Known as atopy in dogs and cats, seasonal and environmental allergies brought on by inhaled particles of pollen, mold, and dust can be just as insufferable for your pet as they are for you. But, since your pet is unlikely to have (or present) the same symptoms we humans suffer, you may not recognize your pet’s symptoms for what they are.

The Itchy and Scratchy Show

Typically, allergies in your pet present as skin issues and can include the following:

• Chronic licking, scratching or chewing in a centralized area (typically the paws, groin, neck or flanks)
• Extremely itchy back and base of tail
• Chronic ear problems, which may be most noticeable by other animal’s cleaning your pet’s ears
• Hair loss or red skin
• Itchy runny eyes
• Vomiting, diarrhea, hives or swelling (less common)
• Hot spots

Hot spots are of particular concern, as they have the ability to lead to skin infection (or worse) and may culminate into greater health risks for your pet if left unchecked. If you notice that your pet has developed this condition, please contact us immediately.

The cone of shame will seem like a walk in the park when compared to the complications hot spots can present to both you and your pet.

Nothing to Sneeze About

If you notice your cat or dog exhibiting any of these symptoms don’t just tuck an antihistamine into your pet’s food and call it good. Allergies can pose a serious health risk to your sweet pet, and a call to your veterinarian is needed to ensure proper treatment.

There are many ways of testing your pet for allergies, ranging from simple blood work to a full scratch panel. Your vet will discuss those options with you, depending on the specifics of your pet’s condition. Once the allergens have been identified and the severity of your pet’s allergies gauged, your vet will then work with you to create the best treatment plan possible.

Sweet Relief

If your pet’s allergy symptoms are only presenting a few months out of the year, a simple oral medication may be all he or she needs to find relief from the relentless suffering of seasonal allergies. However, if your pet’s symptoms persist, or are more severe, treatments such as histamine injections to build up immunity may be the only answer for long-term relief.

Additionally, treatments such as over-the-counter antihistamines, steroids, medicated shampoos, or immunotherapy may be prescribed as well, but should only be administered under the supervision of your veterinarian.

If you suspect your cat or dog is suffering from allergies, or has any of the symptoms listed above, please give us a call and schedule an appointment.

What’s a whipworm

The dreaded whipworm is a small worm, averaging under a centimeter in length. They feature a long, skinny whip-like tail (hence their name). Because they live in the cecum, (where the small and large intestines join.), most times pet owners never see the worms in the stool. They whipworm attaches to the tissue of the intestine in this location and feed on the blood within the intestinal wall. They lay eggs here as well, which then pass into the stool, contaminating the soil surrounding the feces. In 2 to 4 weeks, these eggs in the environment are capable of infecting a new host.

How pets get infected

Because the whipworm eggs are hiding in the dirt and surrounding environment, a dog will often become infected while grooming itself. Once a pet is infected, the whipworm egg gets to work hatching and heading to the cecum to make its new home. This process takes about a week. A few whipworms are no big deal, however a large infestation can  result in diarrhea, blood loss, or periodic weakness characterized by electrolyte imbalance.

So why are whipworms such a pain in the rear? (Pun intended). Firstly, female whipworms do not lay eggs constantly, so unless fecal samples are examined multiple times, infestation may be missed. Also, young whipworms take 2-3 months to mature and be susceptible to traditional deworming. This means that multiple dewormings must take place to entirely eradicate an infection. Finally, whipworm eggs are quite hearty. Once they contaminate the soil in an area, it is virtually impossible to get rid of them. The environment may be contaminated for years, making repeat infestation highly likely.

What to do

So what can we do? Thankfully, we do have dewormers that are quite effective. If whipworm infestation is diagnosed (or suspected), pets are prescribed a deworming medication such as fenbendazole or febantel. Doses are often repeated in a few months. Because of the high likelihood of repeated exposure, pets that have whipworms also often benefit from remaining on a monthly parasite preventative that provides whipworm protection. There are several heartworm prevention products that also provide this benefit. Whipworms are tricky little worms, but with a little knowledge it is possible to control them in our pets.

