How often should my pet have an examination?

A healthy pet is a happy pet. Pet’s age at a faster rate than people do and can develop conditions that even the most attentive pet owner can miss. Early detection of these conditions allows them to be treated before they become serious. For that we reason we recommend that your pet receive an annual health evaluation and vaccination boosters. Frequent examinations, along with maintaining immunity with vaccines are crucial steps to maintaining your animal’s overall health.

What is the best age to spay or neuter my pet?

The most appropriate time to spay or neuter your pet should be based upon its breed, age and physical condition. It is our recommendation that they generally be spayed or neutered between 5-6 months of age. Having your pet spayed or neutered is an important part of responsible pet ownership.

What are Heartworms?

Heartworms are a preventable, but serious and potentially fatal, parasite that primarily infects dogs. They can also infect cats, and an array of wild animals including foxes, wolves, coyotes, raccoons, opossums, and many others. Heartworms can only be transmitted from animal to animal by mosquitoes. The worms damage the blood vessels, and reduce the heart’s pumping ability, resulting in severe lung and heart disease. Adult heartworms can survive for 5 to 7 years in dogs.

What pets should be tested for heartworm?

Because heartworms are spread by mosquitoes, any pet exposed to mosquitoes should be tested. This includes pets that only go outside occasionally.

Can heartworm disease be prevented?

Heartworm infection is almost 100% preventable in dogs. We recommend that dogs living in the Flathead Valley be on monthly heartworm prevention from May to October- during the mosquito season. The preventives do not kill adult heartworms, and will not eliminate heartworm infection or prevent signs of heartworm disease if adult worms are present. Therefore, a blood test for existing heartworm infection is recommended before beginning a prevention program to assess the pet’s current heartworm status. We recommend testing for heartworm every other year for dogs that have been maintained on a preventative.