C o m p a n i o n s

March Into Spring

by gerri reid, dvm

March rolls in like a Lion and out like a Lamb. Spring is coming but let’s hope the weather does not treat us too bad. As seasons begins to change, we will start preparing to get outdoors more. This means more outdoor activities such as hiking, walking and running not only for you but for your pet. Time to get out in the sun and head to the beach, right? So, let’s talk about how to prepare your pet for the Spring.

First, make sure your pet is all up to date on vaccines Rabies vaccination is one vaccine that is required by the State. Other vaccines recommended include Distemper/Parvo, Leptospirosis, and Bordetella (Kennel Cough). These vaccines become important as you begin to plan your vacations as you may need to board your pet at a Boarding facility. Lastly, have your pet tested for heartworm disease as this test will also test for tick borne diseases. These diseases are transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks. Therefore, if you take your pet outdoor even just to use the bathroom, there is a risk of your pet contracting these diseases.

Now that you have updated the vaccines, let’s not forget ensuring that your pet is parasite-ffree. Some pet owners enjoy taking their pets to Daycare or Dog Parks to play with other dogs. Your pet can contract parasites from other dogs by coming in contact with their stool. Checking your pet’s stool for parasites such as hookworms, roundworms, whipworms and tapeworms is important as some of these parasites can also be transmitted to you. As Veterinarians, it is our responsibility to educate and prevent the transmission of these zoonotic diseases. Your Veterinarian may recommend deworming your pet and giving monthly heartworm pills. These medications not only prevent heartworm disease but it also prevents intestinal parasites.

We can’t forget about fleas and ticks People always think fleas/ticks die off in the winter when actually Veterinarians tend to see plenty of skin related issues caused by these parasites. It is highly recommended to keep your pet on flea/tick prevention all year. Fleas can transmit tapeworms and ticks transmit diseases such as Lyme disease. There are topical preventions, oral preventions and even high-quality flea collars. Your Veterinarian will recommend which product is best for your pet. But one thing is for sure, it is a Must-Do for your pet as the summer months approach.

Cabin Fever happens to all of us including our pets. As much as you are ready for Spring to come, the sun to come out and the days to get longer, your pet is more than ready! They are ready to start basting in the sun, playing fetch and swimming in the pool. So, do them a favor and get them ready to Spring into action and prepare for the Dog Days of Summer. Get your pet’s vaccines updated, give monthly flea/tick prevention as well as heartworm prevention and ensure they are parasite-free. Make an appointment today with your Veterinarian.

The The Poetry Man Poetry Man

By Frank Fratoe

Join Me Join Me

You overcome distress or start an endeavor by awakening yourself to find simple things become the perfection they are to begin with.

For wherever one goes look down to the land or upward to the sky and see them faultless taking us through time as our journey follows.

The freezing in winter and hardship it causes are converted by thaw which shows up later to cast the emptiness into waves of foliage.

When we join together to experience all this in so doing I am you.

Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city.he loves.