Hypothyroidism in dogs is typically the result of inflammation or shrinkage of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, is responsible for producing hormones that regulate the body’s metabolic rate, or how much energy the body uses to keep cells and organs functioning. In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to a lower metabolic rate. This hormone deficiency and lower metabolic rate affects the function of multiple organ systems to varying degrees. Hypothyroidism is the most common hormonal imbalance in dogs. This condition is most frequently seen in dogs aged 4 to 10 years and tends to occur in medium and large breed dogs.
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. Transmission of the bacteria can take between 24 to 48 hours after the tick attaches. Lyme disease can result in damage to the joints, kidneys, and nervous system. Lyme disease does not pose a significant threat to cats.
The two species typically responsible for transmitting Lyme disease in North America are Ixodes scapularis (eastern black-legged tick) and Ixodes pacificus (western black-legged tick), also known as deer ticks. These ticks have three life stages (larvae, nymphs, adults). Each stage must feed on the blood of a warm-blooded animal in order to survive. If blood is infected with the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, the tick can spread the infection to the next animal it bites. As Lyme disease requires a tick bite to transmit the infection, people or pets diagnosed with Lyme disease cannot directly infect one another.
Marijuana contains a psychoactive substance called tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. This is the substance that gives humans a “high.” It is also the substance that makes marijuana toxic to pets.
Pets can be poisoned by marijuana in different ways: they can eat commercial or homemade edibles, such as baked goods or candies; or directly ingest marijuana or marijuana-related products (e.g.: oils, inhalers); or they can inhale it through second-hand smoke. Dogs and cats are far more sensitive to THC than humans and can have dramatic reactions to even a small amount.
A luxating patella is a common orthopedic condition in which the kneecap moves out of its normal position. It can affect one or both knees, and frequently occurs due to abnormalities of the bones or ligaments above and below the knee that affect how the knee is aligned in the joint. Occasionally, a luxating patella can occur due to trauma to the knee.
The kneecap may shift, or luxate, towards the inner thigh (medial) or towards the outer thigh (lateral). Cats and small breed dogs typically experience a medial luxation whereas larger breed dogs typically experience a lateral luxation.
The goal of rehabilitation in animals is to manage and treat injuries or conditions that limit mobility, cause pain, or negatively impact an animal’s quality of life. Known as physical therapy in human medicine, rehabilitation provides the following benefits: pain relief, improved circulation, strengthened muscles, healthy weight loss, and faster healing after an injury.
Veterinarians certified in rehabilitation develop customized treatment plans depending on the animal and condition. A treatment plan may include a variety of different therapies designed to improve mobility, increase strength, or decrease pain. Patients who are postoperative, arthritic, geriatric, obese, or have a neurological condition may all benefit from rehabilitation.
