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Preparing your pet for a blood test helps to ensure that the results are as accurate and reliable as possible. Preparation for routine and special blood tests is slightly different. Your veterinarian will give you specific instructions before your appointment. It is important that you follow these instructions exactly to ensure accurate test results.
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Winter cold weather poses several risks for our pets. This article outlines some of the key risks and how to avoid them, to keep your pet safe year-round.
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Probiotics are given by mouth and are used over the counter to treat gastrointestinal upset. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are rare but may include gas or mild discomfort. Do not use in pets that are very sick and immunocompromised, or in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Propranolol (brand names Inderal®, Detensol®, Hemangeol®, Innopran®) is a beta-blocker used off label (extra label) to treat abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) in cats, dogs, ferrets, and horses. It has also been used short-term to treat hypertension caused by thyrotoxicosis or pheochromocytoma. It is given by mouth or injection.
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Pyrantel pamoate is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat intestinal parasites in many species. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinarian.
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Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) is a fatal calicivirus that affects only rabbits. It can be transmitted by direct contact with a diseased rabbit or from feces, urine, or hair from a diseased or dead rabbit. There is no known treatment, but an American-made vaccine is available in the US. Europe has had a vaccine available for years.
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Ranitidine is given by mouth or injection and is used off-label to treat ulcers and erosions in the stomach and upper small intestine, reflux, or gastrointestinal motility issues. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset. Do not use in pets with a history of allergies to this class of drugs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinarian.
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Do you have medications stored in the bathroom cabinet, kitchen drawer, and pantry shelf? Are random bottles haphazardly tossed into the “pharmacy”? Medications are meant to help us and our pets, but they can do more harm than good if stored or administered incorrectly. You can protect your family and pets by safely handling and disposing of medications.
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Salicylic acid topical (brand name Solva-Ker®, BioSeb®, Cerasoothe® SA, others) is an antimicrobial and antipruritic (anti-itching) agent used in the treatment of seborrheic (dry or greasy dandruff) disorders in cats, dogs, and other animals. It may be specially compounded and/or combined into a formulation with other medications. It comes in cream, gel, ointment, and shampoo forms.
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Selemectin is used topically on the skin to treat various parasites, both on and off label. Side effects are rare but may include hair loss at application site, gastrointestinal upset, skin reactions, or neurologic signs. Use with caution in sick or underweight pets, or dogs with the MDR1 mutation. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
