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Dogs

  • Desoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP) (brand name Percorten-V®, Zycortal®) is a steroid hormone replacement therapy used to treat primary hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease) in dogs. Extra-label (off-label) lower dosages of DOCP (i.e., lower dose, longer dosing interval, or both) can be used to control the balance of blood electrolyte levels. DOCP has also been used extra-label to treat hypoadrenocorticism in cats.

  • Dexamethasone ophthalmic is a topical steroid medication used to treat inflammatory eye conditions in cats, dogs, rabbits, avian species, and other animals. Dexamethasone ophthalmic may be used alone or in combination with an antimicrobial. Dexamethasone ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop form. Avoid use in animals with corneal ulcerations or corneal infections.

  • Dexamethasone Otic is a steroid medication used in pets to treat topical inflammation of the ears, often with other medications such as antibiotics. It comes as a liquid solution that is prescribed for topical use within a pet’s ear canal. There are no veterinary brands of dexamethasone otic.

  • Dextromethorphan + Guaifenesin is given by mouth as a tablet and is used off label to reduce cough in dogs and cats or to treat compulsive behavior. Side effects are uncommon, but serious adverse reactions associated with this drug may occur without warning. Contact your veterinarian if you notice anything out of the ordinary.

  • Diclofenac ophthalmic is a topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication used to treat inflammatory eye conditions in cats, dogs, rabbits, avian species, and other animals. Diclofenac ophthalmic comes in liquid drop form.

  • Dinotefuran/permethrin/pyriproxyfen (brand name Vectra 3D®) is a topical (spot-on) antiparasitic drug that is applied directly to the skin. It is used to repel and kill fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, sand flies, and biting/chewing lice in dogs and puppies that are at least 8 weeks of age and weigh at least 2.3 kg (5 lb). NEVER use in cats and avoid using in households with cats, if possible. Permethrin is poisonous to cats and any exposure may be fatal.

  • Dinotefuran/pyriproxyfen (brand name Vectra) is a topical (spot-on) antiparasitic drug used to repel and kill fleas in dogs and puppies that are at least 8 weeks of age and weigh at least 1.14 kg (2.5 lbs) and in cats and kittens that are at least 8 weeks of age and weigh at least 0.9 kg (2 lbs). Do not confuse this medication with Vectra 3D®, a similar product labeled for use in dogs only.

  • Diphenhydramine topical (brand name Benasoothe®) is an antihistamine with some local anesthetic properties. It is used to relieve itching and skin irritation in dogs, cats, and other animals. Diphenhydramine topical comes in a variety of forms, which may be specially compounded.

  • Diphenoxylate + atropine (brand name Lomotil) is an opioid combination medication used to treat diarrhea or coughing in dogs and diarrhea in cats. Its use in cats is not generally recommended. Diphenoxylate + atropine is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid. This article discusses administration, potential side effects, risks, and monitoring.

  • Docusate (Docusate Sodium Bloat Preparation, DSS, Dioctynate®, Pet-Enema®, Enema SA®, Docu-Soft®, Anti Gaz, Bloat Eze, Bloat Go, Bloat Release, Bloat Treatment, Bloat-Lax) is a laxative medication used to soften dry or hard stools and assist with constipation and bloating in animals. It is prescribed for use in dogs, cats, horses, cattle, goats, sheep, and rabbits, but is not recommended for reptiles due to potential fatalities.