Essentials

Hookworms is the common name for a group of strongylid parasites that affect dogs and live in the small intestine. Although there are several species, this article will focus on Ancylostoma caninum. As with other parasites, if we understand their life cycle, we can better treat and prevent their transmission.

As veterinary professionals, we know all too well that the signs of osteoarthritis (OA) can be missed or misinterpreted by pet owners. Many times, the subtler clinical signs associated with osteoarthritis are thought to be normal age-related changes. Because this leads to underdiagnosis of OA, we focused Banfield Pet Hospital’s 2019 State of Pet Health® Report on osteoarthritis, including how the condition is linked to excess weight.

One concern with weight-loss programs is that use of inappropriate diets and/or levels of caloric restriction can lead to inadequate nutrient intake, resulting in nutritional deficiencies. Severe caloric restriction can also have adverse metabolic effects that work against achieving successful, safe weight loss. This article provides guidance for calculating caloric requirements for an obesity management plan to avoid the adverse effects of severe caloric restriction, as well as for choosing an appropriate diet for weight-loss programs to avoid nutritional deficiencies.

Our 3-part series examines how to treat and prevent transmission of roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. In Part 1, the author discusses roundworms, including the life cycle of these parasites (they look like strands of cooked spaghetti, live in the dog‘s intestines, and pretty much just swim in the dog‘s partially digested food) and how to prevent their transmission.

Student debt is among the most critical issues facing veterinarians—and we can all do something to help.

Can the New Zealand green-lipped mussel be useful in treating dogs suffering with osteoarthritis? The (research) jury is still out. While there is no known cure for degenerative joint disease, there are nutritional approaches that can play an important role in helping your patients with OA.

The Heartworm Hotline column, presented by the American Heartworm Society, communicates practical and timely information on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of heartworm disease, as well as highlights current topics related to heartworm research and findings in veterinary medicine.

An essential part of therapy for diabetes mellitus (DM) is nutrition, which can greatly affect the way dogs and cats with diabetes live. For dogs with DM, it is more important that they eat regularly than be strictly limited to certain foods. For cats with DM, diet is much more important and can significantly affect DM control. After the initial diagnosis, consider all the factors before prescribing a diet regimen.

Mental and emotional health is becoming less taboo in the veterinary world as compassion fatigue, cyberbullying, and more escalate. Banfield is realizing the importance of transparency and assistance.