(with Expert Advice from Bernadine Cruz, DVM and AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson)

While most people understand the importance of vaccinating a new puppy, not everyone realizes that preventative medications are also extremely important, especially in areas that have a high rate of Lyme or heartworm disease. These diseases can be fatal and dogs that survive do so after costly treatment, so it makes sense to use preventative medications.

According to Dr. Cruz, “A pup is often dewormed each time that it is vaccinated. Starting the pet on monthly heartworm medication is an excellent idea. The most commonly administered heartworm preventatives will protect against not only heartworm infection but the most common internal parasites.”

Another important preventative medication is a flea and tick treatment. There are several popular ones at the moment, including Advantix(TM) and Frontline(TM). Ask your veterinarian to recommend the right treatment for your dog. These medications can prevent you from having a home infested with fleas, but they can also prevent some types of worms and make it less likely for your dog to catch Lyme disease by killing fleas and ticks before they can do any damage.

According to American Kennel Club spokesperson Lisa Peterson, “Flea and tick preventatives are very important in the North Eastern United States and the Rocky Mountain region.”

If you aren’t convinced that preventative medications are important for your puppy, you may want to consider another concern that Dr Cruz mentions. “These internal parasites are a potential zoonotic threat. Children can be infected by hookworms, whipworms, and roundworms that they can contract from their dogs. People who are immune suppressed are also at risk.”

In Lesson 5, you will learn about obedience training for puppies.

Until then, don’t forget to give your puppy plenty of hugs and kisses,
Katelyn

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