Library
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Dexamethasone Otic is a steroid medication used in pets to treat topical inflammation of the ears, often with other medications such as antibiotics. It comes as a liquid solution that is prescribed for topical use within a pet’s ear canal. There are no veterinary brands of dexamethasone otic, so human brands (eg Maxidex®) or veterinary-compounded formulations are used off-label in pets.
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Dexmedetomidine is a sedative/tranquilizer used primarily in cats and dogs as a pre-medication injection for anesthesia or for chemical restraint. It is also used orally in dogs for short-term anxiety management. The most common side effect is a low heart rate. Dexmedetomidine should not be used in patients with severe heart liver or kidney disease. It should be used cautiously in young, old, or weak animals. Consult your veterinary office immediately if you suspect a negative reaction or overdose.
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Dextromethorphan + Guaifenesin is given by mouth as a tablet and is used off label to reduce cough in dogs and cats or to treat compulsive behavior. Side effects are uncommon, but serious adverse reactions associated with this drug may occur without warning. Contact your veterinarian if you notice anything out of the ordinary.
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Diclofenac ophthalmic is a topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication used to treat inflammatory eye conditions in cats, dogs, rabbits, avian species, and other animals. Diclofenac ophthalmic comes in liquid drop form.
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Dinotefuran/permethrin/pyriproxyfen (brand name Vectra 3D®) is a topical (spot-on) antiparasitic drug that is applied directly to the skin. It is used to repel and kill fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, sand flies, and biting/chewing lice in dogs and puppies that are at least 8 weeks of age and weigh at least 2.3 kg (5 lb). NEVER use in cats and avoid using in households with cats, if possible. Permethrin is poisonous to cats and any exposure may be fatal.
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Dinotefuran/pyriproxyfen (brand name Vectra) is a topical (spot-on) antiparasitic drug used to repel and kill fleas in dogs and puppies that are at least 8 weeks of age and weigh at least 1.14 kg (2.5 lbs) and in cats and kittens that are at least 8 weeks of age and weigh at least 0.9 kg (2 lbs). Do not confuse this medication with Vectra 3D®, a similar product labeled for use in dogs only.
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Diphenoxylate + atropine (brand name Lomotil) is an opioid combination medication used to treat diarrhea or coughing in dogs and diarrhea in cats. Its use in cats is not generally recommended. Diphenoxylate + atropine is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid. This article discusses administration, potential side effects, risks, and monitoring.
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Ear cleansing/drying products are used over-the-counter to treat and prevent ear infections in many species of pets. They come as a liquid solution that is used topically within the ear canal and are typically used in the ears after debris and wax have been removed using a cerumenolytic cleanser.
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Many veterinarians, including nutritionists and behaviorists, believe it is important for dogs and cats to express their natural foraging and hunting behaviors. For pets living indoors, this can be difficult, and the lack of this stimulation can sometimes lead to behavior problems. Enriching a pet's environment with food toys and puzzles at mealtimes can fulfill the need to forage. The use of toys, puzzles and other novel methods of food delivery can also be effective ways to increase daily movement in overweight or inactive pets.
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Epineprhine is a drug used most often in emergency situations for animals (e.g., anaphylaxis, cardiopulmonary resuscitation/CPR). It may be added to local anesthesia drugs due to its ability to cause veins to constrict, thus delaying the body’s absorption of the drugs and prolonging the duration of the local anesthetic duration.