Q Why should I treat my pet for fleas and ticks?
We have a high instance of fleas and ticks in this area. Fleas and ticks are known to carry parasites and disease that are harmful and sometimes fatal to our pets if not treated. With fleas the most common problem is tapeworms. Tapeworms are a flatworm that will attach itself to the wall inside the small intestine of the host. A pet that has a severe infestation of fleas can also suffer from anemia. In this case the fleas can become fatal.

Ticks can cause many problems. Anemia from tick infestation is a problem among cats and dogs. Tick fevers such as Ehrlichia Canis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Babesia Canis, and Lyme Disease are seen in dogs. With cats are affected by two hemoparasites known as Hemobartonella and Cytauxzoonosis. All these conditions can be fatal to your pet if not properly treated in a sufficient amount of time.

Keeping a flea and tick preventative on your pet year round can help reduce your pets chances of contracting one of these serious diseases or parasites. We have a few different products you can use for the elimination of fleas and ticks. We have shampoos and dips, but these products only last a few days. We do have products that will last 30 days. Below is a list of our current products:

Shampoos, Dips and Sprays:

Ecto Soothe 3x is an emollient oatmeal shampoo for use on dogs, cats, puppies and kittens. It kills ticks, fleas, and lice. Do NOT use on puppies and kittens under 12 weeks of age.

Pyrethrin Dip kills and repels fleas, ticks, lice, gnats, mosquitoes, and flies. For use in dogs, puppies, cats and kittens over 12 weeks of age.

Ovitrol Plus Spray helps to control, fleas, flea larvae, ticks, lice, mosquitoes, gnats, and flies. Do NOT use on puppies and kittens under 12 weeks of age.

Once a month topical and oral products:

Preventic Tick collars kills and detaches ticks for up to 3 months. The collar must be worn tightly enough to contact skin. For use in dogs and puppies over 12 weeks old. Consult a veterinarian before using on sick, debilitated, aged, medicated, or pregnant or nursing animals. Preventic collars cannot be used with certain medications, discuss which medications your pet is taking with your veterinarian before using. Amitraz is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI); therefore, people taking MAOI-containing medication must take particular care when handling this product. Sensitivities may occur after using a pesticide product on pets. Remove at the first sign of irritation or adverse reaction, bathe dog with a mild soap or non-pesticidal shampoo and rinse with large amounts of water. If for any reason you believe your dog has ingested the collar contact your veterinarian immediately.

Certifect for dogs is a new topical product from the makers of Frontline. Certifect rapidly starts killing ticks within 6 hours providing convenient, effective treatment for all stages of ticks. It also kills fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, prevents the development of all stages of fleas, and chewing lice. For dogs and puppies over 8 weeks old. Do NOT use on dogs that have been diagnosed with diabetes or heart problems. Consult a veterinarian before using on dogs that are medicated, debilitated, aged or obese. Certain medications can interact with pesticides. Amitraz is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI); therefore, people taking MAOI-containing medication must take particular care when handling this product. Possible side effects include temporary lethargy and itching. If signs persist, or become more severe, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Vectra 3d for dogs is a topical product that kills all stages of fleas and kills and repels ticks and mosquitoes. For dogs and puppies over 7 weeks old. Sensitivity, such as slight transitory redness of the skin at the site of application may occur. Do NOT use this product on debilitated, aged, medicated, pregnant or nursing animals, or animals known to be sensitive to pesticide products without first consulting a veterinarian.

Comfortis for dogs is an oral medication that kills and prevents the infestation of fleas. For use in dogs and puppies over 14 weeks old. Like all medications, some side effects may occur. In some cases, dogs vomited after receiving Comfortis. If vomiting occurs within an hour of administration, redose with another full dose. Additional adverse reactions include decreased appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, cough, increased thirst, increased appetite, redness of skin, hyperactivity and excessive salivation. Since the release of Comfortis, additional side effects reported are incoordination, itching, trembling and seizures. Do NOT give Comfortis to a dog with a known seizure disorder!

Frontline Plus for cats is a topical product that provides fast, effective treatment and control of fleas, ticks and chewing lice. For cats and kittens over 8 weeks old. Individual sensitivities, while rare, may occur after using any pesticide product. Cats may experience some temporary irritation at the site of application. Certain medications can interact with pesticides. Consult a veterinarian before using on medicated, debilitated or aged animals.

