Canine Prevention
At
Arroyo Veterinary Hospital, our philosophy centers on preventive
medicine. Because dogs age so much faster than humans, medical
conditions develop quickly. But there are a number of steps you can
take as part of your dog’s routine care to help avoid common health
problems and protect him or her in times of need.Collar and Tag. Identifying your dog is one of the simplest and most cost-effective things you can do to protect him or her. A simple identification tag can provide your dog’s name, emergency contact information, and special medical conditions. You can also purchase special medical alert tags.
Microchipping. Having a microchip inserted under your dog’s skin is quick, easy, affordable, and, for the most part, painless. If someone finds your dog and brings him or her to a shelter or here to Arroyo, a staff member will perform a scan that reveals your pet’s unique identification number. It’s a highly effective way to recover a lost pet.
Flea and Tick Control
External parasites such as fleas and ticks can bring not only discomfort but also worms and other ailments, and are particularly active in hot, dry weather. We recommend preventing these pests with non-toxic, topically applied products including Sentinel, Revolution, Advantix, or Frontline.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations provide important protection against viruses and bacterial diseases, but they are just one aspect of your dog’s annual health regimen. New information about shots and their effectiveness becomes available all the time. Some research indicates, for example, that older animals might not need vaccinations as often as when they are younger. That’s why, at Arroyo, we offer shots only as part of the examination process, not in “shot clinics” or other ad hoc ways. The vaccinations we offer protect against
- Rabies
- Distemper
- Bordatella
- Parvovirus
- Lyme Disease
- Leptospirosis
- Snake Bite
Pet First Aid and Emergency Preparedness Workshops
Occasionally we offer a two-hour evening Pet First Aid and Emergency Preparedness Workshop led by Dr. Rhonda Stallings. You can learn the basics of caring for your dog during a crisis. A nominal donation is suggested. Proceeds benefit our Good Samaritan Fund for pets requiring urgent medical treatment who have no caretaker support to cover their veterinary expenses. Visit our Calendar of Events for the next available dates and times.
Legal Protection
If something happens to you, what will happen to your pet? You can take action now to ensure that your pet will receive proper care in your absence. By carrying an “I Have Pets” card in your wallet, writing down your pet-care information and keeping it with other important papers, and placing a pet decal at your home entrance are steps you can take to alert others that you have animals who need attention. Legal preparations include establishing a trust that provides funds for your pet’s care and designates a trustee-caretaker. To discuss your options, contact a qualified attorney with experience in estate planning. If you are age 65 or older, you also can enroll in Arroyo’s Continuing Care Program, which provides temporary care of your pet until he or she is placed with your designated caretaker.
Heartworm Test
During your dog’s examination at Arroyo, we conduct a simple test to determine the presence of heartworm disease, which can be fatal if untreated.
Fecal Exam for Internal Parasites
During your dog’s examination at Arroyo, we take a stool sample and conduct a fecal exam to determine the presence of hidden parasites, which can carry infections and other diseases.
Dental Care
Proper dental care helps to ensure the overall health and prolong the life of your dog. In fact, 85 to 95 percent of all pets age three and older have significant dental and periodontal disease, which can lead to life-threatening infections. We recommend annual cleaning at Arroyo, as well as daily tooth brushing and dental treats at home. See the video on How to Brush your Dog's Teeth.
Pet Insurance
Health insurance can be an effective way to manage routine or unexpected veterinary costs. The oldest and largest provider of health insurance for pets, Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) offers affordable programs that start at $19 per month for dogs, with all plans including a $50 deductible. Premiums are based on the species and age of the animal and plan you select. For details and quotes, call 800-USA-PETS (872-7387), visit www.petinsurance.com, or pick up a brochure in the Arroyo reception area.
Environmental Hazards
Be aware of the hazards that exist in your environment. Some of these are present year round while others are associated with certain times of the year such as the holidays.
Here are some useful handouts you can download.
Poison proof your home
Holiday Hazards
Halloween Safety
Keep your Pets safe on the 4th
Spring Hazards
Arroyo Veterinary Hospital offers wellness programs that cover all aspects of preventive health for puppies and for dogs in their active and senior years. Learn more about our full range of services.
Arroyo Veterinary Hospital is proud to be accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association, a member of the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce, The Better Business Bureau and a certified Green Business
