Pet Health Articles
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Pain can be difficult to detect in older dogs. It is important for dog owners to recognize subtle signs of pain in their dog, such as slowing down on walks, unwillingness to play, reluctance to sit or stand, limping or weight shifting, and sensitivity to touch on being picked up. If any of these behaviors are observed, your dog should be evaluated by your veterinarian and a pain management plan devised.
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Most dogs need to have their nails trimmed approximately once monthly. Dogs that are frequently walked on pavement or concrete may be able to go a bit longer between nail trims, because walking on a hard, rough surface can help file the nail. Dogs that are inactive or do not spend any time on hard surfaces may even need nail trims a bit more frequently, such as every three weeks.
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Training a dog to understand human communications is easier when we consider how our tone and volume influence our message. Verbal commands will be interpreted differently by your dog depending on how they hear it. Just remember, it’s not just what you say….it’s how you say it.
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This handout outlines the recommended steps to train and condition your dog for taking your dog hunting. It discusses the two main types of hunting dogs (hounds and gun dogs). Recommendations on what to ask your veterinarian before taking your dog hunting are also included.
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Hyaluronan topical (Optixcare wipes®) are used to remove sticky mucus, eye secretions, and crusty debris from around the eyes of dogs, cats, and other small pets. They contain chamomile and hyaluron, which are gentle cleaning supplements. They are used to manage tear staining around the eyes in pets prone to this condition.
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Hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic (Remend®, I-drop®, Oculenis®) is a lubricating topical eye drop. It is used in dogs and cats to help lubricate and moisturize the eye and to minimize dryness and irritation. It is often used to support pets with decreased tear production, such as pets with keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye). Hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic drops can be used to accelerate healing for pets with eye injuries.
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Hydralazine is given by mouth and is used off label to treat high blood pressure and some causes of heart failure in cats and dogs. Side effects include decreased appetite, vomiting, and/or diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or in pets with heart vessel disease, low blood pressure, severe dehydration, or severe blood loss.
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Hydrocephalus is an excess of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that has leaked inside the skull, leading to brain swelling. There are two main types of hydrocephalus in dogs: congenital and acquired. Small, miniature, toy, and brachycephalic breeds seem to be more affected. Signs, diagnosis, and treatment are outlined. Your veterinarian will discuss your pet's prognosis and treatment options based on its individual condition.
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Hydrocodone is an opiate agonist given by mouth as a tablet or liquid and used off label to treat pain and dry cough in dogs. The most common side effects include sedation and constipation. Do not use this medication in pets that are allergic to opiates or that have ingested a toxin. Use with caution in debilitated or geriatric pets, pets with a head injury, or pets that have thyroid, heart, lung, liver, kidney, or adrenal disease. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
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Hydrocortisone ophthalmic is a topical steroid medication used to treat surface inflammation in the conjunctiva of the eye. It is used to treat inflammatory eye conditions in cats and dogs. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” to treat eye conditions in animals other than cats or dogs. Hydrocortisone ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop form. Avoid use in animals with viral or fungal infections, corneal ulceration, and birds.