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• Choosing a Pet Reptile

  Before getting a reptile, research all aspects of reptile ownership, including the appropriate reptile for your lifestyle, how to provide it with a proper diet, suitable housing, and a healthy, stimulating environment. All reptiles need to be examined by a reptile-savvy veterinarian immediately after purchase or adoption , and then at least annually after that. These pets usually do not act sick until they are very sick and need immediate veterinary attention. Regular veterinary care, plus an informed, knowledgeable pet owner, greatly reduces the likelihood of illness and death in these pets.

• Choosing the Best Diet for Your Pet

  Veterinarians generally agree that there is no single best food for all dogs or all cats. Our pets are individuals: some will prefer dry kibble, while others will prefer wet or canned food. Pet owners may also have preferences related to cost, convenience of shopping, and how a particular pet food manufacturer conducts their business. This handout briefly outlines key aspects of selecting the most appropriate food and water for your dog or cat.

• Choosing the Right Puppy from a Litter

  Getting a new puppy is an exciting time and there is no perfect science to picking the perfect puppy. Have a brief look over them physically with their littermates as well as seeing how they interact together and with you. Be sure to take your puppy to a veterinarian as soon as possible to check for any health problems. 

• Chow Chow

  To the uninformed, the Chow Chow may bear a greater resemblance to a bear or a lion than to a dog. However, those in the know understand that this ancient, aristocratic breed makes a fine companion - especially for people who would rather not have a Velcro dog.

• Chromium Picolinate

  Chromium picolinate is given by mouth and is used off label to aid in the treatment of obesity and diabetes, mostly in cats. Side effects are uncommon, but watch for increased drinking or urination, or decreased appetite. Do not give to pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

• Chronic Bronchitis (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) in Dogs

  Chronic bronchitis (also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD) is a slowly progressing inflammatory condition of the lower airways. The most common sign is a chronic dry cough. The diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis are outlined in this handout.

• Chronic Bronchitis in Cats

  Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammatory condition that affects the pulmonary or respiratory system. This condition is irreversible and is slowly progressive.

• Chronic Degenerative Valve Disease in Dogs: In Depth

  This handout summarizes the normal function of the dog heart, and outlines the abnormalities and changes associated with degeneration of the four different valves found in the heart. An explanation is provided of clinical signs associated with valve disease, as well as the recommended tests and treatments for this condition. Staging of heart disease is also discussed.

• Chronic Egg-Laying in Birds

  Chronic egg-laying occurs when a female bird lays one egg after another or lays repeated clutches of eggs. Chronic egg-laying may lead to malnutrition and egg binding. There are both behavioral and medical interventions to stop chronic egg-laying.

• Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats

  Chronic kidney disease (once called chronic kidney failure) is mainly a problem in mature and senior cats (seven years and older). Unfortunately, once the kidneys are damaged, they have minimal ability to recover. However, with proper management, most CKD cases progress very slowly. This handout describes the clinical signs of the condition, along with causes, diagnosis, treatment, and nutritional management.