Preventative Medicine
Preventative care is the most important care you can provide for your pet(s). There are so many diseases & parasite infections that can be prevented with routine care from your veterinarian. Recommendations for vaccines and parasite control may vary depending on the risk factors your pet(s) face in his/her/their environment.
For our canine patients we recommend that you have your pet examined 6 months for dogs six years or older. We also recommend the following vaccinations yearly: Canine Distemper, Adenovirus Type 2, Coronavirus, Leptospirosis, Parvo, Parainfluenza, and Bordetella. You have the option of vaccinating for Rabies yearly or we now have a 3 year vaccine available. For internal parasite prevention a monthly heartworm pill is always recommended. Controlling external parasites (e.g. Fleas and Ticks) is also highly recommended. These parasites can make your pet feel miserable and also transmit disease (e.g. Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, etc.).
For our feline patients, aside from the bi-annual exam, we recommend that you vaccinate yearly for Rabies, Rhinotracheitis, Calici, and Panleukopenia. Feline Leukemia Virus (FELV) vaccine is also available and may be recommended based on your cat's risk for exposure. Parasite control is equally important in cats. Cats are susceptible to many intestinal parasites and heartworm infections as well. There are monthly oral medications for control of these parasites similar to those available for dogs. Cats are also just as likely to feel miserable from fleas and ticks, therefore topical medications to control these parasites are also highly recommended.
If you have any questions about preventative medicine and how it applies to your furry family members, call our office and talk with one of staff members today.