|  | Your veterinarian knows your pet and your family (both 2-legged and 4-legged).
She is familiar with your pet's specific health need and the environment where you live. | |  |
| | Medications are usually dosed on a weight basis. It is important that your veterinarian
determines your pet's weight and calculates the correct dosage to achieve the desired effect from the medication. Your pet's current health condition may also alter the final dosage. | |
 | | There
are several medications that should not be administered until your veterinarian determines that it is safe for your pet to be given them. For example, heartworm preventatives should not be administered
to dogs with active heartworm infections because it can lead to a fatal reaction. Therefore, it is important to consult your pet's veterinarian to determine what heartworm prevention program and timetable best suits your individual pet. |
| | Dog and cat owners should keep in mind that their cats are not small dogs, nor are their dogs large cats. Many
medications that are administered to dogs are not safe for cats (they can be fatal), and the reverse is also true. |
| | Many medications need to be reconstituted or
diluted specifically for your pet. Some medications must be kept in a
controlled environment or refridgerated. The medications that are
shipped to your veterinarian are properly packaged and delivered under
controlled temperatures so you don't have to worry about receiving
"spoiled" medicines that were exposed to temperature extremes, sunlight,
moisture, etc. | |  |
| | Each animal is a different and unique
individual. Some breeds and species have special needs or sensitivities
that your veterinarian is aware of and she can select the product best
suited to your pet. | |
| Some medications require follow-up monitoring
for adverse reactions or dosage adjustments. If an adverse reaction does
occur, it is important to have established a veterinary-client-patient
relationship to ensure that your pet receives appropriate medical
attention. An adjustment to the dosage may need to be made after lab
tests and/or examinations are performed. |
