Spay-Neuter
There are many myths about spaying or neutering that should be dispelled. First, an animal does not have to produce “at least 1 litter of offspring” to lead a normal life. Second, animals will not always gain weight after spay or neuter. Although the tendency may be there, proper nutrition and exercise will reduce that likelihood. Third, it is not inhumane to sterilize an animal. The procedure is safe and effective.
Parasite Control
A variety of parasites affect a pet throughout its lifetime. Treatment is usually simple but requires medications that must be used carefully and according to instructions. Proper sanitation will reduce likelihood and severity of many parasite infections but regular medical exams and treatments are necessary for best control. Among the most important parasites that affect poets and require routine treatment are heartworm's, worms of the gastrointestinal tract, fleas and ticks.
Vaccinations
A routine vaccination program significantly increases your pet’s likelihood of living a normal, healthy life. Some important diseases that should be considered for prevention appear in this health record under the section “vaccination”. For maximum protection follow your veterinarian advice and make sure your pet receives vaccinations and boosters when scheduled. Below is a compiled list of vaccinations needed for your dog.
We here at The Hound have compiled some information to help you care for your dog. Although brief, here are several topics that will certainly arise through the life of almost every pet.
In The News: Chiropractors Help Relieve Aging Pets' Aches and Pains
See: Article
• Rabies - Of all animal diseases, rabies is probably the most feared. The rabies virus attacks the brain and is always fatal. Most pets are exposed to rabies by bites from wild animals particularly skunks, raccoons, bats, and foxes. The disease can be transmitted to humans thorough the bite or scratch of an effected pet. Vaccination of all dogs and cats is the most effective means of control.
• Distemper - This highly contagious viral disease is found whatever dogs are found. It affects the respiratory and nervous system and is often fatal. Primary vaccination should begin at 6-12 weeks of age since dogs often contract the disease at an early age.
• Parvovirus (CPV) - This contagious viral disease usually causes severe diarrhea and vomiting in dogs of all ages but is especially deadly in puppies.
• Coronavirus (CCV) - Coronavirus is highly contagious and can weaken dogs by causing severe diarrhea and vomiting. The disease is sometimes confused with Parvovirus. The two diseases may occur simultaneously in which case symptoms are more severe.
• Parainfluenza - This viral respiratory disease is often partly responsible for “kennel cough” in dogs. Infection can be severe in young puppies. Parainfluenza protection is often included in distemper-parvo vaccines.
• Adenovirus Type 1 and Type 2 - Canine Adenovirus type 1 infection causes hepatitis, which may lead to severe kidney damage. Type 2 can be a complication factor in kennel cough. Vaccines are available that protect against both types of Adenovirus.
• Leptospirosis - Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease carried by many wild animals. A dog can contract the disease from infected animals or by drinking contaminated water. Yearly vaccination limits your dog’s chances of acquiring the disease.
• Bordetella - Frequently involved with kennel cough complex, this bacterial infection may occur simultaneously with distemper, adenovirus type 2 infections, Parainfluenza and other respiratory infections.
• Borreliosis - (Lyme Disease) Borreliosis, or Lyme disease, is an infection caused by a bacteria, which is spread primarily by the painless bite of an infected tick. Symptoms of Borreliosis in the dog include fever, lethargy, muscle stiffness, depression and lack of appetite. In more severe cases, lameness occurs as a result of severe musculoskeletal or arthritic type joint pain.
• Giardiasis - Giardiasis in dogs, cats and humans is caused by a waterborne parasite called Giardiasis lamblia. The parasite is found in untreated water, i.e. puddles, ponds, and creeks. Symptoms severe diarrhea, weight loss, fever, dehydration and nausea.
• Chiropractor Tamara Truchon, DC
The "Hungry Hound Dog Bakery" Chiropractor for "Susie".
: Downloads :
1) Printable version of this page: a) This Page (Microsoft Word)
2) Document to track your pets vaccinations: a) Vaccinations (Microsoft Word),
b) Vaccinations (PDF Viewer)
If you do not have a PDF viewer, please go here to download a free version.
This page was last updated: August 29, 2007
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Copyright @ 2004 - Hungry Hound Bakery
Feeding
Your veterinarian may recommend a feeding program. A complete and balanced diet including protein, carbohydrates vitamins and minerals, is necessary for proper growth and disease resistance. Here are some guidelines:
Puppies or kittens should be fed small amounts 3-4 timer per day. At 6 months, reduce to twice per day and once per day for mature pets.
• Name-brand commercial pet food is carefully balanced to meet your pet’s nutritional requirements. However, your veterinarian may recommend vitamin/mineral supplements.
• Table scraps disrupt your pet’s balanced diet and should be avoided. Bones should never be fed.
• During Pregnancy and nursing, your pet has special dietary needs. Check with your veterinarian for feeding instructions.
• Fresh water should be available at all times.
