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Written by Erin Harty
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Thursday, 17 January 2008 |
 Lucky dogs. They're not bound by the social constraints we humans must endure. They can belch and fart whenever they please. They can take a bath (with their tongues, no less) in public. And certainly, no one begrudges a beloved pooch a few extra pounds around the middle. Why, it just wouldn't be a dog's life if you weren't able to enjoy a few extra calories every now and then, would it?
Obesity is considered the number one nutritional problem in dogs, and studies have documented that at least 25 percent of dogs in the United States may be overweight.
The scientists who conducted a just-released study would beg to differ. As it turns out, a dog's life can actually be extended if he's kept on a strict diet and not allowed to indulge too much in the dog food department.
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Written by Susan M. Taylor, DVM, Diplomate ACVIM
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Monday, 05 June 2006 |
 photo courtesy of Oregon Lab Rescue
A syndrome of exercise intolerance and collapse (EIC) has been recognized in young adult Labrador Retrievers.
A comprehensive study of this condition is underway involving collaborators from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) of the University of Saskatchewan , the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota and the Comparative Neuromuscular Unit at the University of California. The objectives of this study are to (1) describe the syndrome so that it can be recognized by dog owners, veterinarians and trainers, (2) to thoroughly evaluate affected dogs to try to establish an efficient means of diagnosis and to gain some insight into the cause of the collapse and (3) to determine the genetic basis for the collapse syndrome. This research is being supported by generous grants from the Morris Animal Foundation and the WCVM's Companion Animal Health Fund.
The following is a summary of some of what we have learned in the last 5 years about the syndrome of Exercise Induced Collapse in Labrador Retrievers:
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Written by Celeste Clements, DVM
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Friday, 19 May 2006 |
 When your pet tanks up at the water bowl, is it really a problem? Or is it merely a response to a hot environment or a dry diet?
When excessive thirst or polydipsia is associated with the production of excessive amounts of urine or polyuria, we may safely assume that something is amiss. But the problem could be either behavioral or physical. And which comes first, increased thirst or increased urination? The problem, in fact, might be excessive urine production that drives greater thirst and water consumption.
The diagnostic approach to PU/PD (polyuria/polydipsia) may be simple and straightforward, but often it is not. The veterinarian must be certain that any changes in urination habits are caused by greater than normal urine output, rather than urgency and difficulty urinating or loss of bladder control. Verifying the problem, therefore, is extremely important.
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Written by Jörn Oleby
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Wednesday, 10 May 2006 |
 Many dog owners invest considerable time in being active with their dogs through obedience training, hunting activities, tracking and protection exercises at training grounds, out in the
countryside or in the forest. These activities allow us to spend time with our dogs while also
keeping them physically and mentally alert. Others, such as the police and security guards,
use dogs at work. We expect these dogs to have a well-developed physique to be able to
perform the work they are trained to do. A lot of time and money is spent on training a
smart and efficient dog. There is considerable research and many opinions on the topics of
what food and exercise is best for our dogs. We all have the animals’ best at heart. Good
care and healthy food is thought to be essential.
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Written by webmaster@justlabradors.com
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Friday, 17 February 2006 |
 "Cold water tail," "limber tail syndrome," "broken tail," "dead tail," "broken wag" are all euphemisms for a relatively common occurrence in sporting dogs. The tail of the dog hangs down from the tail base or is held horizontal for three or four inches and then drops down. A flaccid tail episode appears to be a painful, but relatively benign affliction that can occur after swimming, after a heavy hunting day or even after a bath with cold water or water that is too warm... more from the Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.
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Written by webmaster@justlabradors.com
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Monday, 06 February 2006 |
 Progressive Retinal Atrophy refers to a broad group of inherited retinal conditions which will eventually result in the blindness of the dog. Due to the nature of this disorder, and the fact that it does not always have noticeable symptoms until it is relatively advanced, repeated examinations may be required to detect any problems. It is imperative that your veterinarian be involved in the treatment of your dog, and in recommending an ophthalmologist. Your dog can still lead a productive, involved and full life even when blind. |
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Written by webmaster@justlabradors.com
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Saturday, 04 February 2006 |
What to do if your pet has a seizure:
Do not panic. If your pet is having a seizure, he is unconscious and he is not suffering. Your pet may seem like he is not breathing, but he is.
Time the seizure. Actually look at a clock or watch and note the time; although it may seem like forever, it may only be 30 seconds.
Keep your pet from hurting himself by moving furniture away from the immediate area. Also protect him from water, stairs, and other sharp objects. If possible, place a pillow under his head to prevent head trauma.
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Written by webmaster@justlabradors.com
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Saturday, 04 February 2006 |
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Elbow dysplasia is the more general term describing three conditions affecting the canine elbow: ununited anconeal process, ununited medial coronoid process, and ununited medial humeral epicondyle. |
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