Vaccines Heartworm Lyme Disease Fleas & Ticks Stool Sample Prescription Pet Food

A: Dogs: Puppies receive a series of 3 vaccines at 8, 12 and 16 weeks; that consist of DHPP, Lepto, Bordetella and Rabies. Adult dogs receive shots annually. The Rabies vaccine is effective for three years in adult dogs. The core vaccines are DHPP and Rabies. Lepto and Bordetella are administered if the dog is at risk for these diseases. Risk factors are discussed on a case by case basis.

Cats: Kittens receive a series of 3 vaccines at 8, 12 & 16 weeks. They consist of FVRCP, FELV & Rabies. Adult cats receive vaccines annually. The Rabies vaccine is effective for 3 years in adult cats. The core vaccines are FVRCP and rabies. The FELV vaccine is given if the cat regularly goes outdoors unattended.

Q: How often should my dog be tested for heartworm?

A: It is recommended that you have your dog tested every 12 months (even if they are taking a heartworm preventative).

Q: How often should my dog be treated with a heartworm preventative?

A: Heartworm preventative should be given each month throughout the year. If you have missed giving the medicine for more than two months, your dog must be retested before treatment can be resumed. If the dog has contracted heartworm during the inactive treatment time severe consequences could result from giving the medication, up to and including death.

Q: What heartworm medication does 4CAH recommend?

A: 4CAH sells and endorses Heartgard Plus products. This medicine is safe for all types of dogs. It is available in three different doeses, based on weight (0-25lbs, 26-50lbs & 51-100lbs).

Q: When is my dog tested for Lyme Disease?

A: The test is done annually, always when a heartworm test is performed. We use a "3DX" test. If positive for Lyme Disease, your dog my be required to take an antibiotic and provide a urine sample for testing. Once positive, the dog is re-tested every 6-12 months for a reoccurance of the disease, and treated appropriately.

Q: How do I prevent fleas & ticks on my pet?

A: 4CAH endorses and sells Frontline Plus for this purpose. It must be applied monthly, continuously year round, as ticks that carry Lyme Disease can be seen even in the winter.

Q: How often does Four Corners Animal Hospital recommend a stool sample be tested for intestinal parasites?

A: All pets should be tested annually. This is to prevent the presence of dangerous parasites within the pet as well as those that can be transmitted to humans from animals. This is especially true for small children & immuno compromised or older adults.

Q: What type of prescription pet food does 4CAH recommend?

A: 4CAH endorses and sells Purina prescription pet food. We also prescribe other types of prescription food such as Royal Canin and Eukanuba.

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