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Services & Pet Care Information

Maintaining good health for your cat or dog should begin right away. Your pet faces health threats from a variety of sources. Fortunately, there are vaccinations to prevent many diseases, and our expertise can help with other injuries and illnesses.

View the links below to learn more about keeping your pet health.

Vaccinations - What Every Pet Owner Should Know
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Courtesy of Fort Dodge Animal Health

Introduction
As a responsible pet owner, maintaining your pet's health is a primary concern. In addition to providing a loving environment and a quality diet, prevention of infectious disease is one of the most important steps you can take to keep your pet illness free. Through routine regular checkups, your veterinarian is able to evaluate your pet's health needs and plan an appropriate preventive health program, including vaccinations. Maintaining a routine schedule of physical examinations and vaccinations, provides your pet with the best possible chance to resist the common diseases they encounter.

This article discusses common questions regarding infectious diseases, prevention of illness and the importance, effectiveness, and risks associated with vaccinations. Please read this information carefully and direct any additional questions to your veterinarian or one of their staff members.

What are infectious diseases?
Infectious diseases are caused by microscopic organisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. These germs invade and multiply within your pet's body, or in some cases, on the skin surface and cause illness. If your pet's immune system does not stop an infection and it is left untreated, many infectious diseases can cause serious, permanent damage, including death.

How is my pet exposed to disease causing organisms?
Many diseases are transmitted to susceptible animals by an infected animal in various ways, including close contact, sneezing, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. Healthy- appearing animals may also spread disease-causing germs, without showing any signs of illness themselves. People can spread infected diseases also, by coming in contact with an infected animal or fluids. They may unknowingly carry the disease-causing germs on their hands, clothing or shoes to an unsuspecting and unprotected pet. This is particularly true with common diseases such as canine parvovirus and feline ringworm.

Some bacteria, viruses and fungi can remain infectious for very long periods in the environment without an animal host. In these cases, animals can be exposed to infectious diseases without coming in contact with another animal or person.

As you can see, there are numerous opportunities for your pet to be exposed to disease-causing organisms. When such exposures occur, their immune system must be prepared to protect them from severe illness or death.

How does the immune system fight disease?
When an animal is exposed to infectious organisms, the immune system is called upon to prevent infection by forming antibodies. These antibodies then fight off the invading organisms.

What are vaccines and how do they work?
Vaccines are made by killing or altering the disease-causing germs so that they no longer create illness. When they are injected in the form of a vaccine, they cause the immune system to stimulate the production of antibodies and "memory cells" specific for that disease. In this way, vaccines prepare the immune system to be ready to stop infections and prevent illness quickly when the "real" disease strikes. It is important to realize that vaccines, by themselves, do not prevent disease. Vaccines only act as a "trigger" to stimulate the immune system. It is up to the animal's immune system to actually prevent infection and disease.

If I have my pet vaccinated, does that mean it win never get sick?
There are literally thousands of microscopic organisms that can cause illness in our pets. Therefore, it is not possible to vaccinate for every possible infectious disease. However, vaccines have been developed to assist your animal's immune system in pre- venting the most common and serious diseases.

Although modern vaccines are highly effective, not every vaccinated animal will be equally protected. Some animal's immune systems will respond very well to vaccination, while others may not develop a high level of protection. Due to this variation in response, it is impossible for vaccination to prevent all disease. In addition, some animals may be exposed to such high numbers of infectious microorganisms that their immune system is overwhelmed and they become ill. Fortunately, the vast majority of vaccinated pets will be protected.

Why are multiple boosters given in the initial series?
The need for multiple boosters is especially important in young animals. Their immune system may not respond as quickly or as effectively as an adult's. In addition, they receive antibodies through their mother's first milk (colostrum) that protects them from infectious disease during the critical first months of life. Unfortunately, these maternal antibodies also react with vaccines and may reduce the vaccine's effectiveness. These first antibodies have a short and variable life span and decline over several months time. Giving multiple vaccinations to young animals helps to insure that they have the best possible opportunity to respond to develop protection when they are most vulnerable.

Why are boosters given over the lifetime of my pet?
Generally, immune protection declines after a period of time. Revaccination intervals can vary depending on your pets risk of exposure, the type of vaccine used, your pet's age and its health status. The precise interval between revaccinations will be determined by your veterinarian. Historically, yearly revaccination intervals have been effective in controlling many infectious diseases.

