COVID-19 has presented us with a new set of challenges. While some recommendations have changed, we are still encouraging clients to bring their pets in for cases which may otherwise have long term animal and public health impacts. Vaccines and parasite prevention continue to be important in this regard. Please be assured that new COVID-19 protocols have been implemented for the protection of staff and clients.
Vaccines
We are scheduling appointments for animals who are currently due/overdue for the following vaccinations.
Rabies (Dogs/Cats)
Rabies is a virus that is transmitted through saliva from an infected animal. Rabies is almost always fatal and it can be transmitted to humans. In Ontario, under the Health Protection and Promotion Act, Regulation 567, animal owners have a legal obligation to maintain rabies vaccinations for their animals. This is either a one or a three year vaccine.
Lepto (Dogs)
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning that humans can also contract the disease. It is caused by a bacteria commonly found in soil and water. Dogs require an annual vaccine to protect against Leptospirosis.
DHPP (Dogs)
DHPP is a combination vaccine that protects against five common, infectious diseases. These diseases include: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus. This is either a one or a three year vaccine.
FeLV (Cats)
Feline Leukemia Virus is an extremely infectious virus that leads to anemia and immunosuppression. FeLV makes the infected cat more susceptible to chronic or recurrent infections. This one year vaccine is highly recommended for all cats who go outside and regularly interact with other outdoor cats.
Tick & Flea Prevention
Owners should be giving/applying tick and flea prevention whenever the temperature is above 4 degrees Celsius. If we have seen your pet within the last year and have an updated weight, we can dispense an oral or a topical product to protect your pet against ticks and fleas. For some patients, we may require a quick appointment to have your pet weighed prior to dispensing medication.
Heartworm Prevention
Heartworm season begins in June and ends in November. Currently, we are not scheduling appointments for heartworm testing due to the season not starting until June. If your dog is already scheduled for an essential appointment, we would be happy to perform their heartworm test at that time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us to discuss our current heartworm testing protocol.
