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Although some dogs like to run free more than others, all dogs need to be trained so they will respond when they are off leash. Dogs instinctively want to explore new sights, sounds, and smells so it's important to teach them to return to home base. Start by teaching your dog basic verbal commands without the tug of a leash at home. When your dog becomes proficient close to home or in confined areas, you can both venture out further or add more distractions. Incorporating off-leash training into ordinary daily activities reinforces the learning. Your dog's response may be enhanced if he receives a reward for his prompt attention. The reward can be as simple as a “Good dog!” accompanied by a pat on the head, a treat, or toy. Be careful not to create a dependency on treats as motivation for good behavior.
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Ofloxacin ophthalmic is an antimicrobial medication used to treat certain types of eye infections in cats, dogs, and exotic species. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” to treat other eye conditions. Ofloxacin ophthalmic comes in liquid drop form.
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Olive leaf is given by mouth and is used over the counter and off label to treat a variety of conditions such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, inflammation, and infections. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include headache, muscle aches, or stomach upset. Olive leaf should not use in pets that are allergic to it, or in pregnant or nursing pets. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Olopatadine ophthalmic is an antihistamine medication used to treat pruritus (itchiness) of the eyes caused by allergies in animals. Olopatadine ophthalmic comes in liquid drop suspension form.
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Omeprazole is given by mouth and is used off-label to treat ulcers and erosions in the stomach and upper small intestine. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or gas. Do not use in pets with a history of allergies to this class of drugs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinarian.
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Ondansetron (brand names Zofran®, Zuplenz®) is given by mouth or injection and is used off label in dogs and cats to treat vomiting. Side effects are not common but include constipation, sleepiness, or head shaking. Do not use in pets that are allergic to the medication.
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Besides making your dinner taste great, onions, garlic, leeks and chives can cause severe medical problems for your dog. Although clinical signs of illness can occur soon after your dog eats the veggies, signs may take days to appear.
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Open fontanelles are soft spots in the skull, or gaps between the skull’s growth plates. They can be normal in young puppies, especially small breeds, and typically close or harden by 9-12 weeks of age. This handout discusses causes, diagnosis and treatment of open fontanelles in small breed puppies.
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Ophytrium is an ingredient extracted from Japanese mondo grass (Ophipogon japonicus) that is used in several topical treatments (i.e., Douxo® S3 products). It is used on dogs and cats with oily to flaky skin. It is believed to help control odor and dandruff, soothe and hydrate the skin, maintain the skin barrier, untangle the fur, and soften the coat.
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There are many reasons why your dog might need oral surgery, including oral tumors, dental disease, or repair of jaw fractures. Your veterinarian may refer your dog to a board-certified dentist, surgeon, or oncologist. Prior to your dog's surgery, blood tests will be performed to prepare an anesthetic protocol suitable for your dog. Most dogs recover with minimal discomfort and will need to eat soft food until healing is complete.