House Visit Preparation
Please note that due to traffic and unforeseen emergencies, Dr Alessia may be delayed. To prevent delays due to parking please advise of easy parking or a garage in your area.
If your pet is not handled easily, is aggressive or very stressed in certain situations such as veterinary visits, let us know whilst booking the appointment.
Keep your pet inside and enclosed in a secure room ready for Dr Alessia’s visit.
Please have a bath towel ready to be used during the visit.
Inform about any medications, vitamins, or supplements that you are giving your pet alongside medical history.
Minimise anything that can distract the pet during the visit.
Cages are not provided, you must provide your own cage if needed.
Prepare any questions that you may have to ask.
Have any necessary documents for the visit ready.
Sometimes Dr Alessia will not be able to fully examine your pet if it is too stressed/scared/aggressive or not easily handled. The consultation fee will still be charged.
Calming medication does not guarantee that your pet will be possible to handle.
Please always send a picture of a product purchased with a prescription to 99488835/ 79569481.
Calming Medication (Gabapentin)
Gabapentin is sometimes used as an anti-anxiety medication and works by blocking calcium channels in the brain to suppress overly stimulated neurons that cause anxiety.
It can cause drowsiness, and clumsiness so it is advised to keep a close eye on your pet in a safe place.
A Gabapentin prescription is 7 euros. The prescription will be scanned and a copy will be sent to you.
Once you have requested and paid for the Gabapentin prescription from Dr Alessia it will be processed as soon as possible. There will be plenty of time to buy it from your nearest veterinary pharmacy.
Where to buy Gabapentin from?
One can buy Gabapentin from your nearest veterinary pharmacy.
Contact the veterinary pharmacy beforehand to ensure adequate stock.
Please be aware that sometimes gabapentin does not give full effect, every patient is different. Calming medication does not guarantee that your pet will be possible to handle.
Always follow veterinarian instructions and the prescription.
Instructions for Gabapentin Use
Open the capsule and pour the content of the capsule (a powder) into a small amount of food and mix thoroughly.
Give the instructed amount 12 hours before your pet’s house visit and again 2 hours before.
Pay attention to what is written on the prescription and veterinarian instructions.
Giving Gabapentin before a blood test
Only give a teaspoon-sized portion of food with the medication prescribed if blood work is being done as the patient must be fasting.
Blood Pressure
By Daniela Svensson - Student Veterinary Nurse
Blood pressure monitoring from the comfort of your home allows less stress for your animal.
Why do blood pressure monitoring at home?
Performing a blood pressure monitoring procedure at home gives us veterinary professionals a more accurate reading from your pets feeling more comfortable at home.
Performing a blood pressure monitoring procedure at your home allows elderly pets to skip the journey for their fragile bones.
This service allows veterinary professionals to regularly check blood pressure for pets that are on medications and need regular checks.
Underlying diseases can be discovered through blood pressure monitoring and allow your veterinarian to get to the route of the problem.
A more accurate reading is taken at home but sometimes trembling or shifting position can give us a less accurate reading.
How is a blood pressure reading taken?
A pressure cuff is placed on your pet fore leg or tail to get an accurate reading and is attached to the monitor.
What is Hypertension?
High blood pressure.
Possible undiagnosed underlying disease.
If high blood pressure is not treated it can cause further problems for our pets leading to complications.
What is Hypotension?
Low blood pressure.
Low blood pressure can cause oxygen supply and blood supply to decrease.
Hypotension can be recognised through lethargy, fainting, depression, and confusion.
Diagnosing critical underlying issues enables veterinary professionals to help make a plan and move forward with your pet’s treatment in the correct way.
Understanding blood pressure
Blood pressure is defined as, the measurement of pressure of blood flow on the vessel wall.
Unit of measurement- millimetres of mercury also written as mmHg.
Systolic arterial pressure, also known as SAP, is the measurement of pressure during cardiac systole (contraction)
Diastolic arterial pressure, also known as DAP, is the measurement of pressure during cardiac diastole(relaxation).
