Cystotomy is commonly performed in small-animal practice to remove cystic calculi that cannot be treated medically or with other nonsurgical extraction techniques (urohydropropulsion, catheter or basket removal). Unfortunately, if numerous smaller calculi are present in the bladder and urethra, particularly in male dogs, the risk of leaving calculi after cystotomy can be as high as 15% to 20%.

Medicating a headstrong cat can be a challenge. However, compounding pharmacies have made the task easier by preparing many medications as flavored liquids, chewable treats, or transdermal gels.

Little research has been done demonstrating the pharmacokinetics of drugs commonly administered to puppies and kittens or defining the safe and effective doses of these drugs. When considering giving a particular drug, you must think about pediatric physiology and the absorption, metabolism, and excretion of the chosen drug.

Most of the limping dogs that are referred to our practice have received at least one course of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) therapy at some point in their histories.

To help reach a prognosis in nonambulatory animals with spinal cord disease, assess voluntary motor function or pain perception.

Serologic testing for pregnancy in bitches is complicated because of female dogs' normal endocrine physiology.

Oxytocin is a pituitary hormone that causes strong, coordinated contractions of the estrogen-primed uterus during parturition. It may be used therapeutically to relieve nonobstructive dystocia in bitches.

Most oncologists perform staging in cancer patients to help determine treatment options and prognosis.

Geriatric dogs are commonly referred to us for evaluation of what clients call slowing down. Often the tentative diagnosis before referral is arthritis (or is interpreted by the client as such), and the dog is receiving an NSAID.