Educational Articles
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Calcium acetate is given off label and by mouth to treat elevated blood phosphorus levels, especially due to kidney disease. Side effects may include nausea or stomach upset. This medication should not be used in pets that are allergic to it or have high blood calcium levels. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Calcium carbonate + chitosan (brand name Epakitin®) is a phosphorus binder and calcium supplement. It is used to treat high blood phosphorus levels in cats and dogs with chronic kidney disease and to treat low blood calcium levels in cats, dogs, and other species.
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Oral calcium (-carbonate, -gluconate, -lactate) is a phosphorus binder and calcium supplement. It is used to treat high blood phosphorus levels in cats, dogs, and other animals with chronic kidney disease and to treat low blood calcium levels in cats, dogs, and other species. Oral calcium comes in powder, capsule, liquid suspension, and tablet forms.
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Even though young pups may be more actively curious, dogs never stop learning. In fact, adult dogs are often easier to train than their younger canine friends. Older dogs are not as easily distracted as pups and can focus for longer periods of time. Teaching and learning new tricks can be a fun pastime for you and your dog, no matter your respective ages.
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Dogs are smart, and we see examples of their intelligence through both scientific research and real-life situations. They can learn by watching, cooperating with another dog or person, or just by being in their environment over time.
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Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid (a compound found in the Cannabis plant), which is used as an analgesic (pain reliever) and anticonvulsant. It is used to treat osteoarthritic pain and to help control seizures in dogs and other species. Cannabidiol should only be given under direction of a veterinarian. It is used “off label” or “extra label” in animals.
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Cats and dogs can become intoxicated by cannabis in various ways, most commonly by eating edibles (e.g., baked goods, candies, chocolate bars, and chips containing cannabis), or by ingesting cannabis directly (in any form). Pets can also be exposed to second-hand smoke. A small amount may affect one pet more than another, so there is no official safe level of exposure. Many of the signs of intoxication are neurological, including disorientation, dilated pupils, and hyperactivity. In severe cases, tremors, seizures, and coma can result. Regardless of the method of exposure, accurate and complete information from the owner is imperative to treat the patient successfully.
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Capillaria is a small internal parasite, often less than half of a centimeter in length. They are closely related to intestinal worms, though they can live in a variety of locations within the body. Diagnosis can be difficult because the eggs of Capillaria are shed only on an intermittent basis. While the parasite is easily eliminated with a dewormer, your dog may require additional medications to decrease the inflammation associated with the infection.
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Capromorelin is an appetite stimulant used to encourage appetite in dogs and help manage weight loss in cats with chronic kidney disease. It is a liquid solution given by mouth. Side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, increased drinking and urination, and intestinal sounds. This medication should not be used in pets allergic to it and be used with caution in those with liver and kidney disease. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
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Carbamazepine is given my mouth and is used off label in dogs, cats, and horses to treat seizures, pain, and behavior disorders. Common side effects in animals are unknown, but may include dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, and vomiting. Do not use in pets that have recently used amitraz, are pregnant, or have bone marrow disease. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.