Separation anxiety (SA) in dogs is very common and occurs when dogs exhibit inappropriate behaviours specifically caused by owners leaving them alone or when the dog does not have access to them. In dogs these behaviours typically include vocalisation, destructiveness, foot-chewing, panting or inappropriate elimination when the owner is away and excessive attachment behaviour when the owner is home.
Lots of dogs present to us with stiffness and soreness relating to osteoarthritis (OA). OA is an under-diagnosed condition that many owners consider ‘part of getting old’. Many of us live incredibly busy lives and the early signs of OA are often missed. Many dogs (and cats too!) only come in for a vet visit once OA is quite noticeable/severe.
Periodontal disease is one of the most common conditions that veterinarians see in general practice. It may be… surprising to know that more than 85% of dogs and cats >4 years of age have periodontal concerns. For the vast majority of animals, good home care regimes and regular check ups at the vet can help to prevent the development of periodontitis – an incredibly painful condition that can contribute to a reduced quality of life.
Ear disease is an extremely common condition seen in companion animal practice . The term ‘otitis externa’ (OE) refers to inflammation or infection of the external ear canal(s). OE is more common in dogs than cats and can be caused by bacteria, yeast, ear mites and allergies/allergic skin disease. Clinical signs include a foul odour, redness of the ear and discharge/pus in the ear.