Dr. Alison: I recently caught my dog trying to steal bread dough off the counter. Is there any danger in him eating this? -- Melissa

Melissa: Raw bread dough made with yeast does pose certain hazards when eaten.

The warm and moist environment of the stomach is the ideal environment for the yeast to replicate, expanding the dough. The distended stomach can lead to a reduced blood flow to the organ and cause breathing difficulty. The yeast also produces ethanol (a type of alcohol) that is absorbed and results in poisoning.

Early signs of trouble can include unproductive vomiting, a large stomach and depression.

As poisoning progresses, the animal becomes disoriented and uncoordinated. Eventually, severe depression, weakness, coma, low body temperature or seizures can be seen. In certain large breeds, the distended stomach can twist leading to a potentially deadly condition.

Treatment for ingestion of dough consists of induction of vomiting if caught early, addition of cold water to the stomach to slow yeast replication or possibly surgery to remove the ball.

In more advanced cases, hospitalization is needed to correct metabolic abnormalities and giving IV fluids to remove excess alcohols.

Dr. Alison: My gerbil has a hairless area on the belly. She doesn't seem to be bothered by it. Should I take her to my vet? -- Robin

Robin: Both male and female gerbils have a ventral marking gland on the abdomen. The gland appears as an orange or tan hairless area that is oval in shape. It can sometimes be mistaken for a tumor.

In male gerbils, the gland enlarges during puberty and produces an oily secretion. Males often use this as a way of marking territory. Gerbils can be seen rubbing their abdomen across objects, and it is often considered itching

Be sure to take your gerbil in yearly for an exam and have that area checked to be sure this is a scent gland.

Johnson, DVM, is the owner of Pet Med Animal Hospital in Dubuque. You can e-mail her at ariley8387@aol.com.