Are there risks associated with vaccination?
Although rare, an animal can experience complications from vaccination. Most of these reactions are transitory, but some can be life-threatening. Various components of vaccines are foreign to the body, as a result, some individuals may react to normal vaccination in unexpected and abnormal ways.

The most common side-effects of vaccination in pets are a low grade fever, depression or a decreased appetite. These effects are often short-lived and self-limiting, usually lasting only 24 to 48 hours and require no treatment. Such symptoms are not unlike what many humans experience after receiving an influenza or tetanus inoculation. Although not expected in every animal, these mild symptoms are signals that you should monitor your pet's progress but, by themselves, should not be cause for alarm. Vomiting, diarrhea, itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or extremities and hives are more serious signs of allergic reactions. Allergic reactions usually occur within a matter of minutes to a few hours after vaccination. These more severe signs should be reported to your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian can then determine whether additional close observation or treatment is indicated.

Please advise your veterinarian if your pet has experienced an allergic reaction to vaccinations in the past, so that they can take precautions to minimize the risk if additional boosters are given.

Abnormal reactions to vaccinations are rare. The benefits of providing protection against serious infectious diseases greatly outweigh the risks associated with vaccination. In order to minimize the risk associated with vaccination, consider scheduling your pet's inoculations when you can spend several hours with your pet after vaccination. By observing your pet's behavior after vaccines are given, you can contact your veterinarian if complications should arise,

Your Veterinarian is committed to your pet's health.
You have entrusted your veterinarian with the care of a valuable family member. This brochure is provided to assist you to be more informed about the recommendations of your veterinarian regarding your pet's preventive health program. Ask your veterinarian or their staff members any additional questions you have regarding your pet's needs.

Now is the time when your cat needs you most. By giving him a little extra attention, thoughtfulness and care, you can help him live comfortably and happily throughout his senior years.

When is Your Cat Elderly?

As with people, it's impossible to predict exactly when "old age" will arrive. In general, though, a 10-year-old cat is roughly the equivalent of a 60-year-old human. That doesn't mean that your pet is necessarily old, but it probably means that significant physiological changes have begun to take place.

The aging process is gradual in pets and varies greatly among individual cats. It is influenced by variations in metabolism, genetics, and other factors we can't control. It is possible, however, to have a positive influence on your cat's aging and longevity, especially if you start early.

Choose a veterinarian when your cat is young and begin a program of regular veterinary visits. Professional health care - administered over a lifetime can improve the quality and length of your cat's life. A well-balanced, nutritionally complete diet will also help him withstand the trials of old age with a stronger constitution.

Spaying or neutering at an early age may also help extend your cat's life. In fact, altered cats live one and one-half to two times longer than intact cats. Cats may enjoy a healthier, longer life if kept indoors, safe from the dangers of automobiles, disease, dogs, and cat fights. Under ideal conditions, your cat may live 18 to 20 years. Some cats with good care, nutrition and strong family genes make it well into their twenties.

Your Veterinarian

There is no ally more helpful in assuring your pet a long and healthful life than your veterinarian. Annual physical checkups are strongly recommended throughout your cat’s lifetime. If you have followed such a program, your veterinarian will know your cat's medical history and be better equipped to help in times of illness. Once your cat reaches the age of eight to ten, annual or even semi-annual veterinary visits become extremely important. With professional training and sophisticated diagnostic equipment, your veterinarian can detect conditions that may not be apparent to you. Early diagnosis, treatment and management of disease and illness can make a difference for your aging friend.

Be Alert

Your veterinarian has the medical expertise, but you know your cat better than anyone else. When he is curled up contentedly in your lap, let your stroking serve as a gentle, home examination. If you follow this practice regularly, you will be able to detect growths, tumors, areas of inflammation, or parasites before they have a chance to become a serious problem.

Also, be on the lookout for significant changes in behavior or appearance. A sudden crankiness in an otherwise sweet-tempered cat, a loss of appetite, or a rough haircoat may suggest that something ails him. Don't wait until your pet is desperately ill to contact your veterinarian. Call if any of the following symptoms are present:

Danger Signals

• Constipation or diarrhea lasting for longer than 48 hours

• Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours

• Vomiting, gagging, sneezing or coughing repeatedly

• Gasping or shortness of breath

• Looking or acting sick (red, watery eyes; dull, rough coat; sluggish; abnormal hiding)

• Progressive weight loss over a period of two to four weeks, or a slow but steady weight loss over a longer period

• Reddened or swollen gums due to accumulated tartar or loose or infected teeth (usually accompanied by problems with eating)

• Drinking or urinating excessively

• Straining to urinate

Nutrition and Feeding

Cat owners need to be aware that cats have unique nutritional needs. For this reason, don't make the mistake of feeding dog food to your cat. Even human food, when served as a sole ration, can cause a nutritional imbalance. The safest way to give your pet the appropriate balance of nutrients is to feed him high-quality commercial foods such as the Friskies PetCare line of cat foods that have been scientifically formulated for cats. And remember, plenty of fresh water is essential for cats of any age.