With summer just around the corner, many of our clients have been contacting us with questions about our boarding services. We understand that leaving your pet for an extended period of time can be stressful for you both. We also realize you want to know that your furry friend is in good hands and receiving the love and care he or she deserves while you’re away.

So, if you’re planning on hitting the open road this summer, but won’t be taking your pet along for the ride, here are some helpful hints for preparing your pet for his or her stay at Naperville Animal Hospital’s Dog Suites and Kitty Condos.

Reservations

Just as your favorite vacation destination reaches capacity during peak travel times, so do our boarding facilities. To ensure that your pet will be able to stay with us while you are away, we encourage you to book your pet’s stay at Naperville’s Dog Suites and Kitty Condos as soon as your own travel dates have been secured.

Sniff us out

Once your reservations are made, we encourage you to bring your pet in to “sniff us out” before the big stay. If possible, book an overnighter for your cat or dog so he or she can get an idea of what to expect during his or her stay. Or, bring your dog in for a day or two of Doggie Daycare at our facility. This is an excellent opportunity for your pooch to get to know our staff and relax and enjoy the fun we offer.

Even if a short stay is not possible, we encourage you to bring in your pet for a quick visit, at the very least. Getting to know the staff and smells of our kennel facility will go a long way in alleviating any anxiety when the big stay arrives.

For the records

For your pet’s safety, as well as the safety of all our borders, we require all pets staying at our Dog Suites and Kitty Condos to be current on their vaccinations. For dogs, this includes rabies, distemper/parvo/corona, and bordetella vaccinations as well as a fecal test. For cats, rabies, feline distemper, and bordetella vaccinations and a fecal test are required.

If your pet is not current on these vaccinations, or if you are unsure of your pet’s vaccination status, simply check with our friendly staff when making your reservation. We will be happy to schedule an appointment, if needed.

The big stay

As you pack for your big adventure, don’t forget to pack for your pet’s big adventure as well. We all like the creature comforts of home while we are away, and your pet is no different. Feel free to bring your pet’s favorite toy or blanket, or any little thing that might make him or her feel at home. Something with your scent on it is always a good choice. The smells of home are comforting for your pet and let him or her know that he or she has not been abandoned.

It’s also important to communicate any of your pet’s special needs to our staff, including allergies, anxieties, health concerns, grooming considerations, etc. It is our goal to make your pet’s stay as comfortable as possible, so whatever they may need is of great importance to us.

Finally, as you say your see-you-soons to your fuzzy friend, try to remember to stay calm and positive about the coming experience. If you are stressed and emotional, your pet will pick up on that and may become worried as well. But, if you’re excited, your pet will be too.

Should you have any other questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to take your reservation and answer any questions you might have.

Bon Voyage!

The decision to adopt a new pet brings an excitement unlike any other. Whether you’re looking to adopt a cat, dog, bird or pocket pet, your new bundle of joy is likely to bring big changes to your household. So how do you make the transition a smooth success? By letting the “pet experts” of Naperville guide the way.

Ask Yourself a Few Key Questions

Before heading to the shelter to adopt a new furry friend ask yourself a few key questions and really consider your answers. If you find that the answers to these questions are iffy or don’t sit right with what you know your soon-to-be pet deserves, then the time for adopting might not be right. 

• Why do you really want a pet? If you’re a vetted pet owner or looking to replace a lost companion, then you’re probably doing this for the right reason. But if your answer to this question has anything to do with fashion, celebrity trends, or “but she’s soooo cute!,” then you might want to rethink your motives.
• Are you prepared to be your pet’s “forever family?” A pet is a huge responsibility and, when done right, a commitment that will last your pet’s lifetime. Pets require attention, training, and care that is both time-consuming and costly. If you are not able or prepared to give that to your pet throughout his or her life, you may want to reconsider.
• Can you afford to care for your pet, even if he or she has long-term health challenges? Few people consider this possibility when adopting a pet, but quite often pets end up at the shelter because they have a chronic condition their previous owners weren’t prepared to handle. It’s important to have a clear understanding of your pet-to-be’s medical history and to truly know in your heart (and your wallet) that you are up to the task. It’s heartbreaking for you both to have to return a pet to a shelter because you can’t keep up with the care he or she needs.
• What type of pet truly suits your lifestyle? Sure, you’ve dreamt of owning a huge, floppy Golden Retriever since you were a kid, but is that really the dog for you and your current lifestyle? If you’re living in a tiny apartment, gone from home more often than not, or living a sedentary lifestyle, probably not. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t another dog out there that’s perfect for you. Take the time to find the pet that’s right for you and your circumstances. You’ll be glad you did.

