Educational Articles
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The Belgian Sheepdog is the long-coated, black version of what some people consider one breed, the Belgian Shepherd (or Continental Shepherd). Like all the members of this family, the Belgian Sheepdog is an active and intense companion, as well-suited for police work as for herding chores.
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Intelligent and energetic, Belgian Tervurens are happiest with a job to do. They are loyal and form strong bonds, so they must be part of the family, not isolated or left outdoors.
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Benign fibrous skin tumors can go by many names and in many cases don't need treatment. Surgical excision can be curative unless certain types are due to an underlying tumor elsewhere. The main focus in many cases is addressing underlying allergies or sources of pressure. To adequately diagnose these tumors, a biopsy and histopathology are usually necessary.
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Mammary tumors develop due to abnormal reproduction of the cells that make up the breast tissue. They can be benign or malignant. The incidence of these tumors is related to hormone status, specifically whether a dog is intact or has had an ovariohysterectomy, age, and breed. Because dogs can have both benign and malignant tumors at the same time, surgical removal and histopathology of all tumors are very important.
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Bergamascos are easygoing, balanced, and observant, and tend to bond strongly with their owners. They are patient and tolerant with children, making them excellent family guardians and companions.
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The happy wagging tail and calm demeanor of the Bernese Mountain Dog make him or her a splendid family pet. Overjoyed to greet you when you come home and equally content just hanging out, their easygoing temperament is a joy.
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Bichon Frises are enjoyable playmates for children and companions for the elderly. They are ideal for city living yet are found in just about any lifestyle situation because of their good looks and pleasing personalities.
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Bile acids are compounds that are made in the liver and stored in the gall bladder and help with digestion of foods. The bile acid test is a very useful test that helps to determine if the liver is working properly. An abnormal bile acid test result indicates there is a problem in the liver, but it does not provide information about the cause, severity, or reversibility of the problem. Further testing is required to investigate the problem.
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Bites wounds are one of the most common reasons dogs are seen for emergency appointments with their veterinarians. The dog's teeth and jaws are very powerful and the wounds they inflict can crush or tear muscles and skin, penetrate through the chest wall and cause lung collapse, or cause serious or fatal damage to intestinal organs. All bite wounds are considered to be contaminated and/or infected. Left untreated, the bacteria in an infected bite wound will cause a localized abscess or more generalized cellulitis that spreads through the surrounding area. All bite wounds should be treated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Treatment will depend on the extent of the injuries, your dog's general health, and the location of the wounds.
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The Black and Tan Coonhound loves to sniff up a trail and go on a hunt, but he's also a mellow fellow content to lounge around the house — as long as he gets out for a good walk or jog every day.