Educational Articles
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When the digestive tract is upset, vomiting and diarrhea may result. Since the causes of these symptoms are varied, it's best to consult a veterinarian. Often, a gastrointestinal (GI) diet is recommended to support the digestive tract and ensure the gut gets the nutrients it needs to recover. A bland diet of cooked chicken and rice might be recommended, but it has several limitations and is not appropriate for long-term feeding.
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This handout discusses the risks and benefits of feeding a home-prepared versus commercial diet to your cat or dog. Topics highlighted include food safety, nutritional imbalances, and the need to ensure that any home-prepared diet has been well researched for nutritional safety and completeness.
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Because of differences in large and giant dogs' energy and nutrient needs, some pet foods are specifically formulated for these requirements. Adequate diet and feeding management are important for adequate growth and preventing orthopedic problems and gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) or bloat. Specific recommendations are included for selecting an appropriate diet for a large or giant breed dog. Feeding management recommendations are also included.
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Because of differences in toy and small dogs' energy needs and size, it is essential to use pet foods specifically formulated for their requirements. Adequate diet and feeding management are important for proper growth and preventing excessive weight gain. Specific recommendations are included to select an appropriate diet. Feeding management recommendations for puppies and adult dogs are also included.
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In North America, obesity is the most common preventable disease in cats and is one of the most common overall. Almost 60% of domestic cats are overweight. Scientific evidence now reveals that fat tissue is biologically active; it secretes inflammatory hormones and creates oxidative stress on the body's tissues, both of which contribute to many diseases and a decreased quality of life. Treating obesity as a chronic, low-level inflammatory condition is the new approach.
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In North America, obesity is the most common preventable disease in dogs. Almost 50% of domestic dogs are overweight. Scientific evidence now reveals that fat tissue is biologically active; it secretes inflammatory hormones and creates oxidative stress on the body's tissues, both of which contribute to many diseases and decreased quality of life. Treating obesity as a chronic, low-level inflammatory condition is the new approach.
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Well-bred Old English Sheepdogs are placid, adaptable individuals who are loving and loyal to their chosen people. These big, lovable dogs can be just the ticket for active households whose members do not mind spending a lot of time tending the tresses of their canine companions.
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Nobody has ever accused the Otterhound of primping and preening. She is a come-as-you-are kind of dog, with casual good looks and a laid-back personality.
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Some over-the-counter medications can be used in a pinch for short-term treatment of common ailments in dogs. Consult with your veterinarian before using any over-the-counter medication to determine the correct dose and ensure that they will not interact with other medications your dog is taking. Some medications are toxic. If the condition you are treating does not respond to treatment contact your veterinarian.
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Obesity is the most common problem in cats in North America and leads to an increased risk of diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and several types of cancer. Extra body fat causes increased inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. Reducing inflammation and pain can help an overweight cat to regain activity, which in turn can lead to more appropriate weight loss. Obesity can be prevented or reversed when cat owners are aware of calorie intake, body condition, and improving movement or activity.