What is pyometra? Pyometra is a not uncommon condition that can affect the uterus of middle aged and older pet un-neutered female dogs (and more rarely cats). Following any normal oestrus, (‘heat’ or ‘season’) levels of the hormone progesterone remain elevated for approximately 8-10 weeks. The purpose is to increase the lining of the uterus in order that foetuses can be nourished during pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur and the level of progesterone does not return to its original […]

Senior pets by Liam Moriarty MVB, Hermitage Veterinary Hospital, Lucan One of the most common questions I get asked as a vet in relation to senior pets is “How long more will my pet live?”. Usually this is a very difficult question to answer. I have treated cats as old as 23 and 24 and I have treated a dog as old as 20. However it is not uncommon for a pet to die of age related disease as early as […]

Ultrasound examinations, ultrasonography or echosonography, to use some of the terms, is an imaging technique in which deep structures of the body can be visualised by recording echoes of ultrasonic waves which are directed into the tissues.  Ultrasound waves are considered to be entirely safe. The principal involves directing a narrow beam of high frequency sound waves that may be transmitted through, reflected off or absorbed by the tissue toward which they are pointed, depending on the nature of the […]