June 2011
Theodore came to Head to Tail Veterinary Hospital because his back end was itchy for about a week. Dr. Catherine Stuart thought perhaps his anal glands being full could be the problem. Small dogs are particularly prone to anal gland issues. She did express both glands which were full.Part of a full physical exam is checking for ecto-parasites (ones that live on the surface of animals), Dr. Stuart started looking through Theodore’s coat. She found multiple fleas while looking over the Chihuahua.
Theodore was sent home on a steroid medication to help with his itching as well as a flea medication that will kill all three stages of the flea lifecycle. Since only 5% of a flea infestation is adult fleas. The owner also took home a spray for her home to help get the infestation under control faster. The only way to truly get rid of a flea problem is to keep your pet on a flea controlling medication long after you stop seeing adult fleas. Another flea controlling medication was sent home for Theo’s cat sister since she will probably also get fleas if she doesn’t have them already. Hope you get rid of your little friends soon Theodore!
Having a new pet brings along multiple responsibilities. Depending on the pet chosen, new owners will have to be prepare to invest a
ReplyDeletelot of time, energy and money. The maintenance of just a small animal can run up to thousands of dollars annually. Most times that cost does not even take into account the possible need for emergency veterinarian care.
Veterinarians Natick MA