Towne News:

The canine influenza vaccine is available at Towne.  There have been several local outbreaks and some boarding facilities require the vaccine.  We recommend vaccination for those dogs that will have prolonged exposure to other dogs in an enclosed area such as a boarding, daycare, or show facility.  The vaccine has had no adverse side effects during the initial study period and can be given as early as 6 weeks of age.  There are 2 initial inoculations 2-4 weeks apart followed by a yearly booster. 

 

Convenia is a long acting injectable antibiotic that can be used in dogs and cats for treatment of skin infections, abscesses, and a variety of other infections.  Clients faced with administering  once or twice daily oral medication for two weeks to a pet who is not easy to medicate now have an alternative treatment.  The injection lasts for 14 days. This medication is in the penicillin family of antibiotics and should not be administered to those patients with a history of sensitivity to such drugs.   

Radiosurgery uses radiowaves to make incisions and coagulate (clot) tissue--Radiosurgery isn't really new at Towne-we've been using it for years. What is new is the rising popularity of this established technology. According to surgeons at the Atlantic Coast Veterinary Conference (Fall 2007) radiosurgery is superior to laser surgery in minimizing tissue damage,  alleviating pain and controlling bleeding.  Having used both, we also feel that radiosurgery is the preferred technology and results in even better outcomes  for our patients.

Cerenia is a very effective and safe new antivomiting medication that is used for acutely ill patients and as a preventive medication for motion sickness.  It does not cause any sedation and is given only once daily.  A great option for pets who get car-sick.  Dr. Rice's dog Dusty has done well on this medication.

Slentrol is a new weight loss medication that works by suppressing appetite.  As part of an overall weight management program, it can be very effective in helping your dog attain his or her ideal body weight.  It works particularly well because dogs receiving the correct dose regulate their own food intake.  Call us to discuss the benefits or schedule an appointment to set up a program for your dog (not approved for use in cats.)   Slentrol.com

Towne Animal Clinic now offers Vet-Stem Regenerative Veterinary Medicine to treat and manage arthritis and tendon/ligament damage in canine patients.  Ask one of our doctors if Stem Cell Therapy is right for your dog.