On This Page-NEW ANTI-NAUSEA AND ANTIBIOTIC DRUGS AVAILABLE;  PROTECT YOUR CAT FROM HEARTWORMS;  DANGER OF SUGAR-FREE FOODS;  CHOOSING A CAT CARRIER;  NEW DENTAL VACCINE PREVENTS PERIODONTAL DISEASE

New drug for nausea (and car sickness!); 2 week antibiotic injection means no more pills

Pfizer has developed two new drugs significantly improving the lives of dogs and cats.  Cerenia, a highly effective anti-nausea drug, is effective for most causes of nausea, including car sickness.  Owners often avoid taking their dogs in the car if they drool and vomit unless absolutely necessary.  Now, car trips can be more pleasant for you and your dog.  If your dog suffers from car sickness, contact our hospital to discuss trying this new drug.  Convenia is an injectable antibiotic which lasts for two weeks.  If determined appropriate by your veterinarian, Convenia replaces medicating your pet up to 3 times a day at home.  No more hiding pills from your pet and trying to remember to give every dose.  Convenia makes treating certain types of infection much more "convenient"!!

Protect your indoor or outdoor cat from parasites, including heartworm disease.

Recent studies have shown that cats are infected with heartworm larvae much more than previously thought.  In the northeast U.S., up to 8% of cats (that's almost 1 out of every 10) will be infected with heartworm, 40% of those are indoor only cats.  Since cats' immune systems usually remove the larvae from their system, they often do not develop adult heartworms.  However, new studies have shown that the initial larval infection damages cats' lungs.  If sufficient damage occurs, asthma-like symptoms result.  The American Heartworm Society and the American Association of Feline Practitioners recommend that ALL cats be on heartworm preventative.  Revolution, a monthly topical liquid, prevents heartworm infection, as well fleas & ticks, and prevents/treats roundworm, hookworms, and ear mites.  Revolution is available by prescription only.  Contact us if you'd like more information.

Sugar-Free foods are dangerous for dogs.

Sugar-free foods containing xylitol, a naturally occurring sugar substitute, have been shown to cause liver failure and may be fatal if eaten by dogs.  The exact process by which xylitol affects the liver is unknown; however, there is no doubt that it can cause liver failure in dogs.   If your dog ingests any foods containing xylitol, contact a veterinarian or animal poison control immediately.

Choosing the right carrier for your cat.

Your cat's carrier experience may be partly affected by the type of carrier you choose.  A top loading carrier may be easier to get your cat into and out of.  Soft-sided carriers are more comfortable for some cats, especially if the cat is jostled during transport.  Soft carriers may have less ventilation and, if a heavy object lands on it, are more likely to be crushed.  Hard-sided carriers are more sturdy and are required by airlines.  Wheeled carriers are easier to move; however, the sounds & vibrations produced by the wheels may scare some cats.  Cat's generally do not like confinement, so be sure the carrier is large enough for the size of your cat.  If the trip will be longer, provide a carrier large enough to place a litter pan and water in with the cat.  Placing the cat's bed, a toy, or some catnip may make the carrier more appealing.  Whichever carrier you choose, introducing the carrier prior to travel and giving your cat a treat when going in the carrier may help.

Dental vaccine aids in dental care.

Pfizer has developed a new vaccine for dogs to help prevent periodontal disease.  They found that in the majority of dogs with periodontal infection, a group of bacteria known as porphyromonas were causing the infections.  The vaccine stimulates a dog's immune system to control growth of these bacteria thereby preventing gum & bone recession and tooth loss.  Regular professional cleanings and at-home dental care are still the most important ways to maintain dental health.  However, the vaccine can be used to help prevent infection in those dogs prone to dental disease, typically small breed dogs and greyhounds.  It is best to start the vaccine prior to developing irreversible periodontal disease, typically around 1 to 2 years of age. In dogs with existing disease, the vaccine can be used to slow progression, especially after a professional cleaning.  Talk to our doctors to discuss whether your dog would benefit from this vaccine.