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MEDICATION UPDATE

There is a new medication available for allergy symptoms

Atopcia (Cyclosporine) is a relatively new medication for dogs with allergic skin disease

which is one of the most common ailments to strike household pets. Allergies are mostly

commonly related to fleas and flea saliva, inhaled pollens and mites, and occasionally

food and grass. In the past, most severe allergy cases had to be managed with cortisone

(steroids) and these medications have potential for significant side-effects. Atopica is a

nice new alternative in that it is very safe; the only common side effect being rare

stomach upset with the first few doses. Atopica has been shown to be very effective with

75-80% of dogs having good response. In our hands, Atopica has been very effective on

cases of allergic skin disease. The major draw back is the drug can be expensive,

especially in larger dogs. If you would like to discuss Atopica and your pet, make an

appointment and we will be happy to discuss this new medication.

UPDATE: Newly available vaccine for dogs bitten by rattlesnakes.

NEW VACCINE FOR SNAKE BITES

A new vaccine is available for the protection of dogs bitten by rattlesnakes. Red Rock Biologics has released a vaccine known as Crotalus Atrox Toxiod (Rattle snake vaccine) used to help protect our canine pets and hunting companions. The vaccine is specially formulated using Western Diamondback rattlesnake venom but evidence exists that much protection from other rattlesnake types might exist. The Western Diamondback is common in Central, West and South Texas.

The vaccine protocol would involve two initial injections one month apart then re-vaccination every 4-6 months. Initial vaccinations & subsequent yearly boosters are best given just prior to snake activity ( i.e. spring). Obviously, not all dogs are candidates but many dogs travel to areas where rattlesnake bites are a real possibility; these dogs are good candidates for vaccinations.

While it is estimated that about 40% of bites are severe, trials with this vaccine indicate that it would take three times as much venom in vaccinated dogs versus dogs without vaccinations to develop equal levels of illness. (This products license conditional –meaning it is released prior to full testing of potency & effectiveness).

If you have interest please let us know.

VACCINE UPDATE - Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis (Lepto) is a bacterial infection of mammals (this includes humans). It can affect the kidneys, liver and other organs. Because Lepto can mimic a number of other diseases it can be easily overlooked or misdiagnosed; therefore prevention is very important. In the past, it was known that there were two disease producing types (serovars) of Lepto in the dog, but now we know of at least four disease producing serovars.

Starting in October 2005, we have switched to a new vaccine with all four serovars. For almost all our canine friends, this is their first exposure to the new servovars, so a booster shot is needed to fully empower the immune system. Leptospirosis can be found in many parts of our environment, especially areas with rodents and standing and running water. We do diagnose cases of this disease yearly (often several cases). Please call the office if you have any questions about your dog’s vaccines.