Dolittle DVM

Disclaimer: This article documents my personal experience managing my dog's atopic dermatitis as a vet student under veterinary guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every dog differs in its symptoms, circumstances, and needs. Please consult your veterinarian before making changes to your dog's diet, medication, or care routine. There is a particular kind of helplessness that sets in when your dog is scratching himself raw at two in the morning, and there is nothing you can do to make it stop immediately.  If you have a dog diagnosed with atopy, you  know exactly the sound I am referring to - the rhythmic, relentless thump of a hind leg against the floor, the wet noise of paw-chewing, the way they look up at you mid-scratch with an expression that is equal parts miserable and apologetic, as though the itching were somehow their fault. Duke is my five-year-old Indian Pariah - a desi dog, built for survival, constitutionally hardy, and yet, as it ...

Every snake owner knows the moment - the dull skin, the cloudy eyes, the sudden attitude. “They’re going into shed.” But what looks like a simple skin peel is actually a tightly regulated biological process that reflects a snake’s health, environment, and care. When shedding goes wrong, it’s rarely just a skin issue.  This article breaks down the science of ecdysis and the ways you can help your snake have a successful shed.  Under the Skin ~ Complete shed of the snake head ~ (credit: BSAVA Manual of Reptiles) Shedding, or ecdysis , is a normal and essential physiological process in snakes. While it may look like a simple act of “sloughing skin,” it is actually a hormonally controlled, multi-stage event involving complex cellular, biochemical, and environmental interactions. When conditions are optimal, shedding occurs smoothly and in one complete piece. When they aren’t, the result is dysecdysis , or abnormal shedding. Understanding ecdysis is important not only for keepers...

  ~ Measuring Fetal Heart Rate for a 45-day-old unborn pup ~ Something is electrifying about being surrounded by professionals who speak the language of images - grayscale screens, probe angles, and diagnostic precision. The “Canine and Feline Diagnostic Ultrasonography” Conference , held at Mumbai Veterinary College, Goregaon , was one such experience, bringing together veterinarians, radiologists, and students eager to deepen their understanding of small animal imaging. A Glimpse into Diagnostic Precision The conference focused on the expanding applications of ultrasonography in small animal medicine - from abdominal and thoracic imaging to reproductive diagnostics. Each system was covered in sections of the event and focused on how to locate the structure and discern abnormalities from the norm. ~ Sonographic image of a bladder with calculi Arrow: Ring down artefact; S: acoustic shadow ~ The images that had once confused me as swirls of grey and black became clear as day w...

The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV) Student Chapter at Mumbai Veterinary College marks a new milestone for students passionate about herpetology. Established under the guidance of ARAV, this chapter aims to bridge the gap between curiosity and clinical expertise in reptile and amphibian medicine. Through interactive webinars, hands-on workshops, and collaborative learning, ARAV Mumbai provides a platform for aspiring veterinarians to explore diagnostics, husbandry, conservation, and medical care of reptiles and amphibians. Members will gain exclusive access to international resources, mentorship opportunities, and the Journal of Herpetological Medicine and Surgery - all designed to enhance their academic and professional journey. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate biology of snakes, the delicate physiology of amphibians, or simply wish to expand your clinical horizon, ARAV Mumbai invites you to be part of a growing network that celebrates the art and s...

Few things worry snake keepers more than a pet that suddenly stops eating. This causes owners to panic - Why is my snake not eating? Is  it stressed? Sick? Or just being a picky serpent? As a snake owner, I get this question all the time, and the truth is: snakes refusing food can be perfectly normal—or a red flag that needs attention. The trick is knowing the difference. In this post, we’ll walk through the common reasons snakes go off food, how to separate harmless fasting from health issues, and the practical steps you can take to get them feeding again. Why is My Snake Not Eating? Common Reasons Not all feeding refusals are alarming. Here are the most common causes: ~ Classic visible signs that Google is about to shed ~ Shedding: Appetite often dips a week before shedding. Dull skin and cloudy eyes (“blue eyes”) are tell-tale signs.  Seasonal cycles: Some snakes naturally slow their feeding in cooler months or during brumation. Stress: New e...