Plan Ahead

So, you’ve given all due consideration to the questions we’ve posed to you and are ready to take the plunge. But, before you go zipping off to the nearest shelter there are a few more things you should tick off your to-do list before bringing home your sweet new pet.

• Get your supplies before you go get your pet. Make sure you have the food, litter, bedding, toys, etc. that you will need prior to getting your new pet in the car. Likewise, prep your pet’s space ahead of time. Create a true home for him or her to come home too.
• Be prepared for the coming weeks. Schedule a wellness exam with your veterinarian prior to picking up your pet. It’s also wise to have a trainer on speed dial if you’re getting a dog. You’ll need it.
• Discuss how to care for your pet with your children before you get your pet home. If possible, put routines in place before actually getting your pet.
• Get to know the pet you’re interested in before bringing him or her home. If possible, take him or her for a walk or spend some time playing in a visiting room. Just because you have your eye on the cutest cat or dog at the shelter doesn’t mean he or she is right for your family. And don’t forget to consider adopting older pets. They have just as much to give (if not more) than their shiny, new counterparts.

While the list could go on (and on), we think this will get you and your new pet started on the road to success. A lot of love, a lot of patience, and a dash of good humor will go a long way toward you and your pet becoming forever family.

With Spring on its way,  shedding season is upon us. That means the time has come to schedule your pooch for his or her Spring-cleaning. Even if you have your pet on a regular grooming schedule, the time is perfect to freshen up your pet’s look with a new do or a fun flourish of color or scent.

Just like us, pets love to be pampered. A day at the spa can be just as rejuvenating for your pooch as it is for you. Add in a fresh new look and a jaunty little bow or bandana and you’ll notice a spring in your pup’s step that lets you know he or she is feeling frisky. 

We Know What You Need

In December, we discussed how to know whom to trust when it comes to selecting a grooming service for your pet. Among our top considerations were whether the groomer offers personalized services and has a working knowledge of your pet’s grooming needs.

At Naperville Animal Hospital, our groomers are on the ball when it comes to providing you and your pet with the services and styles your pet requires. Not only do we offer a range of shampoos specific to your pet’s dermatology, but our groomers can also offer your pet advanced grooming services when they are needed.

Of equal importance, our grooming staff knows the difference between a Schnauzer cut and a Continental Poodle cut. And more importantly, we know who gets which cut.

Our groomers are professionally trained and board-certified, meaning we are able to offer a full range of breed-specific grooming that is appropriate to your pet. If needed, we can also groom your pet to AKC specifications for dog shows and other events.

Has Anybody Seen a Dog Dyed Dark Green?

While your pooch may not be the B-52’s Quiche Lorraine, he or she can still have a groomer mix things up a bit. Not every pet owner is looking for a standard cut for his or her furry friend. Indeed, many pet owners are breaking with convention and trying something new with their pet’s style.

The groomers at Naperville Animal Hospital are more than happy to accommodate any special requests you may have for your pet’s style. Looking to add a splash of color to your dog’s mane? We can do that. Or perhaps you really do want a poodle with a Mohawk—we can to that too.

Whatever your request, we are more than happy to accommodate your whims. Even if the flare is as simple as a spritz of scent or a brightly colored bandana or a bow, a little something extra can go a long way in making over your pet’s look, regardless of the time of year.

The Royal Treatment

Whatever your pet’s signature style, the grooming experts at Naperville Animal Hospital are prepared to give your pet the personalized service and attention he or she deserves. Grooming should be a time for your pet to feel pampered and spoiled and we go the extra mile to provide that experience.

