Heartworm, Lyme Disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis
Ticks and Tick Borne diseases are still on the rise and causing problems in dogs. To better protect our canine patients, Atlantic Veterinary Services uses the newest diagnostic testing.
We offer and recommend the Cite SNAP 4DX blood test for all dogs during their annual examinations. This is a blood test performed in our hospital laboratory. We generally will have the results before the end of your visit. This test detects infection or exposure to Heartworm, Lyme Disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis.
We have all heard of Heartworm and Lyme disease. Ehrlichiosis and Anaplasmosis are similar to Lyme disease and are also transmitted by ticks. Early detection and treatment has already saved many dogs from these devastating diseases. Please contact our office for more information and ensure that your companion is protected.
Back to list | Back to topThe Trouble with Ticks
Ticks are some of the most efficient carriers of disease in all of nature; and in local areas, tick populations continue to skyrocket out of control. As winter fades and spring temperatures begin to rise, so also does the likelihood that you, your family and your pets will be exposed to these dangerous parasites.
In this area, there are several species of ticks. Among these, are the Brown dog tick, the Lonestar tick and the Black-legged tick which is more commonly known as the deer tick. Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever are all common diseases transmitted by one or more species of these ticks. Symptoms of these diseases range in severity from depression and loss of appetite to lameness, fever and nose bleeds. If symptoms go untreated, the diseases can eventually cause kidney failure, blindness, bleeding complications and possibly even death. Fortunately, if caught and treated early, prognosis is good for a full recovery. Here are some tips veterinarians recommend to keep your pet safe from ticks and the diseases they transmit:
- Use a veterinary-approved tick preventative such as Frontline, Preventic or Promeris throughout the year! A tick must bite to transmit disease and preventatives do a good job of killing the tick before it is able to feed.
- Inspect your pet's coat daily for ticks. Ticks will sometimes crawl around for several minutes before they feed. If you can remove them before they attach they will be unable to transmit disease. Remember: ticks can be very small. Larval ticks may be not much bigger than the period at the end of this sentence.
- Watch for signs of infection. Familiarize yourself with the common symptoms of tick diseases and alert your veterinarian as soon as you see any possible sign of infection.
- Have your pet tested annually for infection. The test is simple, quick and effective and it requires only a few drops of blood. The sooner the disease is detected the easier it is to treat and the more likely it is to be completely cured.
- Whenever possible, avoid walking your pet in areas where ticks are more densely populated (i.e. wooded areas, weeds and tall grass). Keeping your pets environment mowed and free from excessive undergrowth will also help decrease exposure to ticks. If necessary you may also consider having your lawn treated with a pet approved pesticide.
- Have your dog vaccinated annually against Lyme disease. While there is no vaccine availabe for other tick borne diseases, Lyme vaccination is safe, proven protection against the bacteria that causes Lyme disease.
By following these tips, you can protect your best friend from the threat of devastating tick diseases. For further information, visit www.dogsandticks.com or contact us today!
Back to list | Back to topSeasonal Dangers
Here is a list of things that you may encounter during the spring season which may pose a potential health risk to your pet:
- Easter treats. Chocolate in all forms, sugary candies, and gum or candy sweetened with Xylitol are all potentially harmful to your pets. Fake Easter grass, plastic eggs and small toys are hard for your dog or cat to resist chewing on, but they can easily become lodged or entangled in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Plants. All types of lilies ESPECIALLY EASTER LILIES are highly toxic to your pet if ingested. If you are going to keep them in the house, take extra special precautions to keep them out of reach. Azalea, ferns, Foxglove, Iris, Hyacinth, Morning Glory, Rhododendron and Tulip may also be toxic if ingested.
- Fertilizers and Pesticides. Many fertilizers and pesticides contain chemicals toxic to pets. When shopping for these items choose pet friendly or all natural alternatives.
- Mulch and garden stone. Many dogs like to chew on and ingest mulch and garden stones. These items can block or damage the digestive tract. There is also one type of mulch made from crushed cocoa bean shells which contains high amounts of theobromine (the ingredient in chocolate which is harmful to pets).
