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Issue #2 Volume #3

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Coverpage


Heartworm Season


Are your pets protected from this deadly disease?

It's heartworm season again! Those of you in areas that experience seasonal heartworm infestations it is now time to have your pets tested and started on a heartworm preventative. For those that don't know, heartworm is a parasite that is carried by mosquitoes. The infected mosquito bites an unprotected dog and injects the parasite into the dog's body. The heartworm migrates through the bloodstream to the dog's heart and grows there. This growth can impair the function of the heart leading to heart disease. It is a very serious and, unfortunately, prevalent disease-yet very preventable.

To prevent this disease you should have your pet tested in the spring before the emergence of the mosquitoes, then start your pet on a preventative. There are two basic types of preventative for heartworm: every day tablets(Filaribits), and once a month tablets(Heartgard/Interceptor). The Heartgard product is also available in a chewable form that is made to taste like a treat to the dog. Heartgard Plus and the Interceptor products also protect against other internal parasites.

Although heartworm disease is primarily found in dogs, the disease is also found in cats in areas where the disease is common. A new test is available to veterinarians this year that makes feline heartworm testing possible. Testing of domestic cats for heartworm is a good idea is symptoms are exhibited or if the prevalence of canine heartworm disease in the area is extremely high. A feline heartworm disease preventative is also available for the first time this year. Manufactured by Merck & Co., Heartgard for cats is given once a month and is effective in the prevention of heartworm disease in domestic cats.

If you have already had your pet tested and started on a preventative, Great! If not, Don't wait! Protect your pets from this terrible and potentially fatal disease. Contact your veterinarian for the preventative schedule recommended for your region.


Easter is No Time for Surprise Pet Gifts


As Easter approaches, you may consider buying a cuddly Easter bunny, duckling, or chick for a loved one. Although these baby animals are adorable, they eventually grow into less adorable rabbits, ducks, and chickens. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) asks you to consider the responsibilities involved before giving these animals as Easter presents.

Baby ducks and chicks require at least two to three hours of basic, daily care to become domesticated. They need to be handled and petted when they are young to adjust to their new home. When they become adults, their owners need to be aware of any behavioral changes that may indicate sickness. Also, leaving your new pet unsupervised in the presence of a family dog or cat could result in injury or death to the animal.

Cleaning the animal's quarters is a crucial part of keeping the animal healthy. A sanitary shelter, indoor or outdoor, must be provided to protect the new pet from predators, other pets, and weather. The structure should be large enough to allow the animal space to roam, while enclosed to provide protection. Almost all diseases can be traced to poor facilities and neglect. Health care for a rabbit, duck, or chicken is very different than that of a dog or cat. Exotic pets aren't vaccinated for many diseases because it is not economical to develop the serums. Ducks and chickens are carriers of salmonellosis and can transfer the disease to humans through their feces. Health care relies on strong commitment, daily observation, and periodic visits to your veterinarian.

The American Animal Hospital Association asks you to think before you give. What may seem like a good idea at the time, could turn out to be a liability in the future. Make sure that the recipient wants the pet and is able to care for it before purchasing an Easter bunny, duckling, or chick as a gift.


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