"Expert Canine Health Tips: Ask Dr. Paola Series"

Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” Series

Every Monday, we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your dog, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your canine companion.

Help! My Dog Has a Sore Behind His Ear

Hi Karen, thank you for sharing Teddy’s journey. It’s incredibly moving, and it’s clear how much love and dedication you’ve poured into his care. The way you brought him back from such a fragile state speaks volumes about your compassion and determination. It’s heartbreaking to hear that after all he’s been through, he’s now dealing with another serious sore, especially one as large as you described behind his ear.

Given the size and location, this could be a severe infection, an abscess, or something more complex like a growth or immune-mediated condition, particularly in an older dog with a history of skin issues. Teddy’s strength and spirit are admirable. But at this stage, it’s important he’s seen by a veterinarian in person as soon as possible. He may need specific treatment like wound care, antibiotics, or diagnostics to understand what’s going on beneath the surface.

If money is the main concern, there are organizations that help with vet bills and crowdfunding options that may assist you in getting Teddy the care he needs. You’ve already done so much to give him a second chance; getting him proper medical attention now can help ensure he continues enjoying the sun basking and the life he clearly treasures.

Best wishes, Dr. Paola

Help! My Dog Has an Enlarged Heart!

Hi Agnes, thank you for sharing those details about Katie. At 12.5 years old, it’s clear you’re deeply committed to making thoughtful choices for her, especially now with her recent diagnosis of an enlarged heart. While no medication was prescribed, managing her sodium intake is indeed crucial for some dog’s heart health, especially if the veterinary cardiologist recommends it.

Homemade meals such as the beef and vegetable blend you’re planning can be an excellent base, but since she has a medical condition, they must be formulated specially for her particular case by a veterinary nutritionist and approved by her cardiologist first. Then, combining it with a food Katie already loves could help maintain her appetite and overall well-being.

Wishing her good health, Dr. Paola

Help! My Dog Might Be HIV Positive!

Hi Betty Joe, thank you for your question. First and foremost, dogs cannot contract or carry HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). HIV is specific to humans and doesn’t infect dogs or any other non-human species. So even if someone has said a mother dog is “possibly HIV positive,” this is likely a misunderstanding—either a mix-up in terminology or confusion with a different condition. In this case, there’s no risk of puppies acquiring HIV from their mother because dogs simply don’t get HIV.

If there’s concern about the mother’s health or exposure to any disease affecting dogs, a veterinarian can run appropriate tests to ensure the puppies get the best start in life. Hope this information is helpful to you, Dr. Paola

Wrap Up

Don’t miss out on the valuable advice and insights Dr. Paola provides in our weekly “Ask Dr. Paola” series. Stay informed about your dog’s health and well-being by reading our past articles and submitting your questions for future posts. Let’s keep our furry friends happy and healthy together!