Preventive Care for Your Pet

Pets are more than just animals, they are members of the family. When it comes to pets, preventive care from a veterinarian goes a long way to ensure your pet has a long and healthy life. You may be wondering what kind of preventive care you should provide for your pet. At Wooded Acres Animal Hospital in Middle Island, Dr. Jennifer Iannaccone has more than twenty years of experience making sure your pet gets the preventative veterinary care it needs.

Home Care

One of the most important parts of preventive care for your pet is what you do with your pet every day at home. You are the one who determines the food that your pet eats and the amount of exercise he or she gets every day. It is up to you to make sure that your home is a safe place for your pet.

Routine Exams

Depending on the type of pet that you have and its age, a routine exam may only be necessary once a year. At this time your pet will be weighted, their vitals taken and the veterinarian will do a hands-on exam. An examination of your pet's mouth and ears will also be done at this time.

Vaccinations and Treatments

Rabies: When it comes to rabies, it is the vaccination most commonly required by law. New York requires dogs, cats and ferrets to be vaccinated and to maintain that vaccination at all times.  

Other vaccinations for your pet are something to discuss with your veterinarian. Some of the others that are available are canine or feline distemper, Lyme disease for your dog and Bordetella. When it comes to Bordetella if you board your dog it will most likely be required.

Heartworm: This treatment can be given several different ways and it is one of the things you should discuss with your vet at your next wellness visit. 

Flea and Tick Treatment: Fleas and ticks are more than just unpleasant pests for your pet, they carry disease. Keeping your pet free of these pests is important and the treatment can also take several different forms.

Dental Care

Much as with their human counterparts, having healthy teeth and gums is important for your pet’s overall health. Gum disease can result in some very serious health problems.

Preventive care is one of the most important things you can do for your pet. Call Dr. Jennifer Iannaccone at Wooded Acres Animal Hospital in Middle Island NY at (631) 760-1554. Schedule a pet wellness check-up once a year for your furry friend to ensure he or she has a long and healthy life.