Inspected and approved by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
Applies to Colwyn Bay site only
(Click on logo for more details)
Prospect House Vet Clinic
110 Abergele Road
Colwyn Bay
LL29 7PS
Tel 01492 531448
fax: 01492 532410
Prospect House Vet Surgery
Plas Menai
Penmaenmawr Rd
Llanfairfechan
Tel 01248 681408
Fax 01248 681480
email: click picture below
Dogs and Puppies
Both dogs and puppies need lots of care and attention, they need plenty of exercise, feeding as well as regular trips to the vets. Remember that dogs can live an average of 16 years, that's a big commitment for any owner to take on.
General Information
Vaccinations
All dogs need vaccinations, even older dogs, in order to give them immunity to many diseases. You will need to vaccinate your puppy from 8 weeks onwards, he will then need a 2nd injection 2 weeks later and depending at which time he receives his initial vaccination it will then be a further 7-14 days before he can go out for walks. Any older dog whose vaccinations have lapsed will need these two injections again in order to
provide them with adequate protection. It is important to ensure that annual booster vaccinations are given in order to maintain this. A special vaccination can also be given to dogs who are going into kennels, this needs to be given at 6 monthly intervals.
Worming
You will need to make sure that your puppy has been wormed regularly and it is important to check that this has been done by the breeder or organisation that
you have received your puppy from. When you first bring him into the
veterinary surgery your vet. will be able to advise you on worming. Older dogs should be wormed at three to six monthly intervals, complete wormers are now available so that a single dose is all that needs to be given each time.
Weight Checks
Weight checks can be made at the practice in order to ensure that your puppy is not growing too fast or slowly and comprehensive advice can be given on how to maintain a good growth rate to prevent future problems. Older dogs can also be provided with a diet plan if necessary, there are even special reducing diets available for the overweight!
Neutering
Bitches and dogs can be neutered at any time from 6 months onwards. It is definitely worth considering if you are not going to breed from them, as there can be several health benefits. As well as ensuring that you don't end up with a litter of 10, all of which you will need to find homes for! The practice can assist you in finding help financially with the costs.
Dental Checks
Most people go to the dentist for regularly check ups but what you may not have thought about are your dogs teeth. They can suffer many of the problems that us humans do if their oral hygiene isn't kept in check. Special toothbrushes and toothpaste's are both readily available at the surgery, (don't use your own toothpaste! we're not that alike). They can help avoid dental problems if used regularly, most dogs will accept the idea of having their teeth brushed, and even if they don't there are products available that can go in their food. If necessary your vet. can give your dog a dental scale and polish, and extract any teeth that are rotten under general anaesthetic but remember prevention is always better than cure!
Insurance
Consideration should also be given to insuring your dog, veterinary fees can be expensive if the unexpected happens. There are a variety of insurance companies who will insure your dog, a selection is available by contacting the practice. Most of them will include an excess, usually £30 or £50; this is the amount you have to pay to the treatment so choose your policy carefully.
Fleas
Fleas can be a major problem for some pet owners, but by simply protecting your puppy or dog throughout the year you can virtually eliminate them. The myth that they are killed off during winter months doesn't take into account central heating! See our Flea Advice page for more comprehensive information.