Articles
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Many herding breeds (most commonly Collies and Australian Shepherds) have a mutation at the MDR1 gene that makes them more sensitive to the negative effects of certain medications. These drugs include several antiparasitic agents (when given at high doses), the antidiarrheal agent loperamide (Imodium®), and several anticancer drugs. The effects of the mutation vary in severity, depending on whether the dog carries one or two copies of the mutation. There is a cheek swab or a commercially-available test that assesses blood samples for the presence of the MDR1 mutation.
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Muscle tears are direct or indirect traumatic injuries that cause damage to muscle tissue. The most common cause is an indirect injury, or strain, caused by overstretching during athletic activities, such as running or jumping. This handout discusses muscle tears in dogs and reviews the causes of these injuries, the clinical signs, diagnostic testing, therapy, and expected prognosis.
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This handout discusses muscular dystrophy (MD), primarily in dogs. The cause of the disease is a defect in the proteins found in muscle cells. It is often an inherited disease, usually affecting young dogs. Clinical signs (usually starting as muscle weakness) and diagnosis of the condition are outlined. There is no effective treatment for the condition.
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Nasal tumors are an uncommon type of cancer but when they do occur, they tend to be malignant and locally aggressive. Staging can be done to determine the type of cancer and if it has affected anywhere else in the body. Treatment can be done in some cases to help relieve clinical signs, most often with radiation therapy.
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True to his heritage and looks, the Neapolitan Mastiff can be a tough character. He's suspicious of strangers, aloof with acquaintances, but fiercely loyal to family. He's generally laid-back at home, and he doesn't bark a lot. Of course, when he does, you'll hear it.
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Neuroendocrine tumors are a group of tumors that develop from the cells of the neuroendocrine system, and include insulinomas, gastrinomas, glucagonomas, carcinoids, medullary thyroid carcinomas, small-cell lung carcinomas, pheochromocytomas, chemodectomas, and Merkel cell carcinomas. This article discusses signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
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Newfoundlands are easygoing, face-washing people lovers and a great choice for the first-time dog owner who is not afraid of a little drool, a big dog, and a lot of hair.
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I will fight him with both paws tied behind my back, I will! Yep, that is a Norfolk all right. Sometimes called a demon in the field, the Norfolk is a terrier through and through, with a feisty, scrappy spirit and plenty of energy for the next great adventure. She may be tiny, but buckle your seatbelts - you are in for a terrier of a good time.
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Cheerful and highly active, Norwegian Buhunds form strong bonds with their families, and they love to snuggle and give kisses. They need plenty of exercise and stimulation, and love to play.
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The Norwegian Elkhound may look threatening, but he can be a sweetie-pie to his people. Threaten those people, however, and this medium-sized, ancient Nordic breed is fully capable of acting as intimidating as he looks.