If one pet has parasites, do all pets in the home need to receive treatment? - Haywood Road Animal Hospital
It depends on the type of parasite and how long the infected pet has been exposed to the other pets in the home. The safest answer is to treat all pets, as it is difficult to determine which pets have the parasite. However, you can also bring your other pets or a fecal sample to the veterinarian to determine if treatment is necessary.
What are the treatments for dog parasites? - Haywood Road Animal Hospital
The most common treatment for parasites is a liquid dewormer. The type of dewormer used depends on the specific parasite. Pyrantel, a yellow liquid, is commonly used for the majority of parasites. However, some parasites may require a pill or a different looking liquid. These treatments are usually easy to give and short-lived.
How often does my cat need dental checkups at the veterinarian? - Haywood Veterinary Hospital
During every wellness exam, the veterinarian will also examine your cat's teeth. They will check for tartar buildup, missing or fractured teeth, and other dental issues. Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining your cat's oral health.
My cat seems healthy - does she really need a wellness exam? - Haywood Veterinary Hospital
Yes, even if your cat appears healthy, it is essential to have wellness exams since cats are skilled at hiding symptoms. During a checkup, a veterinarian might detect a hidden health issue through a simple examination of the heart, lungs, or abdomen. Therefore, annual wellness exams play a crucial role in your cat's overall health.
Do kittens need more wellness exams than adult cats? - Haywood Veterinary Hospital
Yes, kittens require more frequent exams during their first few months of life as they are rapidly growing and developing. These visits ensure that everything is changing and maturing at the right pace. Additionally, kittens need booster vaccinations to build proper immunity for adulthood.
Is there ever a reason cats will need more than one annual wellness check? - Haywood Veterinary Hospital
Yes, when cats are young and in their kitten stages, they need more frequent exams and vaccinations. As they get older and reach their senior years, it is a good idea to have wellness checks every six months since their health can change more rapidly.
How often should my cat get a wellness exam? - Haywood Veterinary Hospital
Ideally, your cat should have a wellness exam once a year, similar to how you would go to your doctor for a physical exam. Annual checkups are optimal for maintaining your cat's health.
What are baseline diagnostic tests and how do they help my dog? - Haywood Veterinary Hospital
Baseline diagnostic tests include blood work and urine testing. Blood work checks red and white blood cells, glucose levels, kidney function, electrolytes, protein levels, liver values, pancreatic function, and thyroid function. Urine tests help detect urinary tract infections, crystals, and other issues. Heartworm and tick-borne disease tests may also be performed during routine wellness exams to ensure the dog's overall health.
How do dog wellness exams influence subsequent treatments? - Haywood Veterinary Hospital
The wellness exam's findings will determine the course of action for treating any issues that may arise. For example, if a urinary tract infection is discovered, antibiotics may be prescribed, or if coughing is detected, x-rays might be taken to explore further. The specific treatments will depend on the individual dog and the conditions found during the exam.
How long do dog wellness exams usually take? - Haywood Veterinary Hospital
Dog wellness exams typically take about 30 minutes, which allows adequate time for the technician to gather a full history, the doctor to perform the exam, administer any necessary vaccines, and answer any questions you may have.