Pet Digest

Aural Hematomas and Head Shaking in Dogs: Causes, Risks, and Nutritional Connections If you’ve noticed your dog frequently shaking its head or observed swelling in its ear flap, you might be dealing with an aural hematoma . While alarming, this common condition is usually a symptom rather than the primary problem , often signaling underlying medical or behavioral issues. Understanding the causes, risks, and the role of nutrition — including anti-inflammatory support like turmeric and ginger — can help you manage, prevent, and treat these conditions effectively. What Is an Aural Hematoma? An aural hematoma occurs when blood accumulates between the ear cartilage and the skin. This usually results from trauma, such as excessive head shaking or scratching, which ruptures small blood vessels in the ear flap. Hematomas can vary in size and severity: Acute hematomas appear suddenly and are often painful, with swelling and warmth. Chronic hematomas may develop over time and can resu...

  Understanding Coprophagia in Dogs: Causes, Risks, and Solutions Coprophagia, the act of dogs eating feces, is a behavior that often perplexes pet owners. While it may seem repulsive, it's a relatively common issue that can stem from various causes, including medical conditions, nutritional deficiencies, and behavioral factors. Addressing this behavior requires a comprehensive understanding of its underlying causes and appropriate interventions. --- What Is Coprophagia? Coprophagia is the consumption of feces, and it's observed in both puppies and adult dogs. While it's a natural behavior in some contexts—such as mothers cleaning up after their puppies—it's generally considered undesirable when exhibited by adult dogs. --- Common Causes of Coprophagia 1. Medical Conditions Several medical issues can lead to coprophagia: Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI): A condition where the pancreas produces insufficient digestive enzymes, leading to malabsorption of nutrients ...