Nutrition

Maintain a fairly strict feeding schedule -- cats like routine. They pace themselves pretty well, so obesity is not as much a concern for cats as it is with dogs. However, senior cats are susceptible to weight gain because of their slower metabolism and decreased activity level. Fat cats aren't healthy cats. Obesity can intensify lameness, put a strain on their hearts, make them poor surgical risks, and reduce the quality of life in general.

Don't leave extra food around or set out more than your cat needs. If you notice your cat gaining weight (when you are unable to feel his ribs), slowly reduce his food intake. Avoid indulging him in constant snacks and treats. Feed him often and in small quantities. If you're in doubt about how much to cut back, ask your veterinarian.

Tips For Feeding Your Senior Cat

• Good nutrition is extremely important to your cat.

• The quantity of food should be adjusted to meet your senior cat's decreasing activity level.

• Do not give your cat vitamin and mineral supplements without your veterinarian's recommendation.

• Elderly cats may develop health conditions that require special diets. These must be prescribed by your veterinarian.

• Your senior cat may lose some of his sense of smell and taste, and may have little interest in his food. You may need to tempt him with a favorite treat.

• Progressive weight loss can be a serious problem in older cats. It's important to monitor your cat's weight and keep a record of any changes.

• Keep a bowl of fresh water available at all times.

Stress

As cats get older, they have more difficulty adapting to stress and anxiety. Sudden disruptions in routine are particularly upsetting to them. New voices, loud noises, changes in diet, a move to a new house, an unusually unorganized or chaotic household -- all of these environmental changes can take their toll on your aging pet.

Stress and anxiety do more than cause an older cat a little discomfort; they can speed up the aging process and even contribute to illness.

You should be aware of stress-provoking situations and try to avoid them if possible.

Holidays

The crowds of people and activities associated with the holidays can be highly stressful for your senior cat. If he wishes to celebrate his holiday underneath the bed or in some other favorite refuge, by all means let him. Respect his desire for peace and privacy: Protect him from energetic children who insist on ferreting him out of his sanctuary in order to lavish on him their well-meaning but unwelcome affections. Depending on his temperament, such demands can be too great for him at his age.

Traveling and Boarding

Most cats, especially elderly ones, simply cannot tolerate travel. If your cat is the exception to the rule, he may continue to travel with you well into his old age. However, the time may come when your pet is better off at home. Exposure to strange environments can produce health hazards and, inevitably, a certain amount of stress even for the veteran traveler. If your aging cat is not accustomed to travel, don't even consider taking him along.

The same is true for boarding. If your pet has been boarded frequently and is familiar with one cattery, it may seem like a home-away-from-home to him. If not, a first-time boarding experience can be truly traumatic for a senior cat. Try to find a responsible person to stay with your pet in his own environment. If boarding is a must, select a facility that will provide a caring and serene environment. Take along a favorite blanket or a few familiar toys -- something that will remind him of home. You might even stay with him a little while to provide a transition. Once you leave, don't spend your time worrying about him. Cats have an uncanny ability to "turn off' when it suits them. He will probably curl up and sleep away most of the hours until you return.

Sickness

Sickness itself is highly stressful, and being away from home in a pet hospital -- no matter how good -- only makes it worse. That's why many veterinarians recommend that sick cats be cared for at home if their condition allows. They fare better in their own familiar environment, and the management of illness can be handled by telephone discussions and return visits to your veterinarian.

Common Ailments

If your senior cat has been with you since he was a kitten, you've probably seen him through the sniffles, periodic bouts of diarrhea and occasional bites and scrapes. He probably bounced back quickly. Now that he's older he may not be able to shrug off disease as easily as he once did. You can help by learning about some of the common geriatric ailments that can cause trouble.

