The arrival of a new puppy is an exciting moment for all the family but it is important to remember that they need protecting from the common infectious diseases. As long as their mother was regularly vaccinated puppies will be protected from the common infectious diseases during the first few weeks of life. However this protection gradually wanes and puppies should be vaccinated from 8 weeks of age (in high risk situations puppies can be vaccinated earlier). They then need a second injection 2-4 weeks later and will require a yearly booster to maintain protection. If you are unsure whether or not your dog has had its vaccinations bring him or her to see us and we can make sure they are protected.

The vaccination appointment gives us an excellent opportunity to give your pet a thorough health examination and to answer any questions you may have.

Vaccination protects your dog from Parvovirus, Distemper, Para influenza virus, Adenovirus and Leptospirosis. Vaccination against Kennel cough can also be given.

Worming

Regular worming is important for both your pet and family's health. There are a number of safe and effective ways to keep your pet worm free and we will happily give advice and tailor a worming regime to suit you and your dog’s lifestyle.

Neutering

Many dogs that are not neutered when they are young will need to be neutered later in life. This may be because of health problems such as prostate problems in male dogs and womb infections or mammary tumours in female dogs. We therefore recommend that dogs are neutered when they are young and healthy rather than putting them through an emergency procedure when they are old and sick.

Fleas

Fleas are common parasites of dogs and modern, warm houses unfortunately mean that they are now active the whole year round. This coupled with the fact that the fleas found on your pet represent only the tip of the iceberg - for each adult flea on your pet there will be at least 20 developing in the environment - means that regular preventative treatment is essential to keep your pet and house flea free.

Effective flea control means treating your pet and its environment and we are happy to provide advice on how to maintain a flea free home!

Effective flea control is also essential for the good health of your pet – as well as causing itchy and uncomfortable skin fleas can act as an intermediary host and spread tapeworm.

Ticks

Unfortunately ticks are extremely common in the countryside of North Devon and can potentially transmit infectious diseases. Once attached Ticks bury their head into the skin and feed on your pet’s blood. They grow to many times their original size as they feed.

Preventative treatments for ticks in dogs are available and we will be happy to discuss these treatments with you. If you discover a tick on your pet we strongly recommend that you do not simply pull it off – often the head and mouth parts detach and are left behind in your pet's skin. The Market Vets Team will happily remove ticks from your pet, show you how to use a tick remover and discuss preventative treatments.

Please contact one of our surgeries for more information or why not book a free parasite check with a member of our nursing team?