K9 Carts Glossary

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Addison’s disease

or hypoadrenalcorticism is an endocrine disorder where either the pituitary gland fails to produce enough of a hormone (ACTH) that stimulates the adrenal gland to produce corticosteroids or the adrenal gland itself is damaged. Symptoms of Addison's disease are vague and may be characterized by weakness, weight loss, anorexia, and fatigue. Altered levels of sodium and potassium in the blood may indicate Addison's disease. A definitive diagnosis is made by performing a ACTH stimulation or reponse test. Once diagnosed, a pet will need medications for his/her entire life to replace the missing hormones.

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Ataxis

is a lack of coordinated movement and often appears as wobbly or "drunken" gait. It is often a symptom of neurological disease.

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Atopy

is an allergic hypersensitivity affecting a part of the body not in direct contact with the allergen. In cats and dogs, atopy is the equivalent of human hay fever. Dogs with atopy tend to be very itchy or pruritic. Atopy may be treated by removing the offending allergen, as in a particular food, allergy shots to reduce sensitivity to the allergen, or medications that suppress the allergic response.

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Brachycephalic breeds

are dogs with broadened heads with pushed-in faces such as the Bulldog, Shih tzu, Pug, Pekinese, and Boston Terrier. These animals have a compliment of respiratory complications consisting of narrowed or stenotic nasal passages or nares, elongated soft palate, and tracheal stenosis. They must work harder to breath and are more susceptible to heat stress.

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Canine Distemper

is a infectious viral disease that can be prevented by proper vaccination of young puppies.  Signs of canine distemper can be a respiratory infection, thickened foot pads, and neurological signs including seizures and circling.  Treatment with Vitamin A and Ribavirin along with supportive care is commonly used.  The neurologic inflammation can lead to paralysis.

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Cauda Equina

is also called "lumbo-sacral disease."  It is a compression of the nerve roots and spinal cord as they pass out the lower back or lumbar and sacral vertebrae.