Parenting-Furkids

Dogs => Caring For Your Dog => GENERAL DOG CARE => Topic started by: Lola on March 31, 2017, 11:01:33 AM

Title: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Lola on March 31, 2017, 11:01:33 AM
Lacy was due for her rabies vaccination in December.  Yeah, I suck.  I know she is at little to no risk.  BUT... the law.  I'll be fined.  I'll get over it.  I FINALLY took the plunge and made her an appointment.  She needs a regular/routine exam as well.

Lacy is VERY fearful of other animals.  (To keep the story short... she was "beat up" by another dog years ago.)  She is very comfortable with the cats she has grown up with.  For some reason, people (in the waiting area) seem to think that my dog wants to meet their dog.  Or they have their dog on a leash that extends the length of the room, so their dog has access to every dog in the waiting area.  I just want to SCREAM.  Lacy stays "tucked" between my legs, so you would think they would get a clue.  Nope.

She LOVES people though.  I'll wait outside with her, to stop any "meet and greet" and to help keep her stress down as much as possible... until it is time for her to go into an exam room.   

She is a senior, so I will have a senior panel done.  She has never had her teeth cleaned, so I likely will have to make an appointment to have that done. 

Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Pookie on March 31, 2017, 01:23:31 PM
Lacy was due for her rabies vaccination in December.  Yeah, I suck.  I know she is at little to no risk.  BUT... the law.  I'll be fined.  I'll get over it.  I FINALLY took the plunge and made her an appointment.  She needs a regular/routine exam as well.

Unless it's changed, I thought your state didn't require rabies vaccination (there are one or two that don't)?  And FWIW, the vaccine doesn't suddenly stop working at the 1 or 3 year mark (whatever the vaccine duration was for).  I'm sure she's still covered.  You could do a titer test to confirm that, if you wanted.

EDIT:  My bad.  It's required for dogs in your state, and for cats it's "strongly recommended."   I thought it wasn't required for either.  Oops.   :-[

Does Rescue Remedy work for her?  Great idea to wait outside with her.   thumbsup1  I hope all goes well.   fingerscrossed fingerscrossed
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Lola on March 31, 2017, 02:01:40 PM
I would skip Lacy's rabies vaccination in a heart beat, if I could.  "They" know rabies vaccinations last a LOT longer than 3 years, but it is the law that forces me.  Even if I wanted to break the law (longer than 4 months lol)...No vet (that I am aware of) will touch her, if I willingly choose to not vaccinate her.  Neither of us need the Rabies Police after us.  :)  Plus, all the other possible (but very unlikely) scenarios... 

I've tried Rescue Remedy and something else.  Doesn't phase her.  Plus, one time I was told that she shouldn't be under the influence of anything.  Seriously?  Anyway...I'm sure me stressing about her stressing doesn't help matters. 

Her fun snack is Cheerios.   Silly7  I'll take some Cheerios to occupy her mind. 

I know we will both live.  People take their pets to the vet every day.  The people and pets survive.  It is just KNOWING that YOU are going to take your dog somewhere, knowing it is going to stress her out to the max...  know what I mean? 
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Pookie on March 31, 2017, 02:11:51 PM
Quote
I would skip Lacy's rabies vaccination in a heart beat, if I could.  "They" know rabies vaccinations last a LOT longer than 3 years, but it is the law that forces me.  Even if I wanted to break the law (longer than 4 months lol)...No vet (that I am aware of) will touch her, if I willingly choose to not vaccinate her. 

I didn't realize the law (or vets) had a time stamp on it -- that the pet had to be re-vaccinated within 4 months of it "expiring."  I've never heard of that before.  Ya learn something new every day!

Yum!  Cheerios!  That ought to "cheer" her up! (pun intended)  Silly7

Quote
I know we will both live.  People take their pets to the vet every day.  The people and pets survive.  It is just KNOWING that YOU are going to take your dog somewhere, knowing it is going to stress her out to the max...  know what I mean? 

Yes, I know exactly what you mean.  I never liked taking Pookie or his sister to the vet, either, because I knew they would be stressed.  Take your Rescue Remedy (for yourself)  :) and just keep saying "it's going to be okay . . . it's going to be okay . . . "  And besides, Lacy will probably forget all about it and "forgive" you as soon as you get back home.   :)
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Lola on March 31, 2017, 02:44:42 PM
I don't know how it works in other states, but in mine.... I'm fined x amount of dollars for every month that goes by.  She was due the first of Dec.  Her Sat. appointment will be in April.   The fines (from the county) started in December. 

