HOME CARE TIPS

The information below is offered to help guide you to identify a potential program or situation that may require preventative care, treatment or a scheduled visit to the animal hospital. If you are not sure what to do, contact our office and speak with a member of our team to schedule an appointment with the veterinarian.

Ticks

Lyme disease in animals, particularly dogs is a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks, with Borrelia burgdorferi being the most common causative agent. While many infected animals don't show symptoms, those that do may experience lameness, fever, swollen joints, lethargy, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, Lyme disease can lead to kidney problems, including kidney failure, and in horses, it can cause neurological issues. Speak to your veterinarian about preventative health vaccinations available.

If you suspect your pet may have been exposed to ticks and are concerned about Lyme disease, seek veterinary care. Diagnostic tests and treatments are available for your pet.

Heartworm

Heartworm disease, caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis, is a serious and potentially fatal condition that affects dogs, cats, and ferrets. It is spread through mosquitoe bites and the heartworm lives in the heart, lungs and associated blood vessels. Heartworm disease is preventable, but if left untreated can lead to serious health issues even death for your pet. Preventative health screening and treatment is readily available through our office.

Fleas

Fleas and ticks are common and left untreated can become a problem for your beloved pet. Common symptoms of fleas include itchin, red pimples or bumps which may be found on the rump, under the legs, at the base of the tail, groin or belly areas. The skin may appear red and inflammed. If your pet attempts to scratch this area, their hair may fall out and the skin could become dry.

If you suspect your pet may have fleas, schedule a visit with the veterinarian for care.

Allergies

Allergies may be caused by flea bites, environmental factors or food.

Common signs your pet may be suffering from allergies include: highly senstitive (itchy) skin with or without hair loss; coughing, sneezing, and/or wheezing; scabby crusts and bumps which develop into open sores; nasal (nose) and ocular (eye) discharge. Severe symptoms may include an asthmatic attacks for some pets.

Pets with noticeable hair loss particularly at the base of the tail may have a flea bite allergy.

Pets with severe itching at the face, and/or rashes around the anus and inconsistent stool quality may have food allergies.

Exposure to environmental factors (like second hand smoke) may cause an your pet to have an allergic reaction.

If you suspect your pet has allergies, plan a visit to your veterinarian for care.

Wounds & Bites

There are several types of wounds requiring care. Superficial lacerations, scratches or cuts are wounds in which the skin is not cut all the way through. They may be caused by sharp objects, bites or scratches. They usually do not need stitches and treatment by cleaning them with sterile saline and applying an antibiotic ointment daily until the cut is healed . If you notice signs of infection (increased redness of the area, red streaks running from area, pus draining from the wound or bad smell), please take your pet to the veterinarian for care.

Wounds & Bites

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