Vet Tales

Vet Tales: Understanding Megaesophagus in Pets

Welcome to another insightful episode of Vet Tales, hosted by Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Josiah Dame. This episode delves into the lesser-known but frequently encountered condition in veterinary medicine known as megaesophagus. Our hosts aim to educate pet caretakers about this condition and its implications on pet health.
Megaesophagus is characterized by an enlarged esophagus, which impedes the normal passage of food from the mouth to the stomach, leading to regurgitation and potential complications like aspiration pneumonia. The episode covers the symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and various causes, including idiopathic origins, congenital issues, and associated diseases like myasthenia gravis and Addison's disease.
Listeners will gain insights into managing megaesophagus through lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and medical treatments. The hosts also discuss the importance of understanding and addressing primary causes to improve the quality of life for affected pets. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on megaesophagus and learn how to better care for your furry friends.

Vet Tales: Pregnancy, Labor and Delivery

Join Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Josiah Dane as they explore the fascinating world of veterinary medicine in this engaging episode of Vet Tales. Their mission is to educate pet caretakers and bring veterinary knowledge to life, ultimately enhancing the well-being of beloved pets everywhere.In this episode, the doctors dive into the intricate workings of the genitourinary system, discussing topics like heat cycles, gestation, and the complexities of pregnancy in dogs and cats. Discover the signs of pregnancy, the birthing process, and the importance of proper nutrition and care for expecting pets.Learn the differences between induced ovulation in cats and the natural cycles in dogs, and uncover the secrets of the whelping process. Whether you're a seasoned pet owner or just curious, this episode offers valuable insights into the world of animal reproduction and the challenges that can arise.Dr. Keith and Dr. Dane share their experiences, tips, and advice for handling unexpected pregnancies, emphasizing the importance of spaying and neutering pets to prevent surprises. Don't miss this informative and entertaining journey into the miracle of life and the adventures of veterinary care.

Vet Tales: Understanding Pyometra in Pets

Welcome to another episode of Vet Tales with Dr. Dame and Dr. Keith! Today, we delve into the critical topic of pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection in pets. Discover how this condition presents, the typical symptoms, and why timely intervention is crucial.Our hosts share real-life stories, diagnostic methods, and treatment options, emphasizing the importance of spaying to prevent such emergencies. Whether you're a pet caretaker or a breeder, this episode offers valuable insights into maintaining your pet's reproductive health.Tune in for an engaging and educational discussion that highlights the significance of early detection and responsible pet care. Don't miss out on the next episode, where we explore the fascinating world of pregnancy in pets!

Prostate Problems in Dogs: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Care

Welcome back to Vet Tales with Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Josiah Dame! In this episode, our hosts dive into a critical topic for pet caretakers: prostate issues in dogs. They share their experiences, including some humorous moments and personal anecdotes, to bring veterinary medicine to life.
Join them as they discuss the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of prostate enlargement in dogs, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis. Learn about the importance of neutering, the challenges of treating prostate infections, and the options available for managing prostate cancer.
Whether you're a pet owner or just curious about veterinary medicine, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice. Don't miss it!

Understanding Pancreatitis in Pets: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Welcome to another episode of Vet Tales with Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Dame. In this episode, we delve into the topic of pancreatitis, a condition we encounter regularly in our veterinary practice. Despite its frequency, we've never discussed it in detail until now.
We start by explaining the pancreas as an organ, its functions, and its role in the body. We then explore the various diseases associated with the pancreas, including diabetes and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). The main focus, however, is on pancreatitis—its causes, symptoms, and how it can be diagnosed and treated.
Our discussion covers the clinical signs of pancreatitis, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. We highlight how dietary factors, like high-fat meals, can trigger this condition and the importance of early diagnosis. We also introduce a new medication, Panoquel, that has shown promising results in treating pancreatitis by reducing inflammation and pain.
The episode also touches on the importance of fluid therapy, anti-nausea medications, and antibiotics in managing pancreatitis. We emphasize the need for a low-fat diet for pets recovering from this condition to prevent recurrence.
Finally, we share some interesting cases from our practice, including instances where pancreatitis was secondary to other conditions, such as foreign body obstructions. This episode provides valuable insights for pet caretakers on how to recognize and manage pancreatitis, ensuring a better quality of life for their furry friends.

Unraveling Insulinomas in Pets: A Deep Dive into Diagnosis and Treatment

Welcome to another episode of Vet Tales with Dr. Josiah Dame and Dr. Natalie Keith. In this special episode, we delve into a unique and lesser-known condition affecting our furry friends: insulinomas. While insulinomas are rare, they can pose significant challenges for pet owners and veterinarians alike.
Join us as we explore the intricacies of diagnosing insulinomas, particularly in dogs, cats, and ferrets. Learn about the symptoms, diagnostic processes, and the various treatment options available. From surgical interventions to chemotherapy and supportive care, we cover it all to help you understand this complex condition.
Whether you're a pet owner or a veterinary professional, this episode offers valuable insights into managing insulinomas and improving the quality of life for affected pets. Don't miss out on this informative discussion!