Allergy Season
Did you know that our pets could suffer from the same seasonal allergies that we do? While our companions may sometimes exhibit symptoms that we do not commonly associate with allergies, the affliction is no less miserable. In many cases, allergies exhibit themselves dermatologically in pets. You may notice that your dog or cat begins scratching incessantly or that his or her paws and ears become inflamed and reddened. While these symptoms do not always signify that the pet is allergic, it is important to have your veterinarian examine your pet to identify the cause. The severity of allergy symptoms in pets can vary dramatically just as with people. With this in mind, treatment options may also vary from simple antihistamine therapy to more specialized allergy testing and immunotherapy injections. If you think your companion may be suffering from seasonal allergies, call and make an appointment with your veterinarian today, so your pet can get relief and be free to enjoy the season!
* ALLERGY TIP : Treatments for pets with allergies can be expensive. Here are some simple, cost effective ways to help ease your pets allergy symptoms and maybe avoid more intense, costly flare-ups.
- Money spent on flea and tick prevention is money well spent. Just a few flea or tick bites can lead to misery and infection for an allergic pet.
- Keep pets well groomed and free from mats. Shorter hair coats promote better air flow, less allergen retention and easier bathing.
- Try to limit time spent outdoors during the day. After outdoor activities wipe down the entire body with a baby wipe or clean washcloth to remove excess allergens.
- Bathe weekly or bi-weekly with a veterinary hypoallergenic shampoo. Shampoo helps remove pollen, mold spores and dust from the coat.
CAT FIGHT!
Spring signals the beginning of feline breeding season. Unfortunately, hormonal influences can cause cats to become especially protective of their territories as well as their chosen mates. Often times, a battle among cats will ensue when that territory is threatened. Fights among cats can pose serious risk of infection and disease. To minimize risk, be sure to have your feline friend spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and if possible, keep him or her indoors and out of danger!
The Dangers of Dental Disease
Did you know that 85% of all adult pets have some degree of periodontal disease!? Proper oral care is essential to your pet's overall health and well being. Plaque and tartar build up, along with gum disease and tooth decay, allow bacteria to grow and flourish. That bacterium has a direct route into the bloodstream, and eventually to all major organ systems. Chronic dental disease can quickly lead to organ infection and eventual organ failure. The good news is, that dental disease is easily prevented. There are several options available to keep your companion's teeth and gums clean and healthy. While brushing is best, there are also many veterinary approved treats, diets and rinses that also help scrub and disinfect the teeth and gums. Eventually, you and your veterinarian may decide that a professional cleaning is necessary to prevent disease. Veterinary dental cleaning is safe and highly effective. Don't let your pet's oral health fall to the wayside; ask us about your options today! Visit www.virbacvet.com/ to learn more about what you can do to prevent periodontal disease in your pet.
February is Veterinary Dental Health Month. Available appointments will fill quickly, so schedule now to take advantage of our discounted dental care package!
Back to list | Back to topDetect and Protect
Early detection is key to any good preventative health care program. Did you know that if detected early, 75% of common diseases in dogs and 63% of common diseases in cats can be prevented with dietary modifications alone? Early detection should be a lifelong standard for your pets. From puppyhood and kittenhood into adulthood, pets should be monitored regularly for common diseases such as heartworm disease, thyroid disease, intestinal parasites and renal disease. As pets age, further testing should be done to screen for diseases such as osteoarthritis and diabetes. All of these diseases are very common, and if they are found and treated early, long-term prognosis is good. Preventative testing is easy on your pet too! Many of the tests require only a small blood sample or sample of feces or urine. Talk with your veterinarian about which preventative testing regimen is recommended for your pet. Detect and protect so that your best friend can be sure to live a long, happy, active life.
