Vaccines (Core & Non-core):

When designing a vaccination program, veterinarians consider the pet's lifestyle, related disease risks, and the characteristics of available vaccines. "Core vaccines" (e.g., rabies, feline panleukopenia, feline viral rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus infection, canine distemper, canine parvovirus infection, and canine hepatitis) are recommended for most pets. Additional "non-core vaccines" (e.g., feline leukemia, canine kennel cough and other vaccines) may be appropriate based on the pet's particular needs. The AVMA recommends that veterinarians customize vaccination programs to the needs of their patients. More than one vaccination program may be effective.

Veterinary Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS):

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are used to control pain and inflammation. Inflammation - the body’s response to irritation or injury - is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. NSAIDs work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, the body chemicals that cause inflammation.

In companion animal medicine, approved veterinary NSAIDs are used to control the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs and horses. Some veterinary NSAIDs are also approved for the control of postoperative pain in dogs and cats. There are potential risks associated with the use of NSAIDs. Veterinarians and pet owners should be aware of the following facts:

All dogs and cats should undergo a thorough history and physical examination before beginning NSAID therapy.
Appropriate blood/urine tests should be performed to establish baseline data prior to, and periodically during, administration of any NSAID.
Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, not eating/eating less, and lethargy. If your pet experiences any of these potential side effects, STOP administering the medication and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Veterinary NSAIDS may be associated with gastrointestinal ulcers/perforations, liver, and kidney toxicity.
Serious side effects associated with the use of NSAIDs can occur with or without warning and, in some cases, result in death.
Use with other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as other NSAIDs and corticosteroids, should be avoided.
Patients at greatest risk for kidney problems are those that are dehydrated, are on diuretic treatment, or have pre-existing kidney, heart, and/or liver problems.
NSAIDs can cause stomach or intestinal bleeding.

Extra-label use (ELU):

Extra-label use (ELU) is defined as the use of a drug product in a manner that is not consistent with what is indicated on the label, package insert, or product monograph of any drug product approved by FDA. The drug may be used in a different manner from that indicated on the label, such as at an increased dosage, a greater or lesser frequency, different indications, longer or shorter duration of treatment, or administration in different ways (oral versus injectable). It may also be used for different animal species or age groups, in a different form (a tablet may be crushed into powder and mixed into a gel), or in combination with other drugs. It may be a human drug administered to an animal.

Compounding of veterinary drugs:

Compounding of veterinary drugs is the activity whereby customized prescription medications are created by a veterinarian or pharmacist.

Manipulating an approved drug to produce a dosage, form, or concentration other than that which is provided for in the directions for use on the labeling. Compounded drugs are created by any of the following means:

Combining two or more drugs to create a new drug;

Diluting a drug other than according to the instructions on the label;

Mixing to administer by a different route than is recommended on the label or directions for use

Converting an approved medication into a different form (e.g. tablet to liquid; splitting one capsule into two capsules);

Adding an unapproved non-drug substance (e.g. flavor base).

I have been informed about the core and non-core vaccines, possible reactions to vaccinations. I have also been informed about NSAIDs, compounded drugs and extra-label drug use. I authorize Staff and Doctors of Torrance Animal Hospital to use any core and non-core vaccines, NSAIDs, compounded pharmaceuticals, and extra label use of drugs on my pet(s) if necessary with my informed consent.