August 2024

Erin Conlon
August 06, 2024

Hello Anne Arundel County and Eastern Shore!

As summer break comes to a close, we know your schedule is only getting more busy. Back to school season is when we see your pets take a back seat in your life, but remember, it’s still hot! Be aware of your pet’s water intake and heat exposure. As you prepare for your end of summer trips, make sure your animals are up to date on vaccines for boarding!

Case of the Month

On a busy Monday, a non-client walked in with their pet. Their dog had received a rabies vaccine at a vaccine clinic but otherwise had not been seen by a veterinarian. There was limited information about the dog's vaccine history at the time of the exam. He presented with a fever (a temperature greater than 103.0) and was in pain when we tried to move him. One leg did not appear more painful or affected than another. He was also not eating well. A heartworm/tick test was run and he was positive for Lyme Disease. Lyme Disease is a condition where a dog is bitten by the deer tick and infected with the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. In people, we typically see a rash or bulls eye lesion, but in pets this either doesn't happen or we don't see it because of their hair. Thankfully, we can treat the painful disease with antibiotics and pain medications. Most dogs recover quickly, but certain breeds (Labradors in particular) can develop a condition that causes kidney failure. Vaccinating against Lyme and using monthly flea/tick prevention is the best combination to prevent your dog from contracting Lyme Disease.

Medication of the Month

Our featured medication this month is Librela, a once-a-month injection designed to alleviate arthritis discomfort in dogs. As dogs age, arthritis pain can significantly impact their behavior and quality of life. Librela targets this issue by reducing arthritis-related pain.

Librela works by binding to nerve growth factor (NGF), a key mediator of pain, preventing it from interacting with its receptors and thereby reducing pain signaling.

Studies conducted in the US and Europe on 559 dogs showed that the effects of Librela can be seen after just two injections. In our offices, we've noticed dogs behaving more energetically and experiencing less pain.

If you have an aging dog that you suspect is suffering from arthritis, make an appointment with your vet at Western Shore or Queenstown. Our team is ready to answer your questions and help your dog lead a more comfortable life.