Library
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Acetaminophen (Tylenol, paracetamol, APAP, N-acetylparaminophenol) is used for pain in fever in humans, and may be recommended for dogs in low doses, but should only ever be given under the direction of a veterinarian. Young and small dogs have a higher risk for toxicity.
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Acute hemorrhagic diarrhea syndrome (AHDS), formerly known as hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, is characterized by vomiting and bloody diarrhea in dogs. AHDS is believed to be caused by a bacterium that is part of the normal gut flora and can produce toxins and enzymes that can damage the intestinal lining and blood vessels.
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Acute kidney injury (AKI) is the sudden failure of the kidneys to perform normal filtration duties. Clinical signs, potential causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis are outlined in this handout.
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Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), also known as shock lung, is a life-threatening complication of critical illness in dogs, such as systemic infection, systemic disease, severe trauma, or near-drowning. Treatment involves targeting the underlying cause while supporting the dog's compromised lung.
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Exposure to ethanol (also called ethyl alcohol) by ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption can lead to alcohol poisoning. Isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol/rubbing alcohol) and methanol (methyl alcohol) can also cause alcohol poisoning. Early intervention is key to successful treatment of alcohol poisoning.
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Amitraz is a topical insecticide found in flea collars, sprays, dips, and other topical spot-on or pour-on products used to control ticks, mites, and other parasites. It is used in dogs and farm animals, and is found in products used to control parasites on various crops. Amitraz is not recommended for use on cats as they are extremely sensitive to this insecticide.
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Amitraz is a topical insecticide found in flea collars, sprays, dips, and other topical spot-on or pour-on products used to control ticks, mites, and other parasites. Dogs can be poisoned if they ingest amitraz or are given a treatment intended for another species.
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Anaphylaxis is an acute severe allergic reaction caused by an overreaction of the body's immune system to an allergen such as a food protein, medication, vaccine antigen, or other chemical. The most common signs include itching, cutaneous edema, hives, excessive drool, vomiting, diarrhea or respiratory distress. Diagnosis is made based on history and physical exam.
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Anisocoria is a condition in which the pupils of the eyes are different sizes; one pupil is larger than the other. Anisocoria is a symptom of an underlying condition or disease that needs to be identified and treated. Prognosis is guarded pending the diagnosis and treatment. Blindness may occur as a result of the underlying condition.
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Birds innately hide symptoms of illness until later stages of disease. Anorexia (loss of appetite) and lethargy (listlessness and general inactivity) are common symptoms of illness in both pet and wild birds. While not specific to any disease, these signs can indicate severe illness that requires immediate attention from an avian veterinarian.