"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure"
At Countryside, we strongly recommend prevention for cats and dogs (indoor and outdoor) year round. While colder weather does reduce the activity of these pests, it doesn’t eliminate the risk completely. Insects and parasites can still survive and find a way into your home and onto your pet.
Why does my pet need Heartworm prevention?
Infected mosquitoes can deposit larvae into your pet's bloodstream that mature into Heartworms. These parasites grow longer and longer, eventually causing severe lung disease, heart failure and damage to other organs in the body. All it takes is 1 bite from an infected mosquito to spread Heartworm disease to your pet. Heartworm disease is serious and potentially fatal.
Why do we need to test for heartworms before giving prevention?
Going just one month without heartworm prevention can leave a pet exposed and at risk for heartworms. Testing helps us determine if your pet can safely receive heartworm prevention, or if we need to treat an active infestation. Testing annually for Heartworms is our clinic policy, and the recommendation of the American Heartworm Society. It also allows us to report any breakthrough infections to the manufacturer should your pet need treatment.
|
|
Adult Heartworms
|
Why does my pet need Flea & Tick prevention?
Fleas and ticks are not just irritating pests, they can also lead to serious skin conditions and other health issues. Fleas can infect your pet with intestinal parasites, while also causing the irritation of dermatitis. Ticks can also cause skin infections and are notorious carriers of serious diseases such as: Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Ehrlichiosis.
|
|
|
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT PREVENTION:
My dog only goes in my yard and doesn't go outside much, do I still need prevention?Unfortunately, even if your pet stays in....the mosquitoes don't stay out. Just one bite from an infected mosquito could potentially infect your pet. Fleas and ticks can also infest your pets and cause dangerous diseases such as lyme disease. Preventing infestations is the best treatment for your pet.
|
How do I choose the right type of prevention for my pet?At your pet's annual check up, your veterinarian will discuss the best options for you and your pet. Depending on your pet's lifestyle, you can choose from a variety of options for total protection from heartworms, fleas, and ticks. Our selection of products includes beef flavored chews, topical applications, collars, and injectable options.
|
How much will this cost?Always check your inbox and mailbox for our seasonal specials and rebates offered by manufacturers. In addition to those, we also offer a 20% off Wellness Pays discount when you purchase 6 months or more of prevention at your pet's annual wellness visit. Our clinic provides the following products: Trifexis, Seresto, Nexgard, Sentinel, Simparica, Heartgard & Proheart.
|
If you have questions about making the right choice for flea, tick, and Heartworm prevention, give us a call at 770-788-7387