Eye and Ear Disorders

Eye discoloration in senior cats is often a normal part of the aging process. Usually it does not interfere with vision and does not need treatment. Some cats develop cataracts, but they are relatively uncommon.

If your pet's eyes become red and watery, the problem could be conjunctivitis. If the condition persists, consult your veterinarian. Seeing and hearing may diminish with age -- one more reason you should not allow your cat to roam out- doors. At home, be patient if he doesn't always respond to your call, and don't frighten him by suddenly coming up behind him unannounced.

Teeth and Gum Disease

It is important to care for the health of your cat's teeth and gums, starting when he is young. Tartar build-up and enamel erosion are the main causes of serious gum disease. Your veterinarian can show you how to brush your cat's teeth. It's the most effective way to control tartar buildup. A finger brush, pet toothbrush or child's soft toothbrush along with a pet toothpaste is the best combination. Your cat will need regular teeth cleaning by your veterinarian, especially when he gets older. If your cat begins to favor one side of his mouth, or if he suddenly stops eating as if his mouth is sore, have your veterinarian take a look.

Tumors

Tumors can occur in nearly any part of a cat's body, but you should pay special attention to persistent swelling or inflammation in mammary glands, particularly in unspayed females. Early detection and treatment gives your cat the best chance to survive tumors or cancer.

Kidney Disease

If your cat begins to drink excessively and urinate frequently, he might be suffering from kidney disease, a common disorder among older cats. There may even be occasional accidents outside the litter box. If this happens, don't label your pet senile or naughty -- he may be under extreme pressure and unable to hold his urine. Make sure that a litter box is accessible at all times, and keep it clean. Cats are impeccable by nature. See to it that your cat gets all the water he needs. Report any symptoms to your veterinarian.

Heart Trouble

Though not common, heart disease can strike the geriatric cat. Lack of energy, not wanting to move or be moved, coughing, and labored breathing are all possible clues. Prompt medical attention is required. Your veterinarian will outline the proper treatment protocol for your cat.

Constipation

Occasional constipation in aging cats is not unusual, but if it persists, consult your veterinarian. Prolonged constipation could be a sign of something more serious.

Caring for Your Sick Cat Grooming

Because sick cats may also stop grooming themselves, you may have to offer some assistance. Occasionally grooming his coat will keep him clean, and will also keep his coat from becoming matted. If his rectal area is soiled, gently cleanse it with warm water to remove the fecal material. The extra attention to his coat will make him feel much better.

Nutrition

Sick cats often lose their appetites. Enticing them to eat will take creativity and patience. Moist or canned foods are usually most appealing to the sick cat. The high palatability and the soft, moist texture of Friskies Fancy Feast canned cat food has made it a frequently recommended diet for sick cats. Find any variety that will stimulate your cat's appetite. It is also very important to keep fresh water and food available at all times -- and don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian if your cat is not eating or drinking.

Taking Your Cat's Temperature

To take your cat's temperature, use a rectal thermometer lubricated with petroleum jelly. Insert the thermometer into the rectum so that the tip is covered (about half the length) and hold in place for two minutes. Normal temperature ranges from 100.50 -102.5°F. It may take two people to do this job. If no help is available, wrap a towel around the cat to immobilize him. If you can free one hand, scratch him gently behind the ears. This has a miraculously calming effect.

Administering Medication

Your veterinarian will instruct you on the proper procedure to administer medicine. Your Cat's Changing Ways -- How You Can Help

Warmth

As your old friend's metabolism slows down, he craves warmth more than ever -- whether it's on a heat vent, a window sill, or in your lap. Help keep him warm. Make sure he has a cozy, dry bed away from drafts. He will also be sensitive to temperature extremes, so keep him indoors during periods of intense heat or cold.

Grooming

Your senior cat may lose interest in grooming, but he will look and feel better if he is clean. You may need to help him, if he will tolerate it. Bathing is usually not necessary; in fact, it can be very stressful for your cat. Regular grooming of his coat with a steel comb will help reduce matting of the haircoat. This will also stimulate the skin and give sheen to the coat.

Since your cat may not be as active, you'll probably want to keep his nails trimmed. You can snip off the tips of his nails with your own nail clippers, or you can ask your veterinarian to do the job.

Change your cat's litter often. Cleanliness means everything as your aging cat gradually becomes slower and more house-bound. Inexpensive carry-out trays purchased at restaurant supply stores work very well as disposable litter boxes. If your house is large or multi-storied, you may want to place litter trays in several rooms. Older cats can't move as quickly as they once did.

