Dr. Phil Zeltzman’s Blog
Real stories about actual HRVSS patients.
Lions of South Africa: Kings of the Bush
I was very fortunate to recently visit South Africa and Zimbabwe after a veterinary conference. Since 100% of the pet owners we meet are animal lovers, I thought I would share some information and pictures about his incredible trip.Lions symbolize power and grace....
Charlie and the giant spleen mass
Charlie, a sweet 9 year old Basset Hound, was in serious trouble. His signs were really minor, but what was growing inside was shocking. Interestingly, the mass was found by accident. Charlie’s owner recalls: “We had noticed lumps on Charlie’s hip and belly. We had...
Graceful Giants: Discovering Giraffes in South Africa
I was very fortunate to recently visit South Africa and Zimbabwe after a veterinary conference. Since 100% of the pet owners we meet are animal lovers, I thought I would share some information and pictures about his incredible trip.South Africa, a land renowned for...
Why Willie needed surgery for a deranged knee
Willie, a 12-year-old kitty, was limping on his left back leg after trauma of unknown origin. His owner explains: “That evening, Willie didn’t come home at his usual time. I had a bad feeling, so I tracked him down with the radio-tracking device fitted to his collar....
South Africa’s Rhinoceros: massive yet endangered
I was very fortunate to recently visit South Africa and Zimbabwe after a veterinary conference. Since 100% of the pet owners we meet are animal lovers, I thought I would share some information and pictures about his incredible trip.In the heart of South Africa and...
Chewy’s screw tail surgery, from “very bad” to “great energy”
Chewy, a 3 year old Bulldog, was in a strange situation. He also had a strange condition: a “screw tail.” What is that? Also called corkscrew tail, ingrown tail or tail fold dermatitis, it involves a convoluted, infected, smelly, and painful skin fold around the tail....
5 (more) important questions about postop care
← 5 important questions about postop care This week we share answers to 5 more common questions you should know about if your dog or your cat is having surgery. 1. It’s OK to let my pet lick the sutures, right? Of course not! Pets, not knowing any better, have a...
5 important questions about postop care
Whether your cat or your dog has a minor lump removal or major surgery, there are some basic things you should know. After your pet has surgery, the surgeon & nurse team will answer many of your questions spontaneously. Still, it is useful to know what to expect...
Rocky’s giant belly mass… and giant surprises!
Rocky, a cute 5-year-old, 20 lb Shih Tzu, was in trouble. He had a large, firm, painful mass in his groin area. It was about the size of your fist. His belly appeared to be distended. Where are testicles supposed to live? Although he was never neutered, he had no...
How Pearl’s surgery solved her repeated bladder infections
Pearl, a 3 year old Lab, had had a “ridiculous number of bladder infections” during her short life. Her owner remembers: “When she was a puppy, our family vet told us she may be prone to bladder infections because of her anatomy.” Why did Pearl have bladder...