From the ArcaMax Publishing, Cats & Dogs Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/catsanddogs/s-174511-905773
Do you think heartworm pills are expensive? Well, the cost of
heartworm preventative is chump-change in comparison to what it costs
to treat a heartworm positive dog.
Depending on the dog's weight, a month of heartworm preventative can
cost $3-8. If your dog tests positive expect to pay $500-$1000 (or
more) to have him treated. Egads! That's a mortgage payment for some
folks.
And by the way, ALL DOGS are at risk for acquiring heartworm disease,
even if living indoors. It only takes ONE bite from an infected
mosquito. I've seen all kinds of dogs test positive for heartworm. The
past few our clinic treated included a Chihuahua, a Bouvier, a
Siberian Husky, and a Labrador retriever.
There has been a lot of discussion lately between the veterinary
community and vaccine manufacturers. Thanks to scientific advances the
immunity provided by many pet vaccines is lasting longer. Therefore,
many veterinarians are recommending giving boosters on certain
vaccines every three years instead of yearly. That will save you
money!
Hopefully your veterinarian has jumped on this bandwagon. Vaccines are
essential in protecting our pets against deadly viruses. But the less
vaccines we have to give the better. It all depends on your pet's age
and lifestyle. Talk to your vet.
(At the end of this reports you'll find a link to the latest canine
vaccine guidelines published by the American Animal Hospital
Association.)
Blood tests often reveal hidden health problems. If a disease is
detected early, it will be both easier and cheaper to treat-for both
you and your veterinarian. Treating diseases involving kidney failure
and liver disease will cost you lots of money if your pet is in the
later stages.
Even if your pet's blood tests are normal you will have a baseline of
his healthy values if there ever is a problem in the future. Not a bad
investment.
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This tip courtesy of Dogproblems.com