Palm Desert, CA Dog Care

Desert Dunes Animal Hospital offers professional and education insight to dog owners throughout Palm Desert, CA. For over 20 years, we have provided superior service to our customers while educating them on the importance of keeping up with their dog's hygiene and vaccinations, and the dangers that may occur if left untreated.  Here are some things you should know about your dog and his/her health.

• Vaccines
  - DHPPC - A vaccination to protect your dog from five diseases: distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus and coronavirus. These diseases are debilitating and can cause death. Nearly every dog will be exposed during its lifetime, making vaccinations a must. Parvo is an intestinal viral infection that results in bloody diarrhea, fever, vomiting, dehydration and extreme depression. It is highly contagious and life threatening. Coronavirus is a disease similar to parvovirus, but usually less threatening. Distemper is present in the area, and this virus causes a respiratory infection which can progress to neurological disease. It is often fatal and is prevented with vaccinations.
  - Bordetella - A semi-annual vaccination given to dogs to prevent Kennel Cough, which is a highly contagious disease causing a dry hacking cough that can persist for six or more weeks. If your pet is kenneled, groomed, shown, visits dog parks or interacts with other dogs in the neighborhood, we highly recommend this vaccine.
  - Rabies - Required by the state of California, this vaccine prevents this deadly disease from being transmitted to humans.
  - Lyme Disease - Caused by a bacterium which is spread by ticks, this can have very harmful effects. If you will be traveling out of state or to the mountains, this vaccine is advised.
  
   
• Fecal / Stool Test
  A semi-annual test to detect intestinal parasites that threaten your pet’s health. Regular microscopic examination of your pet’s stool should be done for early detection and treatment. People can get roundworm and hookworm infections from their pets.
  
   
• Heartworm Check
  A simple annual blood test done within our hospital will detect these worms in your dog’s heart. Heartworms are transmitted through mosquitoes and are fatal if untreated. Signs of heartworm are respiratory problems and sudden death. Preventative medication is available at our facility and is to be given all year round.
  
   
• Anal Glands
  Anal glands are two small glands just inside a dog’s anus. When a dog defecates, the glands are expressed, leaving a foul smell marking its territory. Some dogs are unable to express their glands, and scooting around on their anal area is a sign that they may need expressing by a professional.
  
   
• Ear Care
  All dogs can get ear infections, but hairy, floppy-eared dogs and dogs that like to get into water are more prone to them. Ear hair should be pulled on breeds which grow it. At the first sign of rubbing ears or head shaking, or if an odor from the ears develops, your pet’s ears should be cleaned and medicated!
  
   
• Dental Health Care
  Periodontal disease can lead to infection in the liver, kidneys and heart. This can best be prevented with regular dental care. Dental care starts at home by brushing or cleansing your pet’s teeth with animal toothpaste or cleansing products, which are always available through Desert Dunes Animal Hospital. Cleaning and polishing without anesthesia is available once a month at our office by Gentle Dental. When anesthesia is the best approach for your pet, appointments are available five days a week.
   
• Nail Trims
  Dogs nails grow at a very rapid rate, requiring a nail trim approximately every 6 weeks. Nail trimming can be a bit tricky because there is a blood vein running down the center. With regular nail trimming, this vein retreats into the upper portions of the nail and out of the way of clippers. Long nails can make it difficult for arthritic or geriatric dogs to get around.

Our friendly and professional staff is here to answer any questions you may have about our company or our services.  Whatever your dog's veterinary needs, we will provide them with the highest quality of care that you can count on.

Call Desert Dunes Animal Hospital today at (760)345-8227, or browse our website for more information regarding our staff or veterinary care.  If you have any other questions or comments, please contact us.