Preventing disease in our pets - whose responsibility is it?



Is it mine, as a vet?  Is it yours, as a pet owner?



The answer?  --- Both of us. We need to work together, as a team to keep your family pet healthy.



What are preventable diseases? Obviously, these are diseases that can be prevented, simply, easily and affordably.  So why do our pets still suffer from them?  Why do I, and other vets, still see these preventable diseases?



There are vaccines against the fatal viruses that affect our dogs, cats and rabbits. 



There are effective worming medications to kill intestinal worms, and prevent Heartworm Disease.



There are amazing, effective flea and tick control therapies, with new ones being made available all the time ( as our fleas/ticks adapt so quickly, they are able to develop resistance to products that were effective even five years ago).



All I can do as a vet is to let you know what is available, and what is effective.   I can only do that if I get the opportunity to see you and your pet on a regular basis.  That is why it is up to both of us.



As we are heading into warmer weather, we are also heading into the higher risk for gastrointestinal disease (virus driven and food poisoning).   Watch for parasites (slugs, ants, flies) infecting food, and make sure all food bowls are cleaned between feeding.



Slugs can also carry a parasite that can cause neurological disease in our dogs and cats (and people too).



But, be careful with the rat and snail baits that you may choose to lay out - they can cause poisoning in non target species (like our dogs and cats (and birds). 



What about bones?  Bones are 21% fat (believe it or not), and are difficult to digest - so on hot days, please do not give your pet bones.  It is the most common cause of the constipated pet  in summer, and is a true preventable summer problem.



And don't forget the most common preventable disease of all - dental disease. Take advantage of our free dental checks all year round, as our pets hide dental pain very effectively.



Yours

Dr Liz

We recently treated a mother dog with Parvovirus. Her puppies at the time of writing are OK, but they are still at risk themselves, though we are taking all steps to protect them. 



Prior to this, the last pet I treated was over 8 years ago - I thought it was a disease long gone from our area.



Parvovirus destroys the lining of the intestine, so that the dog dies of dehydration of severe bloody vomiting and diarrhoea.



Treatment includes aggressive intravenous fluid therapy, anti-vomiting medication and nutritional support.



Cost of treatment can be anywhere from $1000 to $4000 or even more.



This is a PREVENTABLE disease, with vaccinations available at all veterinary hospitals.



It is for this reason that we recommend all pets remain current on their vaccinations or be aware of their pet's vaccine status through titre testing.