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  • The general condition of your dog's skin and coat are good indicators of his health. A healthy coat should be shiny and smooth, not brittle or coarse, and healthy skin should be supple and clear, not greasy, flaky, or bumpy. Selective breeding has led to the development of dogs with various coat characteristics requiring varying grooming needs. Nutrition also plays an important role in skin and coat maintenance.

  • Coccidioidomycosis is a fungal disease caused by the soil fungus Coccidioides immitis or Coccidioides posadii. The early signs of coccidioidomycosis include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, coughing, and joint pain. Diagnosis is by biopsy of lesions or blood testing for antibodies to the Coccidioides organism. The prognosis for recovery is dependent of the extent of lesions in the dog’s body.

  • Coccidiosis is an intestinal tract infection caused by one-celled organisms (protozoa) called coccidia. Coccidia are sub-classified into a number of genera, and each genus has a number of species. At least six different genera of coccidia can infect dogs. These microscopic parasites spend part of their life cycle in the lining cells of the intestine.

  • Cocker Spaniels, as one of the most popular breeds, suffered a bad reputation for a few years because of poor breeding practices by some eager for a dollar, but these dogs are now safely secure as a treasured family pet once again. Their cheerful "ready-to-go-when-you-are" demeanor makes them great companions.

  • Codeine is given by mouth or injection and is used off label in cats and dogs to treat mild to moderate pain, cough, and occasionally diarrhea. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include sleepiness and constipation.

  • Coenzyme Q-10 is an over the counter supplement given by mouth and is used off label to treat heart, nerve, or inflammatory conditions in dogs and cats. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon and have not been documented. Use cautiously in pregnant or nursing pets. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Colchicine is given by mouth and is used off label in dogs and birds, primarily to treat amyloidosis and Shar-Pei fever. Its use in veterinary medicine is largely experimental and its effectiveness has not been well documented. Give as directed by your veterinarian.

  • Colitis simply refers to inflammation of the large intestine or colon. Colitis is most commonly used to describe diarrhea or loose stools associated with the large bowel. Large bowel diarrhea is also used synonymously with colitis.

  • Choosing the right collar or harness for a dog requires understanding how each device works and what is best for the dog and the owner. Correct selection, fit, and use are crucial for any training tool's success.

  • Gentle, graceful and sweet, the Collie wags her tail gently whenever approached. Eyes seem to smile their welcome. They're willing to do the same chore again and again, only asking a loving touch in thanks.