by Ben J. Character, DVM Heartworm disease is a common cause of sickness and death for our pets. Heartworms are a type of parasite that live in the heart and great vessels that are associated with the heart. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes that deposit the larvae when they feed. These larvae then migrate to […]
Quality Care to Farm and Home
Opening Hours : M-F 8AM - 4:30PM Emergencies 24/7
Contact : 205-390-3423
All Posts in Category: Health Care
All About Mange
All About Mange by Ben J. Character, DVM Mange is a skin disease that effects dogs and cats. There are several types of mange. The most common types are sarcoptic (Scabies) and demodex (or “Red Mange”). Mange infections are caused by mites that infect the skin. It is important to know which mite is causing […]
BSE: Breeding Soundness Examination
BSE: Breeding Soundness Examination by Ben J. Character, DVM “Just what is a BSE?”, you may ask. We’re glad you did! BSE stands for “Breeding Soundness Examination”, and should be an annual part of a complete herd health program. A BSE is also warranted if conception rates are found to be down in the herd. […]
Grass Founder in Horses
Grass Founder by Ben J. Character, DVM Laminitis (also know as “Founder”) is a damaging condition that affects the feet of horses. The condition can range from mild to severe, and sometimes results in the need for euthanasia. There are many situations that can result in a foundered horse. One type of founder is grass […]
Failure of Passive Transfer
Failure of Passive Transfer by Ben J. Character, DVM Failure of passive transfer occurs when a newborn does not receive colostrum (“first milk”) from it’s mother. The colostrum contains antibodies that protect the newborn from infection, until it’s own immune system can defend itself. Unlike humans and some other species of animals, most of […]
Breeding Cycles of Dogs and Cats
Breeding Cycles of Dogs and Cats by Ben J. Character, DVM The dog and cat, for all their similarities, have very different estrous cycles. The average dog will come in heat twice per year, about 6 months apart. The heat cycle generally lasts about 4 weeks, with the 2nd week usually being the week of […]