Back to list | Back to topArthritis Management
Just like people, dogs and cats can get arthritis. Also known as degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis is a condition in which the joints become inflamed, swollen, and painful. Mild arthritis may cause slight stiffness of the joints while severe arthritis may cause limping and lameness, but all arthritic pets have some loss of mobility due to pain. While all dogs and cats can become arthritic, there are some contributing factors which may make the development of the disease more likely. Those contributing factors include: old age, obesity, past injury, genetic/breed predisposition, and developmental abnormalities. Unfortunately, the early signs of arthritis can be easily missed and often misinterpreted by pet owners. If your dog or cat exhibits any of the following signs, talk to your veterinarian to discuss whether arthritis could be the cause:
- Difficulty climbing stairs, walking, running or jumping
- Reluctance to play
- Lameness or limping
- Stiffness or slowness in rising from rest
- Soreness upon touching
- More or less vocal than usual
- Excessive licking of a joint or leg
- Behavioral changes such as withdrawal or aggression
Fortunately, if your pet is diagnosed with osteoarthritis, there are many things that can be done to help manage the disease. Often times, early osteoarthritis can be managed with diet and exercise along with supplements such as glucosamine chondroitin and omega-3 fatty acids. Several medications are also available to help manage pain and inflammation. Remember, healthy dogs and cats love to run, jump and play. If you notice that your pet is slowing down and is no longer as active as he or she used to be, don't assume it is a normal result of aging. With proper diagnosis and management of osteoarthritis, your pet can act like a puppy or kitten again!
Back to list | Back to topWinter Weight
Cold, dreary weather can often put a damper on your pet's exercise routine and cause the pounds to pile on. A good way to counteract the effect of a more sedentary lifestyle is to make a subtle diet change. By switching to the low calorie version of your current dog food or by simply feeding less at mealtime and cutting back on fatty treats, you can keep your pal fit, trim and ready for the summer...all winter long!
Back to list | Back to topPrevent Flea Infestation
If you are using a flea preventative on your pet(s) and are still seeing fleas, then you may have an infestation. Here are some tips that will help you eradicate the fleas and prevent future infestation.
The first goal in any flea control program should be to kill the adult fleas which are on your pet. These fleas are not only a nuisance to your pet but may also be transmitting infection and/or disease. Your veterinary staff can help you choose the best flea treatment options for your pet's individual needs.
The second goal in your flea control program is to eradicate fleas in your pet's environment. This step is often most difficult for several reasons. Contrary to popular belief, fleas do not jump off of one animal onto another. Once an adult flea finds it's host (i.e. your pet), it begins to lay eggs. Your pet then becomes a "salt shaker" of sorts. Eggs roll off your pet into your home, your yard, your bed etc. Those eggs then develop into larvae which in turn develop into adults which seek out your pet. Keep in mind, adult fleas will also find your neighbors cat that lurks around your bird feeder, the raccoon that gets into your trash, the squirrel that harasses your dog and maybe even you! In order to break up this lifecycle, it is important to use a veterinary approved flea preventative on every pet in your household at the same time every month . You may also need to treat your home and/or yard with some type of insecticide.
Once you begin treatment, it can take up to two months before the lifecycle is broken and the population is completely eradicated. The final goal in the flea control program is preventing future infestation. Because it is likely that flea eggs are being continuously deposited into your pet's environment, it is important to maintain your preventative routine throughout the year. Remember: flea treatments do not repel fleas, they only kill fleas that have actually contacted your pet. By following these guidelines, you can prevent fleas from getting the bite on you!
Back to list | Back to topPet Insurance
During these difficult economic times, veterinary care can put a strain on the budget of many pet owners. One option that may help ease that strain is pet insurance. The pet insurance industry has expanded in the past few years and now offers several levels of coverage to suit the individual needs of pets as well as the economical constraints of their owners. Click the following links, to explore a few of the pet insurance options available to you.
Back to list | Back to topLeptospirosis
Leptospirosis or lepto is a deadly bacterial disease spread by wildlife and domestic animals. Your dog can become infected by lepto if he or she comes into contact with the fresh urine of other infected animals. Most dogs become infected while swimming in or drinking from contaminated water sources. Common carriers of lepto include raccoons, skunks, opossums, squirrels, rats, and other dogs. Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, which means people can contract lepto by being exposed to the urine of affected animals as well. Fortunately, Leptospirosis is preventable. If you think your dog may be at risk, talk to your veterinarian about the benefits of vaccination. Want to know more? Visit www.leptoinfo.com.