Mean arterial pressure, also known as MAP, is an average calculated from the SAP and DAP.
Controlling blood pressure with special diets, weight control, and medications are aimed at lowering blood pressure.
Book your pet's blood pressure monitoring🔗 here in the comfort of your home.
For more information contact us on info@thevetcentermalta.com
Internal and External Parasites and our Pets
By Daniela Svensson - Student Veterinary Nurse
What are Fleas?
Fleas are small external parasites that survive on the blood of animals and humans. They bite causing irritation, itchiness and discomfort. Fleas jump from one animal to another or can be contracted outside in fields and from streets.
What are Ticks?
Ticks are small external parasites that survive on the blood of animals and humans. They transmit many diseases to their hosts. Anaplasma which is also known as Ehrlichia is a common tick bourne disease. Pulling a tick off your pet is not recommended and should be done by your vet to ensure all body parts come out. Ticks usually come onto its host from walking through long grass and bushes. Ticks do not jump or fly they climb or drop onto the coats of your animals.
What are Mites?
Mites are tiny external and internal parasites that belong to the tick and spider family. Our animals may get mites with direct contact with other infected animals, or infected surfaces such as bedding.
Demodex-These mites live in the hair follicles of animals. Some symptoms include hair loss, red skin, crust and pimples.
Sarcoptes- These mites burrow under the skin, they feed on and in the skin. This mite is zoonotic which means that humans can contract this. They cause very intense itching and discomfort for your pet. Some symptoms include crusty, hard skin, severe itchiness, skin wounds and hair loss.
Ear Mites- These are external mites that live on the surfaces of the ear and in the ear canal. Some symptoms include extreme itching, shaking the head, crusty and waxy discharge.
What are Sandflies?
Sandflies are biting external parasites that suck the blood of animals. Our pets can contract leishmaniasis from sandflies. Medications and guidance from your veterinarian can help your dog live with the disease as comfortably as possible. Cutaneous leishmaniasis causes skin sores and visceral leishmaniasis affects several internal organs.
What are Worms?
Worms are internal parasites that feed off your animal’s nutrition and bloodstream. Worms can lead to illnesses and suffering. Treating your pets against worms helps keep them happy and healthy. Symptoms of worms in your pet include worms in your pet’s faeces, diarrhoea, pot bellies, and increased appetite whilst experiencing weight loss. Regular deworming is crucial to prevent and treat worms.
Heart Worm
also known as dirofilariasis is a blood parasitic roundworm that is a serious and progressive disease and may sometimes be fatal. They live in the hearts and vessels of your pets. Transmitted through mosquito bites. Treatment is possible and your veterinarian will guide you.
Intestinal Worms
Roundworms
live off partially digested content in the intestines. These worms spread through faeces. It is not recommended to allow your pets to sniff other faeces as the eggs transmit easily this way.
Tapeworms
are intestinal parasites that latch on and feed off the host. These worms spread through ingested fleas and eggs.
Whipworms
are intestinal parasites. They live in the caecum and large intestine. They are spread by ingestion of a whipworm egg.
Hookworms
are intestinal parasites that latch onto the intestinal walls. Animals can get hookworms through the skin, ingestion, through a mother’s milk or while still in the uterus.
How can we prevent Fleas, Ticks, Mites, Sandfly and Worms?
If unsure about treatment and diagnosis always consult with your veterinarian.
Make sure your pet’s bedding is clean and washed regularly.
Apply treatment as recommended by your veterinarian.
Apply treatment such as a Scalibor collar for dogs and Advantage less than 4kg and more than 4kg for Cats.
A prescription is required for Nexgaurd Combo for cats and can be provided upon contacting us.
Regular deworming to treat and prevent different types of worms in cats and dogs.
Contact us for rabbit deworming.
It is recommended to keep your animal’s parasite treatment up to date as this protects them and lets them live a happy and healthy life.
To buy veterinary-recommended products to prevent Fleas, Mites, Ticks, Sandfly and Worms visit the shop 🔗here
For more information contact us on info@thevetcentermalta.com
Vaccinating your Pets
By Daniela Svensson - Student Veterinary Nurse.
