Thrombocytopenia is the  medical term for low platelet count. Platelets are the blood component responsible for clotting. A low platelet count may mean excessive bleeding or bruising, among other things. There are many causes for this condition, some of them life-threatening. Read more about thrombocytopenia to learn about other potential causes for this con […]

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Nature's Variety have announced an expansion of the Nature's Variety recall on raw frozen chicken dietsthat was first announced February 11, 2010. According to the Nature's Variety Food Safety Update from Reed Howlet CEO: "Nature's Variety has received new test results from an outside facili […]

Thrombocytopenia is a low platelet count in the blood; a potentially life-threatening blood disorder. Learn what platelets are and some of the common reasons this condition can occur in animals. Today's glossary entry has special meaning for me, as I will be fostering a Greyhound I met at a recent "Greyhound haul" I helped with. He is a two-ye […]

You notice a "cherry red" lump in the corner of your dog's eye(s) and wonder what it is and what to do about it. After a visit to the veterinarian, you learn that it is a common condition called cherry eye. Learn more about this common eye problem Here are a collection of cherry eye resources for learning more about this condition, what dogs m […]

Spring is a great time to inventory and safely dispose of outdated household chemicals and medications. Properly storing and locking up necessary but hazardous items is the first step to preventing accidental poisonings. Even containers deemed "child-proof" can be opened by curious pets who can easily chew through plastic. Don't Miss: Foods To […]

While it has been a spring-like winter in my area of the country, many of you are still dealing with cold winter temperatures and snow. Lots of snow, in some areas. Spring is around the corner, but until then, being prepared for weather-related power outages, emergencies and common hazards will help keep your pet safe and comfortable. Find some winter weathe […]

Parvo is a common and potentially serious viral disease in dogs. The virus is officially known Parvovirus.  This viral disease first appeared in 1978, and there was a widespread epidemic in dogs of all ages. Now, thanks to vaccinations, it isn't as widespread or fatal, but still serious. Potentially life-threatening for some dogs. Have you dealt with pa […]

I am pleased to introduce Lianne McLeod DVM as a Contributing Writer for this site. Actually, it would be more appropriate to say re-introduce Lianne, as she was the Guide for the About.com Exotic Pets site for over eleven years before leaving last summer to pursue and advanced degree. Lianne and I worked together on many About.com site projects over the yea […]

Vala is a 4-year old female Canaan dog. She is a show dog and a service dog for her 14-year old handler, Ethan. Vala received her "training" from Ethan's previous Canaan dog, who also served as a seizure alert dog. Both dogs were self-trained seizure alert dogs, receiving no formal training, but definitely aware when a seizure was about to hap […]

For this Belgian Malinois dog, life in the show ring is secondary to his real job; that of being a service dog for his handler and trainer. Sara, who has a congenital hip deformity known as coxa vara, has trained Zorro since he was a puppy. He is trained to provide physical support, stability, and physical assistance, as well as retrieve dropped items. Meet […]