Library
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Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by a protozoan parasite transmitted by sandflies and is most commonly seen in the Mediterranean, Middle East, and South and Central America. It has been reported in some parts of the United States. Clinical signs include hard skin nodules, weakness, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and more. Diagnosis is based on travel history, clinical signs, and diagnostic testing. The goal of treatment is to resolve clinical signs. Prognosis is guarded to grave depending on the severity of the disease.
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This handout discusses lens luxation in dogs. The lens is the transparent structure within the eye that focuses light on the retina. Lens luxation is when the support ligaments of the lens weaken or break, causing the lens to dislocate from its normal position. The various types, clinical signs, heredity of the condition, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis are outlined.
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Lenticular sclerosis is the term for a bluish, transparent haze that develops in the lens of the eye in middle-aged to senior cats. Vision does not appear to be significantly affected. While the exact mechanism is poorly understood, it appears that the lens gradually becomes denser or harder with age. There is no specific treatment for lenticular sclerosis, nor is treatment necessary.
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Lenticular sclerosis is the term for a bluish, transparent haze that develops in the lens of the eye in middle-aged to senior dogs. Vision does not appear to be significantly affected. While the exact mechanism is poorly understood, it appears that the lens gradually becomes denser or harder with age. There is no specific treatment for lenticular sclerosis, nor is treatment necessary.
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Gentle, calm and friendly, these good-natured watchers make excellent family dogs. They are affectionate and incredibly patient with children, love to be included in family activities, and will wait patiently if you stop to talk on an outing. They are calm indoors and their affectionate personality makes them excellent therapy dogs.
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Leopard geckos make great pets for children and adults. They do not require elaborate habitats and they have a 10–15-year lifespan with good health care, a clean environment, and proper feeding.
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Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease of dogs and other mammals that primarily affects the liver or kidneys. The bacteria (Leptospira) that cause leptospirosis thrive in water. Infected or recovered carrier dogs may act as a source of the infection. Antibiotics such as penicillin, ampicillin, and amoxicillin, are reasonably effective against the acute stages of leptospirosis if started early, although most affected dogs require intensive care in the veterinary hospital. This disease can be transmitted to humans.
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Leuprolide is given by injection and is used off label in ferrets and birds to treat reproductive and adrenal problems. Give as directed. Side effects in ferrets may include pain at the injection site, breathing difficulties, and sleepiness. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other gonadotropin-releasing hormones, and do not use in pregnant or nursing pets. If a negative reaction occurs, please call the veterinary office.
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Levetiracetam is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat seizures and epilepsy. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include sleepiness and incoordination in dogs and decreased appetite, incoordination, drooling, and sleepiness in cats. Do not use levetiracetam in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Levothyroxine is thyroid hormone replacement given by mouth in the form of a tablet or capsule. It is used to treat hypothyroidism and its use in cats and certain exotic animals is off label. Side effects are rare; when given at high doses, side effects include increases in heart rate, appetite, drinking, urinating, excitability, nervousness, and panting. This medication should not be used in pets with certain heart conditions, untreated Addison’s disease, or hyperthyroidism. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.