ProHeart6
ProHeart 6 is an injectable parasiticide that is used in dogs, six months of age and older to prevent heartworm disease continuously for six months. Many pet owners may enjoy the benefits of using ProHeart 6 as opposed to more traditional heartworm preventatives such as Heartgard, Sentinel and Interceptor. With ProHeart 6, owners do not have to remember to give their dogs a pill every month. For this reason, there is also no need to be concerned about risks involved with late or missed doses. ProHeart 6 is administered at your pet's veterinary office much like a vaccine. The injection is given under the skin usually at the nape of the neck or rump. Prior to the end of that 6 month period, your veterinary office will send you out a reminder via mail or e-mail that the next injection is due. If you think ProHeart 6 sounds like a good option for you and your pet, consult your veterinarian today! For more information, click www.proheart6.com.
Back to list | Back to topHeart Healthy Pets
Heartworms are a parasitic species transmittable to your pet by mosquitoes. When an infected mosquito bites, heartworm larvae are injected into your companion's blood stream. Once in the blood stream, the larvae migrate to the heart or lungs and develop into adult worms. At this stage the parasite causes the potentially life threatening condition known as heartworm disease.
Heartworm disease is completely preventable with the administration of monthly medication. Please remember, mosquitoes are prevalent in this area year round, so we recommend that you keep your pet on heartworm preventative throughout the year. Our staff will be happy to assist you in determining which preventative is best suited for your pet. We will also help you maintain your preventative routine by sending you a reminder notice when it is time to renew your pet's medication. Money-saving deals are available on Heartgard and Frontline brand products to help you keep your companion parasite free.
Have trouble remembering to give your pet's monthly preventatives??? Try programming the date into your cellular phone or PDA so that you get an alert each month when medications are due!
Back to list | Back to topMedical Needs of Geriatric Cats
Common Problems of Older Cats:
- Low Potassium Level
- Declining Kidney Function
- Hyperactive Thyroid Gland
- Diabetes mellitus
- High Blood Pressure
- Tumors/Cancer
- Dental Disease
Monitor for and report any of the following symptoms in your older cat:
- Increased water intake / Increased urine output
- Decreased appetite / Vomiting
- Weight loss / Soft bowel movements
- Behavior Changes / Loss of vision
- Limping / Lethargy / Lack of energy
Thunderstorm Anxiety
Hot, balmy summer days bring frequent mild to severe thunderstorms. For many dogs, the slightest drop in pressure cues attacks of anxiety regarding the impending storm. In some cases, this anxiety can become so severe that the dog will destroy its environment and possibly even injure itself. Fortunately there are medical as well as behavioral treatments which can help ease your pet's thunderstorm anxiety. Ask your veterinarian which of these methods is best suited for your dog.
What is Kennel Cough?
Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis or what is commonly referred to as "Kennel Cough" is a contagious disease of the upper respiratory tract, which includes the trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (large air passages of the lungs). The most common sign of kennel cough is a harsh, dry cough that is often followed by gagging and coughing up foamy mucus. Otherwise, the patient appears alert and generally healthy.
The disease spreads rapidly from one dog to another via direct contact. Fortunately, there is a vaccination available to aid in the prevention of Kennel Cough. Veterinarians recommend intra-nasal vaccination for Kennel Cough if your dog frequents any places where other dogs congregate, such as boarding kennels, grooming salons, dog parks, pet stores or obedience and agility trials.
Back to list | Back to topSummertime Tips
- To prevent infection, clean your dog's ears at least once a week and always after swimming and bathing.
- Don't let your dog get overheated! Always provide fresh, cool drinking water and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
- "Fair-haired" dogs and cats are susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer just as we are. Avoid prolonged exposure and apply sunscreen especially to ears and nose when necessary.
- Whenever possible, avoid lengthy walks on pavement and hot sand to prevent delicate paw pads from being burned.
Rabies!
Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. The virus is secreted in saliva and is usually transmitted to people and animals by a bite from an infected animal. Less commonly, rabies can be transmitted when saliva from a rabid animal comes in contact with an open cut on the skin or eyes, nose or mouth of a person or animal. While rabies is most commonly associated with raccoons and foxes, it can infect any mammal. Local incidences of rabies have been reported in feral cats, bats, groundhogs and opossums so it is best to avoid contact with all wildlife. In nonvaccinated pets, rabies is nearly always fatal, so please be sure to keep your companions up to date with their rabies vaccinations.
In the event that your pet has been bitten by or come into contact with a potentially rabid animal DO NOT TOUCH YOUR PET! Contact Animal Control immediately for further instructions on how best to handle the situation. 410-632-1340
Back to list | Back to topPesky Parasites
Parasite season is upon us! Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes are not only an annoyance to your pets. The pests can also harbor and transmit potentially dangerous diseases to your companions. Heartworm disease, allergic dermatitis, and Lyme disease are just a few of the harmful infections that your pet can contract from the bite of one or more of these parasites. To avoid these and other dangerous afflictions, make sure your pet is protected from parasites by administering monthly flea, tick and heartworm preventatives. Ask our veterinary staff which preventative is best suited for your pooch or feline and start your parasite prevention routine today!
Back to list | Back to topHoliday Hazards
Holidays are a joyous occasion, but please beware that there are a number of potential hazards that your pet may face during the season. The following items, when ingested can pose a serious health risk for your pet:
- Holiday plants (Christmas Rose, Lilies, Mistletoe, Poinsettias, Holly)
- Decorations (ornaments and hooks, ribbons, tinsel, lights)
- Christmas Tree Water
- Holiday Feast (turkey, ham and chicken bones, chocolate)
Keeping curious pets entertained with dog and cat friendly holiday toys and treats will help keep them occupied and away from potential hazards so everyone can enjoy the season!
Back to list | Back to topThinking about a companion for Christmas?
Do you plan to surprise someone you love with a playful pooch or cuddly kitten this Christmas? If so, please remember: while pets can provide a lot of enjoyment and entertainment, they also require a lot of time, energy and expense. Before you choose a pet for your loved one, make certain he or she is ready for the challenge. Also, research which breed will best suit your loved one and choose accordingly.
Back to list | Back to topTime for Boarding
If you plan to take your dog or cat to a boarding kennel over the holidays, here are a few things you should know ahead of time:
- Boarding kennels are places where many pets congregate and disease can spread easily, so kennels require that your pet be up to date on vaccinations to prevent outbreaks. If you are not certain that your pet has gotten all the vaccinations it may need, check in with your veterinarian at least 2 weeks prior to boarding to avoid last minute delays.
- Ask your veterinarian if your dog also needs to be vaccinated against Canine Influenza (H3N8) before he or she is boarded. While rarely fatal, this fairly new viral infection of dogs can cause a number of flu like symptoms and is highly contagious.
- Many pets will suffer from separation anxiety when left alone or at a kennel. Fortunately, there are many options available to help ease that anxiety. Ask your veterinarian which of those options are best suited for your pet’s individual needs.
Senior Care
The older we get, the more health issues we face. Our pets are no exception to that rule. Commonly, dogs and cats 7 years of age and older are dealing with some form of age related changes. It is a common misconception, that age causes pain and lethargy. If your pet is not acting normal, then he or she is probably experiencing some sort of age related change in function. Many of these changes can be treated or eased if detected early. Your companion’s senior years can be golden. Talk to your veterinarian about early detection testing, what you should look for at home, and how you can prevent certain age related diseases.
Back to list | Back to topThe Facts About Dog Flu
The H3N8 virus or what is commonly referred to as "Dog Flu" has received much media attention in lieu of recent events. As pet owners, it is important that we know the facts about the virus, so that we can properly protect our pets from exposure to it. H3N8 is one variety of Influenza virus A and was originally found in horses. Greyhounds and other breeds commonly associated with racetracks were the first dogs to become affected by the virus. Due to the fact that dogs had no natural immunity, the virus was then quickly able to spread from dog to dog.
While the virus is very rarely fatal, it does cause a menagerie of symptoms that can make your pet feel under the weather. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, wheezing, decreased appetite and nasal discharge. In rare cases, fever and pneumonia may develop. Your dog is most likely to become infected with H3N8 if he or she visits places where many dogs congregate, such as boarding kennels, dog parks and dog shows.
Fortunately, there is a vaccine available to protect against H3n8. If you plan to take your dog to a place where he or she may come in contact with other dogs, contact your veterinarian and find out if the vaccine is a good option for your pet. As always, remember that if your dog begins to exhibit any type of flu-like symptoms, keep him or her away from other dogs and make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. For more information visit doginfluenza.com.
Back to list | Back to topBeware: Counterfeit Medications
It is difficult to turn on your computer or TV these days without seeing an advertisement for discounted pet medications. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) warns against purchasing medications from sources other than your regular veterinarian. Unfortunately, internet and catalog pet pharmacies go largely unregulated by government agencies. This means, that more often than not, the medications you get from one of those pharmacies may not be the medication you expect.
While the medications are often advertised as being the same as those distributed by your veterinarian, it has been determined that in actuality, those counterfeit products often do not even contain the same ingredients as those purchased from your veterinarian. Counterfeit medications are often shipped to internet pharmacies from places like China, where regulations are extremely lax.
Often times, pet owners do not become aware that the medications they purchased are counterfeit until they find that they are either not working or are making their pets ill. Before you purchase online, be sure to discuss options with your veterinarian. There are many money saving deals available through your veterinarian that can help you get the medications you need for your pet without risking falling victim to counterfeiting.
Back to list | Back to topFleas!
September signals the onset of peak flea season in local areas. While fleas /are most commonly associated with causing pets to itch and scratch, they can also cause a number of more serious problems. Fleas are known to cause or transmit flea allergy dermatitis, anemia, tapeworm infection, Bartonella and Tularemia. Fortunately, there are numerous products available which help protect your pet from flea infestation.
Remember, when flea numbers are highest, in order to get the most effective results from your flea preventative, it is best to treat all the pets in your household at the same time each month. Treating your home and yard will also help decrease the flea population in your pet’s environment.
As always, we are here to assist you in determining which preventatives will best suit your individual needs. Call or stop by the office to take advantage of money saving deals on Frontline and Advantage products!
Back to list | Back to topThe Truth about Ticks
Our local region is prime territory for several species of ticks. Unfortunately each of these ticks can carry diseases that pose significant health risks to us as well as our pets. Among the most common of these diseases are Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis and Anaplasmosis. Symptoms of the diseases range from mild fever and lameness to severe vomiting, anorexia and organ failure.
Fortunately, there are ways to protect our pets from tick-borne illnesses. Firstly, be sure to use a tick preventative, such as Frontline, Promeris or Preventic. Next, have your dog vaccinated for Lyme disease. Lastly, have your pet tested annually for tick-borne diseases.
If detected early, the diseases can be effectively treated with antibiotic therapy. Protecting your pets from ticks may also mean protecting yourself. While we cannot contract tick-borne diseases directly from our pets, we can certainly become infected by a tick that he or she may be bringing into our home. Keep yourself and your pet healthy all year long by getting the bite on ticks before they get the bite on you!
Back to list | Back to topWisdom Panel MX
Have you ever wondered what makes your mixed breed dog look and act like he does? Does the way he herds your kids around make you believe he’s part Border Collie, or does his curly coat mean he’s part Poodle? Now you can take the guesswork out of determining what breeds have influenced the genetic make up of your best pal. Wisdom Panel MX uses a small blood sample collected by your veterinarian to genetically analyze your dog’s DNA and ultimately give you insight into his or her family history.
With Wisdom Panel MX, mixed-breed dogs will receive the most reliable DNA breed test available.
- Blood-based sampling, scientifically proven to provide the highest quality DNA analysis.
- Detecting 157 different AKC breeds (incl. 4 Foundation Breeds) and counting.
- Proprietary algorithm providing 90% accuracy.
- Backed by a decade of peer-reviewed veterinarian science research on dog genetics.
- Detailed report illustrating your dog's heritage, revealing breed traits and characteristics.
Wanting to know your dog’s breed mix is much more than a matter of curiosity. Appearance is most obviously breed associated; however, certain behavioral traits and medical disorders are also known to be breed specific. With Wisdom Panel MX, you will gain an overall better understanding of your best friend for his well being as well as yours.
Back to list | Back to topHeartworm Disease Reminder
Please remember… Heartworm disease poses a serious risk to your pet. If undetected and untreated, the disease can cause sudden death.
Heartworm larvae are injected into your pet’s bloodstream via the bite of an infected mosquito. If the mosquitoes are biting you, then it is very likely that they are also biting your pet. Fortunately, the disease is easy and affordable to prevent with the administration of a monthly heartworm preventative such as Heartgard. Should your pet become infected with heartworms, the treatment involves several injections of an arsenic based drug, which is both hard on your dog and hard on your wallet. Call our office today to find out which preventative is best for your best friend.
Back to list | Back to topPet Allergies
Ahhh Spring! Flowers are blooming, trees are budding, and grass is growing. While many people enjoy the onset of Spring, a large portion of the population suffer from seasonal allergies and may spend the next couple of months sneezing and rubbing their eyes. Our pets are no exception when it comes to suffering from seasonal allergens.
While our companions may sometimes exhibit symptoms that we do not commonly associate with allergies, the affliction is no less miserable. In many cases, allergies exhibit themselves dermatologically in pets. You may notice that your dog or cat begins scratching incessantly or that his or her paws and ears become inflamed and reddened. While these symptoms do not always signify that the pet is allergic, it is important to have your veterinarian examine your pet to identify the cause.
The severity of allergy symptoms in pets can vary dramatically just as with people. With this in mind, treatment options may also vary from simple antihistamine therapy to more specialized allergy testing and immunotherapy injections. If you think your companion may be suffering from seasonal allergies, call and make an appointment with your veterinarian today, so your pet can get relief and be free to enjoy the season!
Back to list | Back to topRabies Reminder
If your pet has been bitten by or come into contact with a potentially rabid animal DO NOT TOUCH YOUR PET! Contact Animal Control immediately for further instructions on how best to handle the situation. 410-632-1340
Back to list | Back to topFebruary is Dental Health Month!
Periodontal disease is the most common disease in dogs and cats! About 85% of dogs and cats have some form of it and are vulnerable to the pain, bad breath and tooth loss that could follow. Chronic infections can spread to the heart, liver, lungs, and kidneys, where they can do even more damage. In an effort to increase awareness of the dangers of dental disease as well as the importance of a proper prevention program, the veterinary community has named the month of February, dental health month.
Separation Anxiety
Did you know that your dog could be affected by an anxiety disorder? It’s true. In fact, separation anxiety is a common affliction in dogs. Many dog owners report that when they leave their dog alone they often return to find their shoes have been chewed or the doors have been scratched or even that the pet has urinated or defecated indoors.
It is a common misconception that the dog had become angry with the owner and so behaved badly out of revenge. In actuality, the problem behaviors are triggered by the stress the dog feels when the owner leaves. There are many levels of separation anxiety, therefore treatment of the disorder can also be a multi-step process. In some cases, simple training methods may be affective. In more extreme cases, your veterinarian may recommend an anti-anxiety medication.
In either case, if you suspect that your dog may be suffering from anxiety, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian and decide on what methods of treatment will be best suited to restore order to your household.
Back to list | Back to topWhat is Pre-Anesthetic Bloodwork?
At some point in his or her lifetime, your pet will probably need to have a procedure that requires that he or she under go anesthesia. While veterinary anesthetics and surgical procedures have advanced to be as safe as possible, there is always a risk associated with going under anesthesia.
Pre-anesthetic blood work screens major organ function to ensure that the organs can properly process anesthetics. Thereby, it is an essential component in minimizing the risks associated with anesthetization. For this reason, veterinarians recommend that the blood profile be run prior to any procedure that requires anesthetics.