Once a month All-in-One products, topical and oral

Revolution for dogs is a topical product that protects against fleas and heartworm disease. It also treats and controls ear mites and Sarcoptic mange. For dogs and puppies over 6 weeks old. Revolution should not be used on sick, debilitated or underweight animals. Dogs should be tested for heartworm disease prior to starting Revolution and tested yearly thereafter. Like all medications there are some side effects. The most common is hair loss at the site of application with or without inflammation. Other side effects reported include vomiting, diarrhea with or without blood, decreased appetite, lethargy, salivation, rapid breathing, itching, welts or hives, skin redness, incoordination and fever. Tell your veterinarian about any prescription or over-the-counter medications your pet may be taking.

Revolution for cats is a topical product that protects against fleas and heartworm disease. It also treats and controls hookworms, roundworms, and ear mites. For cats and kittens over 6 weeks old. Like all medications there are some side effects. The most common is hair loss at the site of application with or without inflammation. Other side effects reported include vomiting, diarrhea with or without blood, decreased appetite, lethargy, salivation, rapid breathing, itching, welts or hives, skin redness, incoordination and fever. Tell your veterinarian about any prescription or over-the-counter medications your pet may be taking.

Trifexis for dogs is an oral medication that kills and prevents the infestation of fleas. It also prevents heartworm disease and treats and controls hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. For use in dogs and puppies over 8 weeks old. Like all medications some side effects may occur. In some cases, dogs vomited after receiving Trifexis. If vomiting occurs within an hour of administration, redose with another full dose. Additional adverse reactions observed were itching, decreased activity, diarrhea, inflammation of the skin, redness of the skin, decreased appetite and redness of the ears. Do NOT give Trifexis to a dog with a known seizure disorder!

Q Why does my dog need to be on heartworm preventative year round and be tested yearly?
In Arkansas mosquitoes can live year round. Mosquitoes are the only way for your pet to contract heartworms. The mosquitoes will bite your pet and inject the microfilaria into your pet’s blood stream. It takes 6 months for the microfilaria to become adult heartworms. Heartworm disease is an important but preventable disease and because we all forget to give a pill one time and we've all had a pet spit a pill out behind our back it is important to test your pet yearly.

Below is a list of the current heartworm medications we offer:

Revolution for dogs is a topical product that protects against fleas and heartworm disease. It also treats and controls ear mites and Sarcoptic mange. For dogs and puppies over 6 weeks old. Revolution should not be used on sick, debilitated or underweight animals. Dogs should be tested for heartworm disease prior to starting Revolution and tested yearly thereafter. Like all medications there are some side effects. The most common is hair loss at the site of application with or without inflammation. Other side effects reported include vomiting, diarrhea with or without blood, decreased appetite, lethargy, salivation, rapid breathing, itching, welts or hives, skin redness, incoordination and fever. Tell your veterinarian about any prescription or over-the-counter medications your pet may be taking.

Revolution for cats is a topical product that protects against fleas and heartworm disease. It also treats and controls hookworms, roundworms, and ear mites. For cats and kittens over 6 weeks old. Like all medications there are some side effects. The most common is hair loss at the site of application with or without inflammation. Other side effects reported include vomiting, diarrhea with or without blood, decreased appetite, lethargy, salivation, rapid breathing, itching, welts or hives, skin redness, incoordination and fever. Tell your veterinarian about any prescription or over-the-counter medications your pet may be taking.

Trifexis for dogs is an oral medication that kills and prevents the infestation of fleas. It also prevents heartworm disease and treats and controls hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. For use in dogs and puppies over 8 weeks old. Like all medications some side effects may occur. In some cases, dogs vomited after receiving Trifexis. If vomiting occurs within an hour of administration, redose with another full dose. Additional adverse reactions observed were itching, decreased activity, diarrhea, inflammation of the skin, redness of the skin, decreased appetite and redness of the ears. Do NOT give Trifexis to a dog with a known seizure disorder!

Iverhart Max is an oral medication that prevents heartworm disease. It also treats and controls hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms. For dogs and puppies over 8 weeks old. Possible adverse reactions include, lethargy, salivation, shaking, vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Do NOT use in breeds with known sensitivities such as collies.

