Due to the ever increasing incidence of tick borne diseases in Minnesota in general and in the Twin Cities specifically, our doctors have decided it is in the best interest of our patients to monitor for these potential problems. Just as other progressive small animal practices have done, we are shifting to the Idexx 4DX test that will check your dog for heartworm disease as well as test for antibodies to Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and erlichiosis. This is a blood test like the heartworm test, but can be run in our hospital in about 10 minutes. Ideally it will be drawn and run while you’re still in the hospital having your dog examined so we can discuss any potential problems that arise before you leave.
The knowledge gained could potentially alert you to serious health problems within your dog. While it is true most dogs that have positive titers to tick borne diseases will not be showing clinical signs of health problems, it is important that you’re aware of exposure and can be watching for future problems. If positives do occur there may be additional testing we will recommend to assure there are no associated underlying health issues which could be more serious such as kidney problems or blood platelet disorders. Whether treatment is necessary or not will depend on a number of variables including clinical signs, general health, age, exposure risk and others. The decision to treat positive dogs or not will be mutually made between you and your doctor.
This change in testing protocol is made with your dog’s best interest in mind. If you have any questions regarding these recommendations, please ask any of our staff for further clarification.
The Facts of Internet Pricing
One sees advertisements for purchasing animal medicine over the internet for “up to 40% off veterinarian prices.” We can’t always be the cheapest because we cannot buy the volume of product these companies buy. But we are competitive and we know our product comes directly from the parent company. We partner with the manufacturer to offer the best rebates and discounts we can. Currently we are offering a $12 rebate with purchase of twelve months of Heartgard Plus of the same size and 2 free doses of Frontline Plus with the purchase of 6 doses of the same size. Please feel free to call the hospital for pricing before making your internet purchase. We value you as a client and would like to be able to supply all your pet's veterinary needs.