Patients with periodontal disease, the most common disease in dogs, suffer from progressive inflammation and destruction of the tissues supporting the teeth.

The Veterinary Medicine Interview: Dr. Barrak Pressler Apr 1, 2008

This internist has a passion for teaching and sees great changes ahead in the realm of veterinary education. "The future of veterinary medicine lies in subcertification, meaning students being trained only in small-animal or large-animal medicine."

We have always had trouble using ink to label the plastic bottles in our exam rooms and lab areas (e.g. alcohol, peroxide, lubricant).

We needed a way to support dogs that are nonambulatory or very weak in the hindlimbs, so I made slings by rolling up the main torso parts of old surgical gowns and wrapping them in Vetrap (3M).

In the January 2008 issue, the article "Toxicology Brief: Sodium hypochlorite bleach ingestion in two dogs" states that lactated Ringer's solution was used to treat hypernatremia and hyperchloremia. It seems that a fluid such as dextrose 5% in water may be more appropriate, as well as something without sodium to replenish bicarbonate.

The panel moderator acknowledged the elderly, silver-haired gentleman at the microphone. "It's a pleasure to have you with us again, Doctor." The old man, professor emeritus, famous veterinary surgeon, author of a text that was required reading for most members of the audience during their schooling, nodded, smiled, and waved his hand toward the stage.

In the item "A tip for laser tips" in the December 2007 "Idea Exchange," plastic needle covers are used as containers for sterilizing laser tips.

We have adapted NBC's hit reality show "The Biggest Loser" for our canine patients.

As an aspiring veterinarian, I spend a great deal of time reading your informative journal.