find it in other glands of the body as well.

Dog Stomach Cancer Tumor

A dog stomach cancer tumor is usually a mast cell tumor. Mast cell tumors are extremely common in the dogs. Mast cells are a part of dog’s immune system. These cells come into play when there is inflammation or allergy in the dog’s body. The tumors, since they consist of mast cells, secrete a lot of heparin and histamines among other biochemical fluids. When these chemicals are produced in excess, it can damage the body. A leiomyosarcoma is another kind of dog stomach cancer. These cancers form in the cells of the outer walls of the organs. The GI tract is most commonly affected by these tumors.

Dog Stomach Cancer Causes, Signs and Symptoms

Dog stomach cancer causes include adulterated foods, unhealthy lifestyle, hereditary conditions, and other illnesses that have been associated with cancers. Dog stomach cancer symptoms are usually dependent on the kind of cancer that the dog experiences. These cancers cause a lot of damage to the dog. A dog stomach cancer lump is usually the most common of all symptoms and can be felt by the veterinarian when giving the dog a complete physical examination. Other signs include weight loss, low activity, and listlessness in the dog.

If you begin to see the initial dog stomach cancer signs like blood in stools or vomit, discomfort, swollen nodes or lumps in the abdomen, take your dog to the vet immediately. The vet will give a complete blood work to the dog and perform some additional tests in an attempt to ascertain whether or not the dog does suffer from cancer. There are some breeds that are genetically predisposed to dog stomach cancer. These are mastiffs, boxer, bulldogs, St. Bernards, and Scottish terrier.

Dog Nausea is a common canine problem that every dog owner should know about. Although you might not be able to recognize the symptoms, it is quite common that just like humans your dog might feel nauseated at times. Immediate medical attention can help identify the seriousness of the nausea and pinpoint the most likely cause, so that treatment can began right away.  A change in diet, stomach upset, worms, intestinal problems, or even pregnancy are some of the possible causes of nausea. Dogs licking or chewing excessively may also be a warning sign. Abdominal swelling or a dull coat of hair could be caused by intestinal worms.

Equally important are the symptoms of nausea in dogs. Dry heaving, excessive chewing, diarrhea, are some of the most common symptoms.  Dog owners should get familiar with all these symptoms at the earliest, so that they can take interim steps for relief in the event that veterinary assistance is not immediately available.  This will minimize the dog’s suffering. If the dog is still alert and has an appetite then it may not be a cause for concern, at least not before the vet examines him. Before any treatment for nausea can be started, the cause should be determined and the vet should be informed whether this is a one time affair or has been occurring frequently.  Some medications are specifically intended to treat gastric swelling or similar digestive conditions, but the owner should be able to recognize the seriousness of the condition and not simply rely on home treatment if there is a need for veterinary attention.

Dog Nausea Treatment

Ensure that your dog drinks plenty of water after it has vomited, to prevent dehydration in its system. Allow some time to pass before you administer any fluids and make sure you wait for at least six hours before the dog is fed. After the stomach has recovered you can administer small amounts of water in regular intervals. Your dog should be given more small meals instead of one large one. Add raw garlic in the dog’s diet to protect its digestive tract from parasites.  Give your dog bland food like rice cooked soft to soothe the stomach and intestines.

Herbs for Dog Travel Sickness

Dog motion sickness treatment can include natural remedies like ginger and mint. However, it is important to discuss any and all treatment methods with your vet to prevent complications.

Dog Menstruation Symptoms

The estrous cycle is the time when female dogs are in heat, and have a high possibility of getting pregnant if they have mated. The estrous cycle is the fertile two or three days of the period of heat in the female dog, and the owner must learn to recognize this brief period if he is serious about the dogs’ breeding. During the first part of the estrous cycle there will be a noticeable increase in the dogs’ urination, and the vulva will swell up. In smaller dogs this is less noticeable and requires greater attention and perception from the owner. A second symptom is a continuous discharge of blood from the vagina.  It is a common and natural occurrence for a dog when it is in heat and nothing to be alarmed about. Even if you miss these 2 symptoms, the third one will be right on target. All male dogs in the vicinity will pick up the scent given off by the dog in heat, and they will then try to remain as close as possible. If you don’t want her to get pregnant don’t let her out of the house or out of your sight, as she may mate with a stray dog which would increase her risk of suffering from infections.

The duration of the heat cycle is around 90 days, and the dog goes through the cycle once approximately every seven months.  Her progesterone levels will indicate if she is pregnant, so you can keep a check.  Heat symptoms of the female dog should be monitored regularly, besides proper health and correct training are necessary for your dogs’ welfare. While there are many genuine healthy dog products in the market, there are also a lot of products that could pose a threat to your dog, so make sure you do your research before making a choice. If your dog has not been spayed and has been allowed outdoors there is even the possibility that she may have mated and be pregnant without you even knowing it. When she is ready to deliver, she may display late pregnancy symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of dog menstruation. In case the dog has puppies, stay calm as it is vital that you do not distress her about their safety.  You must ensure that your dog accepts your presence around, and close to the litter.  Let your dog know that you are there to help and protect her during this time. If the dog begins to behave aggressively, you must study her behavior and try to understand the cause for this change.

Dog Menstruation Cycle

A female dog, in the cycle of reproduction usually comes into what is known as “heat” every six months and on an average they invariably have two cycles in a year. Animal Shelters and “Pounds” are usually overcrowded with unwanted dogs because there are unfortunately many owners who do not take the trouble to keep their dogs indoors when in heat, which leads to their mating and subsequently producing a litter of pups.  Just about all dog homes and shelters are groaning under this burden today.

