Angel Alvarado, LVT

Biography

I have been a licensed veterinary technician (NY) since 1998 and hold an AAS degree in Veterinary Science Technology from SUNY Delhi College of Technology. My career spans over 20 years with a wide variety of experiences in pet stores, non-human primate and laboratory animal research facilities, companion animal hospitals, veterinary emergency clinics, and specialty surgery practices (oncology, orthopedics, and soft tissue surgery). My areas of expertise include anesthesia, pain management, critical care, reptiles, amphibians and other exotic pets. I currently reside in the Pittsburgh, PA area with my family, including two African Grey Parrots and a Doberman. I spend my free time enjoying outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, biking, and archery.

Sassy snuck into our dogs crate with the dog. I didn't see her until I couldn't find her to feed her in her crate. The other dog take apoquel 3.4 mg which was in its food. I found her in the other dogs bowl but I have no idea if she actually got the apoquel or if the other one got it. Sassy is just shy of 9 months. This just happened and no vets within a 1 hour drive are open. I'm checking on the er vets but have to check in and wait for permission to go. Can she survive this until tomorrow?

Apoquel has a fairly wide margin of safety in dosing. At worst, you may see some minor GI upset (vomiting, diarrhea) and maybe a slight decrease in appetite. Further treatment likely will not be needed unless symptoms persists for more than 24-48 hours.

Hello! Asahi has a bump on her butthole, is it normal & how do we get rid of it? Thank you!

This may be normal for her or it may be a small mass or local irritation. You can monitor it for rapid change or growth then see your veterinarian if indicated or you can schedule an appointment sooner for a physical exam. It is a very sensitive area, so sedation may be required if your vet recommends a fine needle aspirate. This will allow collection of a sample of the lump to send out for pathology. This may provide a definitive diagnosis. Any treatment may depend on that diagnosis.

How can I treat my dogs eye at home until I can get into a vet? I called thr local vet today and they are all booked up.

At best, you can use a warm washcloth to keep the eye clear of discharge and place an e-collar on him to prevent pawing or rubbing. There are no OTC medications you can use and treatment would not be recommended without a diagnosis. If you can't get in to see your veterinarian, consider a visit to the local veterinary ER. It may cost more, but potential eye infections or injuries should be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.

My dog has a bleeding skin tag on hind leg. Been there for years and his vet is aware of it. First time it has ever bled. Not sure if he caught it on something or scratched it accidentally. Putting some manuka honey on it. Still red, but not actively bleeding. How will I know if it gets infected or when I should take him in? It seems to be improving but hard to tell since it is still quite red in appearance with the end rather dried up looking.

Since it has bled and the skin looks broken, she is at risk for infection. Symptoms may include fever, lethargy, discharge, odor and/or swelling. Ideally, she should be physically examined by your veterinarian. Antibiotics may be dispensed after the exam. Place an e-collar (cone) on Jackson if she is licking the area. Use a diluted solution of betadine or Hibiclens (chlorhexidine) to keep the area clean.

These bumps originated as 1 this morning, and now there is 2 in less than 12 hrs. I was doing some research and I am fearful it may be a tumor. Could someone please explain what it could be ?

Given that they developed so quickly, it is likely not a tumor. More likely is an allergic reaction, insect bite/sting or localized infection. You can either monitor them for change or have her seen by your veterinarian. If she is licking excessively, you can place an e-collar (cone) on her until she sees the doctor. any treatment will depend on the diagnosis after a physical exam.