Spring is here!

Dear Steeples Veterinary Clinic Family,

As April unfolds, it brings with it the promise of warmer weather and outdoor adventures with our animals. That is why this month, we’re emphasizing the critical importance of preventative care, focusing on vaccines, deworming, and tick prevention to keep your dogs, cats, and horses healthy and happy.

The Importance of Vaccines:

Vaccines are the cornerstone of preventive healthcare for pets. They protect against a variety of potentially life-threatening diseases, such as rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and more. By vaccinating your dogs, cats, and horses according to recommended schedules, you’re providing them with vital immunity against these illnesses, safeguarding their well-being for years to come.

Deworming:

Regular deworming is essential for pets of all ages. Worm infestations can cause a range of health problems, including gastrointestinal issues, malnutrition, and even organ damage. Puppies and kittens are particularly susceptible to worms, but pets of all ages can be affected. Routine deworming treatments help eliminate intestinal parasites and protect your pets from the harmful effects of infestation.

Tick Prevention:

With the arrival of spring, we also enter tick season. These tiny parasites can transmit serious diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis to our pets, posing a significant health risk. It’s crucial to implement tick prevention measures to keep your dogs, cats, and horses safe. Ask us about our range of tick prevention products, including topical treatments and oral medications designed to repel and kill ticks before they can attach to your pet.

As you enjoy the beauty of springtime with your pets, remember that proactive healthcare is key to ensuring many happy and healthy years together.

Equine Health Focus:

Equine fecal egg counts are a crucial tool in maintaining the health of horses. By examining fecal samples under a microscope, veterinarians can assess the level of the internal parasite burden in a horse’s gastrointestinal tract. This helps determine if deworming treatment is necessary and allows for more targeted and effective parasite control measures. Regular fecal egg counts can prevent overuse of dewormers, reduce risk of drug resistance, and ultimately contribute to the overall wellbeing and performance of horses.

In addition to deworming, it’s crucial to remain vigilant for signs of underlying health conditions in horses. Cushing’s disease, characterized by hormonal imbalances, can manifest in symptoms such as excessive hair growth, muscle wasting, and increased thirst and urination. Our clinic offers testing for Cushing’s disease to ensure early detection and prompt intervention, preserving your horse’s quality of life.

Equine Metabolic Syndrome:

Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is another condition that requires careful monitoring. Horses with EMS may exhibit symptoms such as obesity and laminitis.

Equine metabolic syndrome and Cushing’s can be tested with the same blood panel test. Once we have the results, we can tailor a treatment plan for your horse. Our veterinary team is equipped to assess your horse for signs of EMS and Cushing’s and provide comprehensive management strategies to mitigate its impact on their health and well-being

If you have any questions or concerns about vaccines, deworming, or tick prevention, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Warm Regards,

The Staff of Steeples Veterinary Clinic