When I go to re-register her (done yearly...also the law), I have to send proof that she has had the rabies vaccination.  That is when I'll pay the registration and the fines. 

I suppose one could never register their dog and never get them vaccinated... and lie to a vet.  I've never had to show proof...not that I can remember anyway.  BUT ... if something should go wrong... it would not be good for Lacy! 

Since this conversation is public, I want to make it clear... I am NOT anti-rabies vaccinations.  I am anti-every 3 years.  :)  BUT I will do what the law tells me I have to do.  If I don't, my dog could pay for MY actions...with her life. 

You are sooooooo right.... our pets do always forgive us.  UNCONDITIONAL love. 
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: DeeDee on March 31, 2017, 03:04:49 PM
I don't know how it works in other states, but in mine.... I'm fined x amount of dollars for every month that goes by.  She was due the first of Dec.  Her Sat. appointment will be in April.   The fines (from the county) started in December. 



I went for a whole year on Vlad and 2 yrs on Barkly refusing until I found that Tractor Supply had 3-yr vaccine.
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Pookie on March 31, 2017, 04:53:31 PM
I don't know how it works in other states, but in mine.... I'm fined x amount of dollars for every month that goes by.  She was due the first of Dec.  Her Sat. appointment will be in April.   The fines (from the county) started in December. 

WOW.  I've never heard of that.  I have no idea if my state/county/town do that, but then, I never had a dog and my town doesn't require cats to be licensed (and hopefully never will).  If I think about it, I'll have to ask Mom about that sort of thing since Dad had several dogs.  I just wouldn't have known about it or would have been too young to pay attention.

Does the vet offer the Purevax rabies vaccine?  That's been approved for 3-year use (sadly I don't think there's a rabies shot that goes beyond 3 years -- less money to be made if it's longer), and it doesn't contain the adjuvant.  If that's an option, that's the one I'd go with.  Just my  2cents.
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Lola on March 31, 2017, 05:14:56 PM
Let me back up...

Registration is required every year.
Rabies is required every 3 years.  Dogs only.  I thought 3 years was the norm everywhere, so I just assumed...   :-[
It has been proven that the rabies vaccination syrum lasts MUCH longer then 3 years. 
Titer tests don't count as proof. 
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: DeeDee on March 31, 2017, 05:21:47 PM

Titer tests don't count as proof. 

Same here. Not even if you have a dog like Vlad that has an autoimmune disease like Addison's. I just kept on refusing until I found the closest to me that was 3-year. His vet wasn't the happiest with me, but I kept on reiterating, "Vlad isn't doing what I consider well yet, and I'm not having Barkly shedding any vaccines around him."

The VIP Petcare clinic at Tractor Supply keeps me updated as to when it's due via email. I'll take them back to them when it's due. (and I didn't go  by the "rules" about "2 vaccinations in 2 years before a 3-year is done.") I just ignored it, and their vet didn't look up the rules and strike it against me after waiting so long to get it done. He just accepted the paperwork from VIP Petcare.
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Pookie on March 31, 2017, 05:34:00 PM
Quote
Registration is required every year.

Same here.

Quote
Rabies is required every 3 years.

I think that's the same here, too.

Quote
It has been proven that the rabies vaccination syrum lasts MUCH longer then 3 years.

Yep.  I was just (badly) explaining to others who read this forum that there are 1 year and 3 year rabies vaccines.  Personally, I would always go with the 3 year (why hit their immune system every year with something that lasts longer that 1 year, anyway) and would go with the 3 year Purevax.  They all last longer than what their approved for, but they make more money keeping it at 1 and 3 years, and most pet parents probably don't know any better.

Quote
Titer tests don't count as proof.

Same here.  I'm not sure any state counts titer tests.  But they are handy if you want to make sure the pet is still covered, for your own peace of mind, even if the authorities and vets don't count them as proof.  Hopefully someday, titers will be accepted.   fingerscrossed fingerscrossed
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: DeeDee on March 31, 2017, 05:43:55 PM
I'm not sure any state counts titer tests.  But they are handy if you want to make sure the pet is still covered, for your own peace of mind, even if the authorities and vets don't count them as proof.  Hopefully someday, titers will be accepted.   fingerscrossed fingerscrossed

Here's the awful thing about titers and the state of TN: You can have them done, but if your dog bites someone, you're going to be sticking them into a 6-mth quarantine (not at your house) and you can't have contact with them. It will be at a vet's office or a humane office, and you'll pay for the care daily. (Plus they'll give them any freaking vaccination they want while they're in their care.) If the dog shows any aggression while there, guess what?

