Our guide to caring for your
dog

Worming

• Dogs are susceptible to roundworm, hookworm, whipworm and tapeworm. These parasites are also a health risk to people if not treated, especially young children.
• Depending on the worming treatment use there will be different protocols. Many treatments are monthly, however, some can be used every 3 months.
• You should weigh your pet prior to giving worming treatments. You are welcome to use our scales
  at any time.

Protecting their heart

• Heartworm is a life-threatening parasite that is transmitted by mosquitoes.
• There are a variety of heartworm prevention products available, such as; yearly injections or monthly products. We can discuss what is best for you and your pet at your next appointment.

Flea prevention

• Fleas can cause irritation and significant skin disease all year round but can be easily prevented with a high-quality preventative product. There are monthly liquids you can apply to your pets’ skin or oral tablets.

Good food – Good health

• Premium adult or senior dog food will provide the required nutrition for your dog. Examples of these include Royal Canin or Hill’s Science Diet.

Dental health

• Daily brushing is the most effective way to ensure good dental health and prevent dental disease in later years.
• Dental chews such as Greenies or Prozym Sticks can be commenced from 6 months of age to help slow
  tartar build up.

De-sexing

We recommend all pets are de-sexed. In males, de-sexing greatly reduces aggression towards other male dogs, territorial urination, mounting, hypersexual behaviour, roaming and prevents prostate problems. De-sexing females avoids unwanted litters, greatly reduces chances of breast cancer, reduces roaming and attracting males when in season.

• De-sexing will not change your pet’s personality.
• De-sexing can reduce the chances of disease later in life.
• De-sexing can be done from 5 months of age.

Microchip identification

Microchips ensure permanent identification for your dog. Microchips are now compulsory with all council pet registration. The microchip is implanted under the skin on the back of the neck and can be implanted at any age. If your dog is picked up by the council or animal shelter they will scan for a microchip and give you a call. Ask our staff to have your pets’ microchip checked when they come in for an annual health check.

Council registration

Your dog needs to be registered with your local council from 3 months of age.

Health insurance

You can cover your dog against unexpected medical problems as well as personal liability for damage it may cause.

Health insurance can cost as little as $16 per month. Look at these websites for further details:

• petsecure.com.au
• rspca.org.au
• bowwowinsurance.com.au
• petinsuranceaustralia.com.au