Feline Urinary Troubles: Understanding FLUTD and Its Management

Welcome to Vet Tales with Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Josiah Dame! In this episode, we delve into a common yet often overlooked issue in cats - Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD). Our goal is to educate pet caretakers on the intricacies of this condition and its impact on feline health.
We discuss the symptoms of FLUTD, which include bloody urine, straining to urinate, urinating in unusual places, and excessive grooming. The conversation covers the importance of diagnostics such as ultrasound and urinalysis to differentiate between conditions like cystitis, urinary blockages, and bladder stones.
We also explore various treatment options, from dietary changes to stress management techniques, and even surgical interventions for severe cases. Join us as we share insights and practical advice to help improve the quality of life for cats suffering from urinary issues.
Tune in to learn more about how to identify, diagnose, and manage FLUTD in your feline friends. Your questions and topic suggestions are always welcome!

Dogs with Cushings or Addisons - Disorders of the Adrenal Gland

Welcome to Vet Tales with Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Josiah Dame! In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of the adrenal gland, a tiny yet troublesome organ in our pets. Learn about Cushing's Disease and Addison's Disease, two conditions where the adrenal gland either overproduces or underproduces cortisol, leading to a variety of health issues.
We'll break down the symptoms, diagnostic processes, and treatments for these diseases. From the hyperactivity of Cushing's, causing symptoms like panting, potbelly appearance, and increased drinking, to the complexities of Addison's, which can mimic other conditions and often presents with gastrointestinal distress.
Join us as we share our experiences, diagnostic tips, and management strategies to help pet caretakers better understand and support their furry friends dealing with these adrenal disorders. Whether you're a pet owner or a veterinary professional, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

Heatwave Hazards: Protecting Your Pets from Heatstroke and Hot Pavement

Welcome back to Vet Tales with Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Josiah Dame! In this episode, we tackle a critical topic for pet caretakers: heat-related injuries in pets, including heatstroke and hot pavement burns.
Learn about the risks associated with extreme heat, particularly for brachycephalic breeds, and discover practical tips for preventing heatstroke. From recognizing the signs of heat distress to administering first aid, we cover essential steps to ensure your pet's safety during scorching temperatures.
We also discuss the importance of shade, hydration, and proper ground surfaces to protect your pet's paws. Plus, with the 4th of July around the corner, we offer advice on managing anxiety in pets due to fireworks and the significance of microchipping.
Tune in to keep your furry friends safe and comfortable this summer. Got questions or topic suggestions? Reach out to us via email or text, and let us know what you want to hear about next!

Hip dysplasia - it’s not just an old dog problem

Join Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Tracy Trussell in a comprehensive episode of "Vet Tales" where they spotlight the common issue of hip dysplasia in dogs. This enlightening conversation aims to help pet owners better understand this disease, recognize its symptoms, and learn about preventive measures. The episode hones in on understanding what causes hip dysplasia and emphasizes the importance of early detection and ways to slow down disease progression.Moving on to the discussion on diagnosing, preventing, and treating hip dysplasia, the experts share valuable tips such as strengthening exercises for dogs and the effectiveness of certain injections to repair cartilage wear and tear. The hosts also emphasize the importance of early intervention before the onset of symptoms for maximum benefit. They also tackle interesting queries about pain management in dogs and misconception about pain manifestations in dogs.A deep dive into canine nutrition reveals how Omega-3-rich fish oils can benefit a dog's health. The hosts also highlight the effectiveness of sedated X-rays in early detection of hip dysplasia, especially in breeds prone to the condition. Through the case study of Max, a senior dog with hip dysplasia, the hosts explore various treatment modalities, including Femoral Head Osteotomy (FHO). This real-life story brings to light the stages of diagnosis all the way through to treatment, showcasing how effective procedures are in preserving dogs' mobility.The episode further narrates an amazing recovery story of a dog battling hip dysplasia. Overcoming the disorder through laser therapy and physical exercises, this tale underscores the resilience of dogs and the critical role of appropriate therapy. The episode also sheds light on total hip replacement surgeries and the importance of X-rays in reaching the right diagnosis.In conclusion, the hosts announce a short break from the podcast to focus on rebuilding their tornado-struck clinic. Ending on a positive note, they promise to return with more comprehensive discussions on the health of pets, expressing gratitude to their listeners for their continued support.