Articles
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Training a dog to understand human communications is easier when we consider how our tone and volume influence our message. Verbal commands will be interpreted differently by your dog depending on how they hear it. Just remember, it’s not just what you say….it’s how you say it.
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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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Hyaluronan topical (Optixcare wipes®) are used to remove sticky mucus, eye secretions, and crusty debris from around the eyes of dogs, cats, and other small pets. They contain chamomile and hyaluron, which are gentle cleaning supplements. They are used to manage tear staining around the eyes in pets prone to this condition.
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Hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic (Remend®, I-drop®, Oculenis®) is a lubricating topical eye drop. It is used in dogs and cats to help lubricate and moisturize the eye and to minimize dryness and irritation. It is often used to support pets with decreased tear production, such as pets with keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye). Hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic drops can be used to accelerate healing for pets with eye injuries.
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Hydrocortisone ophthalmic is a topical steroid medication used to treat surface inflammation in the conjunctiva of the eye. It is used to treat inflammatory eye conditions in cats and dogs. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” to treat eye conditions in animals other than cats or dogs. Hydrocortisone ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop form. Avoid use in animals with viral or fungal infections, corneal ulceration, and birds.
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Hydrocortisone topical is a medication applied to the skin that comes in many forms such as creams, ointments, shampoos and sprays, and is used to treat itchiness and inflammation. Side effects may include irritation at the application site, and with long-term use can include thin skin, skin bumps, and blackheads. Use this medication with caution in pregnant pets or in pets with skin tuberculosis. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
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Hydroxyurea is given by mouth and is used off label to treat certain cancers in cats and dogs. Common side effects include bone marrow suppression, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth and stomach ulcers, loss of toenails and/or hair coat. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, or in pregnant pets unless absolutely necessary. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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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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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.
