Pet Care
This page should help you manage your pet’s health and let him/her live a healthy, happy life.
Things you should know:
Veterinary Care- This discusses all vaccinations that all pets need (including strictly indoor cats and dogs). When your pet starts receiving it’s shots there will be a series of 3 that are needed 21 days apart, after that most vaccines will be needed yearly (with the exception of Bordetella for dogs, which is needed every 6 months).
The dog vaccination we recommend is DAPPV or DHLPPC these will prevent against Parvo, Distemper, Para influenza Virus, Hepatitis and sometimes Corona and Leptospirosis. Additionally dogs need Bordetella every six months. Also, dogs should be vaccinated against rabies; state law required proof of this rabies vaccination. Consult your veterinarian with any questions regarding these diseases and how they can affect your pet.
The cat vaccination is FVRCP, which prevents against Distemper, Chlamydia, and Calicivirus. Your cat should also be tested and vaccinated for Feline Leukemia. In addition cats should be vaccinated against rabies; state law required proof of this rabies vaccination. Talk to your veterinarian with any questions regarding these diseases and how they can affect your pet.
Heart Worm Preventative- The use of monthly heartworm preventative is something that needs to be etched in a pet owner’s mind. Any pet can get heartworms and will die from it is not treated. It can be prevented in all cases, but is usually only treated in dogs. There are multiple types of monthly heartworm preventative; it is best to talk to your vet about which one best fits your lifestyle. Heartworms are a serious problem here in Savannah because the mosquito population is so high. Check out the Heartgard website for more information.
Fleas, Ticks, and other Parasites- In addition to monthly heartworm preventative, you should also use a flea preventative. This can be trial and error, as some brands don’t work on all pets. Check the Revolution website for more information about parasites.
*Note: Flea collars are not effective*
Grooming- All pets should be groomed and the amount needed varies per pet. Pets should be bathed and brushed regularly. In addition they need their nails clipped, and ears and teeth cleaned.
It’s Hot Outside- In this hot Savannah weather there are certain things you can do to make your pet feel more comfortable. First, you should NEVER leave your pet in the car; this can lead to extreme dehydration and possible death. When you take your dog on walks or to the park, pack plenty of fresh water and a bowl. If your dog has light or sensitive skin, it may be necessary to put sunscreen on his/her nose to prevent getting burnt. Longhaired dogs should be kept trimmed to help with the heat; as well, no dogs like to be left outside in this weather, so you should keep your dog with you and not in the yard.
Foods- We all know chocolate is bad for our pets…. here are some other items they need to avoid: Onions, garlic, and root vegetables, dairy products, tomatoes, grapes, raisins are just some of the foods to avoid. There are more food and some plants that can be toxic to animals, so do your research to avoid an emergency room visit for your pet.
