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Helpful Tips

This page lists some helpful information to keep your pets happy and healthy. This is not to take the place of advice from your veterinarian. 

Vaccination Importance

Dogs

Kennel Cough [Bordetella] is a highly contagious respiratory infection. It is commonly spread in kennels and dog parks where many dogs are in close proximity, but it can be transmitted anywhere. It is highly treatable, but may appear more severe in young puppies, older dogs, or immunocompromised dogs. Symptoms include; coughing, sneezing, runny nose, lethargy, etc.

Canine Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Symptoms can include but are not limited to; eye and nasal discharge, fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy. Transmission can occur through airborne exposure to the virus. Supportive care is a common treatment as there is no cure.

Canine Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that attacks white blood cells and the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include but are not limited to; lethargy, appetite loss, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, etc. It is spread through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. Supportive care is a common treatment as there is no cure.

Rabies is an incurable disease that can affect all mammals, even humans. The virus affects the central nervous system and is spread via saliva usually through bites or scratches. Symptoms can include but are not limited to; fever, lack of coordination, hydrophobia, erratic behavior, etc. If you suspect your pet or yourself has contracted rabies, notify medical professionals immediately. 

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection typically transmitted through contaminated water. Symptoms can include but are not limited to; loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, increase in thirst, increase in urination, weight loss, etc. The disease can progress to liver and/or kidney failure if not treated. Treatment generally includes antibiotics and supportive care.

Cats

The FVRCP Vaccine protects cats from feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), feline calicivirus (C), and feline panleukopenia (P). All are highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases. 

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (feline herpes) affects the upper respiratory system. Calicivirus also affects the respiratory system. Panleukopenia (feline distemper) affects white blood cells and compromises the immune system.

Toxic Plants & Food

FOOD - Most fruit seeds or pits, chocolate, xylitol (artifical sweetener), grapes, raisins, garlic, gum, avocados, onions, caffeine, walnuts, macadamia nuts, etc.

PLANTS - The ingestion of any plant may cause an upset stomach. Many common household and garden plants are on the list of toxic plants for pets. If you believe your pet has ingested a plant, please call your veterinary office or poison hotline.

Numbers to Know

Happy Tails Veterinary Emergency Clinic

336-288-2688

Carolina Veterinary Specialists

336-632-0605

ASPCA Animal Poison

Control Center

1-888-426-4435

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