At Antigua Veterinary Practice in St. Augustine, FL, where we prioritize your pet’s well-being through comprehensive preventative care services. From tailored wellness exams to vaccination protocols designed to safeguard against common ailments, our veterinary practice is committed to promoting the longevity and vitality of your furry companions.
Routine wellness care is the foundation for a lifetime of good health for your pet. Many diseases that pets are susceptible to are either 100% preventable with proper intervention or are easily managed when detected early. Our St. Augustine veterinarians are fully committed to improving and maintaining your pet’s overall health. We provide comprehensive full-body exams to evaluate your pet’s health and address any concerns you have. We also assess your pet’s risk of exposure to different diseases and come up with a plan to reduce the risk of disease.
Our preventative and wellness care includes:
- Comprehensive wellness exam
- Vaccinations
- Heartworm tests
- Fecal exam to check for intestinal parasites
- Nutritional counseling
- Dental exams
- Heartworm prevention
- Flea and tick prevention
- Senior wellness bloodwork
- Microchipping
- Behavioral counseling
Wellness Exams for Pets in St. Augustine, FL
Wellness exams should be done at least once a year for adult pets and more frequently for senior pets or those with chronic health conditions. These exams are an excellent opportunity for our veterinarians to catch any potential health issues early on and provide necessary treatments.
Pet Vaccinations in St. Augustine, FL
Vaccinations are an essential part of preventative care for pets. They protect your pet from potentially life-threatening diseases and illnesses. Vaccinations work by stimulating your pet’s immune system to produce antibodies that can fight off specific diseases.
The specific vaccinations your pet needs will depend on their age, lifestyle, and risk factors. Our St. Augustine veterinarians can help determine which vaccinations are necessary for your pet and create a vaccination schedule to ensure they stay protected.
Vaccines for dogs:
- Rabies
- Parvovirus (part of the DHPP vaccine)
- Distemper (part of the DHPP vaccine)
- Hepatitus (part of the DHPP vaccine)
- Parainfluenza (part of the DHPP vaccine)
- Adenovirus (part of the DHPP vaccine)
- Kennel cough (Bordetella vaccine)
- Leptospirosis
Risk-based vaccines for dogs:
- Influenza
- Lyme disease
- Rattlesnake Vaccine
Vaccines for cats:
- Rabies
- Feline herpesvirus (part of the FVRCP vaccine)
- Calicivirus (part of the FVRCP vaccine)
- Panleukopenia (part of the FVRCP vaccine)
Risk-based vaccines for cats:
- Feline leukemia virus (FeLV vaccine)
Parasite in Pets
Parasites can cause serious health issues for your pet. Testing and preventative measures can help keep your pet safe from these pesky parasites.
Our veterinarians can recommend the best parasite control methods for your pet based on their lifestyle and risk factors. It’s essential to stay consistent with these preventative measures to ensure your pet stays protected.
Types of Parasites:
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Heartworms
- Ear Mites
- Roundworms
- Hookworms
- Tapeworms
FIV and FeLV in Cats
FIV and FeLV are both viral infections that affect cats. FIV is similar to HIV in humans, as it attacks the immune system and weakens it, making the cat more susceptible to other infections and diseases. FeLV, on the other hand, attacks the bone marrow and can lead to anemia, cancer, and other serious health issues.
Symptoms of FIV and FeLV in Cats
The symptoms of FIV and FeLV in cats can vary, but some common signs to look out for include:
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Respiratory issues
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Pale gums
- Jaundice
If your cat is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with us for a proper diagnosis.
Testing for FIV and FeLV
If you suspect that your cat may have FIV or FeLV, we can perform a simple blood test to confirm the diagnosis.
Heartworm in Dogs and Cats
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition that affects both dogs and cats. It is caused by a parasitic worm called Dirofilaria immitis, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. These worms can grow up to 12 inches in length and live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of infected animals.
Symptoms of Heartworms in Cats and Dogs
The symptoms of heartworm disease can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the type of animal.
In dogs, the symptoms may include:
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Reduced appetite
- Swollen abdomen
- Collapse
In cats, the symptoms may include:
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Reduced appetite
- Lethargy
- Collapse
Some animals may not show symptoms until the infection has progressed to a severe stage. This is why regular heartworm testing is crucial for early detection and treatment.
Heartworm Testing in Dogs and Cats
Heartworm testing is a simple and important process that helps detect the presence of heartworms in your pet. It involves a blood test that looks for the presence of heartworm proteins in the bloodstream.
When Should You Test Your Pet for Heartworms?
It is recommended to test your pet for heartworms at least once a year, even if they are on a regular heartworm prevention regimen. This is because no prevention method is 100% effective, and your pet may still become infected.
Microchipping Pets in St. Augustine, FL
Microchipping is a simple and effective way to ensure that your pet can be identified if they ever get lost. A microchip is a small device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is inserted under your pet’s skin. It contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by a veterinarian or animal shelter. This number is linked to your contact information, so if your pet is found, they can be safely returned to you. Microchipping is a quick procedure that can be done during a routine wellness visit.
Veterinary Nutrition and Weight Management
Pets need a balanced and nutritious diet to stay healthy. However, it can be difficult to know exactly what your pet needs, as their nutritional requirements may vary based on their age, breed, and activity level. Our St. Augustine veterinarians will provide you with personalized recommendations for your pet’s diet, as well as tips for managing their weight. Obesity is a common issue in pets, and it can lead to a variety of health problems. By working with our veterinary team to manage your pet’s weight, you can help them live a longer and healthier life.
Allergy and Dermatology Issues in Pets
Pets can suffer from allergies and skin problems, and these can be caused by a variety of factors, including food, environmental allergens, and parasites. If your pet is constantly scratching, has red or irritated skin, or is losing fur, it’s important to consult with our veterinary team. We can help identify the cause of your pet’s allergies and provide treatment options. This may include dietary changes, medication, or allergy shots. By addressing these issues, you can improve your pet’s quality of life and prevent further health problems.
St. Augustine, FL Veterinary Preventative Care You Can Trust
Finding veterinary preventative and wellness care in St. Augustine is easy with our online direct booking feature. Both new and existing clients seeking preventative pet care may schedule an appointment at our St. Augustine vet clinic.