ProHeart 6 is a sustained release injection that provides 6 months of heartworm protection. In addition it also treats existing larval and adult hookworm infections. For dogs and puppies over 6 months old. Cannot be started on dogs over 7 years of age. ProHeart 6 should not be used in sick, debilitated, or underweight animals. Use caution in dogs with pre-existing allergic disease, including previous vaccine reactions. Dogs should be test for heartworm disease prior to being treated with ProHeart 6 and test yearly thereafter. Severe allergic reactions such as facial swelling, itching, difficulty breathing, and collapse can occur within the first hour but may occur at any time during the first 24 hours after treatment. Other possible side effects include lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea with or without blood, and weight loss.

Q Why should I spay/neuter my pet?
Having your pet spayed/neutered will greatly reduce their chances of having cancer of the reproductive system. This will also solve many of our problems with the over population of domestic animals. "Consider the fact that in six short years, one female dog and her offspring can give birth to 67,000 puppies. In seven years, one cat and her young can produce 420,000 kittens."-HSUS.org. The younger this procedure is performed will reduce their chances of developing cancer and adding to the already over populated communities. Female dogs and cats can also develop infections of the reproductive system as they get older. Another benefit of neutering your male pets is that it will decrease the need to roam and reduce aggression and urine marking.

Q Why should I vaccinate my pet?
In the state of Arkansas it is required that all dogs and cats receive a Rabies vaccination annually do to the high instance of wild life in our area. In dogs we recommend that they receive a Distemper, Parvo, Lepto, Hepatitis, and Parainfluenza vaccination every year. For dogs that board or go to the groomer on a regular basis we recommend a kennel cough vaccine in conjunction with the other vaccines.

In cats we recommend an Upper Respiratory and Feline Leukemia vaccine. For cats that remain strictly indoors we will do these every other year, but still administer the Rabies vaccine annually.

Q Why do I need to have my pet’s teeth cleaned?
One of the most common diseases we see in pets with poor dental health is periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. Over time the infection can literally eat away the bone supporting the teeth. This leads to other problems such as tooth lose and in severe cases broken jawbones.

There are 4 stages of Periodontal Disease:


Stage 1               
Gingivitis


Gum tissue around the teeth can become inflamed and swollen. Plaque and tartar areusually present on the teeth.


Stage 2                
Mild Periodontitis


Inflammation progresses to an infection that starts to detroy gum and bone tissue around the teeth. This can lead to discomfort for your pet, and bad breath may be noticeable.


Stage 3                 
Moderate Periodontitis


The continuing infection destroys more tissue around the teeth, often causing bleeding of gums and loosening of teeth. The discomfort and pain can affect eating habits and behavior.


Stage 4                
Severe Periodontitis


Extensive infection is tearing down even more of the attachment tissues (gum and bone). Teeth are at risk of being lost.

The condition of your pet’s mouth can directly affect the body’s internal organs. The bacteria in the mouth is absorbed into the blood stream where it then goes to the heart and is then sent to the other organs in the body. If your pet has a “bad” mouth, the over growth of bacteria can actually damage the heart, liver,and kidneys.

Pets need good dental health too. The mouth can be a gateway for disease and infection. Brushing your pet’s teeth daily and having their teeth professionally cleaned by a licensed veterinarian or veterinary technician will help them live a longer, healthier life.

Q Why should I microchip my pet?
Traditionally owners have used ID and registration tags or tattoos to identify their pets. Unfortunately tags can be lost and yes tattoos are permanent but not always an effective way of identifying a pet. Microchips, on the other hand, are also permanent and have been a more effective way of identifying our pets.

Say you are on a trip with a friend and you both decide to bring your dogs along. Your pet has an ID and Rabies tag and a microchip. Your friend’s pet only has an ID tag. The pets decide to go off on an adventure of their own and when you go out to look for them you find their collars out in the woods. Your dog is found and taken to a local humane society where they have microchip scanner. The scanner is able to identify your pet and have him returned safely to you. Your friend’s pet is now off on his own with no way of identifying him.

Technology has really come a long way over the years. Microchips have been used in identifying livestock, horses, and our pets, but there have been some concerns on the effectiveness of the microchips. Most countries follow the International Organization of Standardization (ISO) when it comes to microchipping, but unfortunately in the United States not all microchips and scanners follow these standards. As the result of this, not all scanners will read all types of microchips. Steps are being taken to resolve this problem. If you do decide to microchip your pet, be sure to ask your veterinarian what type of chip they provide or recommend and be sure it follows ISO standards.

