Separation anxietyQ: The vet has started our 15 yr old dog on clomipramine 5 mg bid x 2 weeks then 10 mg bid for a total of 20 mg qd. the dog is 12 1/2 #. since the 5 mg capsules are so expensive, when we get to the increased dosage can he have it all at once, is it timed release or would 25 mg not work for his size. 5 mg is 3 times the amount and pet meds does not even carry 5 mg or any tablets only capsules. thanks A: There is only a small difference between the 20 mg tablet and the 25 mg capsule but the vet would have to authorize it. it is not a time release product and depending on the effect desired whether or not you can use a once a day dosing. we do have people giving 1/2 capsule dosing.
Cyclosporine dropsQ: My vet has prescribed cycolosporine drops for my peke who doesn't produce enough tears. cyclosporine is very expensive, what is the name of the over the counter medication that you recommended to the person that had the same issue with her dog? is it something you can purchase in a drug store? thank you. A: You could try several time application of artificial tears as a source of lubrication and tears for eyes
Help in identifying wormsQ: Dear doctor, while cleaning up after my 8-month old dog, i noticed a long spaghetti-like worm in his stool. what is the difference between whipworm, roundworm and hookworms and what is the best med. for him? thanks lots!! julia A: All are different types of worms but all can cause similar signs of diarrhea or vomitingor weight loss etc. rounds and hooks can be treated with med like nemex from;1800petmeds. whips usually need panacure. also monthly heartworm meds such as interceptor can prevent all 3 worms. i suspect roundworms given age and your description
Shop for: nemex, 1800petmeds, panacur
Malignant melanoma in dogQ: My 15 yr old shih tzu had surgery to remove a tumor on his lip, it is malignant amelanotic melanoma. given his age and various other health concerns, we have decided to forego chemo. is there any supplements he can go on to help him? i read something about improving the quality of his life with omega 3 fatty acids and also the use of aloe vera?? i just dont want him to be in any pain. thanks. A: I like antioxidant vitamins like c and e. e can be given at 100iu daily as well as vitamin c in form of ester c at dose of 500 mg twice daily. also omega 3's like flax seed oil at dose of 1 tea per 20 pounds of bodyweight daily
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TicksQ: We live in the northeast (lyme disease) and we will be applying frontline plus next week. but our lab/boxer mix dog already had 2 ticks (white) on him. it took us two days of trying to pull it off with tweezors and my husband's arm muscle and we finally were successful. others have said they should come off with one pull of the tweezor. this took two days of pulling (poor alvin). any advice of an easier way to get them off. it is still snowing here so our vet thinks it is too soon for the frontline. A: One quick pull with tweezers is usually suffice. if leave head in , it will eventually fall out
Shop for: frontline, tick, frontline plus
Two medicationsQ: My pet is taking clavamox would it be safe to give her cosequin A: Should not be a problem
FrontlineQ: Would you please tell me the difference between frontline spray and frontline top spot do they both work the same i have 4 dogs and would like to know which one to buy A: The topspot is a convenient and simple way to apply frontline protection. the spray is a little more complicated and involves the use of rubber gloves and working the product into the animal's coat. the spray is also more useful when there is a flea infestation you are trying to destroy.
Shop for: frontline, frontline spray
