Recent Reports of Serious Upper Respiratory Infection in Dogs Outside of WA

Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital has become aware of a recent increase of serious upper respiratory infection cases in dogs in Oregon, California and Colorado, among other areas. Several concerned clients have contacted us for recommendations as we move into the holiday season and travel plans are being finalized. Thankfully, at FVH, we have not seen an increase in coughing dogs nor cases of unusually severe respiratory problems in dogs and we do not think there is an immediate threat locally. Contagious, upper-respiratory infections are always at greater risk in scenarios where dogs are in group settings, such as off leash dog parks, … Read more »

Veterinary Visits- Managing for a Fear Free Return Home

Have you ever experienced this scenario? You’ve just picked up your beloved pet from the hospital and returned home only to have your other pets act aggressively or ignore their housemate altogether! What has happened? Why are the other pets acting this way towards their housemate that they usually get along with? This is a scenario that is more common than you may think and there are a few reasons why this may occur. First, the pet may smell different to the housemates so they act as if this is a new animal being brought into the household. Think back … Read more »

Parasite Control Recommendations

Parasite Prevention 2018 Helping you to maintain optimal health in your 4-legged family members has always been our primary focus at Fairhaven Vet, and parasite-control is an increasingly important part of good, preventive, health-care!   The incidence of external and internal parasites has clearly been rising in our area.  These parasites not only pose a health risk to your pets, but many can cause disease in people as well. Fairhaven Vet now recommends Year-Round comprehensive parasite prevention for your pets:  Dogs: A combination of once-monthly Credelio (Fleas and Ticks) and Interceptor Plus (Internal Parasites) is recommended for all dogs for excellent, safe … Read more »

Travelling with your pet?

Written by Dr. Mark Kummer Canada by car: All pets greater than 3-months of age must be accompanied by a current Rabies vaccination certificate. No health certificate is needed. Remember, also, that all individuals over 16 must have a passport or passport card when crossing the border by car. Children travelling by car may utilize alternate documentation, check http://travel.state.gov/ for more details. Alaskan Ferry: All pets must have a current Rabies vaccination certificate (if over 3-mos of age), AND a health certificate issued at a veterinary exam within 10 days of travel (regardless of age). Pets will be turned-away from … Read more »