Atlantic Street Pet Hospital

FAQs

Flea/Tick/Worms FAQs

Along with regular deworming, here are some preventive measures:

  • Proper disposal of pet waste to limit environmental contamination.
  • Prompt removal and disposal of feces when walking dogs outside.
  • Avoidance of contact with potentially infected animals or their feces.
  • Regular cleaning and disinfection of living areas and bedding.

It is always recommended to consult with your veterinarian before using any OTC medications for parasite control or treatment. They can help ensure the safety and effectiveness of the product and provide guidance on the most appropriate options for your pet.

For any additional questions or concerns about dog and cat parasitology, it is best to consult your veterinarian. They have the knowledge and expertise to guide you in protecting your pets from parasites and ensuring their overall health and well-being.  

Common parasites in dogs and cats include fleas, ticks, intestinal worms (such as roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, giardia, coccidia and tapeworms), heartworms, and ear mites. Each parasite poses unique health risks to our furry friends.

Regular use of veterinary-approved flea and tick preventatives is crucial in preventing infestations. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable preventive products for your pet's specific needs. Additionally, maintaining a clean environment and regularly checking and grooming your pet can help minimize exposure to fleas and ticks.

 

Here are some additional information resources on parasite prevention:
Flea and Tick Prevention Webpage
Flea and Tick Prevention Video
Heartworm Video
Parasite Prevention Services Video

Deworming schedules may vary depending on several factors such as the age and lifestyle of your pet. Puppies and kittens typically require more frequent deworming than adult dogs and cats. If your pet is exposed to high-risk areas where worms thrive, it is recommended to deworm your pets every 3-6 months. If they are on a regular flea/tick preventative, several of them contain a dewormer as well. It is best to follow your veterinarian's recommendations for deworming intervals and products.

Diarrhea FAQs

If your pet's diarrhea is severe, bloody, or persistent for more than 24-48 hours, it is advisable to seek veterinary attention. Other concerning signs include dehydration, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, or if your pet is showing signs of pain or discomfort.

Ensure access to plenty of fresh water to prevent dehydration. If the diarrhea is mild or resolves quickly, you can gradually start a bland diet (e.g., boiled chicken and rice) and monitor for any changes. If the diarrhea persists or worsens, consult your veterinarian.

Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications meant for humans should not be given to pets without veterinary guidance. Some human medications, such as loperamide (Imodium), can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always consult your veterinarian before administering any medications to your pet.

Yes, stress can be a contributing factor to diarrhea in dogs and cats. Changes in routine, new environments, introduction of new pets or family members, or other stressful events can disrupt the digestive system and lead to diarrhea. Minimizing stress and providing a stable and predictable environment can help prevent stress-induced diarrhea.

Yes, certain foods can trigger diarrhea in dogs and cats, especially if they have food allergies or sensitivities. Common food culprits include table scraps, fatty foods, dairy products, bones, spicy or heavily seasoned foods, and sudden dietary changes. It's important to feed your pet a balanced and appropriate diet to avoid digestive issues.

Allergies FAQ

It is advisable to consult a veterinarian if you notice persistent or worsening symptoms, if your pet is in considerable discomfort, or if the allergies significantly affect their quality of life. A veterinarian can help develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your pet's specific needs.

It is not recommended to use OTC medications without veterinary guidance. Some medications can be ineffective or even harmful to pets. Always consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your pet's specific needs.

Remember, each pet is unique, and consulting with a veterinarian is crucial for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of allergies in your furry friend.

Signs of allergies are widely variable, but some of the most common signs in pets include itching, redness, inflamed skin, recurrent skin infections, hair loss, ear itching or infections, malodorous ears, scooting or excessive licking of the anal area, excessive licking of feet and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea or vomiting.

Allergies in pets can have various triggers, such as environmental factors (e.g., pollen, dust mites), food sensitivities, flea bites, contact with certain substances (e.g., cleaning products, fabrics), related to the immune system and even genetic predisposition.

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination by a veterinarian. Depending on the suspected allergen/s, they may recommend allergy testing (intradermal or blood test), elimination diet trials, skin scrapings, or other diagnostic tests to identify the specific allergens triggering the allergies. However, allergies are very complex and finding a diagnosis can be very challenging at times and may not be possible.

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