The weather is getting nicer and the days are getting longer. People are planning camping trips or weekend hikes. If you are getting ready for a getaway, and you are planning on taking your dog along with you, here are some good things to know and prepare for.

Vaccinations
Make sure your pet is current on all vaccinations.  In addition to the common vaccinations like DA2Pv, Rabies and Bordetella/Parainfluenza, you should also know about Lyme’s and Leptospirosis. Lyme’s Disease is acquired from ticks and Leptospirosis is acquired through ingestion of infected urine. Both of these diseases are zoonotic, which means people are able to get these diseases.

Flea/Tick Prevention
There are several types of flea and tick control. For a more complete list and information on how each product works, please see the April/May 2008 Newsletter and Pet Care Tips links. The products we recommend are Frontline, Promeris and Sentinel.

Heartworm Prevention
Heartworms are acquired through mosquito bites.  For more information on heartworm products please see the previous Newsletter and Pet Care Tips links.  The products we recommend are Heartgard and Sentinel. Prior to starting either of these products, your pet will need a heartworm test. This will tell us if your pet has acquired heartworms and if it is safe to start a heartworm prevention. Some heartworm tests include a test for Lyme’s Disease, Erlichiosis and Anaplasmosis, all three of which are tick borne diseases.

When using a heartworm and flea and/or tick control medication it is also vital to discuss the product with your veterinarian prior to administration. By doing so, you and your veterinarian can decide on a medication that is best for your particular situation.

For more information, please call our office at (510)797-2323 or visit Pet Care Tips.