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Friday, January 27, 2012

Beat the Heat

Beat the Heat with $15 Spaying & Neutering
Feb. 21-25, 2012

DPC Veterinary Hospital in Davie, FL will be participating in the county’s Beat the Heat program for cat spaying and neutering, as well as microchip implantation and vaccinations.
During the week of February 21-25th, 2012 the county will be sponsoring a program that will provide a $15 package for cat vaccinations and altering. If you are in the Fort Lauderdale area and have a cat in need of spaying or neutering, please contact the county as soon as possible to reserve your spot. Appointments are made through the county directly but the procedure is done here at our low cost spay and neuter clinic in Davie, Florida. 
Spaces are limited! Reservations are recommended by calling your corresponding county office:
Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control – 561-233-1261
Broward County Animal Care & Adoption – 954-359-1313 x 9271
Humane Society of Broward County – 954-895-3605
Humane Society of Greater Miami – 305-696-0800
Proof of residency is required. Cats must be 8 weeks of age or older.


Low Cost Spay and Neuter Packages in Davie
DPC Veterinary Hospital is proud to offer low cost spaying and neutering services as well as vaccination packages year-round. Currently, the Southeast Florida Region Spay/Neuter Coalition is sponsoring a program that will offer a special package that will be redeemable at our clinic. Proof of residency and a reservation are required. To make your appointment, contact your county at one of the numbers listed above.

The services include:-Spaying/neutering
-Rabies vaccine
-Microchip
-FVRCP vaccine

If you have any questions regarding the program, services offered or spaying/neutering please contact our office at 954-989-9879.

Friday, January 6, 2012

Kennel Cough

Kennel Cough

What Is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is a term loosely used to describe a complex of infections—both viral and bacterial—that causes inflammation of a dog’s voice box and windpipe. It’s a form of bronchitis and is similar to a chest cold in humans. Though it usually clears up on its own, kennel cough is highly contagious to other dogs.

What Are the General Symptoms of Kennel Cough?

A persistent dry cough with a “honking” sound is the main clue your dog’s caught kennel cough. In most cases, she’ll appear healthy except for the cough. Her appetite and activity level usually won't change, but don’t be alarmed if she gags and coughs up a white, foamy phlegm—these signs are often worse after exercise, or if she’s excited or pulls against her collar. Some dogs may also develop a fever and nasal discharge.

What Should I Do if I Think My Dog Has Kennel Cough?

If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, immediately isolate her from all other dogs and call your veterinarian.

How Did My Dog Catch Kennel Cough?

Dogs can catch kennel cough in several ways. It can spread through aerosols in the air, directly from dog to dog, or through germs on contaminated objects. Kennel cough is often spread in enclosed areas with poor air circulation—while boarding in a kennel or an animal shelter, for example, or through direct contact while sitting in a vaccination clinic, training class or dog-grooming facility.
Kennel cough is so contagious that your pet might even catch it from sharing a water dish at the dog park or by simply greeting another dog. Most kennels will not board your pet without proof of a recent vaccination against parainfluenza and bordetella, two of the main causes of kennel cough.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Kennel Cough?

Most often, dogs who have frequent contact with other dogs, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas, are most prone to becoming infected. Young and unvaccinated dogs are also at higher risk.

How Is Kennel Cough Prevented?

The best way to prevent kennel cough is to prevent exposure. Vaccinations are also available for several of the agents known to be involved in kennel cough, including parainfluenza, bordetella and adenovirus-2. Ask your vet if these are recommended, and how often—but please keep in mind that vaccinations aren’t useful if a dog has already caught the virus.

How Is Kennel Cough Treated?

It’s smart to see your veterinarian if your dog develops a cough. In some cases, you may be advised to simply let kennel cough run its course and heed the following:
  • Dogs with kennel cough should be isolated from other dogs.
  • A humidifier or vaporizer can provide some relief. You can also allow your dog into the bathroom while you shower. The steam will help soothe her irritated breathing passages.
  • Avoid exposing her to cigarette smoke or other noxious, irritating fumes.
  • A cough suppressant or antimicrobial may be described. Your vet can be able to determine if they would be helpful to your dog.
  • If your dog pulls against her collar while being walked, replace it with a harness until the coughing subsides.
  • Supportive care is very important—be sure your dog is eating, drinking and in a stress-free environment.

How Long Does Kennel Cough Last?

In most cases, the signs of kennel cough gradually decrease and disappear after three weeks. Young puppies, elderly dogs and other immunocompromised animals may take up to six weeks or more to recover. In some cases, animals may remain infectious for long periods of time even after the symptoms have cleared up.

When Is It Time To See The Vet Again?

You should see some improvement in your dog’s condition within one week of treatment, but be alert to how long the symptoms last. If your dog has nasal discharge, is breathing rapidly, refuses to eat or seems lethargic, take her to the veterinarian right away. Serious cases of kennel cough can lead to pneumonia if left untreated.

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6902 Stirling Road
Davie, FL 33024
954-989-9879
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