What are Vaccinations?
Vaccinations are preparations containing killed or modified microorganisms that are intended for administration to animals. Upon introduction, the immune system responds to the vaccine, which gets the body ready for any encounters with the targeted microorganism, the animal can fight off viruses, infectious agents and bacteria that could cause illness in the future upon exposure. It is crucial to vaccinate your pet yearly whether they are inside or outside to allow protection. It is important to remember that vaccinations are not 100% effective.
Core vaccinations are universally recommended for all animals, while non-core vaccines are tailored to specific environmental and lifestyle factors. It is always very important to remember that even if we vaccinate our pets they can still contract viruses, bacteria and diseases.
Booster doses are often necessary to strengthen and prolong the protective immune response.
What should one observe after vaccination?
Like humans, animals sometimes get side effects from vaccinations. These symptoms include;
Fever
No Appetite
Nausea
Lethargy
Pain or tenderness at the site of the injection or a small bump at the site of infection.
Sneezing or coughing after intranasal vaccine.
Sometimes our pets may have an allergic reaction to a vaccine which can occur straight away or a few hours later. Reactions are rare but can also be life-threatening. It is recommended to contact your veterinarian straight away if you notice any of the following signs;
Collapsing/Fainting.
Vomiting or diarrhoea occurring more than once.
Breathing difficulties.
Swelling around the body.
Red itchy bumps spread out over the body, these are known as hives.
How are vaccinations given?
Some are given through the nose (intranasal) in the form of drops, others are given subcutaneously (under the skin) and also intramuscular (into the muscle) with a needle.
Why is it important to have my pet vaccinated?
It is extremely important to vaccinate our pets to keep them healthy and protected against deadly diseases, viruses and bacteria. It is important to vaccinate your pet even if they are kept inside.
Stress can make a vaccination ineffective so it is advised to keep your pet calm before your appointment. Vaccinating your pets from the comfort of your home reduces the risks of stress for both you and your animal.
Why do Kittens and Puppies need multiple vaccinations?
Kittens and Puppies are given multiple vaccinations because of their weakened immune system. In the womb, they receive antibodies from their mothers’ milk that protect them against bacteria and viruses. When they are born they need help to boost their immune systems just like humans do! Maternal antibodies diminish with time, so we must help and protect them!
Once your puppy or kitten is six to eight weeks old they receive the primary course followed by the secondary course 2-4 weeks apart. Your vet will always guide you and provide the most suitable option for your pet.
It is recommended to wait two weeks after the second vaccination to take your animal outside to ensure optimal immunisation has taken place.
Once your kitten or puppy has received all its doses it will only require booster vaccinations yearly.
Book your pet's vaccination 🔗 here in the comfort of your home.
For more information contact us on info@thevetcentermalta.com
A Tired Dog is a Happy Dog
By Leeandra Mifsud Mizzi
In the world of dog ownership, ensuring the happiness and well-being of our furry companions is paramount. One key aspect often overlooked, especially locally, is canine enrichment. Canine enrichment is a term that encompasses activities and strategies that stimulate both the mind and body of our four-legged friends. The result: tired pups, which in turn also very often means happy owners.
Canine enrichment is more than just a trendy concept. It is a fundamental element in fostering a balanced and contented dog. In other words, it tires a dog out, without the need of using excessive exercise. This comes particularly handy with young puppies when exercise may need to be limited due to the risk of potential joint disease or when puppies are bursting with energy but cannot be taken out because of their vaccination status.
The possibilities in Canine Enrichment are endless. The only limit is your imagination. There is no right or wrong way of doing it, but here are a few things I like to keep in mind.
Top doggy tip number one: No free lunches! Get those tails wagging for their meals. Spice things up with Kong toys or similar toys. Fill them up and freeze them to increase the challenge. The trick is to start slow and increase the difficulty as your dog gets used to them. Don't have those? Get creative! Raid your house for treasures – maybe punch some holes in a squeaky clean detergent bottle, drop kibble inside, and let the spinning feast begin. You can also go artsy and crafty and craft a snuffle mat, tucking in tasty surprises within. Another tip is to put kibbles in a muffin tray and cover them with tennis balls. Let your dog figure out how to get the treats. Dog puzzles are also commercially available in most leading pet stores.
