Last updated 3 days ago
Dirofilaria immitis, or heartworm, is a mosquito-transmitted parasite that can live in your pet for years without causing visible symptoms, but which can ultimately pose life-threatening damage to a dog’s heart, lungs, or liver. To learn more about heartworm and the dangers it poses to dogs, watch this educational video clip.
In it, you will learn why veterinarians who once recommended protecting pets against heartworm through the administration of oral preventives during mosquito season now recommend doing so year-round. You will also develop an understanding of why it is crucial to never skip a dosage, and to have your dog inspected annually for heartworm as an extra precaution.
Are you a Dallas-area pet owner who would like to have your dog tested for heartworm and start administering a preventive before the mosquitoes hit Dallas with full force this upcoming summer season?
If you call Chastain Veterinary Medical Group at (972) 239-1309 in North Dallas or (972) 529-5033 in Mckinney during the month of May, you can receive $10 off a 12-month supply of heart preventive.
Last updated 9 days ago
Fleas, blood-sucking insects that love to burrow inside the fur of cats and dogs, are of greatest concern during the summer months. If you live in an area that is warm and humid in the summertime, like North Texas, pay special attention to the information provided in this article so that fleas do not become a problem for which you need to seek treatment from a veterinarian.
Fleas and Pets
Fleas can move quickly through fur to get to the skin of a dog or a cat. Fleas can jump over 18 inches, so even pets who do not go into grassy areas can be affected. Also we can sometimes bring fleas into the house to our indoor only pets just by walking up our path to our home.
Health Concerns
Fleas may be small, but they are capable of consuming sizable amounts of blood. Long-term exposure to a large number of fleas can lead to excessive blood loss and anemia. Fleas can also carry diseases, such as Bartonella, to our pets and to us. Kittens, puppies, and pets with compromised immune systems are especially vulnerable to life-threatening complications after flea encounters.
Signs of Fleas on Your Pet
- Dermatitis
- Hair loss
- Excessive scratching or licking of the skin
- Scabs
- Tapeworms
Treatment of Fleas
Veterinarian-prescribed flea products will kill fleas. Some will kill ticks and prevent the eggs from hatching too. Treatments vary on a case-by-case basis, based on your pets situation, needs and medical history, so it is important to see a veterinarian when fleas are bothering your pet.
Can Flea Infestations Be Prevented?
Yes. Oral flea preventatives such as Comfortis are available to kill fleas currently living on your pet and any fleas that come their way as long as they are on the medication. Special veterinarian-recommended shampoos, a clean living environment, and brushing your pet with a flea comb can also help keep fleas away.
If you live in an area where fleas thrive such as Dallas, it is especially important to take advantage of effective flea control medications. During the month of May, the Chastain Veterinary Medical Group is offering a discount on a 12-month supply of Comfortis or Trifexis ( combination heartworm and flea preventive).
Call (972) 239-1309 in North Dallas or (972) 529-5033 in McKinney to find out more about this offer.
Last updated 11 days ago
Look in pets ears periodically and keep plucked to avoid ear infections.
Last updated 16 days ago
During the month of May, Chastain Veterinary Medical Group will donate $1.00 to our friends at Operation Kindness for every "Like" we get on our Facebook page.
Operation Kindness is a wonderful organization that has been providing shelter to homeless dogs and cats since 1976. It is the largest and oldest no-kill shelter in North Texas.
We encourage everyone to share our Facebook page with friends, family, and coworkers. (http://www.facebook.com/ChastainVets)
Help us make a difference!
