Flea Prevention

With the recent warm winters, fleas populations have boomed in our area. Even indoor-only pets have been seen with fleas this year. In many cases, pet owners are needing multiple strategies to combat fleas in their homes and yards. For dogs, we recommend a combination monthly oral heartworm/flea prevention called Trifexis. This can be combined with topical treatments such as Frontline Plus or Advantix (both sold over the counter) or a Scalibor collar for full flea and tick prevention. Cats have several topical options, such as Advantage Multi, Revolution, ( both prescription only) or Frontline Plus (over the counter). There is also a new oral prescription treatment approved for cats called Comfortis. Please avoid over the counter products containing pyrethrins in cats- these can cause a neurologic reaction. Also, consider having your home or yard professionally treated for fleas and ticks if you are having a particularly challenging infestation. We recommend Sargents or Gregory's Pest Control. ~ Susie Powell, DVM

Dentistry and Your Pets

Can you guess what the most common disease of dogs and cats is? If you guessed dental disease, you’re correct. It is estimated that up to 85% of dogs suffer from some degree of oral disease ranging from mild tartar and gingivitis to severe periodontal disease and tooth loss. This can lead to much more than just "doggy breath". Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums and tissues surrounding the teeth and appears as redness and swelling of these structures. Tartar is a calcification of bacteria on the teeth that can spread under the gum line and then enter the bloodstream, causing infections of the liver, kidneys, and heart. These bacteria cause gingival recession and bone loss which will result in pain and tooth loss. What can you do? Have you pet’s mouth checked to determine what stage of oral disease is present. Treatment may be as easy as starting a brushing or dental chew regimen. It may require a complete dental prophylaxis under general anesthesia. Don’t forget that Holly Tree Animal Hospital has dental month specials of 20% off on all services associated with a dental prophylaxis during January and February. Call us today for your appointment. ~ Steven R. Shrum, DVM.