Vaccination/Parasite Prevention

Pets age at a much faster rate than their human family members. This means that in one year, your pet can experience age-related changes equivalent to several human years. We recommend annual exams for all pets, to allow us to identify these changes early and prevent problems before they occur. Some conditions that can benefit from early recognition include dental disease, weight management, allergies and joint-related problems. A complete physical exam by a veterinarian each year can help keep your pet happy and healthy.

Vaccines

At your pet’s annual appointment, your veterinarian may recommend vaccines for your pet. This recommendation is always based on the specific needs of your individual pet and may vary based on age, breed, medical history, and lifestyle.

Dogs are risk for several diseases that can be transmitted from other dogs or their environment. At Truro Vet we have “core” vaccinations which are recommended to all dogs, and two “lifestyle” vaccinations which are recommended based on the habits of your dog.

The canine core vaccines are: Distemper Virus combination (with Parainfluenza and Adenovirus), Parvovirus and Rabies Virus. While the risk of contracting Rabies Virus may be low in Nova Scotia, the public (human) health risk presented means that all pets should be vaccinated against this disease.
The lifestyle vaccines are: Bordetella (Kennel Cough) and Leptospirosis. The risk factors for Bordetella include visiting kennels and groomers, and participating in events such as puppy classes, doggy daycare, or agility classes. Leptospirosis is a bacteria found in water where wildlife or livestock have urinated. Dogs who live on farms near nature and wild animals, swim frequently, or just like to drink from puddles can be at risk for this disease. Our staff will discuss these issues and other health concerns that may affect vaccination to determine the best vaccination plan for your individual pet.

Cats may be vaccinated against a feline upper respiratory complex of diseases including Feline Viral Rhinotracteitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (given as one injection), as well as Feline Leukemia Virus and Rabies Virus.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a serious disease that affects many cats in Nova Scotia. There is a quick blood test available that can determine if your cat has been infected by this virus. We recommend that all cats be tested prior to bringing them into your household, as FeLV is easily transmissible among cats. If your cat has a negative result, vaccinating your cat regularly will prevent them from becoming infected even if they are exposed to the virus. We also recommend testing adult cats for a similar disease, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). Unfortunately, there is no effective and reliable vaccine available for this disease.

Pets who have vaccinations at our hospital in the past 12 months are eligible for complimentary nail trims once monthly.
Learn more about our Nail Trim Donation Program.

Parasites

All pets, even those who live strictly indoors, can be exposed to parasites. Parasites fall into two categories, internal and external. Internal parasites include roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, heartworm, and lungworm. External parasites include fleas, ticks, mites (skin and ear), and lice. In addition to the “ew, that’s gross!” factor, these parasites can have serious effects on your pet’s health, especially in very young or senior pets. Some parasites can also have detrimental health effects on human family members as well. We recommend routine preventive parasite care for all pets in your household. We have parasite products in a variety of formats so you can choose the best formula for your needs. Dogs who love treats may enjoy a beef flavoured pill, while those hard-to-pill cats do best with a topical treatment. No matter which format works best for you, all products are safe and will keep your pet parasite free.

parasites