On with tip number two: Teach your doggo some tricks. Teach them to get a beer from the fridge or teach them to help you out with your laundry. If this seems like too much, teach them basic obedience. Bottom line is, working their brains tires them out, so hop on Youtube and watch some tutorials on how to teach them tricks.
Finally don't underestimate the power of a good old raw meaty bone. Every now and then life gets busy and you may find you don't always have time to prepare activities. Perhaps you have a pressing deadline or perhaps you are unwell. Then just hop over to the butcher's and ask for a raw bone. Watch while your dog gnaws away in satisfaction and sleeps for hours once it's done.
Essentially canine enrichment is a hidden gem. It ensures not just tired tails but also contentment. It's more than a trend; it's the cornerstone of a harmonious pet life. Dogs, by nature, are intelligent and curious beings. Without proper mental and physical stimulation, they may exhibit unwanted behaviours due to boredom or excess energy. Enrichment activities cater to a dog's natural instincts, providing outlets for exploration and engagement and subsequently avoiding all of this.
Blood Screening
By Daniela Svensson - Student Veterinary Nurse.
Why is Blood Screening Important?
Blood testing helps us understand the health of our pets as they cannot tell us directly what is wrong, especially when they seem poorly but also as a routine check to ensure everything is ok. Detecting diseases and problems early on is essential to prevent and control them from progressively worsening by providing effective treatment plans.
Blood testing provides the veterinarian with information about your pet's nutrition and deficiencies and allows them to help accordingly.
Blood tests are sent to overseas laboratories or processed here in Malta.
It gives us detailed information about hydration status, infection, immune system response, blood clotting ability, viral infections, heartworm, liver function, and anaemia.
Preparing for a Blood Test
Veterinarians may recommend fasting 6 hours before the blood test. Certain cases might require lengthier periods of fasting times.
Fasting is in place due to fat droplets known as lipemia, appearing after eating that affect the results of the blood tests. Water should be available at all times. Your veterinarian might advise you to hold off on your pets’ medication until the blood samples are done.
House visits are a fantastic way for your pet to feel less stressed and comfortable while having its blood taken. If your animal is anxious or assertive, your veterinarian might give specific instructions to acquire blood samples without causing stress for your pet.
Restrict your animal from exercise before a blood screening as the blood values can be affected.
Complete Blood Count
A complete blood count (CBC) helps veterinarians understand and assess your animals’ health in sick and healthy animals. A complete blood count entails checking the amount of cells that make up the blood, consisting of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.
Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body with the help of a protein known as haemoglobin. Haematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in your blood and if this is too low it is considered as anemia
White blood cells help fight and detect infection, inflammation or certain diseases and platelets ensure the blood is clotting.
Chemistry
Chemistry blood tests check the substances in the blood which help the body function. It checks the glucose levels, electrolytes, kidney function, liver function, proteins, lipids (fats), calcium and thyroid check.
Glucose levels check for diabetes or metabolic disorders.
Electrolytes are essential for maintaining the pH and body values, abnormal values affect muscle and nerve function.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine show us how the kidneys filter waste from the blood.
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), and Bilirubin all assess liver function and identify liver disorders. Eelevated levels may indicate liver damage or disease.
Total protein, Albumin and Globulins check protein content and assess liver and kidney function.
Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides, Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), and High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) evaluate lipid (fat) levels in the blood.
Bone health, nerve function, and blood clotting are assessed through calcium levels.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free Thyroxine (T4) assess thyroid function.
How often should blood tests be carried out?
Blood tests should be carried out every 6-12 months. In special cases, your veterinarian might recommend doing it more often to monitor or control certain diseases and conditions.
Book your pet’s Blood Screening here in the comfort of your home.
For more information please contact info@thevetcentermalta.com
