Problem: Article: Uveodermatologic syndrome is an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is a condition that is not infectious or something the dog catches or acquires. It happens because the body's immune system turns on itself to attack normal tissue. The dog's immune system is designed to detect invading pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, and attack and destroy them. The invader is called an "antigen" and it is this antigen that activates the immune system. To defend the body "antibodies" are produced, designed to deactivate and destroy the invading bacteria or virus. What happens in autoimmune disease is the body reads its own tissues as antigens (foreign materials or threats to health). It then mobilizes its defenses against these tissues in a case of mistaken identity. Some breeds are at increased risk of this syndrome, including the Husky, Akita, and Samoyed. Here the immune system targets two specific areas, which are the melanocytes (pigment producing cells) in the skin and the delicate structures of the eye. Certain areas are the body are more likely to be affected and these include the nose, pads, eyelids, scrotum, lips, and hard palate. These areas stop producing pigment and so previously colored areas turn white. This is however only of cosmetic significance and is not painful or injurious to health. If these symptoms increase consult your veterinarian about the condition. This is more serious than the skin form. The immune system attacks the eye leading to severe inflammation both externally (seen as the eye changing color or glowing red) and internally (loss of vision). The eye has limited ways to defend itself and the inflammation can lead to cloudiness across the cornea or front of the eye and also damage to the light-receptive layer at the back of the eye. Both of these impair vision and, if untreated, can lead to permanent blindness.
Summary: Discuss the risk of autoimmune disease in your pet with your vet. Repeatedly screen dogs that are at higher risk of uveodermatologic syndrome. Track symptoms you suspect are caused by uveodermatologic syndrome on the skin. Take your dog to its vet immediately if you suspect its eyes are affected.

Problem: Article: Physical signs that you are suffering from stress will help you diagnose the problem. Heed these signs so that you can take actions to rejuvenate your body and enjoy the holiday season. Some of the physical signs to watch for include: Tight muscles. Stress hormones can cause your muscles to contract for extended periods of time. Shallow breathing. When your body is in fight-or-flight mode, your breathing quickens and you become more alert. Headaches. Not all headaches are caused by stress, but if they consistently surface in difficult moments, they may be stress headaches. Lack of energy. If your body is maintaining its stress response over a period of time, you will suffer from a lack of energy to put toward other activities, such as spending quality time with family and friends. Get a good number of restful hours per night, or the sleeplessness will become a vicious cycle: the less you sleep, the more you need; the more you need, the less time you have to prepare for and appreciate the holiday season, and the more taxed you will feel. Ensure that you have 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night. Leave last minute tasks for tomorrow. Avoid getting bogged down in holiday planning and responsibilities. Set aside an hour or two of "winding down" time before you drift off. This will help your body prepare to enter the sleep state. Avoid electronics and noisy environments right before bed. Enjoy the crackle of the fireplace instead! Nutritious eating is a powerful measure to ensure your body's ability to handle stress. Stay away from sugar, fat, and caffeine. Instead, opt for foods with high fiber content and carbohydrates, such as baked sweet potatoes. Fruits and vegetables are also a good choice. Avoid eating as a stress management tactic. This can lead to guilt and health problems associated with overeating. With all the great food circulating around during the holiday season, this is an especially important caution to take. Many people love to appreciate the holidays with a glass of eggnog. Moderate amounts of alcohol may temporarily relieve stress and increase enjoyment, but research shows that alcohol can also prolong stress-related tension. Consuming a reasonable amount (1-2 drinks) is usually safe and may even confer certain health benefits, but be careful and consult your doctor if you have concerns. Engaging in physical activity releases endorphins: the chemicals in the body that promote good feelings. Choose an activity you like and are likely to stick with; almost any form of exercise will do the job. If the gym is closed for the holidays, try running outside! If you have health concerns or haven't exercised in a while, consult your doctor first. Finding a workout buddy will increase the enjoyment factor. In the middle of everything, remember to breathe. Allow your body a moment of relaxation; let your body do what it naturally does. Practice deep breathing techniques to keep your calm amidst the holiday chaos. Take a deep breath, allowing the air to fill both your belly and your chest. Count to three, and then exhale. Repeat this a few times until you feel your body begin to unwind. Breathe normally, while counting your breaths. You can use "one" for inhales and "two" for exhales, or you can go all the way to ten. This focusing technique will drown out stressful outside influences.
Summary:
Notice stress in your body. Get enough sleep. Eat well. Watch your alcohol intake. Exercise. Breathe.