Yorkshire Terrier enthusiasts frequently marvel at the outsized personality contained within these diminutive canines. These spirited companions have rightfully earned their “Tomboy Toy” nickname through their bold, assertive temperament, despite their modest 4-7 pound weight and 8-9 inch height. Through my extensive veterinary practice, I’ve examined hundreds of Yorkshire Terrier patients, discovering clinical nuances that extend…
One day, you take a closer look at your cat and think, “Hmm, they’re looking a little thin.” You run your hands through their fluffy fur, and they feel leaner than usual. That’s when the concern kicks in: Why is my cat losing weight? If your cat is losing weight unintentionally, a health issue may be the…
Has your pet experienced a bad reaction after having a shot for Rabies, Distemper, or Parvovirus? The pet groomer will not accept your dog because a shot is overdue. Does your condominium, apartment complex, or homeowners’ association require proof that your pet is up to date on all the necessary shots and vaccinations? Traveling and…
Longevity drugs for our canine companions are around the corner. Could they extend the life of your dog? Americans love dogs! In a recent survey, 90% of dog owners said they would be willing to spend or do anything to extend their “best friend’s” life a little longer. Extending your dog’s lifespan is truly becoming…
It may sound like hocus-pocus, but now pet owners can determine their dog’s age by analyzing their pet’s saliva. Enter the fascinating world of Epigenetics, a relatively new branch of science that delves into the study of genes and their “genetic” expression. Genes, composed of segments of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), determine your dog’s eye color,…
Retriever dogs are sporting dogs bred and trained to retrieve game for hunters. The six recognized types of retriever dog breeds include well-known breeds like Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. “With their intelligence, sociability, and responsiveness to training, retrievers are a breed that easily win hearts,” says Dr. Carol Osborne, veterinarian at Chagrin…
Canine bone cancer, responsible for the deaths of over six million dogs aged two years and older, now has new hope. The USDA has recently approved immunotherapy, a treatment that harnesses the dog’s immune system to fight the disease. Previously, this treatment was available only through clinical trials as an experimental option. Osteosarcoma is the…
How can pet owners estimate their dog or cat’s age if they weren’t present at birth or didn’t buy from a breeder? Many pet owners find their pets at rescues and shelters. How do dogs and cats age? Lifestyle is the most significant factor affecting how your pet ages. Lifestyle is 70% of the equation,…
Just like humans, dogs can develop diabetes, which is a metabolic disorder that leads to chronically high blood sugar levels. And while diabetes in dogs requires lifelong management, early detection can make all the difference. By catching the disease early and providing ongoing treatment and care, dogs with diabetes can continue to live their best, tail-wagging lives. …
Yeast infections in dogs can cause some seriously uncomfortable symptoms—think constant itching, irritated skin, and that unmistakable “yeasty” smell similar to Fritos corn chips. (Sorry if we just ruined that snack for you!) While yeast—a type of fungus—naturally lives on a dog’s skin and in their ears, overgrowth can turn into an infection that leaves your dog…
Raw food diets for pets are becoming increasingly popular because they are less processed and more nutrient-dense than most commercial pet diets currently available. These diets usually emphasize bones, raw meat, fruits, and vegetables. While some sing the praises of this dietary regimen, others argue against it as owners could run the risk of harming…
Wintertime Safety Tips for Dogs and Cats can be challenging, but to keep our dogs and cats healthy and happy you should know the following. The cold weather often brings a slew of potential problems to avoid when it comes to keeping Fido and Fluffy out of trouble. Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM offers a few essential safety tips to get your furry friend through these frigid months without a trip to the vet’s office.