AAHA Newsletter
For more pet health information, please consult the American Animal Hospital Association newsletter.




Vaccinations

Keeping your pet's vaccinations up-to-date is your first line of defense in ensuring your pet's health. Based on your animal's lifestyle and risk of exposure, veterinarians at GAH can best advise you on a proper vaccination protocol. Fecal Float Test

A fecal float (parasite) test looks for intestinal parasites including the five major types found in dogs and cats: roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, giardia, and coccidia. Young animals and senior pets are at the greatest risk. Some parasites, such as roundworms, are zoonotic, i.e., they are transmittable to humans. Gehrman Animal Hospital recommends a fecal float (parasite) test every six months, and requires it prior to boarding in our facility.




Heartworm Prevention

Spread by the mosquito, heartworm disease (HWD) affects the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels of infected animals. Dogs and cats can both get HWD. Dogs are considered to be at the greatest risk for development of adult worms in the heart but new evidence shows that cats can get severe blood vessel disease in the lungs from heartworm. An annual heartworm blood test is required in dogs before starting heartworm preventive whereas cats are not routinely tested. Gehrman Animal Hospital, in accordance with the Companion Animal Parasite Council, recommends year-round prevention.

---

Fleas and Ticks
Flea and tick prevention is essential for optimal health of your pet. Sensitivity to fleas is one of the major causes of allergies in pets. Tick-borne illnesses such as Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis pose additional threats. Gehrman Animal Hospital recommends Frontline Plus© as a monthly topical application from April through November for flea and tick prevention. 





Allergies
The most common allergens in pets are pollens, fleas, dust mites, and mold. As in people, allergies are managed rather than cured. Signs of allergies include excessive scratching, hair loss, chewing and licking of the feet. Ear infections and over-active anal sacs are commonly seen with allergies. The veterinarians at Gehrman Animal Hospital can work with you to best manage this uncomfortable condition.





Dental Health
Pets in good dental health live longer and happier lives. Many factors influence your pet's dental health including breed, diet, and your care of your pet's teeth. Left unchecked, bacteria from oral infections have a clear path to the animal's bloodstream and vital organs. 




Diarrhea and Vomiting
Many things can cause the occasional bout of diarrhea. Your first course of action is the case of diarrhea is to withhold food for 12-24 hours. If your pet is doing better after that time, offer him a bland diet such as boiled chicken and  rice. If blood is present in the diarrhea, seek help immediately.

If vomiting, withhold food and water for 12-24 hours and then try a bland diet.  If blood is present in the vomit, seek help immediately.  Vomiting and diarrhea can be signs of other conditions. Observe your pet closely.  For more information, see Veterinary Partner, but if concerned, seek medical attention.

Gehrman Animal Hospital offers general information and is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should consult your veterinarian before starting any course of treatment, and should consult with your veterinarian about any concerns or questions.