There are a number of genetic tests available to screen dogs for a variety of diseases. Mitral valve disease is a fairly common problem and has a genetic basis in certain dog breeds. Dr. Meg Sleeper - a veterinary cardiologist - shares her perspectives about the value of genetic testing (for mitral...

Many people believe or accept that it is normal for cats to occasionally vomit and owners may not make mention of it to their veterinarian during annual visits. This matters because small bowel disease is often the cause, and chronic vomiting is a quality of life issue for the affected cat. When sho...

Necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME) is a fatal neuroinflammatory disease that most commonly affects smaller dog breeds. This disease also shares similarities to multiple sclerosis (MS) that affects humans. The Pug is one breed known to be at a higher risk for this disease. Unfortunately, most dogs...

Degenerative mitral valve disease (MVD) - often referred to as myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) - is the most common form of heart disease diagnosed in dogs. Although dogs may live comfortably with the disease, many die due to complications associated with disease progression including congest...

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common and challenging conditions affecting older cats - an estimated 30% to 40% of cats 10 years of age or older may be affected. The successful management of cats with CKD is multifaceted and, while our treatment strategies are not curative, the goal...

Bacterial skin infections (pyoderma) almost always develop secondary to another problem (often allergies). Dr. Jason Pieper - a veterinary dermatologist at the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine - discusses why rechecks of these pets should be done while they are still on anti...

Some dog breeds have hairier ears than others and it is a normal part of their anatomy. Owners of these pets often expect or request that the hair be removed during the course of grooming. This is usually accomplished by manually plucking the hair with tweezers or hemostats or, in some instances, us...

Ear infections — particularly middle and inner ear infections (otitis media / interna) — can be a source of neurological symptoms in dogs and cats. These can range from mild to severe, and even the most subtle of signs (like anisocoria or unequal pupil size of the eyes) can be an indicat...