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Cavs Corner

I heard there’s a new oral medication to prevent ticks and fleas. Is it safe? - Stacy B., New York, NY

Nexgard and Bravecto are two new products in a flavorable chewable form that is currently available. Nexgard is administered once monthly and Bravecto is given every 3-months. So far these products appear safe and convenient especially with owners who dislike using topical insecticides (Frontline; Advantix and others) and who have toddlers or small children.

Can animals get Zika virus? B. Novotny, NYC

Good question!! The Zika virus has just recently become front page news and we are all trying to get accurate information regarding its epidemiology. It’s definitely transmitted by mosquito’s and perhaps even ticks. The Zika virus has been linked to a higher than normal incidence of small brains (microcephaly) in pregnant women. More data must be obtained but an initial control measure centers around mosquito control. In my search off VIN (Veterinary Information Network) I came across this interesting article.

What is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus is often described as “starving in the land of plenty” meaning that every cell in the body, and in particular the central nervous system, needs sugar, the gasoline or fuel of the body, to function properly. However, in order for this “fuel” (sugar) to properly enter the body it requires a hormone called insulin that is produced by thousands of tiny little islands of cells (islets of langerhans) laced throughout the pancreatic organ.

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What is Diabetes Mellitus?

What is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus is often described as “starving in the land of plenty” meaning that every cell in the body, and in particular the central nervous system, needs sugar, the gasoline or fuel of the body, to function properly. However, in order for this “fuel” (sugar)...

Zika Virus & Animals

Zika Virus & Animals

Zika Virus and Animals March 7, 2016 (published) J.Scott Weese, DVM. DACVIM I've been getting a lot of questions about Zika virus and animals. It's great lo see that people are thinking more broadly about infectious diseases (but it isn't doing much for my...

Tick-Borne Diseases and Your Pet

Tick-Borne Diseases and Your Pet

Protecting your cat or dog (or both) from ticks is an important part of disease prevention. In fact, there are several diseases that can be transmitted to your pet from a tick bite. The four most common tick-borne diseases seen in the United States are Lyme disease,...

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