My Dog's Symptoms : Page 13 of 176 : Dog care, symptoms, health issues, and dog health advocacy from an owner's perspective. In loving memory of Jasmine.

A Primer On Cushing’s Disease: What is Cushing’s Disease in Dogs?

Cushing’s disease, named after the first physician who reported it, results from excess cortisol in the body. It is most common in middle-aged to older dogs. The most susceptible breeds include: Introduction Cortisol is a corticosteroid hormone that controls metabolism and response to stress. It is produced by the adrenal glands, which are found on top of the upper part…

by Dr. John A. Bukowski, DVM, and Dr. Susan E. Aiello, DVM

Persistent Vomiting in Dogs: Stacey’s Persistent Vomiting

When your dog throws up once, you may or may not need to be concerned, depending on how your dog is feeling. If it keeps happening, though, you need to take action. Goldens are known for their hearty appetite. They are predisposed to serious health issues as a breed, but a weak stomach isn’t one of them. Stacey started regularly…

by Jana Rade

A Primer on Cytology: When You Might Need One For Your Dog?

Cytology is the examination of cells under a microscope. Cytology can help to characterize lumps and masses on the skin and in other organs of your dog. It is also helpful for evaluating: The purpose behind it Cytology often provides diagnostic information about your dog that can be useful in deciding on a treatment plan. Lumps and bumps Your veterinarian…

by Dr. John A. Bukowski, DVM, and Dr. Susan E. Aiello, DVM

Enlarged Lymph Nodes in a Dog: Holly’s Story

Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system. So, by definition, they already are little nodules. Normally, however, you wouldn’t be able to feel them—only when they swell up. The job of lymph nodes is to work with the immune system. They form and store immune cells and filter harmful substances. The potential causes of lymph node enlargement include: Dental…

by Jana Rade

Brown Urine in Dogs: Why Is My Dog’s Pee Dark/Brown? Causes, Symptoms, and Is It an Emergency

Brown urine in dogs is an emergency. One of the things I’ll never forget is Jasmine’s drug-induced hyperthermia horror and all that followed. It was the day we almost killed our dog. And it was the day almost killing our dog likely saved her life. If you’re interested, you can read the whole story here. I took in on instinct.…

by Jana Rade edited by Dr. Joanna Paul BSc BVSc

Jana Rade

I am a graphic designer by day, dog health advocate, dog writer, member of the Dog Writers Association of America, and an award-winning author in my spare time. Jasmine, the Rottweiler of my life, was the largest female from her litter. We thought we were getting a healthy dog. Getting a puppy from a backyard breeder was our first mistake. Endless veterinary visits without a diagnosis or useful treatment later, I realized that I had to take Jasmine's health care into my own hands. I learned the hard way that simply seeing a vet is not always enough. There is more to finding a good vet than finding the closest clinic down the street. And, sadly, there is more to advocating for your dog's health than visiting a veterinarian. It should be enough, but it often is not. With Jasmine, it took five years to finally get a diagnosis for her initial issue. Unfortunately, other problems had snowballed for that in the meantime. Jasmine's health challenges became a crash course in understanding dog health issues and how to go about getting a proper diagnosis and treatment. I had to learn, and I had to learn fast. Helping others through my challenges and experience has become my mission and Jasmine's legacy. I now try to help people recognize and understand signs of illness in their dogs, how to work with their veterinarian, and when to seek a second opinion. My goal is to use 20 years of hard-earned experience to save others from the steep curve of having to learn things the hard way, as I did.

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