This season, be sure to protect your pet.
It’s that time of year again where the leaves return to the trees, the sun comes out and we can shed our winter coats! Our pets are excited to enjoy the warmer weather, and in this season it is important to remember to protect your pet against internal and external parasites. Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and can be fatal if untreated.
However, it is easily prevented with a monthly preventative, given year round. The American Heartworm Society recommends annual testing for heartworm disease, which is a simple blood test that can be performed at your veterinarian’s office.
It is also important to protect your dog or cat from fleas and ticks. Flea and tick preventatives can be given orally or applied topically once a month. Your veterinarian can help determine the best choice for your pet. Be aware that online pharmacies or chain stores may stock these products, but lack the expertise that your vet can provide as far as the product selection, safe dosing and weight restrictions for certain products.
Be cautious when ordering online, as some products obtained from online pharmacies may be expired or even counterfeit. Your veterinarian may offer rebates or incentives that rival that of online pricing. In addition, guarantees exist from the manufacturer which cover treatment should your pet become infected while on preventative. These guarantees are negated if you do not purchase the product from your veterinarian.
When in doubt, ask your family vet to determine the best prevention for your pet and your family, so that everyone stays healthy and happy while enjoying the warmer weather!
