Library
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Diphenhydramine topical (brand name Benasoothe®) is an antihistamine with some local anesthetic properties. It is used to relieve itching and skin irritation in dogs, cats, and other animals. Diphenhydramine topical comes in a variety of forms, which may be specially compounded.
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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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DNA is a large, complex molecule that carries the genetic information or “code” of an organism. All common forms of life carry a copy of their own genetic code in each of their cells, and each organism has a unique section of DNA that is just like a fingerprint. DNA-PCR is often used to detect the presence of infectious organisms.
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Docusate (Docusate Sodium Bloat Preparation, DSS, Dioctynate®, Pet-Enema®, Enema SA®, Docu-Soft®, Anti Gaz, Bloat Eze, Bloat Go, Bloat Release, Bloat Treatment, Bloat-Lax) is a laxative medication used to soften dry or hard stools and assist with constipation and bloating in animals. It is prescribed for use in dogs, cats, horses, cattle, goats, sheep, and rabbits, but is not recommended for reptiles due to potential fatalities.
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Dorzolamide (brand names: Trusopt®, Cosopt®) is an antiglaucoma medication used off label in cats, dogs, and horses to treat increased eye pressure (ocular hypertension). Dorzolamide is given in the form of a liquid drop applied directly to the eye.
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Doxepin is given by mouth and is used off label to treat psychogenic dermatoses such as excessive grooming and psychogenic alopecia. Give as directed. The most common side effect is sleepiness. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other tricyclic antidepressants, in pets currently using an MAOI or flea/tick collar, or in pets undergoing skin allergy testing within two weeks. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Doxycycline is an antibiotic given by mouth in the form of a tablet, capsule, or liquid, used off label to treat certain infections. Common side effects include stomach upset, sun sensitivity, and increases in liver enzymes. Serious side effects include liver failure, seizures, and trouble swallowing. Do not use in pregnant pets and use cautiously in pets with liver disease or in young pets. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices used to create and inhale an aerosol composed of nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. If a companion animal ingests an e-liquid, signs of nicotine poisoning occur rapidly. The nicotine associated with e-cigarettes, even without tobacco, poses a serious health threat to dogs and cats.
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Ear canal tumors are abnormal growths that can develop from any part of the ear canal (the skin, the glands of the skin that produce earwax and oil, and the underlying connective tissues, muscles, and bones). Initially, these tumors may appear as one or more pink, white, or purple nodular masses in the ear canal. If benign, they may grow to a certain size and may or may not be problematic. If malignant, they may grow, ulcerate (break open) and bleed, and nearly always become infected, causing recurrent or chronic ear infections. The treatment of choice for ear canal tumors is surgical excision.
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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.