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YOUR DOGS HEALTH
Dogs are hardy animals but require a few precautions to ensure they remain healthy
VACCINATIONS
When you purchase your dog ask for its vaccination certificate which
will be signed by a veterinarian. If your dog or puppy has had no previous
vaccinations or if you are unsure whether it has been vaccinated, you
should take it to your veterinarian to receive a health check and vaccinations
for canine distemper, viral hepatitis, parvovirus and kennel cough.
Puppies require the first vaccinations between 6 - 8 weeks with the
second at 12 - 16 weeks old. All dogs require a 'booster' vaccination
every 12 months.
WORMS
Dogs need to be wormed regularly to control roundworms, hookworms and
tapeworms which live in the intestine. This is easily done by using
one of the many available preparations, either as tablets or liquids.
All dogs should be wormed every three months, although puppies must
be done more frequently. Follow the instructions on the preparations
or consult your veterinarian.
Heartworm is transmitted by mosquitoes and is present in many areas of Australia and can be fatal. There are several preventative products now available including daily or monthly tablets.
All dogs other than very young puppies must be tested by a veterinarian before starting a heartworm prevention program as the medication can be fatal to dogs already infected.
FLEAS AND TICKS
Fleas and ticks are often a problem during the warmer months. Adult
fleas present on the dog may be killed using either sprays, powders,
rinses or flea collars, but is necessary to treat other pets and also
the environment, especially the dog's bedding. Precautions and directions
on the packaging of the flea control products must be followed exactly.
Ticks occur in some areas of Australia and can be fatal to dogs. If you live in an area where there are paralysis ticks you should check your dog daily and remove any ticks. If a tick is found consult your veterinarian immediately.
Responsible Dog Ownership