Heartworms and Your Dog

Your dog can be infested with heartworms through the bite of a mosquito. These mosquitoes can transmit the heartworm larvae from an infected dog to your dog. Once the larvae is in your dog’s bloodstream, they mature into adult worms that can clog your dog’s heart, lungs and blood vessels. This causes circulatory and respiratory issues and if untreated, these conditions will kill your dog. Treatment is expensive and may require surgery. And treatment doesn’t guarantee your dog will get back to good health. Fortunately, there are medications you can give your dog monthly to prevent him from getting infected with heartworms. Give your dog these medications all year round since just a few days of warm weather can cause mosquitoes to become active. Your dog will need periodic blood tests to ensure that no heartworm larvae has slipped through to infect your dog. For more information, contact your veterinarian White Rock, TX.

Preparing Your Cat for a Snow Storm

It’s the winter season and that means snow showers and possible snow storms. While you hit the grocery store to stock up on storm supplies for yourself, be sure to pick up extra supplies for your cat as well. For instance, buy extra cat litter, food, water bottles and treats for your cat in case you can get to the store after the storm hits. Put together an emergency kit for your cat that includes an extra collar, a leash (even if you don’t normally use one for your cat), toys, blankets or bedding, and a copy of your cats vaccination records. If your cat likes to be outside, make sure you give him extra time to roam before the storm hits. Bring him back inside long before the storm even begins to avoid him getting lost. Consult with your veterinarian Lakeville, MN for additional suggestions.

What to Do if Your Dog Escapes

The first thing to do if your dog escapes the house is to remain calm. Go in the direction you saw your dog escape and start looking for him. If you didn’t see your dog get out of the house, check the house first. Outside, check immediately within a 1 mile or 1 and a half kilometer radius around your home. Talk to your neighbors and post flyers immediately. Flyers should include a current photo of your dog, a description of your dog, and a phone number to reach you that way if someone spots your dog they know who to call. Notify area shelters, veterinarians, human societies, police and fire stations, etc. When you go out to search make sure you take a collar, leash, treats and water. Ask fellow searchers not to chase the dog but to call you and report the dog’s location. Talk with your veterinarian London, ON for more tips.

Abscess In Dogs And Cats

Wounds that become infected and given no proper treatment can worsen and form an abscess as bacteria continue to multiply and invade the skin tissues. An abscess can develop in any part of the body where injuries or wounds have been infected by bacteria. The most common bacteria that is present in many skin infection are Pasteurella multocida and Staphylococcus sp. These bacteria can be eliminated with common antibacterial ointments. However, these bacteria are capable of penetrating the deeper layers of the skin if the wound remains untreated. An abscess is formed in response to the invasion of the bacteria. In order to determine what type of bacteria is present, your veterinarian Carolina Forest, SC will take a swab of the infected area and have it cultured in the laboratory. The result of the test will serve as a guide to selecting an appropriate treatment regimen. 

Riding with Your Snake in the Car

If you’re planning to travel and you will be taking your snake with you, here are a few traveling tips that may be of some help. First, make sure your snake is traveling in a cage or habitat that is car safe. Don’t transport in your large glass tank. Find a smaller tank for reptiles that travel. Your local pet store should have some of these in stock. Make sure the tank is secured tightly so your snake cannot get out. Secure the tank so that it can’t slip or move should you stop abruptly or take a sharp turn. In addition, make sure you keep your snake in the back snake so he won’t be a distraction. The backseat also provides more protection for your snake than being in the front seat. If you plan to travel far, make sure you bring extra bedding, food, water, etc. For more tips, call your veterinarian Covington, GA.

Ear Trauma In Chinchillas

Chinchillas have very delicate ears that is why they are prone to ear injuries brought about by fighting with other animals or being exposed to weather extremes (extremely hot or cold). Deep cuts or wounds should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian because it can easily pave the way for infection caused by bacteria or virus. Pet owners should suspect ear trauma when the ear is red and swollen and there are deep cuts or bite marks present. The affected ear may also be excreting some fluid discharge. When chinchillas are exposed to extreme temperatures, you may see a line that separates the normal tissue from the damaged part. The ears may appear black or discolored and skin may slough off. After a complete examination and determining the cause of the injury, your veterinarian may apply antiseptic solutions and an antibiotic ointment on the wound. Dressing will prevent infection and help promote healing. A severely damaged ear may have to be removed, depending on the assessment of your veterinarians Fox Lake, IL. 

Corneal Ulcers In Dogs And Cats

Corneal ulcers or irritation of the cornea is technically called keratitis (ulcerative keratitis). The problem is characterized by irritation or infection in the cornea or the outer surface of the eye. Common irritants include bacteria and viruses, dust particles, or the animal’s own hair. Corneal ulcers are non-healing sores that develop in the cornea. Simple eye irritation can develop to become a corneal ulcer if proper treatment is not given immediately. Corneal ulcers that are not treated can progress to blindness. Corneal irritation can be painful and uncomfortable. With proper treatment, a simple irritation of the cornea can heal within a week’s time. When a foreign body enters the eye, there is a consequent increase in tear production, a defense mechanism of the body to flush out the irritant. The animal may also rub at the eyes increasing the risk for inflammation. If you notice any problem with your pet’s eyes, a visit to your vet clinic Temecula, CA should be made immediately to prevent serious complications from developing.