Prolonged Well-Being with Pet Wellness Exams for Dogs and Cats Mishawaka, IN
Our Mishawaka Pet Wellness Plans
Keep track of your pet’s wellness care and save on costs in the process! Our pet wellness plans cover all your pet’s needs including blood work, vaccinations, disease screening, physical exams, and more!
Every pet parent wants to spend as many good years as possible with their companions. Since pets live shorter lives than we do, our goal is to optimize those good years. At Lincolnway Veterinary Clinic, we provide South Bend and Mishawaka, Indiana, as well as the greater Michiana area with personalized pet wellness exams for dogs and cats that suits their unique needs and helps them live their life to the fullest. Call us at (574) 256-1871 to schedule an appointment today.
Ready to help your pet be their healthiest selves?
Flea, Tick & Heartworm Prevention in Dogs and Cats
Fleas, ticks, and heartworms (transmitted by mosquitoes) in dogs and cats are three of the most common parasites that affect the health of our pets. Not only are they a nuisance, but they can also cause significant health issues for our pets, and even our human family, too. Preventing them is a big part of pet wellness care! Here are some reasons why we recommend year-round parasite prevention!
Fleas
Fleas are tiny, blood-sucking parasites that can transmit Bartonella (aka “cat scratch disease”) as well as tapeworms to our pets. Fleas are notoriously difficult to get rid of. Even if they are no longer on your pet, there may be flea larvae or adults hiding in your home’s baseboards, your pet’s bed, and other warm nooks and crannies. Consistent flea prevention is essential as one missed or late dose could mean a resurgence.
Ticks
Ticks are also after a bloodmeal just like fleas. Yet, while fleas are quick biters, ticks can latch on to their host for hours until they’re fully engorged. During this prolonged feeding, a tick may transmit tick-borne illnesses such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, and Lyme disease. In Mishawaka, Lyme disease is a particular concern which is just one reason why we recommend year-round tick prevention for all pets. For dogs, we also suggest the Lyme vaccine for further protection.
Heartworms
Heartworms are internal parasites that are transmitted via the bite of an infected mosquito. They enter the bloodstream as larvae and travel to the blood vessels around the heart and lungs where they lodge themselves. There, they grow, mature, and multiply. The signs of heartworm disease are very subtle in the early stages. By the time symptoms are more pronounced, the disease has seriously progressed and treatment becomes much more difficult and costly. Prevention is the best cure!
Pet Behavior & Nutritional Counseling
Pet behavior and nutrition are two of the more common topics we discuss at a pet wellness care visit. Most pets have at least one behavioral issue that causes problems at home whether it’s house soiling, resource guarding, separation anxiety, or something else. Additionally, many pets are overweight or obese, making nutrition a key factor in your pet’s overall well-being. At Lincolnway Veterinary Clinic, our vets and staff have the skills and experience to help you correct behavioral issues as well as offer sound nutritional advice that will keep your pet at a healthy weight year after year. Talk to us today if you have behavioral or nutritional questions about your pet!
