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  • Pyothorax is the presence of inflammatory fluid or pus within the chest cavity, which is the area between the lungs and the inner walls of the ribs. Signs of pyothorax include rapid, shallow, open-mouthed breathing that may be painful, depression, lethargy, decreased appetite. Clinical examination by a veterinarian, particularly listening to the chest with a stethoscope, may indicate fluid in the chest.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • A herder through and through, the Pyr Shep is an energetic dog that needs a job. They become very attached to their owners, with a keen sense of their mood.

  • Pythiosis is a waterborne infection that can infect the GI tract or skin of dogs. It can cause extreme weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea or skin lesions such as ulcerating nodules and draining tracts. This disease is more common in southern regions. Treatment involves surgical removal of all affected material if possible, including limb amputation if indicated. Different antifungal therapies have shown some efficacy and need to be continued long-term. Prognosis for resolution of pythiosis is guarded to poor.

  • Quittor is an old term for a condition that involves death and destruction (necrosis) of the collateral cartilages of the foot (see our information sheet on sidebones), following an infection in the foot (see our information sheet on pus in the foot).

  • Radiation is a type of energy produced naturally by the sun, earth, and rocks and artificially by machines. Although several types of tumors can be treated with radiation therapy alone (e.g., nasal tumors, brain tumors, and certain types of lymphoma), radiation therapy is most commonly used to destroy or limit the growth of cancer cells left behind (i.e., microscopic disease) after a tumor has been surgically removed. Side effects depend on the type and location of the tumor and its surrounding tissues.

  • Ragwort is a tall plant with yellow flowers which contains a poison (toxin) that is also found in some other plants, such as Lantana and some Heliotropes.

  • Rain scald is a bacterial infection of the skin that results in the formation of matted scabs usually affecting the back and rump but occasionally the lower limbs.

  • Ranitidine is given by mouth or injection and is used off-label to treat ulcers and erosions in the stomach and upper small intestine, reflux, or gastrointestinal motility issues. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset. Do not use in pets with a history of allergies to this class of drugs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinarian.