Atlantic Veterinary Topics and Coupons
The 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. Our current recommendation is to vaccinate any dog that: 1. will be traveling out of state this autumn or winter 2. will be boarding in a kennel 3. will possibly be exposed to other dogs that are traveling or boarding (e.g. training classes, shows, field trials/tests, dog parks, etc.)
|
The Dangers of Dental Disease
Did you know that 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. The bacteria then has a quick 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 companions 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!
DETECT AND PROTECT
Prevention is the first step towards a lifetime of good health and early detection is the key. Our pets can't talk and often show no signs when something is wrong. Early detection allows the veterinarian to diagnose potential diseases before they become a serious issue. Common concerns such as thyroid disease, kidney disease, intestinal parasites, and heartworm infestation can all be effectively treated if detected early. An early detection program individualized for your pet, uses blood tests, urinalyses, and fecal examination to periodically screen your companion for diseases and infections before they get a chance to become a serious problem. At your next visit, ask your veterinarian when is a good time to start your pet's early detection program
Beware: 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.
FLEAS!
September, October, & November are the peak of flea season in our local area. 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!
Beware: 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. |
FLEAS!
September, October, & November are the peak of flea season in our local area. 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! |
WHAT IS A MICROCHIP?
A microchip is a tiny computer chip implant, encoded with a unique number. Every year, thousands of pets are lost or stolen. Many of those pets are never returned to their homes, because veterinary clinics, shelters and other organizations have no way of identifying the pet. In many cases, ID tags and collars are lost, removed or illegible. Microchipping offers a foolproof way to ensure that your pet can always be tracked back to you if he or she ever goes missing. Microchips are also easily implanted via syringe and are completely safe for your pet. Make sure your pet always makes it home safely and have him or her microchipped today.
New puppy or kitten ??
We have spay and neuter programs! Our 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 410-629-1838
*As Always, we would like to welcome all new clients and patients to our practice.