Articles
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The horse's hoof is a very complex structure. The tough outer wall surrounds layers of sensitive laminae ('leaves') that support, nourish with blood and, in turn, cover the underlying pedal bone.
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Life with puppies is complicated, and all puppies will sometimes do things their owners find problematic. Using management, planning, supervision, and positive reinforcement for the right behaviors will help puppies succeed, and owners better enjoy their companions.
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Though every puppy is an individual, large, and giant breed puppies in particular require an individualized approach to nutrition, since they have some different needs compared to small and medium breed dogs. When it comes to puppy food, one size does not necessarily fit all.
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Infection in the foot is by far, the most common cause of acute (sudden), single-leg lameness in the horse. Infection results in painful inflammation and pus (abscess) formation.
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Pyelonephritis is an upper urinary tract infection. Many dogs have no clinical signs when they have pyelonephritis, although they may have signs of lower urinary tract disease. Pyelonephritis is usually caused by a bacterial infection that moves up the urinary tract from the bladder to the kidneys. There are several developmental, medical, and procedural conditions that increase the risk for pyelonephritis. Antibiotics are used to treat pyelonephritis and are chosen based on testing the urine for bacteria and antibiotic sensitivity. Overall, dogs with sudden pyelonephritis do well and return to normal health with appropriate treatment unless they also have kidney stones, chronic kidney disease, urinary tract obstruction, or cancer in the urinary tract.
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Pyelonephritis is an upper urinary tract infection involving the kidneys and ureters. Many cats have no clinical signs when they have pyelonephritis, although they may have signs of lower urinary tract disease. Pyelonephritis is usually caused by a bacterial infection that moves up the urinary tract from the bladder to the kidneys. Cats with sudden pyelonephritis do well and return to normal health unless concurrent complications exist.
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Pyothorax occurs when pus or inflammatory fluids collect in the space around the lungs causing fever, anorexia, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. It is diagnosed through history, physical exam, radiographs, and thoracocentesis. Treatment with oral antibiotics is essential and may involve repeated thoracocentesis or the placement of a chest drain.
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Pyrethrin insecticides are naturally derived from the chrysanthemum (mum) flower, and pyrethroids are the synthetic versions. The use of pyrethrins/pyrethroids is generally safe in dogs; however, cats and fish are very sensitive to these products.
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Pyrimethamine is an antiprotozoal tablet given by mouth and used off-label to treat certain parasitic infections. Common side effects include vomiting, low appetite, tiredness, and low blood cell counts. Cats are more likely to have more severe side effects. Pregnant women should handle this medication carefully.
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Pythiosis is a waterborne infection that can infect the GI tract or skin of dogs. It can cause extreme weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea or skin lesions such as ulcerating nodules and draining tracts. This disease is more common in southern regions. Treatment involves surgical removal of all affected material if possible, including limb amputation if indicated. Different antifungal therapies have shown some efficacy and need to be continued long-term. Prognosis for resolution of pythiosis is guarded to poor.
