Library
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This handout outlines the recommended steps to train and condition your dog for taking your dog hunting. It discusses the two main types of hunting dogs (hounds and gun dogs). Recommendations on what to ask your veterinarian before taking your dog hunting are also included.
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Hygromas are fluid-filled non-painful swellings that develop suddenly over a bony prominence. They are the body’s reaction to repetitive trauma and usually a result of laying too frequently on hard surfaces. The best treatment is to ensure the prominence affected is well padded to allow the hygroma to recede. This can be accomplished by appropriate padding in the dog’s living quarters and by directly padding the affected area if possible. Rarely, hygromas become infected requiring antibiotics. Very few will need surgery to manage them. This would be recommended on an individual case basis.
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The term hypercalcemia is used when the level of calcium in the blood is higher than normal. Calcium levels are controlled by a pair of parathyroid glands. High calcium levels may signal the presence of serious underlying disease including kidney failure, adrenal gland failure, a parathyroid gland tumor, and some types of cancer. Pets with hypercalcemia may show signs of weakness, listlessness, increased drinking and urination, and loss of appetite. Your veterinarian will perform diagnostic tests which may include total calcium, ionized calcium, albumin, and parathyroid hormone levels.
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Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated levels of lipids (fats) in the bloodstream and can be due to several causes. Often times there are no clinical signs. Hyperlipidemia is confirmed using a 12-18 hours fasting sample. The pet's medical history and a search for an underlying cause is important for its treatment. If no underlying cause is found, your pet will need to start eating a low-fat, high-fiber diets, and may be started on the appropriate medications and supplements.
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This handout discusses the concept of hypoallergenic dogs. These breeds are meant to create less allergic reactions in people that suffer from dog allergies. Humans sometimes react to the proteins found in dog saliva and dander. Precautions to take when trying to reduce your exposure to these allergens are highlighted. As well, breeds that tend to be less reactive to dog allergy sufferers are discussed.
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Ibuprofen is commonly used to treat fever, pain, and inflammation in humans. Ibuprofen poisoning occurs when a dog ingests a toxic dose of ibuprofen, either through misuse or by accident. Most commonly in dogs, clinical signs related to irritation and ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract are observed including decreased appetite, vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea, depression, abdominal pain, dark tarry stools, and bloody stools.
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Ichthyosis is a rare skin disease in dogs and is sometimes also referred to as "fish scale disease". It generally causes the skin to appear rough and covered with thick, greasy flakes. It is the result of a genetic mutation and certain breeds, listed in this handout, seem to be affected more than others.
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Icterus is also known as jaundice is an excessive accumulation of a yellow pigment in the blood and tissues, most easily seen in the gingivae and sclerae. Icterus can be caused by hemolysis, liver disease, or obstruction of the bile duct. Your veterinarian will perform screening tests to determine the root cause of icterus. Based on preliminary tests, your veterinarian may recommend fine needle aspiration, needle biopsy, or a surgical biopsy. Icterus will resolve once the underlying disease is identified and treated. The prognosis depends on the underlying cause.
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Idoxuridine is an antiviral topical medication used to treat viral infections of the eye, such as feline herpesvirus-1 in cats. Idoxuridine comes as eye drops or can be compounded by your veterinarian into an eye ointment. Give as directed. Side effects of idoxuridine include eye irritation. Pregnant women should NOT handle this medication.
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Imidocarb dipropionate is an injectable medication that is administered by a veterinarian to treat babesiosis in dogs. It is also used off-label to treat other protozoal infections in dogs, cats, and horses. Most common side effects include mild drooling, tearing, vomiting, or nasal drip. Do not use in pets with exposure to cholinesterase-inhibiting drugs, pesticides, or chemicals. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
