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Dogs + English

  • Avian flu (also known as highly pathogenic avian Influenza or HPAI, avian influenza, or bird flu) is a viral infection caused by influenza type A viruses. It primarily affects wild birds and domestic poultry. The H5N1 strain is of particular concern because it can spread rapidly and potentially infect non-avian species, including mammals like dogs, cats, zoo animals and some wild carnivores. During outbreaks, keep pets and livestock away from wild birds and their droppings.

  • Azithromycin (brand name Zithromax® or Zmax®) is a broad spectrum antibiotic used for a variety of infections in dogs and cats. It is also used for certain infections in horses, cattle, rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds. Azithromycin is given by mouth or injection.

  • Baylisascaris procyonis, also known as the raccoon roundworm, is a parasite found in the intestinal tract of many raccoons. In some cases, this parasite may also spread to dogs and, less commonly, cats. Infection in dogs often results in no symptoms, but it can result in diarrhea. In rare cases, migration of parasite into the dog’s nervous system can result in encephalitis (brain inflammation), and death. Baylisascaris procyonis can also rarely infect humans.

  • Bedinvetmab is an immunotherapeutic/biologic medication used to alleviate osteoarthritic pain in dogs. This medication is given by an injection under the skin. Contact your veterinarian if you think your dog is having an adverse reaction to this medication.

  • Foraging toys are designed to provide mental and physical exercise and enjoyment by simulating hunting and seeking for food. Both dogs and cats are natural hunters and scavengers. They benefit from exercising this part of their brain on a regular basis. Providing enrichment in the form of foraging toys can decrease boredom, improve enjoyment, and encourage dogs and cats to engage in species-specific behaviors in a desirable way.

  • Behavioral health medications are used in animals and humans. They include antidepressants, atypical antidepressants, antipsychotics, and amphetamines. Dogs and cats often require lower doses of these medications than humans and are sensitive to overdoses. As such, when a dog or cat gets into human doses of these medications or a pill vial of their own medication, behavioral health medication poisoning can occur.

  • Breed-specific diets are a category of commercial pet feeds available for dogs and cats that are formulated to accommodate various breed predispositions. This article provides a concept overview of these diets, including what they are and what benefits they may serve. Specific examples are reviewed in brief to illustrate case scenarios for common canine and feline breeds.

  • Benzoic acid + malic acid + salicylic acid (brand name Derma-Clens®) is an acidic cleansing agent used on burns, wounds, and other skin conditions in cats and dogs. Benzoic acid + malic acid + salicylic acid comes in a topical cream.

  • Benzonatate is an antitussive (cough suppressant) medication used to treat coughing in dogs. It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Benzonatate comes in capsules that must be given whole. Use with caution as there is a high potential for toxicity and overdose.

  • Benzoyl peroxide topical products (2%, 5%) are used in cats and dogs to treat bacterial infections of the skin. They are available as over-the-counter veterinary products in the form of shampoos, gels, and cream rinses.