In these uncertain times of Coronavirus, it is comforting to reflect on saints and martyrs honored for their kindness and compassion. The 14th century Italian Saint Roch (Rocco) is remembered as the patron saint of canines, epidemics and those falsely accused. Born into nobility, he became a devote Catholic. In his twenties, his parents died. […]
My Cavalier Clown
From the first day you came home, you performed so many continuous backflips that your acrobatic feats flew you right off my bed. Your presence in the office instantly brought a smile to weary patients. While your brother offered patients a paw to shake “hello”, you nonchalantly peed on a patient’s wheelchair. But with the […]
Cardiac Murmurs in Cavaliers
Many Cavalier owners, particularly breeders, become alarmed if a murmur is discovered by their Veterinarian. The owner/breeder naturally assumes the worst possible scenario namely the presence of mitral valvular disease resulting in heart failure. Often the affected canine is removed from a breeding program based upon auscultation findings. The assumption is that hearing a murmur suggests […]
The Mission
Source: The Mission
The Mission
As Dad drives down the highway, I detect a heaviness in his heart. He turns off the radio. He sniffles as he drives. He remains silent until we are close to the city. My nose immediately detects the stench of burnt metal and gas fumes. Outside our car windows the landscape is surreal as a […]
Canine Heartworms: awareness and prevention
Source: Canine Heartworms: awareness and prevention
Canine Heartworms: awareness and prevention
Zika, West Nile, Dengue, Yellow fever and Malaria are all mosquito borne diseases that cause serious illness in humans. An outbreak due to any one of these diseases ignites much media attention. Current research focuses upon diagnosis, prevention and treatment of these pathogens because of their devastating affects. Generally, an affected patient willing accepts medical […]
“Grief”
This week I learned of the serious illness and death of two beloved show dogs. Their owners, breeders and admirers expressed an overwhelming sense of grief on social media. Some even tried to rationalize the death of a beloved canine with statements like the dog lived a good life but now was old and sick […]
The Mission
Dad walks towards me with moist eyes. I sense the sorrow in his gait. “Come on Rex. We have a serious job to fulfill. A lot of people depend upon us.” With these words, I realize that today is very different. No fun and games. I assume my determined mode of “let’s get down to […]
Canine comfort
We all have pressures and deadlines to meet during our busy lives. Because modern technology is available 24/7, many of us work well into the wee hours of the morning. We work until the work is done..then collapse..exhausted. Despite our fatigue, our canines often instinctively understand our mental and physical conditions. They frequently adapt their […]