WHAT DOES MY ADULT DOG NEED FOR GOOD HEALTH AND TO PREVENT MEDICAL PROBLEMS?

All dogs need yearly vaccines to boost their immune systems against potentially deadly diseases and to protect the public against a rabies outbreak. Rabies is present in the Texas wildlife and there is a potential risk of exposure to your pet. Because of the risk of rabies being spread to the public, it is the law that all dogs receive rabies vaccinations. The Centers for Disease Control also recommends that all pets be dewormed on a regular basis to prevent the spread of parasites to people, especially children, and immune-compromised individuals. All dogs should receive a yearly “Distemper shot” to protect them from diseases they will commonly come in contact with. These include distemper – a potentially fatal neurological disease, parvo – a potentially fatal gastrointestinal disease, leptospira – a potentially fatal kidney and liver disease, corona – a serious gastrointestinal disease, as well as adenovirus and parainfluenza – a serious respiratory disease.

All dogs should be tested for heartworm disease on an annual basis. Just like birth control, nothing is 100% effective. Once the dog has been tested and is negative for this parasite, heartworm prevention should be given year-round. Heartworm preventative does not kill adult heartworms. If your dog is heartworm positive, the preventative will do nothing to slow or prevent this disease. Heartworm prevention will also keep your dog free of most intestinal parasites. Topical parasites (fleas, mites, and ticks) cause stress, irritation, anemia, tapeworms, and skin infections. There are numerous veterinary products that are excellent in preventing heartworm, flea, and tick infestations. At Best Vet we carry Heartgard and Advantage.

Dental disease can cause problems with food consumption and is a major source of infection to the heart, kidneys, and bloodstream. Dental cleanings and a proper dental diet (Hills t/d) can reduce or eliminate these conditions. The use of t/d food also reduces bad breath, GI upset and decreases shedding.