The actual period of “heat” usually lasts for 21 days, but this may vary slightly.  The actual “breeding time” or fertile period is just 2 or 3 days in the 21-day period, but the exact days are difficult to pinpoint.  What is know as the estrus cycle lasts 12-21 days, but could be shorter, from a few days to 4 weeks.  The length of a cycle varies, even within the same breed, so it is better to rely on the longer period for the length of the cycle. Bleeding occurs before the female becomes receptive to a male. Male dogs will be actively attracted to a female in the proestrus stage while a female dog will be ready for copulation during the estrus stage. Pregnancy during the first heat cycle is possible, but not advisable, because the dog is not yet emotionally or physically mature, and complications can arise for the mother and the puppies.

Most of the problems pertaining to the reproductive cycle in dogs stems from negligence or ignorance on the part of owners. Dogs that are kept as pets should be spayed before the first heat to preclude pregnancy and also reproductive diseases.  Later on in life, dogs may be spayed when in heat or when pregnant, but there is a risk because of dilated blood vessels and tissue of the reproductive tract. There is also a greater possibility of bleeding or other complications during surgery.  The first signs in young females are usually seen between six and eight months, though the heat period properly appears only at 8 to 12 months. Usually a female puppy should be watched regularly and the start of her first cycle should be noted. If at fourteen months, she has not yet been in heat, she needs to be seen by the vet.

One of the ways of dealing with a dog while she has her menstruation cycles is to try and confine her to one room in order to minimize the amount of cleaning up that you will have to take on during this time. If this is not possible, discuss pamper options with your vet as this can help her during these special days.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux In Dogs

Acid reflux is a condition, also known as heartburn. This condition is characterized by a reverse flow of the gastric acids. The gastric acid flows into the esophagus, into the throat, burning the entire tube along its way. This occurs when the muscular opening at the base of the esophagus becomes lose and the gastric juices can easily flow into the throat. This condition is fairly common in both humans and in dogs. The symptoms of acid reflux in dogs may occur at any age in their life.

Due to the reverse flow of gastric stomach acid, bile salts and the enzyme pepsin into the throat and the esophagus may become inflamed and damaged. This condition mostly affects young dogs because their esophagus is not completely developed and the muscles are still weak.
The symptoms of acid reflux in puppies often go unnoticed. This is because the acid reflux may cause the puppy to whimper, but not show signs of pain. Due to the burning sensations in the puppies’ body, they may not be able to eat anything. In fact, they may also avoid drinking water.
So, what are the symptoms of acid reflux in dogs?The dog usually spits up and experiences regurgitation of food. There may also be a lot of evidence of pain. The dog may howl and whine. One of the other symptoms of acid reflux in dogs would be loss of appetite and unwillingness to drink water. There may also be severe inflammation of the esophagus along with fever and a lot of salivation.

The exact causes of acid reflux in dogs are not known. Acid reflux in dogs may occur due to administration of anesthetics. The failure to fast the dog properly or positioning the dog improperly in any way before administering the anesthesia could result in the relaxation of the esophageal opening.

Hiatal hernia could also cause the esophageal opening to relax, which causes an increased risk of developing acid reflux. If the esophageal sphincter of the dog is still developing, acid reflux could cause chronic vomiting and other long term problems. If the flow of gastric juices into the esophagus continues, it could ultimately cause the esophagus to burn or get permanently damaged.

Dogs would need immediate treatment when they are diagnosed with acid reflux. If the treatment is delayed, this condition could worsen. Home care would also be required and the dog will need to consume bland food. It is also possible that the dog may have to be given glucose intravenously for a brief period.

Dog Sickness Remedies

Just as we do, our pets can also fall sick. Luckily, there are many home remedies for sick dogs that can help them get healthy in no time. While it is important to consult a vet regarding the sickness of a dog, you can try some simple dog sickness remedies for non-threatening and common conditions.

Dog sickness natural remedies are often better than medication, since medicines almost always have some side effects or the other. Do keep in mind however that dog sickness remedies should simply be used as a means of temporary relief and to treat minor non threatening conditions. Make sure you get your dog to a vet for a thorough diagnosis to rule out anything more serious. Here are some of the most popular dog sickness remedies:

• Papaya fruit is one of the most highly regarded ingredients for dog sickness treatments. Papaya fruit can increase the immunity for dogs that are convalescing. The papaya fruit it full of nutrients which can help boost the immunity of the dog and therefore is also a powerful dog sickness prevention ingredient.
• If you feel that your dog is appearing dull and has very lethargic movements, it is possible that the dog may not be well. Try to feed the dog and if the dog does not seem to be interested in eating anything, you can give it two cloves of garlic. If the dog is not eating the garlic, crush the garlic and hide it in a treat that your dog likes to make sure that it eats the garlic cloves.
• If your dog has diarrhea or is vomiting, it may not eat anything. Give the dog lots of fluids to drink and make sure that it remains hydrated. In case the dog has constipation, give it warm water so that the stools may soften and the dog may once again begin to pass stools normally.
• Dog treatment for anemia include consumption of bilberry, elderberry and blackberry. Dates and black grapes are also excellent supplements and should be provided to the dog along with the routine food. All of these are rich in iron and can improve the production of red blood cells in the dog. Read more on sick dog care
• For a dog, with incessant coughing and nasal discharge, a mixture of lukewarm water with lime juice, serves as an excellent remedy. After drinking this solution, the dog will feel less congested. Continue giving this solution to your dog until the congestion has completely cleared.
• One of the oldest sick dog remedies in China is a mixture of mung beans and boiled spinach. If your dog is not keeping well, and is lethargic and weak, feeding it a mixture of spinach and mung beans can help improve the dog’s condition.