Back to list | Back to topParasite Patrol
There are numerous parasites that can invade your pet’s intestinal tract. Some of those can even be spread to you and your family. While, a monthly preventative, such as Heartgard can help keep parasites at bay, there is no product available to prevent them all. For this reason, the veterinarian recommends a fecal examination once every six months for all pets. With proper screening and prevention, your companion will remain parasite free.
Back to list | Back to topWhat is DIA?
DIA (Diagnostic Imaging Atlas) is the new state of the art, interactive client education tool now available at Atlantic Veterinary Services. Through animation, video and interactive imagery, the veterinarian and staff are able to better serve you and your companion. With DIA, you can use your email account to easily access the information you received in the exam room. Stop by our office today and see DIA for yourself!
Back to list | Back to topFleas & Ticks Getting the Bite on You?
Flea and tick season is in full force in the summer months, so make sure your companion is protected with some form of veterinarian-approved preventative. There are many effective products available to keep your pet free of pests all summer long. Ask one of our staff members which product will best suit your pet’s needs.
Is your best friend an avid swimmer? If so, try Comfortis. This new oral flea control is perfectly suited for canines who can't keep dry long enough for topicals to work effectively
Are ticks a big problem in your neck of the woods? Try the new topical preventative, Promeris. An active ingredient in Promeris has been found to be highly effective against ticks and it works great on fleas too!
Great incentives available on Frontline and Advantage products also!
Back to list | Back to topStressed Out About Shedding?
Check out the FURMINATOR Deshedding tool. It is specifically designed to comb out your companions dense undercoat to drastically reduce shedding. The FURMINATOR is available in large dog, small dog and cat sizes to accommodate your pet. Put away the vacuum and enjoy your summer with a little help from the FURMINATOR!
Back to list | Back to topThe Diet Debate
In lieu of recent pet food recalls, many individuals are considering more natural alternatives to their pet’s current diet. While there may be some benefit to organic and BARF (Bones and Raw Food) diets, there may also be some associated risks involved.
Firstly, dogs and cats require a specific balance of vitamins, minerals and fatty acids just as we do. Many alternative diets are difficult to formulate to meet these requirements. Calcium must be correctly balanced with phosphorus (in a one–to–one ratio) and this needs to be considered when you are making homemade food.
Secondly, if you are considering a raw food diet, there is a risk of exposing your pet to harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E Coli.
Lastly, "All- Natural" diets are extremely costly. You can expect to spend as much, if not more, on your pet’s diet as your own. Many organic pet foods do not contain the highest quality ingredients, so be sure to read the label carefully. Consult with your veterinarian before making any changes.
The simplest solution to the diet debate may be to choose a diet which was never involved in the pet food recall, such as Purina brand pet food.
Back to list | Back to topSummer Skin Problems
Pets get sunburn too! Avoid prolonged sun exposure with your pet, especially if he or she is white or lightly colored. If you get your pet a summer haircut, don’t go too short. Leave at least ½" in length to protect against the sun.
Avoid hotspots! Keep your dogs’ ears clean and dry. If necessary, have your groomer clip the hair under the ears to allow for greater ventilation.
Back to list | Back to topNew Puppy or Kitten?
Check out our new puppy and kitten programs! The programs include features such as:
- Discounted rate on Spay or Neuter
- Pre-Anesthetic Exam
- Micro-chipping
- Ear Cleaning & Anal Sac Expression
- Dental Evaluation & Fluoride Treatment
- Eye Evaluation
- Complimentary Nail Trim
- Post-Operative Pain Management
Please call our office for more information.
Back to list | Back to topFat Cat or Chunky Canine?
Common conditions such as heart disease, joint pain and diabetes can all be influenced by obesity. Discuss your pet’s feeding program with your veterinarian to be certain he or she is getting the proper nutrition for his or her age and activity level.
Little Known Facts:
- Dogs spayed before their first heat have only a 0.5% incidence of mammary (breast) cancer compared to intact females. Incidence increases exponentially each year after beginning heat cycles.
- Having male dogs castrated, entirely eliminates the risk of contracting prostate and/or testicular cancer.