Pet Care Tips
Parasites
Parasites are a common issue for dogs and cats in Virginia, affecting both their health and well-being. Here's a summary of the most common parasites:
Internal Parasites
Intestinal Parasites: These include roundworms, hookworms, and protozoal organisms. They live in the intestinal tract and can cause diarrhea, malnutrition, and anemia.
Heartworms: These parasites live in the heart and lungs, causing severe cardiovascular damage. They are transmitted by mosquitoes and can be fatal if untreated.
External Parasites
Fleas: Fleas go through four stages of development and can cause itching, skin infections, and transmit other parasites. Managing fleas involves regular vacuuming, washing pet bedding, and using recommended treatments.
Ticks: Ticks can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and cause skin irritation. Regular checks and using tick prevention products are essential.
Prevention and Treatment
Regular Vet Visits: Regular check-ups can help detect and treat parasites early.
Preventive Medications: Using prescribed medications can prevent heartworm, flea, and tick infestations.
Hygiene: Keeping your pet's living area clean and practicing good hygiene can reduce the risk of parasite infestations.
Heartworms
Why Heartworm Prevention is Crucial:
Serious Health Risks: Heartworms can cause severe damage to your pet's heart, lungs, and blood vessels, leading to serious health issues and even death if left untreated.
Prevalence: Mosquitoes, which carry heartworm larvae, are common in our area, making prevention essential.
Year-Round Prevention is Critical: Administering heartworm preventative medication year-round is the best way to protect your pet. These medications are safe, effective, and easy to use.
Cost-Effective: Preventative medication is far more affordable and less stressful than treating an advanced heartworm infection.
What You Can Do:
Year-Round Prevention: Administering heartworm preventative medication year-round is the best way to protect your pet. These medications are safe, effective, and easy to use.
Regular Vet Visits: Schedule regular check-ups to ensure your pet remains healthy and to catch any potential issues early.
We are here to help you choose the best preventative options for your pet. Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions to kablackvet@gmail.com
Spay/Neuter Information
Health Benefits of Spaying and Neutering Your Pet:
****Spaying and neutering your pet is a responsible and beneficial decision for their health and well-being. Dr. Kablack takes into account each pet's unique breed and health status before referring your pet for the procedure.*****
For Female Pets (Spaying):
🐾Prevent uterine infections and cancer (e.g. pyometra)
🐾Reduces the risk of mammary tumors, especially if done before the first heat cycle.
🐾 Eliminates heat cycles, avoiding behaviors like vocalization and restlessness.
For Male Pet (Neutering):
🐾 Prevents testicular cancer and reduces prostate problems.
🐾 Decreases aggressive behaviors and urge to roam in search of mates.
🐾 Reduces marking, neutered dogs are less likely to mark their territory with urine.
For Both:
🐾 Increase lifespan and promotes overall health.
🐾 Helps control pet overpopulation.
Below is a list of Low Cost Spay and Neuter Clinics in the area.
Smoky’s Spay & Neuter Clinic
7088 Mechanicsville Turnpike
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
804-368-6232
Smoky's Spay & Neuter Clinic - Richmond SPCA
Virginia Kincheloe Spay & Neuter Clinic Kincheloe South At The Jessica Beath Clinic
452 TV Drive 12300 Farrington
Fredericksburg, VA 22408 Ashland, VA 23005
540-507-7461 804-752-7729
Home | Virginia Kincheloe Home | Virginia Kincheloe
***Limited hours at Ashland Clinic, please call and read confirmation emails for hours and drop off times.
Prevent A Litter Veterinary Hospital Helping Hands
3421 W. Cary Street 1605 Rhoadmiller Street
Richmond, VA 23221 Richmond, VA 23220
804-359-6369 (804) 355-3500
How to Schedule (preventalitter.org) Email : info@affordablepetsurgery.com
Best Veterinary Surgery In Richmond, VA | Helping Hands