TIPS & INFORMATION

ADULT DOG CARE

The following information has been provided by: Reservoir Veterinary Clinic

Vaccinations:
All adult dogs require an annual physical examination, checkup and vaccination. It is recommended that all dogs are vaccinated against Distemper, Parvovirus and Hepatitis yearly. If your dog has contact with other dogs, spends time at boarding kennels or gets lost and goes to the pound it is recommended vaccination against Kennel Cough with Bordatella and Parainfluenza.

If you wish to upgrade to protect against Kennel Cough it is very important that it’s started at 6 weeks prior to boarding as two vaccinations are required for protection.

Intestinal Worms:
Intestinal worms that dogs carry can be transmitted to humans, particularly children as they may not have as good hygiene as adults. As such all dogs should be wormed with a good quality intestinal wormer which has a high percentage of worm kill every 3 months.

Heartworm Control:
Heartworm in dogs can be a very serious disease. The adult worms lodge in the heart blocking the pump action. Treating dogs for heartworm can be difficult as it can kill your dog, so it is recommended that all dogs are on heartworm prevention. There are many different options available, a yearly injection, a monthly tablet or a monthly spot-on.

Note: if your dog has not been on heartworm control, it will require a blood test to check for heartworm prior to prevention.

Flea Control:
Fleas can transmit tapeworm to humans and are a general nuisance to your dog. Some dogs are allergic to flea saliva and can develop dermatitis (skin problem) as a result. Prevention of flea infestations is easily done with a spot-on, which can be applied once a month which kills adult fleas and prevent reinfestation.