Play and Companionship

As your cat ages, he may become more sedentary and prefer the contemplative life near a sunny window. He probably won't play as much as he used to, and when he does, he may lose interest quickly. You might consider introducing a kitten to help spice up his life. If you do, be very careful. Don't neglect your old friend in favor of the lively new one, or you may find him jealous and resentful of the little new-comer. Handled well, however, this arrangement might well give your aging friend a new lease on life. A lively young companion might be just what he needs to make his sunset years as happy as his younger ones.

Now is the time to spend a little extra time with your old friend, assuring him that he's still loved. He'll want to get as close to you as possible -- partly because he needs more warmth and partly because he needs more attention, affection and assurance from you. He needs to know that you still love him just as much as you did on that day when a brand new kitten came into your life.

Care For Your Elderly Cat
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Courtesy of Friskies

Care of Your Senior Cat

Remember the day you brought home your new kitten? He was rambunctious and feisty: You were probably so bemused by his nimble antics that you never imagined he could become a mellow senior who prefers his cozy niche at home to the excitement of the chase.

But feisty kittens do age - just like the rest of us. Once they have joined the ranks of the elderly, they may complain occasionally, though in most cases they adjust to their infirmities with a minimum of fuss. They sleep more than they once did, and they seek extra attention and reassurance, but the signs of their aging are seldom dramatic. In fact, if you're not careful, you may overlook the fact that time is catching up with your old friend.

Canine Diseases You Should Know About
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Courtesy of Fort Dodge Animal Health

Dogs of all ages and breed may be at risk for one or several of the following diseases:

• Parvovirus
• Coronavirus
• Lyme Disease
• Distemper
• Hepatitis
• Parainfluenza
• Leptospirosis
• Infectious Tracheobronchitis
• Rabies

Parvovirus:
Parvovirus (more commonly known as Parvo) is a highly contagious disease which causes diarrhea and vomiting, and often leads to death. Parvo is most common in puppies, however, dogs of any age can be susceptible. Contaminated feces is the most common way to transmit parvo from one dog to another. Parvo can also be carried on the dog's hair and feet, as well as on contaminated cages, shoes, and other objects.

Coronavirus:
Coronavirus, next to Parvo, is the second leading cause of viral diarrhea. It affects dogs of all ages, puppies most severely. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, excessive thirst, weight loss and loss of appetite. It is possible for your dog to have both Coronavirus and Parvo at the same time. In fact, dual infections can lead to severe enteritis and death.

Lyme disease:
Lyme disease is a devastating bacterial disease which can cause permanent and painful disabilities in dogs. Symptoms include arthritis, sudden onset of severe pain and lameness, fever, lethargy, depression and loss of appetite. Severe forms of Lyme disease can affect the heart, brain, and kidney.

Distemper:
Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease. It affects the respiratory and the nervous systems, causing fever, lethargy, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and eventually death.

Hepatitis:
Hepatitis is a contagious disease of the liver. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Hepatitis can also cause severe kidney damage.

Leptospirosis:
Letospirosis is a bacterial disease carried by many wild animals. A dog can contract the disease from infected animals or by drinking contaminated water. Symptoms include high fever, jaundice, hemorrhaging, and bloodstained feces.

Infectious Tracheobronchitis:
Infectious Tracheobronchitis (most commonly known as Kennel Cough or ITB) is an acute and highly contagious disease. There are several organisms that can cause ITB. They are Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine parainfluenza (CPI), canine adenovirus 1 (CAV-l), canine adenovirus 2 (CAV-2), canine distemper virus (CDV), reovirus and small organisms called mycoplasma. These organisms may act alone or in combination; however the most commonly involved organisms are Bordetella, CPI and CAV-2. Symptoms include severe coughing spells sometimes followed by vomiting and gagging. The dog may also have watery eyes and/or a nasal discharge.

Rabies:
Rabies is probably the most feared disease. The rabies virus attacks the brain and is always fatal. Dogs are exposed to rabies by bites from wild animals particularly skunks, raccoons, bats, and foxes. Rabies can be transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected pet.

How can I protect my dog from these diseases?
The prevention of infectious disease is accomplished by maintaining high levels of general health, limiting exposure to possible sources of these infectious agents, and by the regular use of vaccines. Only your veterinarian can determine which vaccines are appropriate for your dog based on his age, lifestyle, and other factors. Schedule a health exam with your veterinarian so she/he can design a vaccination/disease prevention program to keep your dog happy and healthy for years to come.

