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Horse hoof thrush is a fungal infection that is found on the bottom of the hoof. It typically affects the tissues around the hoof, particularly the frog, sole and cleft area. Common symptoms and signs include: * Foul, distinct odor from the hoof * Black, moist pus-like substance from the frog area * Tissue around the frog and heels starts to wear away * Discomfort and lameness is felt when thumb pressure is applied to the frog area What Causes Horse Hoof Thrush? This condition is... Read Full Story

Finding any sort of lump or bump on your pet can be a very scary moment, and often the first thing that comes to mind is that dreaded word “cancer”. While it is always a good idea to have worrisome lumps checked out buy your pet’s veterinarian, keep in mind that not all lumps are tumors and not all tumors are cancerous. Tumors are abnormal growths of body tissue and they can either be classified as cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign). Cancerous tumors can spread at a rapid rate... Read Full Story

Resembling grains of sand (usually yellow or brown in color), kidney stones are small stones that are lodged in the kidney or appear in the urine. These grains vary in size. They can also be single stones. These stones develop when salts in the urine form a solid crystal. When the stones become wedged in the urethra or the bladder, fresh deposits can accumulate around them and the flow of urine can be blocked. This blockage causes agonizing pain which can be felt in the back or side, and... Read Full Story

Matted hair is a common problem for many cats and kittens, especially long haired cats such as Persians. Not only are these matted clumps of hair unsightly, they can become quite painful for your pet and may even cause skin irritations or infection if they are not removed. Grooming matted cat fur can be quite the task. Brushing your cat daily will help prevent knots and mats and regular bathing will keep your pets fur clean and tangle-free. However, if you pet already has matted hair... Read Full Story

Cholesterol is something we all have. This fat-like substance is found in every cell in your body and plays an important role in a variety of vital functions, including building and maintaining cell membranes, hormone synthesis, and the manufacturing of Vitamin D. However, the body naturally manufactures adequate amounts of cholesterol to sustain optimal body functioning and so any extra cholesterol added through our diet, is unnecessary and when levels become too high cholesterol becomes... Read Full Story

Feelings of panic may occur as a result of sudden, abrupt movements, loud noises such as a gun shot or fire crackers, abuse, neglect or injury. Calming a horse by speaking softly and gently to calm and soothe him is the best approach. Use a lead rope or halter to capture the horse. If the animal was tied to a pole or post before running away, he may have dragged the object with him and you would therefore need to disentangle it from him. Most times, the horse will continue running in... Read Full Story

Water Retention and Weight Gain It is very common for even healthy adults to experience weight fluctuations due to water retention, which account for many day-to-day fluctuations on the scale. While most people can retain up to five pounds of “hidden” water weight within the natural fluid that surrounds cells, known as extra-cellular fluid, those who are overweight or suffer from obesity people may retain up to eight to ten pounds. Water Retention and Menopause As women enter menopause... Read Full Story

What is Bipolar Disorder? It is normal to experience ups-and-downs, good days and bad days and the occasional I should never have gotten out of bed day, but as a general rule it is important to retain an inner calm or a middle ground to which we always return. However, individuals with Bipolar disorder experience extreme fluctuations of mood. They tend to lose their inner balance, finding themselves at the far ends of the emotional spectrum. They may even find themselves alternating... Read Full Story

What is Separation Anxiety? While most dogs may chew a toy or sleep quietly when left alone for a period of time, others may struggle when their owner leaves the house, with rather disastrous consequences. Cats too, while less common or severe, may also struggle with anxiety-related behavioral problems. These behavioral issues may also occur as a result of a fellow pet’s absence or death. Symptoms of separation anxiety * Barking incessantly, pacing or chewing furniture * Mutilating... Read Full Story

Are you having a hard time maintaining a Healthy Weight? The body requires long-term harmony and support and in order to lose weight successfully, there are a few weight loss tips and simple steps that need to be incorporated into your lifestyle: A healthy, balanced diet Regular exercise A positive and healthy mental approach to food Understanding and acknowledging the underlying causes of unhealthy eating habits By incorporating healthy eating habits and exercise into your life, you... Read Full Story