Articles
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Parathyroid tumors are uncommon in dogs and cats. Benign adenomas occur more often than malignant tumors. Keeshonds appear to have a genetic predisposition to developing parathyroid tumors, but no breed or genetic relationship has been established in cats. Pets may exhibit signs of lethargy, little or no appetite, vomiting, and muscle twitching. Diagnosis is confirmed with PTH testing and ultrasound of the neck region after hypercalcemia is observed on bloodwork. Surgery to remove the affected gland(s) is the typical treatment, but ultrasound-guided ablation may be pursued. Careful monitoring of calcium levels post-surgery is important, as some pets may develop transient hypocalcemia and require calcium supplementation. Prognosis is excellent, and the metastatic rate for these tumors is extremely low.
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Paromomycin (Gabbrovet®, Parofor®) is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat intestinal parasites in dogs, cats, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, amphibians and reptiles. In dogs, paromomycin is also used topically to treat cutaneous leishmaniasis.
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Paroxetine (brand names: Paxil®, Brisdelle®) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant used to treat canine aggression, anxiety, and stereotypic/obsessive compulsive behaviors. In cats, it has been used to treat aggression, urine marking, and other behavior problems.
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Parson Russell Terriers are small, high-energy dogs known for intelligence, strong prey drive, and relentless activity. They are a working terrier breed developed for fox hunting, with a strong instinct to chase and dig. These dogs are affectionate with their families, but require consistent training and significant daily activity.
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Canine parvovirus (CPV) infection, also known as parvo, is a disease that mostly affects young or unvaccinated dogs. It causes vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), depression, and anorexia. The primary source of parvovirus is the feces of infected dogs. The disease is potentially fatal.
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Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a heart defect that occurs when the ductus arteriosus (an opening between the aorta and the pulmonary artery) fails to close at birth. A PDA is usually diagnosed when your veterinarian hears a continuous heart murmur during a routine physical examination of your puppy. This article explains PDA and discusses signs, treatment, and prognosis for this condition.
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The Pekingese will worship you, but they won't admit it. They'd rather have you believe they run things and have their own perfectly intelligent ideas.
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Pembroke Welsh Corgis are small herding dogs known for intelligence, a long body, and strong work drive. This breed was originally developed for driving cattle. These dogs are alert, confident, and strongly bonded to their families.
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Pemphigus is an autoimmune skin disease in which the body's immune system attacks the connections between its own skin cells. The three most common types of pemphigus are pemphigus foliaceus, pemphigus vulgaris, and pemphigus erythematosus. Treatment requires suppression of the immune system and prognosis varies depending on the type.
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Penetrating wounds can look minor on the surface but may cause severe injury below the skin. A thorough assessment requires sedation or anesthesia and surgery may be required to address the extent of the injury. This handout outlines first aid steps a pet owner can take while transporting their injured pet to the veterinary hospital.