Courtesy of Fort Dodge Laboratories

Q. What is Lyme disease?
A. Lyme disease, or Borreliosis, is a tick-borne bacterial disease affecting both humans and animals. First discovered in the United States in humans in 1975 and reported in dogs in 1984, Borreliosis has since spread rapidly across the country, affecting more victims every year. Lyme disease is caused by corkscrew-shaped bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi.

Q. How is Lyme disease transmitted?
A. The carriers, or vectors, of Borrelia burgdorferi which cause the disease are ticks. Ticks are blood-sucker parasites that draw their life from other creatures. When an infected tick bites, the bacterium is transferred to the blood of the host animal. (See illustrations at front of booklet.)

Q. Where is Lyme disease found?
A. Lyme disease has the potential to exist in any area where Borrelia burgdorferi infected ticks are present. In humans, surveillance data revealed 11 states reporting 497 cases of Lyme disease to the Centers for Disease Control in 1982. By 1990, more than 30,000 cases had been reported by 47 states, and nearly 8,000 cases were reported in 1990 alone, a 16-fold increase since 1982. Lyme disease has become the most common tick-borne disease in the United States. Surveillance data for Lyme disease in the dog is not compiled on a nationwide basis. Experts, however, believe that Lyme disease exposure in the dog may be 6 to 10 times greater than that reported in humans.

Q. Why is Lyme disease spreading so rapidly?
A. While no one knows for sure, there are several possible explanations. Studies have shown that waterfowl and other migratory birds, for instance, have helped disperse the infected tick. Dogs and wildlife that run in infected fields can bring infected ticks back to suburban locations and backyards. Dogs traveling with their owners can spread infected ticks to distant locations. Secluded wooded areas where people live or spend leisure time are the natural environments for ticks and the Lyme disease bacteria.

Q. What are the symptoms of Lyme disease in the dog?
A. Clinical signs of Lyme disease in pets include:
• Arthritis
• Lethargy
• Sudden onset of severe pain and lameness
• Loss of appetite
• Depression
• Fever

Q. How is Lyme disease diagnosed?
A. After observing symptoms which suggest Lyme disease, blood tests can be used to look for antibodies -- infection-fighting proteins -- in the patient's blood. The most common test in domestic animals is the immunofluorescence assay (IFA) test. Unfortunately, blood tests currently being used are often inconclusive. If you are concerned that your pet may be suffering from Lyme disease, contact your veterinarian.

Q. How is Lyme disease treated in dogs?
A. Several broad spectrum antibiotics have proven effective in treating Lyme disease, especially in its early stages. However, treatment is not always successful. Your veterinarian will have the most effective treatment program available.

Q. What can I do to protect my pet from Lyme disease?
A. • Routinely check your pets after they have been outdoors, especially if they have been in areas with tall grass and brush (the favorite hiding places of ticks).
• Brush your dog after each outing. If a tick is attached to your dog's skin, remove it carefully with tweezers, pulling back steadily and slowly to ease out the tick's mouthparts. Wash bite area and your hands.
• Use baths, dips, and flea and tick collars as recommended by your veterinarian.
• Cut brush and mow the grass where your dog plays.
• Treat your yard with a veterinarian-recommended, tick-killing spray.
• Ask your veterinarian about vaccinating your pet for Lyme disease.

Q. Is the vaccine effective?
A. The Lyme vaccine for dogs was developed following years of stringent testing for both safety and effectiveness. While no vaccine is ever 100% effective, the canine Lyme vaccine has been shown to have a reasonable expectation of efficacy in well-controlled laboratory studies. In these studies, vaccinated dogs were protected from a direct intraperitoneal challenge of Borrelia burgdorferi. Unvaccinated dogs in these same studies developed disease symptoms similar to those seen in naturally infected animals.

Q. Is the vaccine safe?
A. There is always a slight risk of adverse responses with any vaccine your pet may receive. In laboratory and field safety studies, dogs vaccinated against Lyme disease did not suffer any serious adverse responses.

Since its introduction, millions of doses of the vaccine have been sold. Reports to the manufacturer indicate this vaccine is as safe as other vaccines commonly given to pets.

Q. How often should my pet be vaccinated?
A. Following an initial series of two vaccinations given 2 to 3 weeks apart, your pet should be given a single booster vaccination on a yearly basis.

The Threat Of Lyme Disease

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