Educational Articles
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This is a common condition, invariably associated with exercise, that most frequently causes hindlimb stiffness, but can affect any of the muscles of the skeleton. Other medical terminologies include 'acute myopathy' and 'rhabdomyolysis'.
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Ursodiol is given by mouth and is used off label to treat gallbladder and biliary liver diseases. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon, but may include diarrhea and mild discomfort. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other bile acid products, or in rabbits, guinea pigs, or rodents. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Urticaria or 'hives' is a common skin condition in which well-defined raised areas (lumps, wheals or rings) occur in the superficial dermis (an upper layer of the skin). Mostly these areas are quite small but in severe cases whole areas such as the face or one or more of the limbs may become swollen.
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A vaccine is a specially-made medicine that stimulates the body to produce an immune response to a particular infection. Most vaccines are given by injection of a small volume of liquid into the muscle, although there are a few given intranasally (i.e., via the nostril) (strangles vaccine), or by mouth (e.g., polio vaccine in humans).
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Vitamin B complex injectable is a solution containing multiple forms of Vitamin B, which are used together to prevent or treat Vitamin B deficiencies. These vitamins promote good overall health for your pet and regulate certain processes in the body. Vitamin B complex injectable comes as a solution for injection either under the skin or into the muscle.
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West Nile Fever is a disease caused by a virus (WNV) carried by mosquitoes. It causes encephalitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord) that can affect humans and other animals as well as horses.
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Wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate (brand name For-Bid) is a food additive commonly used to deter coprophagy (eating stool). Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects have not been reported. Do not use concurrently with steroids. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary clinic.
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The terms 'whistler' and 'roarer' are used to describe horses that make an abnormal respiratory noise during exercise. The noise is heard during inspiration (i.e., breathing in) and may be anything from a high pitched soft whistle to a harsh 'roar'.