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Sarcoptic mange, also called scabies, is an intensely itchy skin disease caused by a Sarcoptes scabei, a microscopic mite that burrows into the skin. Although dogs, cats, and humans all have a similar condition known as scabies, the mites are different for each host. Scabies in dogs is not the same as scabies in people….

Demodectic mange is a skin condition caused by a microscopic mite that lives in the hair follicle. A small number of Demodex mites live in the skin of most dogs without causing any problem. When a dogs immune system is compromised due to illness, parasites, or poor nutrition, Demodex mites can multiply rapidly. It is especially…

Lyme disease is a bacterial disease spread by ticks. While it is most prevalent in the Northeastern U.S., it has been found in all but a few states as well as other parts of the world. The name has nothing to do with fruit, but comes from the place where the disease was first reported,…

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects both humans and animals and can cause serious symptoms. Vaccination of dogs and the use of common sense precautions can reduce the risk of exposure for you, your family, and your pets. HOW LEPTOSPIROSIS IS SPREAD People and dogs are exposed to the Leptospira bacteria via contact with…

Infectious Canine Tracheobronchitis, more commonly known as Kennel Cough, is a contagious disease that affects the respiratory system. Like similar illnesses in people, it can be caused by a variety of organisms. HOW DOGS GET KENNEL COUGH Kennel cough is spread mainly by airborne viruses and bacteria expelled when infected dogs cough. People can inadvertently…

Congratulations on your new baby! When most pet owners learn that they are expecting, they begin to wonder how their pets will react to the new baby and how to introduce them to each other. Introducing your dog to the new arrival is an important process and should be started well before the baby is…

There are many reasons that a pet may begin to have accidents in the house. Inappropriate elimination can have medical and behavioral causes. It should never be assumed that the accidents are spiteful. While animals do experience anxieties that can be associated with inappropriate urination or defecation, they do not hold grudges or try to…

Dogs use their senses to explore the world around them.  Chewing is one way to investigate the objects that intrigue them.  They use their mouths to play and learn to hunt.  Puppies start chewing as soon as their baby teeth erupt.  Chewing gives a dog a satisfying way to curb hunger and boredom and is a healthy…

Congratulations on bringing home your new puppy! A new puppy can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, along with the fun, often come some challenges for the new owners. One such challenge is housetraining your new pet. However, with the positive tips in this handout, housetraining outside can be a quick and rewarding experience…

Inappropriate elimination is a common complaint from dog owners.  It may be a matter of proper house training, a behavioral problem, or an underlying medical condition.  House soiling may be intermittent or a chronic problem.  In any case, it should never be assumed that the dog is eliminating in the house to spite the owner. …