Can you imagine a dog that's used to living "in home" after 6 mths of that? Ever seen an animal that's been "closely confined" for an extended period? Yeah.
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Lola on March 31, 2017, 10:22:03 PM
I thought my rambling may have been confusing. 

3 year Purevax.... thanks I'll ask.  If they say no... then what?

Quote
if your dog bites someone, you're going to be sticking them into a 6-mth quarantine (not at your house) and you can't have contact with them. It will be at a vet's office or a humane office, and you'll pay for the care daily.

I THINK that is the norm, or at least most common routine, in most states. 


Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Pookie on March 31, 2017, 10:33:55 PM
Quote
3 year Purevax.... thanks I'll ask.  If they say no... then what?

Then the regular (adjuvant) 3 year.  I personally would prefer to keep the shots to a minimum, and spread out over 3 years as opposed to 1 year.  And rabies should be done in the right leg.

Quote
if your dog bites someone, you're going to be sticking them into a 6-mth quarantine (not at your house) and you can't have contact with them. It will be at a vet's office or a humane office, and you'll pay for the care daily.

Quote
I THINK that is the norm, or at least most common routine, in most states. 

It's interesting, because Mom's dog bit her or Dad (I forget which) badly enough that they needed medical attention.  Obviously, the doctor had to report it.  But the dog didn't go into a facility for quarantine -- he was under "house arrest" for a few weeks.  But then, he was current on his vaccine and they had proof of that.  What I don't understand is:  ok, if he's current on the shot, then why would he need to be quarantined?  Either the rabies vaccine works, in which case he shouldn't need to be under house arrest, or it doesn't, in which case, why bother?  But then, I tend to see things as black and white.   :-\
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Lola on March 31, 2017, 10:38:48 PM
I agree it IS odd that your mom's dog was quarantined at home, when they had a rabies certificate for proof. 
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Lola on March 31, 2017, 10:55:37 PM
Reading through this thread.... geeeeeez I'm "out there."  I set out my big girl panties to wear tomorrow.  I GOT this vet visit!   Silly7
Hard to believe I raised two healthy and pretty normal humans.   ;D 
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Pookie on March 31, 2017, 10:59:10 PM
Crossing paws all goes well tomorrow!   fingerscrossed fingerscrossed  And as the song goes:

You'll beeeeee SWELL
You'll be GREAT
You'll have the world on a plate!

 :D
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Middle Child on April 01, 2017, 07:10:26 AM
Both times I had to seek emergency attention for cat bites from my own cats the cats (both utd on vaccines) were put on "house quarantine".  And the department of health stayed right on top of it too, checking in with me midway through the "quarantine" and at the end of it..

Does PureVax have dog vaccines now too?  that is a good thing.  And yes the PureVax is a 3 year shot now.

All paws crossed for Lacy, I know you will keep things as safe (perceivabley, from her point of view) and as low stress as you can. xx
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: DeeDee on April 01, 2017, 09:57:26 AM
3 year Purevax.... thanks I'll ask.  If they say no... then what?


I thought Purvax was just for cats?


It's interesting, because Mom's dog bit her or Dad (I forget which) badly enough that they needed medical attention.  Obviously, the doctor had to report it.  But the dog didn't go into a facility for quarantine -- he was under "house arrest" for a few weeks.

They only allow you to quarantine in your own home if the dog bites an owner and is current. Current or not, if it bites someone else around here, your dog will be leaving your home, and most states I've read about are like TN.


But then, he was current on his vaccine and they had proof of that.  What I don't understand is:  ok, if he's current on the shot, then why would he need to be quarantined? 

Falls back on the same rule as: Whether current or not, if your pet gets bitten by a wild animal, your pet will immediately be vaccinated for rabies again. Somehow, it's supposed to keep your pet from getting rabies if the animal that bit your pet is rabid.

I
3 year Purevax.... thanks I'll ask.  If they say no... then what?


If you can legally use 3-year vaccine in your state, and the vets in your area refuse to get the 3-year vaccines like ours do here in my county, then find a Tractor Supply clinic and go there:  https://petvet.vippetcare.com/find-a-clinic/
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Pookie on April 01, 2017, 06:03:18 PM
Lola, how did Lacy's appointment go?

Quote
I thought Purvax was just for cats?

