Why is it so important to pick up after your pet?

Why is it so important to pick up after your pet? Many diseases are spread by a dogs contact with contaminated poop. This includes licking and eating any poop and areas where a contaminated poop once was.

Parvovirus

Canine parvovirus is most commonly known as parvo. Parvo can be spread by a dogs contact with another dog, environment (dog parks, sidewalks, kennels, etc.), or person who has had contact with a contaminated dog. It is extremely contagious because it can stick to so many surfaces and stays in an environment for years if left untreated. Although puppies are most likely to get parvo, a dog at any age can get parvo. Make sure you are staying up-to-date with your pets vaccines to help they stay protected against common diseases. Signs of parvo include diarrhea, blood in poop, vomiting, sleepiness, loss of appetite, and fever. This year alone Mesa Veterinary Clinic and Paws N Hooves Mobile Veterinary Services have diagnosed 54 dogs with parvo. If you suspect your dog has parvo contact our clinic immediately at 915-584-4491.

Giardia

Giardia is a parasite that lives in the intestines. Giardia can be spread through contaminated poop and water. The most common symptom is diarrhea. There is currently no vaccine that helps protect your pet against giardia. To help prevent your pet from getting giardia do not allow them to come into contact with stool left from another pet, do not allow them to share water bowls, and do not let them drink from stagnant water sources. To determine if your pet has giardia we can run a test on a fresh sample of poop. This year alone Mesa Veterinary Clinic and Paws N Hooves Mobile Veterinary Services have diagnosed 56 dogs with giardia. If you suspect your dog has giardia contact our clinic immediately at 915-584-4491.

If your pet was known to have parvo or giardia your home must be treated. Bleach is the most effective solution. You will want to bleach any area where your pet may have pooped.

During the month of August Mesa Veterinary Clinic and Paws N Hooves Mobile Veterinary Services are giving your pets their very own back to school special called Looks for Less. They will get a nail trim, ear cleaning, and fecal (poop) test for ONLY $35!

If you have any additional questions, or if you would like to start protecting your pet today call us at 915-584-4491.

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