Heartworm
Season is here!
Spring is a reminder for all of us to test our
dogs for heartworm disease. Heartworm disease is spread through
the bite of an infected mosquito, which passes the larvae into the
animal’s blood stream. It then takes a little over six months
for the larvae to mature into adult worms. These worms live in the
right side of the heart, arteries and lungs. Dogs of any age and
breed are susceptible. Detection of heartworm disease is simple—a
small blood sample is drawn and tested for the presence of these
worms. Testing may not be positive for six or seven months after
the infection has occurred. Because heartworm disease is preventable,
the American Heartworm Society recommends that pet owners talk to
their veterinarian to choose a medication that is right for their
pet. There are a variety of options including monthly tablets and
topical products. In this area, it is recommended that pets receive
heartworm preventative year-round in addition to annual blood testing.
Although cats are also susceptible to heartworm
disease, routine testing is not performed. Veterinarians recommend
testing cats if they develop symptoms of the disease. There are
preventatives for cats ranging from topical applications to chewable
tablets. Your veterinarian can provide more information on the
prevention of this disease.
Annual Wellness Testing
The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends performing
an annual wellness screening for your pet. A wellness screening
can aid your veterinarian in detecting, treating, and preventing
problems before they become life threatening. During your pet’s
annual exam, your veterinarian may recommend drawing a blood sample
to monitor blood sugar, kidney function and liver function. They
may also recommend a more comprehensive panel for senior pets.
Many owners will combine this annual testing with their dog’s
heartworm testing in the spring, but it can be performed anytime
during the year.
Fleas and Ticks
Fleas and ticks afflict pets around the world. Fleas not only
annoy dogs and people but can carry disease and cause other health
problems. Fleas carry tapeworms, cause allergic skin conditions,
and may be vectors of infectious agents. Tick species are found
worldwide and may infest dogs in very large numbers, especially
during certain times of the year. Ticks may carry Lyme disease,
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, several types of ehrlichiosis, and
other potentially deadly diseases. There are many safe and effective
products that prevent both fleas and ticks in a single monthly
application. Please consult your veterinarian for the product
that is best for your pet.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a contagious disease affecting both animals and
humans. It is a type of bacteria that thrives in spring and fall
in wet soil conditions and moderatate temperatures. Infection
occurs when dogs and humans contact infected soils or urine contaminated
water (usually from wildlife such as rats, raccoons, skunks, or
opossums). Symptoms can include fever, depression, vomiting, and
lack of appetite and can progress to chronic liver and kidney
disease and even death. Preventative vaccination has nearly eradicated
two of the most common types of Leptospira, but other types are
causing increasing numbers of cases. To keep your pets and your
family safe, we are recommending vaccination for all dogs, unless
your pet has a history of vaccination reactions or other chronic
diseases. Please consult your veterinarian regarding this vaccination
and your pet.
Obesity
Those extra pounds make it a struggle for your pet to do everyday
things such as climbing stairs, jumping into the car or just going
on a brisk walk. But they have even a more damaging effect: they
put him at risk for arthritis, high blood pressure, difficulty
breathing and a whole range of serious health problems. Weight
loss can be achieved through special diets, increased exercise
and even medications in some pets. Ask your veterinarian about
ways to help your pet return to its ideal weight!
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