Giardia is a protozoal infection that can cause gastrointestinal (GI) disease in pets and people. The microscopic organism is ubiquitous in the environment and can be found worldwide. Our Alisos Animal Hospital team believes education is key to improving pet health, and we answer frequently asked questions about this condition. Question: What is Giardia? Answer: [...]
When your veterinarian tells you that your pet needs medication, you likely wince, cringe, or scream silently. However, pets often have health conditions that require pills or liquid medications. If the thought of medicating your pet makes you feel like you need prescription-strength courage and patience, check out these helpful tips from our Alisos Animal [...]
Does your senior pet seem more anxious than usual or appear lost in familiar surroundings? These signs may indicate cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). As your pet ages, CDS affects their organ systems, including their brain. Our Alisos Animal Hospital team knows how much you care about your aging pet, so we are providing information about [...]
The pancreas is a multifunctional organ that controls two main body systems—endocrine and exocrine. Pancreatic endocrine cells produce insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar, and these cells’ damage leads to diabetes. Approximately 98% of the pancreas serves exocrine functions—producing digestive enzymes that help break down and absorb foods’ nutrients. Pancreatic inflammation (i.e., pancreatitis) is [...]
Although canine influenza is not a common respiratory disease, we are seeing an increase in cases in our area. To help keep your dog safe from canine influenza, our team answers common questions about this respiratory condition. Question: What is canine influenza? Answer: Canine influenza virus (CIV), or dog flu, is a contagious respiratory disease [...]
Dogs are amazing creatures, and constant sources for entertainment. We have all watched our dog perform some strange action, and wondered why they would do such a thing. The Alisos Animal Hospital team wants you to wonder no more. We explain the origins of some of these eccentric habits. Question: Why does my dog walk [...]
“Oh, great,” you think to yourself. “Cheddar has peed on my bed. Again.” Thinking your cat is annoyed because you’ve been working so much lately, you try to give him extra love and attention, but he hisses when you run a hand along his spine. Worried about your feline friend, you schedule an appointment with [...]
Pets are notorious for getting into mischief when they find intriguing new objects—especially the glitz and glow of holiday decorations. But, cats and dogs can encounter dangerous situations when investigating the tree, gifts, and seasonal treats associated with Christmas and New Year’s Eve. To avoid an emergency veterinary visit during the holiday season, follow our [...]
Watching the same birds fluttering outside their favorite window every day has got to be boring for a house cat. Once known as a sleek predator, now they can only claim the “house cat pooch” that sags below their belly, as they sit and wait for their food dish to be filled again. The typical [...]
As your beloved pet nears the end of their time, whether it’s the end of their natural lifespan or they have a terminal illness, making a decision about euthanasia can be incredibly difficult. Many pet owners are scared to ask questions about such a decision, the process itself, and what happens to their pet after [...]
