WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
VACCINES
DHPPC – A vaccination to protect your dog from five diseases – distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus and coronavirus. These diseases are debilitating and can cause death. Nearly every dog will be exposed during its lifetime, making vaccinations a must. Parvo is an intestinal viral infection that results in bloody diarrhea, fever, vomiting, dehydration and extreme depression. It is highly contagious and life threatening. Coronavirus is a disease similar to parvovirus, but usually less threatening. Distemper is present in the area and this virus causes a respiratory infection which can progress to neurological disease. It is often fatal and is prevented with vaccinations. DHPPC is available at Desert Dunes Animal Hospital.
BORDETELLA - A semi-annual vaccination given to dogs to prevent tracheobronchitis (Kennel Cough) which is a highly contagious disease causing a dry hacking cough that can persist for six or more weeks. If your pet is kenneled, groomed, shown, visits dog parks or interacts with other dogs in the neighborhood, we highly recommend this vaccine.
RABIES – A vaccination that is required by the State of California for both dogs and cats. Vaccination helps prevent this deadly disease from being transmitted to humans.
LYME DISEASE – Lyme disease can have many harmful effects. It is caused by a bacterium which is spread by ticks. If you will be traveling out of state, or to the mountains, this vaccine is advised.
FECAL/STOOL TEST
A semi-annual test to detect intestinal parasites that threaten your pet’s health. Regular microscopic examination of your pet’s stool should be done for early detection and treatment. People can get roundworm and hookworm infections from their pets.
HEARTWORM CHECK
A simple annual blood test done within our hospital to detect these worms in your dog’s heart. Heartworms are transmitted through mosquitoes and are fatal if untreated. Signs of heartworm are respiratory problems and sudden death. Preventative medication is available at our facility and is to be given all year round. With all the standing water at our local golf courses and many pets here in the desert from all part of the United States, this is highly recommended.
ANAL GLANDS
Anal glands are two small glands just inside a dog’s anus. When a dog defecates the glands are expressed leaving a foul smell marking its territory. Some dogs are unable to express their glands and scooting around on their anal area is a sign that they may need expressing by a professional. No appointment is necessary for this procedure.
EAR CARE
All dogs can get ear infections, but hairy floppy-eared dogs are more prone to them, as well as dogs that like to get into water. Ear hair should be pulled on breeds which grow it. At the first sign of rubbing ears or head shaking, or if an odor from the ears develops, your pet’s ears should be cleaned and medicated!
DENTAL HEALTH CARE
Tartar accumulations and infections of the mouth affect most pets. Periodontal disease can lead to infection in the liver, kidneys and heart. This can best be prevented with regular dental care. Dental care starts at home by brushing or cleansing your pet’s teeth with animal toothpaste or cleansing products which are always available through Desert Dunes Animal Hospital. Cleaning and polishing without anesthesia is available once a month at our office by Gental Dental. When anesthesia is the best approach for your pet, appointments are available five days a week.
NAIL TRIMS
Dog’s nails grow at a very rapid rate requiring a nail trim approximately every 6 weeks. Nail trimming can be a bit tricky because there is a blood vein running down the center. With regular nail trimming this vein retreats into the upper portions of the nail and out of the way of clippers. Long nails can make it difficult for arthritic geriatric dogs to get around. No appointment is required for this procedure.
lnk