Injuries to bones, ligaments and joints are common in our canine and feline companions. These injuries usually occur as a result of genetic predisposition or trauma. Casts, splints and physical therapy are some of the therapies used for treat orthopedic injuries. In many cases, animals need to undergo orthopedic surgery to correct the problem. Most of the surgical techniques used in humans are now available for our pets.

Some examples of common canine orthopedic conditions include cranial cruciate ligament rupture ("torn acl"), hip dysplasia, and fractures.

Orthopedic problems are less common in cats than in dogs.

RADIOLOGY & ULTRASOUND

Radiographs are created by electromagnetic radiation. We use this technology to image the bones, joints, and soft tissue of the body. Bones appear white, air and fluid are black, and soft tissue appear as different shades of gray. In essence, radiographs are "x-ray vision." Radiographs are an important, noninvasive method of diagnosing the extent of injuries to bones, the size of organs, the presence of a mass, stones in the urinary tract or foreign objects in the intestines. It allows veterinarians to make decisions regarding the most appropriate therapy for your pet.

Ultrasound is an imaging modality that utilizes sound waves to produce images of the internal organs. It is noninvasive and provides details about the composition of organs. It is also used as a way to image the heart.

Some allergies are obvious--the dog that is allergic to a bee sting. In that case, you take great pains to avoid exposure of your pet to the bee vemon--the "allergen." If your pet is exposed, he has immediate signs including facial itching, facial swelling, vomiting and hives. In this case, your pet needs immediate veterinary attention. However, there are other, more subtle types of allergies.

Dogs and cats can be allergic to all the same things people have allergies to including pollen, grass, dust, cedar, (the list is almost endless). In addition, some animals are allergic to flea saliva or even food! The signs of these allergies are not always obvious and include one or many of the following: generalized pruritis (itchiness), hair loss, rashes, discharge from the eyes, vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, and chronic ear infections.

There are many steps that must be taken to discover the underlying allergy. The first step is for your pet to have a thorough physical exam and the skin or ears evaluated for infectious organisms that can exacerbate the allergies. Then, a blood sample can be taken from your pet and submitted to a laboratory that will test your pet's blood against the common allergens in this area of the country. Once all the results are in, you and your veterinarian can decide on the best therapy for your allergic dog.

Therapies may include the following: changes in food, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs, flea prevention, and modifications to your pet's environment.