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Preventive health maintenance should be one of the most important factors addressed by those considering adoption of an animal. And once that animal is adopted into a household, health maintenance must be consistently exercised throughout the pet's life.
An essential element of preventive health maintenance involves keeping knowledgeable about the various diseases and other health conditions pertinent to those animals for whom we are responsible.
Some of the many aspects of animal health and preventive maintenance which were discussed by Dr. Biggs are shown below.
During our September 2006 meeting, Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, DVM, presented an excellent lecture on Animal Health and Preventive Health Maintenance.
Periodontal Disease
Canine Influenza
Parasites
Rabies
Dr. Rosslyn Biggs and husband, Scott, are proud companions of a nice variety of canines, including the breeds of German Shorthaired Pointer, Pembroke Corgi, and Rottweiler.
Periodontal disease is now the #1 disease affecting canines & felines. Yet pets' dental care is one of the most often-ignored areas of health maintenance. Sadly, most people tend to react negatively to the idea of providing daily dental care for their pets. While some pets are genetically predisposed toward poor teeth, periodontal disease can be avoided (or detected early) by daily dental care and annual checkups with the Vet. The crucial time to start that daily care is at the puppy/kitten age.
Just as in humans, canine Flu can escalate from mild nasal or throat irritations to more severe conditions like Pneumonia, fever, respiratory and heart problems. Animals in several states have been diagnosed positive for flu; nearly 80% of exposed canines become infected. Owners should always exercise good judgement when exposing pets to other animals. Routine health maintenance, annual Vet checkups & vaccines, and precautions in social situations can help prevent infections, or provide early detection for successful treatment.
As for other diseases, annual Vet checkups and lab work, plus close attention to pets' eating and elimination habits, will help in prevention and early detection of parasites. Minimal monthly health maintenance includes medication for heartworm & other internal parasites, along with topical treatment for external parasites.
July 2006 Oklahoma statistics revealed 46 total Rabies cases (including 3 horses & 3 cats).
Preventive health maintenance involves Rabies vaccinations. Vets will recommend proper vaccine cycles for adults and puppies/kittens. Sanitary practices are an absolute. One way in which Rabies spreads is via contact with feces and urine. Always pick up and properly dispose of your pet's feces, in like manner as you flush your own toilet.
