Preventative pet care involves taking steps to keep your pet healthy and prevent potential health issues. This can include regular check-ups, vaccinations, and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine. By investing in preventative care, you can catch any potential health issues early on and prevent them from becoming more serious and costly down the line.
Pets should have regular check-ups with their veterinarian. These check-ups allow us to monitor your pet's overall health and catch any potential issues early on. During these visits, we will perform a physical exam, check your pet's weight, and discuss any concerns you may have.
It's recommended to take your pet for a check-up at least once a year, but this may vary depending on your pet's age and health. Puppies/kittens and senior pets may require more frequent visits.
Vaccinations are an essential part of preventative pet care. They protect your pet from potentially life-threatening diseases and illnesses. We will create a vaccination schedule for your pet based on their age, breed, and lifestyle. It's important to stay up-to-date on your pet's vaccinations to ensure they are fully protected.
What Are Core Pet Vaccinations?
Core pet vaccinations are those that are considered essential for all pets, regardless of their lifestyle or environment. These vaccinations protect against highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases that can be easily transmitted to other animals or even humans.
Common Core Vaccinations for Dogs:
Common Core Vaccinations for Cats:
What Are Non-Core Pet Vaccinations?
Non-core pet vaccinations are those that are recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle, environment, and risk of exposure to certain diseases. These vaccinations are not considered essential for all pets, but they may be necessary for some.
Common Non-Core Vaccinations for Dogs:
Common Non-Core Vaccinations for Cats:
Parasites can cause serious health issues for your pet. It's important to take preventative measures to protect your pet from these parasites. We will recommend the best preventative treatments for your pet based on their lifestyle and risk factors.
Types of Intestinal Parasites in PetsThere are several types of intestinal parasites that can affect our pets, including:
Each of these parasites has its own unique characteristics and can cause different symptoms in our pets.
Parasite Testing
Parasite testing for pets typically involves a fecal exam, where a small sample of your pet's stool is collected and examined under a microscope. This allows the veterinarian to look for any signs of parasites or their eggs.
In some cases, additional tests may be necessary, such as blood tests or imaging tests, to detect certain types of parasites. Your veterinarian will determine the best course of action based on your pet's individual needs.
Heartworms
Heartworms are a type of parasitic worm that can live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of infected animals. They are most commonly found in dogs, but can also affect cats, ferrets, and other animals.
Heartworms are transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. When a mosquito bites an infected animal, it ingests microscopic heartworm larvae along with the blood. The larvae then develop and mature inside the mosquito for 10-14 days. When the mosquito bites another animal, it injects the larvae into the animal's bloodstream, where they will eventually migrate to the heart and lungs and develop into adult worms. If left untreated, heartworms are fatal.
Signs and Symptoms of Heartworms
The signs and symptoms of heartworms can vary depending on the severity of the infection. In the early stages, there may be no visible symptoms, making it difficult to detect. However, as the infection progresses, the following signs and symptoms may appear:
Blood Tests
Blood tests are the most common way to diagnose heartworms. These tests look for the presence of heartworm proteins or antibodies in the blood.
As a pet owner, the thought of losing your beloved pet is a nightmare. That's why many pet owners turn to microchipping as a way to ensure their pets can be identified and returned home if they ever get lost.
What is Microchipping?
Microchipping is a process in which a small, electronic chip is inserted under the skin of your pet, typically between the shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by a microchip reader. This number is then linked to your contact information in a microchip database, allowing you to be contacted if your pet is found.
The Pros of Microchipping:
The main benefit of microchipping your pet is the increased chance of being reunited if they ever get lost. Collars and tags can easily fall off or be removed, but a microchip is a permanent form of identification. Additionally, microchipping is a quick and relatively painless procedure that can be done by a veterinarian during a routine visit. It also provides peace of mind for pet owners, knowing that their pet has a better chance of being returned home if they ever go missing.
Proper nutrition is essential for pets to maintain a healthy weight, strong immune system, and overall well-being. Just like humans, pets require a balanced diet that includes all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. A lack of proper nutrition can lead to various health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and joint problems. It is important to choose high-quality pet food that is specifically formulated for your pet's age, breed, and size.
Obesity in pets can lead to a variety of health problems, including joint pain, heart disease, and diabetes. It is important to monitor your pet's weight and make necessary adjustments to their diet and exercise routine to maintain a healthy weight. Consult with us if you notice your pet gaining or losing weight unexpectedly.
Phone: 636-225-4545
