The Team at Hôpital Vétérinaire Taché in the Outaouais Region Answers Your Questions

Yes, daily brushing prevents the buildup of dental plaque and tartar and the onset of gingivitis. Bacteria (a component of plaque) living in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause problems in other organs, including the heart and kidneys. There are toothpaste and toothbrushes specially designed for pets and foods or treats to help prevent dental disease. Even so, the majority of dogs and cats will need annual scaling. You can make an appointment with us for a dental consultation and a toothbrushing demonstration with your pet!

Yes, both ticks and mosquitoes can carry certain diseases. Ticks can transmit diseases such as Lyme borreliosis (Lyme disease), anaplasmosis or ehrlichiosis, while mosquitoes can transmit heartworm (heartworm disease). The clinical signs of these diseases vary but can be very serious. Your pet could be bitten or stung in the country or the city. It is therefore recommended that your pet be tested regularly for these four diseases. Several medications can prevent the development of these diseases. A vaccine against Lyme disease is available. Discuss it with us during your pet's annual consultation.

There are several possible causes for your pet's itchiness. Some parasites (such as fleas and ear mites) may be responsible, but other types of infections or inflammations cause itching. Your pet may be allergic to any ingredient in their food, or they may be reacting to an allergen in their environment (flowers, pollen, etc.). A proper check-up and several tests are required before determining the cause of the problem and finding the right solution.

Obesity is increasingly common in our pets. Just like in humans, this disease predisposes your cat or dog to develop significant health problems such as cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, diabetes mellitus, exercise and heat intolerance, increased risks associated with surgery or anesthesia, as well as a reduced life expectancy. It's essential to make sure your pet maintains (or returns to) its ideal weight. Exercise through play or walking is an integral part of weight loss. It is also necessary to modify your pet's diet by reducing the amount of food given and/or choosing a food designed for weight loss. Talk to us for more information!

There are many! Here is a non-exhaustive list of foods or plants to avoid:

• Fresh grapes, raisins
• Garlic or foods of the same family
• Onions and related foods
• Raw bread dough
• Raw eggs, raw meat
• Bones
• Macadamia nuts
• Fruits with pits
• Chocolate
• Avocado
• Alcohol, coffee, tea
• Green potatoes, green tomatoes
• Certain mushrooms
• Daffodil
• Holly
• Lilies
• Ivy
• Oleander
• Tobacco
• Mistletoe, poinsettia
• Morning glory
• Potato plants
• Yew
• Tulips

Visit http://www.aspca.org/pet-care for more information.

Dogs, cats and ferrets should receive regular vaccinations to protect them against certain diseases. However, the choice and frequency of vaccines depend on the animal and its predisposition to contracting these diseases. An adult cat living strictly inside a house might only need one vaccine every three years, while an active, exploratory dog might need several annual vaccines. Some diseases are transmissible to humans. These are called "zoonotic diseases." Rabies and Leptospirosis are two examples. Vaccines are available to protect your pets.

All animals age differently. The species and breed influence the animal's lifespan. Your veterinarian will be able to clarify your dog's or cat's particular situation during a general physical exam. Even if your pet is now considered "geriatric," they may remain in good health for many years. Their health can change rapidly as they age. It is essential to pay special attention to changes in behaviour or habits. An annual check-up is still necessary to detect specific physical changes more quickly. Your veterinarian may recommend a bi-annual consultation to monitor particular conditions closely. Some diseases can only be detected through thorough tests. A "geriatric check-up" including blood and urine tests, X-rays or other tests will be recommended at your pet's annual visit. Be alert to any changes, such as changes in behaviour, increase or decrease in appetite or water consumption, weight gain or loss, vomiting or changes in stool consistency, altered mobility, etc., and contact us if these changes (or other concerns) occur.

Yes, an annual check-up is recommended for all pets, whether you have a small rodent (mouse, hamster, gerbil, etc.), a rabbit, a bird, a reptile, a ferret, a hedgehog, or even a flying squirrel! Even the smallest animals need care and can have health problems. Call us for more information!