September 13, 2012
Although most people have pets strictly for companionship, those
with disabilities often use animals to help perform every day
functions. These "service animals" are trained to provide
specific assistance tailored to their owner's disability.
Just like any animal, however, service animals can develop
disabilities and need rehabilitation as well.
Th... (Read More)
September 06, 2012
Approximately 70 percent of horses will develop wolf teeth.
While these teeth usually do not pose a health risk to the horse,
they are often removed in performance horses to prevent
interference with the bit and to avoid traumatizing the soft
tissues around the teeth leading to soreness. Horsemen differ in
opinions on when or if these teeth should be removed, but... (Read More)
August 30, 2012
Staphylococcus (staph) bacteria are all around us in an intimate
way since it normally lives on the skin and mucous membranes of
both people and animals alike. It usually is not of a concern to
the individual if the skin is functioning normally and there is not
a risk for infection (e.g., systemic illness and immune
compromise). When infection is present, usually... (Read More)
The West Nile Virus cases in humans and horses have been on the
rise in 2012, and, according to the CDC, human cases are at their
highest levels since West Nile Virus was first detected in the
United States in 1999. Dr. Tracy Norman, clinical assistant
professor at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary
Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM) Large A... (Read More)
August 16, 2012
Many dog owners work hard to make their pets comfortable and
happy, so it can be frustrating when a dog is constantly itching
and distressed. Dr. Adam Patterson, clinical assistant professor
and Chief of Dermatology at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary
Medicine & Biomedical Sciences Small Animal Clinic, explained
how some perpetually itchy dogs may suff... (Read More)
August 09, 2012
For the past two weeks, Pet Talks have addressed poisonous foods
and medications common in most homes. This week the focus is on
miscellaneous poisonous items around the house including plants,
pennies, and insecticides.
Plants
There are several plants that can be toxic to pets. Lilies, for
example, are toxic to cats. The ingestion of any part of any type
o... (Read More)