Illustrated Articles
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Diarrhea is a symptom of an underlying problem that may be minor or very serious. Some cases may resolve on their own or with minimal treatment, while other cases require in-depth diagnostic testing and more aggressive treatment to address the underlying condition. The possible causes, diagnostic tests, and treatment protocols for diarrhea in dogs are numerous and are explained in this handout.
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If your dog is having diarrhea, please complete this questionnaire as accurately as possible before your appointment. This information will be very helpful to your veterinarian in determining the cause of diarrhea.
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Diazepam is used to relieve anxiety, as a muscle relaxant, as a hypnotic agent, as an appetite stimulant and to control seizures. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine. This class of medicines is used to slow down the nervous system.
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Diazoxide is given by mouth and is used off label to treat low blood sugar associated with insulin-producing tumors of the pancreas. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include drooling, lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or thiazide diuretics, or in pets with low blood sugar due to anything other than a tumor. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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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.
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Diethylstilbestrol is given by mouth and is used off label to treat urinary incontinence. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon when using a low dose, but may include mild vaginal spotting. It should not be used in pets that are allergic to it, in females with estrogen-sensitive tumors, in pets with anemia or low white blood cell counts, or in food production animals. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Digoxin is used off label and is given by mouth or injection to treat certain abnormal heart rhythms and certain types of congestive heart failure. Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, weight loss, tiredness, or behavior changes.
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Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a serious and often fatal condition in medium to larger breed dogs. Signs may be sudden or progressive in onset. Some signs include rapid breathing, increased effort with breathing, restless sleeping, coughing, or gagging, among others. Early and proper diagnosis is key, followed by treatment to give the best quality of life.
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Diltiazem is given by mouth as a tablet, capsule, or compounded liquid, and is used off label to treat abnormal heart rhythms, high blood pressure, and other heart conditions. Common side effects include a slow heart rate in dogs and vomiting in cats. This medication should not be used in pets with hypersensitivity, severely low blood pressure, lung congestion, or certain abnormal heart rhythms.
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Dimenhydrinate is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat nausea and motion sickness, and occasionally itchiness. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include sleepiness, dry mouth, and difficulty urinating. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or similar antihistamines, that are very young, or that are undergoing antigen skin testing within the next two weeks. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
