Skip to main content

Educational Articles

Content Library

  • Routine fecal examinations are used to detect intestinal parasites in your dog. This handout discusses how the tests are done and why regular testing is critical to the health of your pet.

  • Dogs can be great running partners. They are always available, they have energy to burn, and they aren't in a bad mood from a stressful day at work. Plus, approximately 50% of American dogs are overweight and need to work off a few calories.

  • Confident, fearless, and incredibly devoted, Russells have become a very popular companion. They love to chase, explore and dig, and need outlets for these natural behaviors.

  • SAMe is given by mouth and is used on label and over the counter to treat liver disease and other conditions. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include mild stomach upset. Antidepressants, dextromethorphan, meperidine, pentazocine, and tramadol should be used with caution when given with SAMe. Inform your veterinarian of all medications, vitamins, and supplements that your pet is taking. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • SAMe or S-adenosyl-methionine + Silybin (brand name: Denamarin®) is a combination supplement commonly used to support liver health in cats and dogs. The body uses SAMe for many important functions, such as brain, heart, hormone, antioxidant, detoxifying, and other metabolic functions. The combination of SAMe and Silybin is used to support liver and brain health. This article discusses side effects, interactions, monitoring, and storage.

  • Do you have medications stored in the bathroom cabinet, kitchen drawer, and pantry shelf? Are random bottles haphazardly tossed into the “pharmacy”? Medications are meant to help us and our pets, but they can do more harm than good if stored or administered incorrectly. You can protect your family and pets by safely handling and disposing of medications.

  • Sago Palms are pretty plants but beware—they pack a deadly punch for pets. The popular Sago Palm enhances outdoor landscapes in warmer areas of the U.S. and serves as indoor decor in many colder climates. All parts of the Sago Palm are poisonous, but the seeds (nuts) are the most toxic to pets. As with all poisoning cases, early detection and treatment increases the rate of success.

  • Calm and placid, the Saint Bernard does not take up as much room in a house or apartment as a much smaller but more active dog.

  • Salicylic acid topical (brand name Solva-Ker®, BioSeb®, Cerasoothe® SA, others) is an antimicrobial and antipruritic (anti-itching) agent used in the treatment of seborrheic (dry or greasy dandruff) disorders in cats, dogs, and other animals. It may be specially compounded and/or combined into a formulation with other medications. It comes in cream, gel, ointment, and shampoo forms.

  • Salivary gland tumors are rare in dogs and cats. The mandibular and parotid glands are most commonly affected. Signs include swelling of the upper neck or ear base, halitosis, anorexia, weight loss, difficulty eating, pain, and lethargy. The treatment of choice is usually surgical excision. If complete excision is not possible, adjunct radiation therapy may be pursued.