So whether you are looking to keep your pet’s look clean and fresh, or want to mix things up a bit with an edgy cut or unconventional color, you can rest assured that your pup will get the attention he or she deserves and the look of a lifetime with the grooming services at Naperville Animal Hospital.

With spring well on its way, everyone—human and animal alike—is looking to get outdoors and play. After being cooped up all winter, the sunshine and warm weather are irresistible. It’s only natural that you want to take your puppy out for a run or a game of fetch at the local dog park.

Have you ever had a diagnostic screening test? You know, when your doctor insists on checking your cholesterol levels, taking your blood pressure, or testing for glaucoma–even though you feel perfectly healthy?

Screening tests are a common strategy used to identify those who have a certain condition or disease even though they are not necessarily exhibiting symptoms.

These diagnostic screening tests are a powerful tool in both human and veterinary medicine, as many diseases respond better to treatment when they are caught early in their course. Many of the tests also provide valuable wellness information that allows your vet to make recommendations for diet or lifestyle to maintain wellness.

There are literally hundreds of screening-type tests that a veterinarian can order although it isn’t necessary to run all or most tests on all animals. Your vet will decide which are appropriate based on your pet’s lifestyle, age, breed, species, and risk factors. Some of the more common diagnostic screening tests include:

• Fecal parasite screening

A simple stool check screens for infection with a variety of intestinal parasites as well as some rare respiratory, urinary, and other parasites.

• Heartworm testing

This deadly, infectious disease can affect dogs and cats alike. A simple blood test can identify pets that have been bitten by a diseased mosquito.

• Complete blood count (CBC)

A CBC looks at the body’s white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Changes in these cell populations can help to identify infections, anemias, and even certain cancers.

• Serum chemistry

This blood testing allows the veterinarian to get a good look at your pet’s major organs, electrolytes, and blood sugar. Changes in these numbers can help uncover major underlying diseases.

• Thyroid testing

Over- or underactive thyroid hormone is a common problem in pets, and blood testing is a very accurate way to identify affected dogs and cats.

• Urinalysis

A quick look at your pet’s urine can tell your veterinarian a lot and may tip them off to problems such as kidney disease, diabetes, infections, and many other problems.

• Blood pressure

Pets can suffer from high blood pressure, or hypertension, too! Some pets are at higher risk than others and may benefit from having their blood pressure taken periodically.

• Abdominal and chest radiographs

Screening radiographs, or x-rays, can help your veterinarian to identify serious problems such as heart disease or cancer early in the process.

Screening testing is important to your pet’s health. By allowing your veterinarian to complete recommended tests, you are helping him or her to keep your pet as healthy as possible!

Spring has sprung, and with it a whole new slew of pet hazards need to be on your radar. One common danger for pups is the dreaded canine parvovirus. While “parvo” can strike any time of the year, it is most common in the spring and summer months.

So what is this disease all about?

The Problem

As implied in the name, parvovirus is an infectious virus that can be deadly to dogs. All species have parvoviruses, but they are specific to that species. That means that while your dog may contract canine parvo, it will not be contagious to you, your cats, or other pets in the home. Parvovirus in dogs attacks cells within the intestine as well as the bone marrow. This causes severe vomiting and/or diarrhea as well as the inability of the immune system to fight of the infection.

The Solution

There is no “cure” for a viral infection, so treatment is aimed at helping the pet’s body to stay strong while the disease runs its course. This means slowing fluid losses, maintaining hydration, providing nutrition, and preventing secondary infection from setting in. With aggressive treatment many animals will survive parvo infection, however treatment can be very costly and some pets may die despite the best treatment.

The Prevention

So how do you protect your pup from this devastating illness? A little common sense and appropriate vaccinations offer very effective protection. Parvovirus is often included in your pet’s distemper combination vaccine. All puppies should receive a series of this vaccine, with the last vaccine at or beyond 16 weeks of age. Until this series is complete, puppies may not be completely protected.

