Frequently Asked Questions

Heartworms are parasites that actually live in the dog’s heart. There is a blood test available to test for heartworm. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes. It is recommended that dogs(and cats) be on heartworm prevention year round. There is a once a month tablet that is used for prevention and can be given to your dog after she is confirmed heartworm negative with a blood test. There is also an injection called Proheart 6 that we can give your dogs for heartworm prevention. This injection last for 6 months. We recommend Revolution for heartworm prevention in cats.

Three to four of the most common viruses in cats that make up” feline distemper” are airborne viruses that can be contracted inside or on the lanai. Should your cat escape and encounter a feral or territorial Tom cat the possibility of infection with feline leukemia or feline aids does exist. If you ever have a personal emergency where you have to board your cat or a medical emergency where your cat must be hospitalized, the unvaccinated cat could be vulnerable to any of the feline diseases.

Spay is the common term for a complete ovariohysterectomy, or the removal of the entire uterus and ovaries. We recommend spaying at 4-6 months but it can be performed any time after the age of 12 weeks. Some breed exceptions apply.

Neuter is the common term for castration or the removal of the testicles. We recommend neutering at 5-6 months of age. Some breed exceptions apply.

Certain parasites, such as tapeworms and roundworms are visible to the naked eye, but others must be detected under the microscope. Bring in a stool sample, we will be glad to examine it microscopically to see if your pet has worms.

A microchip is a permanent ID that links your pet to you. If your pet is lost and picked up by DAS, they will scan your pet first to determine if it has a microchip. If so, you will be contacted and reunited with your lost friend. The microchip implantation procedure can be done during a regular visit to your veterinarian. Without a microchip ID, 90% of pets never return home!

A dog and cat’s normal temperature runs between 100.5F -102.5.

Kennel Cough is a respiratory disease usually contracted in areas where large numbers of dogs are housed such as a kennel, grooming salon, dog park, and beach. It is transmitted by nose-to-nose contact so they can get it from any dog. There is a vaccination available for protection against Kennel Cough.