Q: What vaccinations does my pet need, and how often do they need to be done?

A: Dogs should receive vaccinations against Rabies, Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis and usually, Bordetella (Kennel Cough). Normally puppies receive a series of vaccinations at 8, 12 and 20 weeks of age followed by revaccination at regular intervals (every 3 years for Rabies, Parvo & Distemper, yearly for Leptospirosis and Bordetella). In some cases, additional vaccinations against diseases such as Lyme disease may be recommended. Cats should receive vaccinations against Distemper, Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Rabies. As with puppies, kittens normally receive  a series of vaccinations at 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age followed by revaccination at regular intervals (every 3 years for Rabies and Distemper/Respiratory, yearly for Leukemia). In certain situations, such as with outdoor cats or multi-cat households, additional vaccinations against Feline Leukemia virus may be recommended.  

Q: What is Heartworm disease?

A: Heartworm disease is a parasitic infection of dogs and sometimes cats, in which worms live within the heart. It is spread by mosquitoes which transfer the microscopic larval form of the worm (microfilaria) from one animal to another when they bite. Once the worms are in the heart, they can damage the heart and cause heart failure.

Q: How important is Heartworm testing and prevention?

A: Regular, annual testing of dogs for Heartworm disease is very important as it allows us to detect early infections which can then be successfully eliminated before they have a chance to cause permanent damage and chronic illness or death. Prevention during the entire mosquito season is also very important as it gives your dog the best chance of avoiding this serious parasitic infection. There are several very safe and effective preventive products available. Since no preventive is 100% effective, even dogs who receive Heartworm preventives should be tested annually for heartworm disease. Normally, it is recommended to combine annual heartworm testing with an annual Wellness Test. This allows us to use one blood sample to test both for Heartworm disease as well as looking at the overall health of the major internal organ systems.

Q: What is Wellness Testing and why is it so important?

A: Wellness Testing is the testing of an apparently healthy patient's blood in order to look for early, otherwise undetectable, signs of disease. Usually, the major organ systems such as the kideys, liver, spleen and blood cells are examined in younger pets. Normally, in younger pets, the tests are not as in depth as thery are in older pets (see Senior Wellness below)  in terms of the organ systems examined. It is surprising how many apparently healthy young pets are actually found to have serious disease of a major organ on wellness tests. Once the condition is diagnosed, appropriate management can be undertaken to ensure that the impact of the disease is eliminated or minimized as much as possible and for as long as possible. This can involve medication, diet, ongoing monitoring or any combination thereof. Sometimes, further investigation is required before a treatment plan can be implemented. The goal, of course, is to provide optimal health and wellbeing for your furry family member.

Q: What can I do to keep my pet's teeth healthy?

A: It is recommended that you brush your pet's teeth daily from an early age. There are many types of brushes and dental cleaning products available for this task. Once pets are over 3 years of age, it is generally necessary to have a dental hygiene procedure (prophylaxis) performed regularly (usually yearly) under anesthetic in the veterinary clinic. Commitment to ongoing dental care will help to ensure that your pet has a healthy and pain free mouth while maintaining overall good health. 

Q: What is meant by 'Naturopathic' and 'Complementary' medicine?

A: In contrast to conventional medicine which relies on various drugs, Naturopathic medicine utilizes natural treatment modes such as herbal remedies, nutritional supplements and acupuncture to help promote healing and well being. Often, these treatment modes can be successfully combined with conventional treatment modes. This combination is referred to as 'Complementary' medicine. We normally only use these therapies if there is scientific evidence to support their use in particular cases. Failure to adhere to this principle can be detrimental to the health of your pet.

Q: Do older pets need special examinations or tests?

A: Over the age of 7 years, it is recommended that pets be given a complete physical exam at least twice a year and that they have a 'Senior Wellness Screen" including blood and urine tests at least once a year. This provides for the early detection of potentially serious age related problems such as kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, heart disease and many other conditions. Early detection can provide opportunities for early, preventive intervention and management, which can help to ensure that your pet maintains a high quality of life for as long as possible.

Q: What is Telemedicine?

A: Telemedicine is cutting edge technology which brings Board Certified Specialists in various fields right into your Veterinarian's office via the internet!  For example, your pet may have a complex problem or several medical conditions requiring attention at the same time. Your veterinarian collects all of the information, blood tests, urines tests, Xrays, Ultrasound images and any other relevant case information and with the help of special Vetpacs software, uploads all of this information via the internet to the various specialists who, for a reasonable fee, then review the case and offer their expert second opinion along with treatment recommendations. It is like having a virtual referral clinic within your own Vet's office! We are very pleased to be able to offer this excellent service to our clients here at Orchrd Grove Animal Clinic.