Educational Articles
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Polyethylene glycol is an off-label laxative used to treat constipation and empty the colon in preparation for procedures such as colonoscopy. The most common side effects are diarrhea, flatulence, and abdominal cramping. Do not use it in pets that are allergic to it or in pets with an intestinal blockage/obstruction.
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Polymyxin B/miconazole/prednisolone otic (brand name Surolan), is a combination antibacterial (polymyxin B), antifungal (miconazole), and anti-inflammatory steroid (prednisolone) ear drop medication. It is used to treat ear infections in cats and dogs. It is used “off label” or “extra-label” in species other than cats and dogs and to treat conditions other than ear infections. Polymyxin B/miconazole/prednisolone otic comes in an otic suspension form.
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Ponazuril is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat protozoal parasites in a variety of animal species. Side effects are uncommon but may include soft stools. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. Ponazuril should be used cautiously in pregnant or lactating pets, and dogs with/susceptible to dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca/KCS).
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Porcupine quills can puncture the skin and move through muscle, ultimately penetrating into body cavities and internal organs. They contain barbs like fishhooks and tend to migrate inwards instead of being expelled. Do not cut quills or attempt to remove the quills yourself. Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog is quilled. Sedation or anesthesia is required to remove quills safely.
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Special care must be taken when your dog comes home after an operation to ensure the incision area stays clean and dry and heals properly. Some signs are cause for concern, and if observed, call your veterinarian right away.
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Povidone iodine topical (brand names Vetadine®, Poviderm®, Povidine®, others) is a topical antiseptic used on the skin prior to surgery and in first aid treatments for cats and dogs. It has been used in aquatic species and reptiles to treat fungal infections and wounds. Povidone iodine topical comes in liquid solution, gel, ointment, scrub, shampoo, and spray forms.
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Pradofloxacin (brand name Veraflox®) is an antimicrobial medication used to treat bacterial infections. It is used to treat skin, urinary tract, and respiratory tract infections in cats. Pradofloxacin is approved for use in dogs in certain countries. It is used "off label" or "extra label" to treat other types of infections in cats and some types of infections in dogs.
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Praziquantel/pyrantel pamoate (brand name Drontal) is an oral antiparasitic drug used to treat and control hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms in cats and kittens that are at least 8 weeks of age and weigh at least 0.9 kg (2 lb), and in dogs and puppies that are at least 12 weeks of age and weigh at least 2.7 kg (6 lb). Praziquantel/pyrantel pamoate comes in tablet form.
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Praziquantel/pyrantel pamoate/febantel (brand name Drontal Plus) is an oral antiparasitic drug used to treat and control hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and tapeworms in dogs and puppies that are at least 3 weeks of age and weigh at least 0.9 kg (2 lb). Praziquantel/pyrantel pamoate/febantel comes in tablet form. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” in other species (not recommended in cats) for certain conditions.
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Prazosin is given by mouth and is used to reduce urinary sphincter tone to relax the bladder and allow easier urination in dogs and cats. It may also be used as a treatment for congestive heart failure, systemic hypertension, or pulmonary hypertension in dogs. Give as directed. Common side effects include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and constipation. This medication should be used with caution in pets with kidney disease or other conditions that cause low blood pressure, as well as in MDR1-positive dogs. If a negative reaction occurs, contact your veterinarian.