Currently we offer the ResQTMmicrochip manufactured by the Bayer Corporation. ResQTMis the first ISO-compliant microchip system for companion animals available at animal shelters and veterinarians' offices in the United States. Using ISO-compliant technology safeguards pets and helps increase the chance that the pet will be reunited should it ever become lost, compared to pets that only wear ID tags. Each ResQTM microchip contains an individual, preprogrammed code that is permanent and cannot be altered. ResQTM microchips are unbreakable, do not require a battery, and are designed to last the pet's lifetime.

Q What is Canine Osteoarthritis?
Canine osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative disease that affects the bones and soft tissues of the joints causing pain and decreased flexibility. Arthritis affects 70 million humans (1 in 3 adults) and 11 million dogs (1 in 5 adult dogs). Osteoarthritis can be a debilitating disease for both people and their canine counter parts. Our canine friends can’t tell us that their knees stiffen or their hips hurt after prolonged play or when they go up and down stairs. They depend on us to recognize the signs of pain and expect us to get them to the veterinarian for proper treatment.

Signs of pain are not always easy to recognize. Like most animals, dogs are “genetically programmed” not to show any vulnerability. Each dog responds differently to pain depending on factors such as age, general health, and breed. Signs can also vary depending on the severity of the arthritis.

Common Signs & Symptoms of Arthritis:
Lethargy
Stiffness
Limping
Reluctance to move
Aggressive or defensive reactions to touch
Unusual barking or whining
Uncharacteristic hiding
Decreased activity
Difficulty rising from a resting position
Lagging behind on walks
Yelping or whimpering

Treating Arthritis
Unfortunately with arthritis we can not turn back the clock, but there are effective ways of reducing pain and inflammation caused by arthritis. We can do this with the use of anti-inflammatory medications, analgesic medications, or supplements such as glucosamine. Other alternatives include controlled exercise such as swimming, weight control, or even surgery in severe cases of hip dysplasia.

Q What are some things that could be toxic or dangerous to my pet?
There are many common household items that can be hazardous to your pet’s health. It is always a good idea to keep such items stored in a place where your pet can not find them.

Here is a list of items that can be DEADLY if ingested by your pet:

Household Items:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.)
Acetaminophen (aka: Tylenol)
Cold and flu medications
Antidepressants
Vitamins
Home insect products
Rat and mouse bait
Bleach
Diet pills
Disinfectants
Fabric softener
Lighter fluid
Moth balls
Anti-cancer drugs
Solvents (paint thinners, etc.)
Fleas and tick products
Drain Cleaners
Liquid Potpourri
Slug and snail bait
Oven cleaner sprays
Lime/scale remover
Fly bait
Detergents
Tobacco products

Harmful Foods:
Avocados
Bones of any kind
Chocolate (all forms)
Coffee
Onion & onion powder
Garlic
Grapes
Raisins
Macadamia Nuts
Alcoholic Beverages
Moldy/spoiled food
Salt
Fatty foods
Gum, candies, or other foods sweetened with xylitol
Tea leaves
Raw yeast dough
Ham or other pork products

Objects:
Balls
Batteries
Bread twist ties
Buttons
Coins
Cotton Swabs
Electrical cords
Glass
Hair Pins
Jewelry
Nylons
Paper Clips
Plastic wrap
Socks
Rubber-bands
Sharp objects
String, yarn, or dental floss
Towels
Toys with small removable parts
Wax

Outside:
Algea- Can be found in ponds or other bodies of water; certain types can be toxic.

Antifreeze/Coolant- Some types of antifreeze or coolant products contain ethylene glycol, which is toxic to dogs and cats, even in small amounts.

Fire pit/Grill- Flames can result in serious burns and ashes can cause illness if ingested.

Fences or gates- Your pets can run away if they find openings in damaged fences or gates. They can also get hurt or strangled if they get stuck.

De-icing salts- Some formulations may contain chemicals that are hazardous to pets if ingested in large amounts. Look for "pet friendly" de-icing salts.

Compost (particularly if moldy)

Gasoline

Oil

Pesticides

Cocoa bean shell mulch fertilizer

Swimming pools or hot tubs- Never leave your pet unattended near uncovered pools, even if they can swim.




FAQ's
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