Aging humans deal with aches and pains, and our pets are the same. One source of such pain is intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a process that damages the spinal discs or causes their degeneration. The discs are meant to cushion spaces between vertebrae and allow for various spinal movements, but they can cause pain [...]
Veterinarians are highly trained, talented individuals who can diagnose and treat a variety of illnesses or injuries in pets. Unfortunately, veterinarians do not have X-ray vision and cannot see inside a pet, which often limits their diagnostic capabilities. Imaging tests bridge this gap and allow them to visualize internal structures and use their findings [...]
Although you consider your pet as a family member, you need to remember that they are another species. Dogs metabolize drugs and other substances differently than people, which makes some human food ingredients, including xylitol, unsafe for pets. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol, a sweet but noncaloric substance frequently used to lower or eliminate [...]
Physical therapy is widely accepted and practiced in human medicine. When a person is recovering from an injury or surgery, their physician will likely recommend physical therapy to help assist with their recuperation. Similarly, people who have functionally limiting conditions benefit from physical therapy. Pets often suffer from similar injuries or diseases and can [...]
Heart disease is not exclusive to humans. Dogs and cats can also develop various heart conditions. In humans, heart disease is most often correlated with a high cholesterol level and an unhealthy lifestyle, which can lead to coronary artery blockages. However, your dog or cat may have been born with heart disease (i.e., congenital) or [...]
Developmental orthopedic issues, degenerative joint conditions, and injuries are extremely common in pets of all ages. Some conditions respond well to medical therapies, but others require surgery to restore a pet to their normal function and reduce chronic pain. A veterinarian must have advanced specialty training to perform orthopedic surgeries. In addition, orthopedic surgery [...]
Patellar luxation is a frequently occurring canine knee condition. Around 7% of puppies are born with genetic knee and lower leg abnormalities that cause patellar luxation. Occasionally, trauma can alter a dog’s knee mechanics. While most affected dogs cope well and live normal lives, those with moderate or severe patellar luxation may require treatment. [...]
Skin problems are frequently the reason why southeast Texas pets visit the Neighborhood Veterinary Centers of Nederland team, and skin problems often are caused by allergies. Up to 30% of dogs develop an allergy in their lifetime, and cats are also susceptible. Itchiness, redness, ear infections, skin infections, and hair loss can plague pets [...]
It’s easy to get ticked off about ticks—these tiny, but tenacious, arachnids carry a host of serious bacterial and protozoal infections and diseases that can make your pet seriously ill. Fortunately, year-round flea and tick prevention from Neighborhood Veterinary Centers of Nederland can put a stop to these creepy-crawling criminals and give you powerful peace [...]
The thought of your pet undergoing surgery is worrisome enough, not to mention the postoperative recovery period. You are likely unsure of what to expect after your pet’s surgery, or how best to care for your furry pal to help ensure a smooth, speedy recovery. When you pick up your pet after surgery, you [...]