PREVENTATIVE CARE & VACCINES

Preventative Care & Vaccines for Pets in Columbus, MS

Preventative care is just that. It is a proactive way to help ensure the continued well-being of your furry loved one. As a pet owner, you are your pet’s advocate. Animal Health Services will work with you to help provide the best preventative care designed at keeping your special pet to remain as healthy as possible. It is our desire for you to have a special bond with your pet for many years to come. Below are listed some of the important preventative care considerations.

Annual Exams

An annual physical examination of your pet is very important for screening your pet for subtle changes in health. Even pets that have traditionally enjoyed great health, can benefit from this informative procedure. Dr. Mullen will perform a complete examination that can help uncover a problem and treat or correct it before it has had time to progress. Along with historical findings, annual physical examination is also the foundational basis for recommending additional testing when warranted. We will be glad to speak with you regarding physical examination findings, and work with you to find the best course of action for the continued optimal health of your furry friend. Presenting your questions and concerns to Dr. Mullen during the annual examination appointment is a great way to cooperatively address questions you may have. We are grateful to be part of your pet’s healthcare!

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are often performed in conjunction with a pet’s annual examination. Vaccinations are an essential part of veterinary care for your pet. Without vaccinations, pets are put at greater risk of becoming sick or catching a disease, some of which can be severe or fatal. The goal of vaccination is to stimulate your pet’s immune system, and build resistance before your pet has been exposed to something that may put them at risk. Dr. Mullen will be glad to discuss vaccination options with you and design a protocol that gives your pet maximum protection.

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How Vaccinations Are Beneficial

Vaccines can help your pet's body protect them from serious diseases that can cause significant issues and potentially death. While your pet can still get sick after vaccination, symptoms will be less severe.

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Core Vs. Non-Core Vaccines

Your pet doesn't need every vaccine out there to stay healthy. We take an individualized approach to this area of your pet's health and wellness. Core vaccines, such as rabies, are legally required for all pets. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your pet’s breed, location, and lifestyle.

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Health Considerations

Our veterinary professional understands that not all vaccines, even core ones, are safe for all pets. Therefore, we assess your pet's medical history report and evaluate their risk. Sometimes, we recommend skipping specific inoculations if the risks outweigh the benefits. Side effects tend to be mild and occur because your pet's immune system is growing stronger to eventually fight those diseases if they should acquire that particular illness. Potential side effects include increased sleepiness, fever, and decreased appetite. 

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Working With You

We encourage you to ask any questions you may have. If you don't know when your dog or cat vaccines are due, we can inform you of the schedule and ensure you stay on track. This ensures your pet is protected. Vaccines can prevent serious complications in your pet, and we strongly urge our pet parents to visit us for routine vaccinations as soon as possible after welcoming a new pet into the home.

Heartworm Testing

All dogs living in Mississippi need to receive heartworm prevention year-round, even those with thick hair coats, and those that are considered to be inside-only. Since heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitos, there is an ongoing risk for contracting heartworm disease, even in the winter. Dogs that do not receive heartworm prevention are expected to contract heartworms at some point during their lives. Fortunately, there are multiple good options for preventing heartworm disease in dogs. Dr. Mullen can educate you about the medication options available to help you to choose the best option for your pet. Another benefit of heartworm prevention, is that the majority of heartworm preventions have the ability to prevent or treat some of the most common intestinal parasites found in pets. Annual testing for heartworm disease in dogs is typically done during the same annual appointment when your pet’s physical examination and vaccinations are performed. While cats can contract heartworm disease, annual heartworm disease in cats is not required, as feline heartworm disease is very different from that seen in dogs.

Fecal Examination

There are a variety of intestinal parasites that pets can become infested with. Hookworm, roundworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and coccidian are among the more common parasites identified in pets in our area. Intestinal parasite infestations can cause changes in your pet’s health. Vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes with blood), and weight loss are some of the common signs associated with parasitism in pets. Each day we perform microscopic fecal examinations to screen pets for intestinal disease. Intestinal parasites are often contagious to other pets and sometimes people (zoonotic), so it important for Dr. Mullen to treat affected animals as soon as possible.

Keep Your Pet Protected and Healthy

Routine care is key to a long, happy life for your pet. Call (662) 328-2821 or visit Animal Health Services in Columbus, MS, to schedule care today.

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