Because this virus can live in the environment for a year or more after an infected dog vomits or defecates, puppies who are not fully vaccinated should avoid areas where sick dogs may have been. Dog parks, pet stores, or even areas of the neighborhood where others frequently walk their pets make up the list of places to watch out for.

All adult dogs should receive boosters as recommended by your veterinarian as well to ensure continuing protection throughout their life.

Let’s make parvo a minor inconvenience rather than terminal illness. Contact Naperville Animal Hospital at (630) 355 – 5300 for vaccinations or with any questions today.

Spring is upon us, and many families will be welcoming new furry pet companions into their homes.  When taking in a new pet, it is important to be sure that you are ready to provide everything that he or she will need.  Use the following checklist to ensure that you don’t forget anything!

• Good nutrition

Choose a quality diet that meets your pet’s life stage (puppy/kitten, adult, senior), size, and energy needs.  Make any diet changes slowly over a period of 10-14 days.

• Basic belongings

You won’t need much for your new pet, but they will likely require a few things.  Food and water bowls, a properly fitting collar or harness, a leash or pet carrier, and a litter box for cats are musts.  Strongly consider an appropriately sized crate and some toys to entertain curious babies as well.

• Exercise

All pets require some form of exercise.  Be sure you have a plan to provide this for your new pet to help them to maintain their health and ward off behavioral problems.

• Vaccines

Be sure you know which vaccinations your new addition has already received and what additional ones are recommended by your veterinarian.  Vaccines are an important part of keeping your pet healthy.

• Spay/neuter

If your pet has not already been spayed or neutered, strongly consider doing so as soon as possible.  Spaying or neutering can decrease the incidence of certain health problems including some types of cancer, lessen the likelihood of behavioral problems, and helps prevent pets from escaping home and becoming lost or worse.

• Parasite prevention

Check with your veterinarian to learn about what types of parasite preventatives are recommended.  Intestinal parasites, heartworms, fleas, and ticks are all detrimental to your pet’s health and are largely preventable.

• Training

Whether it means you going to the library and learning about pet behavior or enrolling in classes, training your new pet will help him or her fit into your family better.

• Love and affection

And don’t forget the most important thing of all!  No pet should ever be without your unconditional love! More questions? Contact Naperville Animal Hospital in Naperville, IL and we’ll be happy to help.

Heartworms are a parasite that every pet owner should be familiar with. How much do you really know about this serious and formidable foe? See if you can answer the following questions.

Q:  True or false?  Heartworms only affect dogs.

A:  False. While heartworm disease is mostly a dog problem, cats, ferrets, wolves, coyotes, foxes, and sea lions can all be infected.

Q:  True or false?  Heartworms are transmitted from one pet to another via close contact.

A:  False. Heartworms are transmitted when a mosquito bites an infected dog and then bites another pet.

Q:  True or false?  Heartworms are detected by checking a stool sample.

A:  False. Heartworms live in the circulatory system and are detected using a blood sample.

Q:  True or false?  Sometimes an infected pet’s only symptom of heartworm infection is death.

A:  True. Because heartworms accumulate gradually in the body, clinical signs may not be easily noticed. While a cough, loss of energy, and weight loss are commonly seen, occasionally sudden death may be the only sign of a problem, particularly in cats.

Q:  True or false? My pet doesn’t go outdoors, so it does not need preventative medications.

A:  False. While outdoor pets are at greatest risk, mosquitoes can get into the house.

Q:  True or false? Heartworm preventative medications are recommended year round, no matter where you live.

A:  True. While heartworms are more common in certain parts of the country, heartworm disease has been diagnosed in every state. Preventative medications have been shown to be most effective when given every month.

Q:  True or false?  There is no cure for heartworms.

A:  Well, both. Dogs can be treated with a drug called melarsomine, however the damage done to the circulatory system by the worms is irreversible. There is no cure for cats that are infected.

How did you do?  We encourage you to learn more about heartworm disease and how it affects your pets. Please feel free to ask any questions you might have at your next visit, or visit The Heartworm Society for more information.