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  • Diabetes mellitus results from an inadequate production of insulin from the pancreas. The primary treatment is replacement by insulin injections. The body's response to the injections needs to be regularly monitored using an at-home glucometer or continuous glucose monitoring system. Insulin must be stored and reconstituted carefully to ensure dosing is accurate. Giving subcutaneous injections of insulin can seem daunting at first, but by following the directions in this handout, it will quickly become second nature to both you and your pet.

  • This handout summarizes the normal function of the dog heart, and outlines the abnormalities and changes associated with degeneration of the four different valves found in the heart. An explanation is provided of clinical signs associated with valve disease, as well as the recommended tests and treatments for this condition. Staging of heart disease is also discussed.

  • Cystine bladder stones appear to be the result of a genetic abnormality that prevents a dog from reabsorbing cystine from the kidneys. While bladder stones in general are somewhat common in dogs, cystine bladder stones are rare. Your veterinarian may be able to palpate the stones or may need to perform imaging studies such as a bladder ultrasound or a contrast radiographic study. There are two primary treatment strategies for treating cystine bladder stones in dogs: dietary therapy to dissolve the stones, or physical removal of the stones. Cystine stones have a high rate of recurrence, despite careful attention to diet and lifestyle.

  • Fuzapladib sodium (brand name Panoquell®-CA1) is an intravenous injection used by veterinarians to manage the clinical signs of acute pancreatitis in dogs. This medication is currently conditionally approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

  • Trilostane is a treatment for hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s Disease) and alopecia X. It is given by mouth as a capsule, with food. Common side effects include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia. It is contraindicated in liver or kidney disease and pregnant animals.

  • 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.

  • Mitotane is primarily used to treat Cushing's disease in dogs. It has also been used to treat adrenal gland tumors. Mitotane reduces the amount of cortisone-like hormones produced by the adrenal cortex.

  • Cyclophosphamide is given by mouth or injection and is used off label in cats, dogs, horses and rabbits to treat various cancers, such as lymphoma, leukemia, carcinoma, and sarcoma.

  • Chlorambucil (brand names: Leukeran®, Chloraminophene®, Linfolysin®) is an immunosuppressive and anticancer medication used to treat certain cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. It can also be used as a supplemental treatment for some immune-mediated diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease.

  • Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV) is an acute, life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with large amounts of air and then twists around, effectively cutting off the outputs to the esophagus and intestine. Causes, signs, treatment, prognosis, and prevention are discussed.