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Providing puppies with positive socialization experiences may prevent the development of future fears. Puppy socialization must be done gently to avoid accidentally causing fear. Puppies are most primed for socialization before the age of 14 weeks. By taking precautions, some careful socialization can and should be done even before puppies have completed their entire vaccination series.
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Though every puppy is an individual, large, and giant breed puppies in particular require an individualized approach to nutrition, since they have some different needs compared to small and medium breed dogs. When it comes to puppy food, one size does not necessarily fit all.
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Pyelonephritis is an upper urinary tract infection. Many dogs have no clinical signs when they have pyelonephritis, although they may have signs of lower urinary tract disease. Pyelonephritis is usually caused by a bacterial infection that moves up the urinary tract from the bladder to the kidneys. There are several developmental, medical, and procedural conditions that increase the risk for pyelonephritis. Antibiotics are used to treat pyelonephritis and are chosen based on testing the urine for bacteria and antibiotic sensitivity. Overall, dogs with sudden pyelonephritis do well and return to normal health with appropriate treatment unless they also have kidney stones, chronic kidney disease, urinary tract obstruction, or cancer in the urinary tract.
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Pyoderma is a bacterial skin infection that can affect all areas of the skin, including skin folds, often seen as red, pus-filled pustules. Treatment may require oral or topical medications and it is always a good idea to practice good hygiene. Pyoderma carries a good prognosis for recovery but recurring or chronic cases may require longer treatment and additional testing to determine an underlying cause.
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Pyometra is a serious and life-threatening infection in the uterus, occurring in female dogs who have not been spayed. The condition must be treated quickly and aggressively. The preferred treatment is to surgically remove the uterus and ovaries by performing an ovariohysterectomy. There is a medical approach to treating pyometra, although the success rate is highly variable and not without considerable risk and potential long-term complications.
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Pyothorax occurs when pus or inflammatory fluids collect in the space around the lungs causing fever, anorexia, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. It is diagnosed through history, physical exam, radiographs, and thoracocentesis. Treatment with oral antibiotics is essential and may involve repeated thoracocentesis or the placement of a chest drain.
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Pyrantel pamoate is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat intestinal parasites in many species. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinarian.
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Pyrethrin insecticides are naturally derived from the Chrysanthemum (mum) species of flower, and pyrethroids are the synthetic versions. The use of pyrethrins/pyrethroids is generally safe in dogs; however, cats and fish are very sensitive to these products.
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Pyridostigmine bromide is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat symptoms related to myasthenia gravis. Give as directed. Dose-related side effects include drooling, diarrhea, increased urination, abdominal pain, muscle cramps, and increased tear production. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other bromides, or in pets that have urinary or gastrointestinal tract obstructions or blockages. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Pyrimethamine is an antiprotozoal tablet given by mouth and used off-label to treat certain parasitic infections. Common side effects include vomiting, low appetite, tiredness, and low blood cell counts. Cats are more likely to have more severe side effects. Pregnant women should handle this medication carefully.