Heartworm
Heartworm is a parasite transmitted by mosquitoes and lives within the circulatory system of a dog and can be fatal. It is generally recommended that dogs be tested for heartworm annually in the spring beginning at 6 months of age. Heartworm preventative can be given to your dog during the mosquito season or all year round: consult with your veterinarian for a prevention schedule. If your dog does test positive for heartworm, treatment is available but is very costly and dangerous...it is much easier and safer to prevent the disease in the first place since it is a deadly disease.
Internal Parasites
Symptoms of these common parasites include diarrhea, bloody stools, lots of eating but little weight gain, and a general lack of energy. Oftentimes, however, there are no symptoms. Most parasites can be easily detected by a fecal exam and treated with a dewormer or other medication prescribed by a veterinarian. Most are contagious to other dogs and some to other animals and people. Infected dogs should be kept away from dog social areas and caretakers should wash their hands thorougly after handling the dog and her feces (which should be picked up immediately). Make sure to bring a fecal sample in to your first veterinary visit. Also note that there is a higher risk of being infected by parasites if your dog is in dog social areas such as dog parks, doggie day care and dog classes; regular fecals are highly recommended.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is the common name for a number of upper respiratory viruses. If you adopted your dog at RCHS, s/he has been vaccinated against one of the more common upper respiratory viruses, but there are many other contagious upper respiratory viruses and the vaccine does not cover them all. Common symptoms include nasal discharge, coughing, lack of appetite, and lethargy. Common treatment includes antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections and supportive care such as fluids for rehydration. Kennel cough is contagious to other dogs; limited contact with other dogs is recommended while contagious.
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We only have a few of our 2012 Calendars left! Each calendar is chock full of beautiful photos of our community's beloved animals & now they are only $10!.
Help raise money for Rock County Humane Society every time you send flowers! Fairview Florists in Janesville is teaming up with Flowers for a Good Cause to benefit local charities RCHS.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 18th for the 2nd Annual canine weight pull event hosted by RCHS and Alaskan Malamute Club of Wisconsin.
