Author: Lindsay Boyers

Glaucoma in dogs is a serious medical condition that can cause pain and permanent vision loss if left untreated. Some dogs develop cataracts suddenly, while others show subtle changes over time.   Spotting the warning signs early and getting prompt veterinary care can make all the difference.  Here’s everything you need to know about canine glaucoma: what causes it, how veterinarians manage it, and steps you can take to protect your dog’s eye health and keep them comfortable.  

Turkey is often included in dog food, but is it safe to give your pup a piece of turkey from your plate? Can dogs eat turkey?  While turkey is safe for dogs (and can be good for them too), it doesn’t mean you should go overboard with the table scraps.  We talked to two veterinary experts about the benefits and risks of turkey for dogs, how to safely feed turkey to dogs, and more.  Before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet, always check with your veterinarian. 

Just like losing a human family member, losing a pet can be a traumatic experience. Pets quickly become a part of your family, and you build a bond on mutual love and trust. Pets love you unconditionally and are by your side during good and bad times. They share your life with you in intimate ways that even your friends and family members may not, perhaps comforting you when you’re sad or sharing your bed. “Their constant presence truly becomes a steady source of support that you can count on,” says Farage-Smith. Pets also become a big part of your daily routine. You may feed them as soon as you wake up, take them for an after-dinner walk, and play with them in the park on weekends. The change in routine brought on by their death can feel profound, and it’s a void that’s hard to fill.,Jump to section Why Does Losing a Pet Hurt So Much? 6 Ways to Cope With the Loss of a Pet FAQs About How To Cope With the Loss of a Pet

If your pup goes into full security guard mode every time the mail carrier shows up, you might be dealing with territorial aggression. While it’s normal for a dog to be alert when someone approaches their home turf, actual territorial aggression in dogs can cross the line, turning everyday encounters into stressful—and sometimes dangerous—situations.   Understanding why this behavior happens is the first step toward addressing it safely. Here’s what territorial aggression looks like, what causes it, and what you can do about it.  

The liver is a vital organ that keeps your dog’s body running smoothly. Some functions of the liver include:  Helping with digestion  Storing nutrients  Detoxifying harmful substances  Supporting the immune system  Metabolizing medications  Managing blood sugar levels  In simple terms, liver disease is any condition that prevents the liver from functioning properly. It can be chronic (meaning the liver becomes damaged over a long period of time) or acute (meaning the disease comes on suddenly and requires more immediate care).   While “liver disease” is a general term, there are several specific types, including:  Chronic Hepatitis  Long-term inflammation that leads to liver cell damage and scarring, hepatitis can be caused by infectious agents (such as viruses), toxins, certain medications, or autoimmune responses, according to Bethany Hsia, DVM, co-founder of CodaPet in Clovis, California.  Acute Liver Failure  Liver failure in dogs is sudden, severe liver damage, often caused by toxin exposure or infections.  Cirrhosis  Cirrhosis is progressive liver scarring that can develop when there has been undetected, long-term (months to years) inflammation of the liver from a variety of causes, including hepatitis.   With cirrhosis, the liver is not functioning well—it’s a thick piece of leathery scar tissue instead of a spongy, soft tissue.   As the liver becomes increasingly scarred and damaged, it can lead to complications like portal hypertension (high blood pressure in the vein that carries blood from the organs to your liver) and liver failure, Dr. Hsia adds.  Wilson’s Disease (Copper Storage Disease)  Copper storage disease in dogs is a genetic condition where copper accumulates in the liver, causing damage. Wilson’s disease is common in breeds like Bedlington Terriers and Dobermans.  Liver Tumors  Benign and malignant tumors can develop in a dog’s liver. They can develop from liver cells themselves (called hepatocellular carcinoma) or from metastasis from other body parts, explains Dr. Hsia.  Portosystemic Shunts  Most commonly, liver shunts in dogs are due to birth defects (congenital) in which blood bypasses the liver, limiting its ability to detoxify. It’s more common in puppies and small breeds, says Samuel Varon, DVM, owner of Broadway Veterinary Hospital in Sacramento, California.  In some cases, liver shunts (acquired) can form in older dogs as a result of illness. ,Liver disease in dogs happens when the liver becomes inflamed or damaged and can no longer function normally. It’s more common than pet parents might think; and while it can be serious, it’s also often manageable with the right care.   In many cases, early detection and treatment can slow the progression of the disease, ease your dog’s symptoms, and help your pup live a longer, healthier life. Here’s what to know about the disease, including signs, treatment, prevention, and more. 

Xylitol poisoning in dogs is a medical emergency. This common sugar substitute, found in everything from gum to sugar-free peanut butter, can be extremely toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.  Xylitol can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar or even liver failure, and symptoms can come on fast.   Here’s what pet parents need to know, including how to spot the signs, what to do if it happens, and how to reduce the risk of poisoning in the first place.