Educational Articles
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Xylitol is a naturally occurring substance that is widely used as a sugar substitute. Chemically, it is a sugar alcohol, and found naturally in berries, plums, corn, oats, mushrooms, lettuce, trees, and some other fruits. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure, or even death in dogs.
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Yeast dermatitis or Malassezia dermatitis is an extremely common skin disease in dogs. Clinical signs include itchiness, redness, scaly or crusty skin, and foul odor. Diagnosis and underlying conditions are discussed. Treatment involves resolving the underlying disorder and using topical and/or oral medications to treat the yeast.
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Zinc-responsive dermatosis in dogs is a skin condition that results from zinc deficiency in the body. The deficiency can be due to an inability to adequately absorb zinc from the diet (most commonly seen in arctic breeds), zinc binders in dietary supplements, excess calcium (juvenile large breeds) or less commonly, an inadequate amount of zinc in the diet. Clinical signs include crusts and scaling around the eyes, mouth, scrotum and muco-cutaneous junctions. The haircoat can also, be dry and dull. Lethargy, inappetence, and lymphadenopathy may also occur. Diagnosis includes a history and physical exam and a skin biopsy. Treatment may include zinc supplementation, dietary change and ensuring a dog isn’t receiving any supplements that will interfere with zinc absorption.