Library
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Therapy pets can help people with many facets of their health including physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. These pets live with their owners and make visits to hospitals and other facilities to spend time with these human patients. Therapy pets are not the same as service animals.
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Thyroid tumors can be benign or malignant and functional or non-functional. In dogs, they are usually malignant and non-functional, whereas in cats, they are usually benign and functional. A swelling in the neck may be the only sign in a dog; however, a change in bark, coughing, difficulty swallowing, facial swelling, rapid breathing, breathlessness, weight loss, and a loss of appetite are possible. In cats, the signs are related to excess thyroid hormone production (hyperthyroidism). Thyroid tumors are diagnosed with a physical examination, bloodwork, various forms of diagnostic imaging, and in dogs, a tissue biopsy. In dogs, staging is required to determine the presence of spread. A variety of treatment options are available.
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Timolol ophthalmic is a beta-blocker used to reduce intraocular pressure (pressure within the eye) in cats and dogs with glaucoma. Timolol ophthalmic is also used to prevent glaucoma in the normal eye of an animal with unilateral (one-sided) glaucoma. This medication is used off label in veterinary medicine.
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Helping your pet lose weight may be challenging at first, but with a little patience and persistence, you can be successful. Research has shown that small amounts of weight loss help improve the quality of life for overweight pets: they feel better, move easier, play more often, and live healthier lives. This handout focuses on commonly asked questions and tips for owners to help their overweight pet successfully achieve some weight loss.
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Tobramycin ophthalmic is an antimicrobial medication used to treat eye infections in cats, dogs, and exotic companion animals. Tobramycin ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop suspension form. Caution when using this medication in pets with kidney disease and/or glaucoma. Do not confuse this medication with combination products containing tobramycin and a steroid.
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Toceranib phosphate is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat mast cell tumors and other cancers in cats and dogs. Common side effects include diarrhea, decreased or lack of appetite, lameness, or weight loss. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, are breeding, pregnant, or lactating, are less than 24 months old, weigh less than 11 lbs (5 kg), or that are having or have had surgery in the past 2 weeks. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Total ear canal ablation and bulla osteotomy (TECA-BO) is a surgery performed to remove the ear canal and a portion of the middle ear. This surgery is performed in cases where the pet is suffering from chronic and unresponsive ear infections. The surgical technique, reasons for performing the procedure, the diagnostic steps, and potential post-op complications are outlined in this handout.
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Tramadol is a synthetic opioid given by mouth in the form of a tablet, capsule, or compounded liquid, and is used off label to treat pain. Common side effects include sedation, gastrointestinal upset, or agitation. It should not be used in pets that are hypersensitive to opioids, and should be used cautiously in geriatric, sick, or pets with seizures. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
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Transdermal means the application of a medicine or drug through the skin, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. Relatively few drugs are currently available for transdermal application. The biggest risk with a transdermal medication is that it could be insufficiently absorbed, resulting in inadequate drug levels and treatment. The inside of the outer ear flap (not inside the ear canal) is an excellent area to apply transdermal medications. After you have administered the medication, try to distract your pet from scratching or rubbing the ear for a few minutes by feeding your pet, taking your pet for a walk, or playing together immediately afterward. If your pet is prescribed a transdermal medication patch, your veterinarian will often shave an area to affix the patch.
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Traveling with your pet can be fun and safe if you plan in advance by finding a pet-friendly hotel. Knowing what you want in a hotel and what the hotel wants from you can simplify the process. And preparing in advance with your pet in mind can make the trip more enjoyable for you and your furry travel companion.