Background The digestive tract is responsible for the absorption of nutrients and the elimination of waste; hence with chronic enteropathies (CE) and especially protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) these diseases can severely impact a patient’s health and may even result in death. Studies in companion animals have shown that patients with CE and PLE have low stores […] Read more »
Background Many tissues, including the heart, have vitamin D receptors that regulate gene transcription and expression including the renin-angiotensin system, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and endothelial dysfunction. In 2013, a canine study showed that 25vitD levels were low with CHF and related to prognosis (1). And in 2015, another study showed that 25vitD levels corresponded to disease […] Read more »
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and albumin have long been used independently as markers for prognosis. Patients with either high inflammation or low albumin have tended to have worse outcomes. The use of the C-reactive protein/ albumin ratio (CAR) is growing in human medicine as a prognostic index for disease severity. With the growing use of CRP […] Read more »
98% of pet owners say their pet is an important part of their family. As such, we go to lengths to make sure they lead a long healthy, happy life. From playtime and adventures, to good food & medications; caring for our fur babies is a priority. For those who want to make sure they’re […] Read more »
Background:Differentiating GI Lymphoma from Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) continues to be a challenge in many cats. When ultrasound is suggestive and biopsy is not an option, alternative pathways to diagnosis are needed. The VDI Cancer Panel is a tool, when used in conjunction with an ultrasound, that can help rule-in LSA in the suspected cat. […] Read more »
Background:Magnesium, an essential vitamin, is required for the proper & efficient function of over 600 biological pathways. Think of it like motor oil for an engine; Without proper magnesium levels, these pathways aren’t going to work at optimal efficiency. Testing magnesium levels in your patients is the first step, and when deficiency is identified, corrective […] Read more »
Health of a pet starts with the quality of food they eat. It’s why we so often look to diet for general wellness, and for the management of acutely ill animals. Nutrition serves a critical role in patient care, and improving diets often helps our pets live longer and healthier lives. Unfortunately, too many commercial […] Read more »
Background: Early detection of disease allows for more treatment options and often results in better outcomes. Canine cancer is unfortunately a disease that can stay well hidden for a long time before becoming clinically evident, far into development. The Cancer Risk Assessment™ (CRA) is a blood test to screen apparently healthy dogs for early signs […] Read more »
Background: Early detection of disease allows for more treatment options and often results in better outcomes. Canine cancer is unfortunately a disease that can stay well hidden for a long time before becoming clinically evident, far into development. The Cancer Risk Assessment™ (CRA) is a blood test to screen apparently healthy dogs for early signs […] Read more »
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a molecule that exists inside the joints in cats, dogs and humans. Its main purpose is to lubricate and prevent the bones in the joint from rubbing against each other, breaking down, and causing bone and ligament damage. As joints degrade, this molecule is leaked into the blood stream, where testing […] Read more »