 :-[  I assUMed it was for both.   :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[ Doh1 Doh1

If anyone finds my brain, would you please let me know?  I REALLY miss it.   :(

Thanks for the clarification about house quarantine, Dee!
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Middle Child on April 01, 2017, 09:09:04 PM
Update?
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Lola on April 01, 2017, 09:37:20 PM
We survived.  Will update later.  Long day.  xo
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Pookie on April 01, 2017, 09:47:25 PM
grouphug grouphug grouphug  Hug1 Hug1 Hug1
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Lola on April 02, 2017, 05:49:47 PM
We had an almost 2 hour wait, but they had a few serious emergencies.  I didn't mind the wait, because I thought it would give Lacy time to calm down.  It didn't. 
We waited outside.  Inside with other dogs was just too much for her.  The jerkwads with the retractable leashes don't help matters.  "Ginger just wants to mingle!"   Yeah, well go to a dog park!  bangshead  Even if Lacy was calm as a cucumber, I have no desire for my dog/cat to make "friends" at the vet's office. 

She wasn't interested in being bribed with any damn Cheerios!  lol  I bought her dehydrated venison lung.... no thanks.  She did eat them in the car on the way home. 

Lacy calmed down a LOT, once we were in a room.

Rabies vaccination done. 

"Her weight is excellent.  Her coat is beautiful!"  She did shed 3 layers while were there!   Silly7  I was COVERED in dog hair... literally.   

Teeth aren't great, but not bad.  The vet gave me a doggie toothbrush.  She has never had a dental cleaning.  If the vet had mentioned having a dental done, I would have set it up.... but I didn't think to make the suggestion myself.  I forgot this office tends to lean on the very conservative side.  Unless something horrible is obviously wrong, "extras" aren't mentioned. 

I assumed a dog her age would need a dental cleaning and a senior panel.  I assumed that before I went.  The thought blew out of my head, once we got there.   Is a dental and a senior panel the norm...or should be?

This vet is pro-raw.  It was SO cool to be able to discuss raw (in a positive manner) with a vet!!! 

Lacy has a spot on her tail where the hair thins out, but then thickens back up.  I don't think she is aware it is there.  She doesn't lick it or anything.  I googled, but none of the explanations fit her.  So I thought maybe she had a vitamin deficiency or something.  The vet said it is a food allergen.  The various proteins I feed.... she suggested I remove pork from her diet first.  It is usually the most likely culprit with dogs. 

She is pro green pureed (sp?) vegetables.  Fruit... not so much.
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: DeeDee on April 02, 2017, 05:57:11 PM
So glad you have had a good experience for once!

Quote
Teeth aren't great, but not bad.  The vet gave me a doggie toothbrush.  She has never had a dental cleaning.  If the vet had mentioned having a dental done, I would have set it up.... but I didn't think to make the suggestion myself.  I forgot this office tends to lean on the very conservative side.  Unless something horrible is obviously wrong, "extras" aren't mentioned. 

This stuff. Use it at night every night until any spots are gone. After about a week of use at night, brush them in the mornings. Once everything is white again, you can just use it a couple of times a week for maintenance. They also have a water additive that is supposed to help, but I've never used it. They also have a brushing gel:

http://tropiclean.com/product/fresh-breath-clean-teeth-gel-pets/
Title: Re: Lacy Goes To The Vet Sat
Post by: Pookie on April 02, 2017, 09:55:12 PM
Thanks for the update!

Quote
I didn't mind the wait, because I thought it would give Lacy time to calm down.  It didn't. 

 :(

Quote
The jerkwads with the retractable leashes don't help matters. 

I REALLY dislike those things.  I'm no expert, but in my experience people who use those have very little control over their dogs.  I have a neighbor with a border collie mix.  High energy, VERY smart.  When I walk him, I keep the leash fairly short (only let him have 4-5 feet at most).  I don't have much trouble controlling him that way, and he doesn't seem to mind.  When she walks him, she lets it out 6 feet or more, then has to struggle to get him out of someone's driveway, or out of the bushes, or . . .

Quote
She did shed 3 layers while were there!   Silly7  I was COVERED in dog hair... literally.

I went through that with Pookie.  I finally started bringing a comb with me, since he didn't care to be combed at home.  Hey, he was already molting, might as well give a good brushing if I can.  Looking back, though, I wonder if that was a good idea or if it made him more stressed (if possible).

Quote
This vet is pro-raw.  It was SO cool to be able to discuss raw (in a positive manner) with a vet!!! 

multistars multistars multistars   That's fantastic!

Quote
The various proteins I feed.... she suggested I remove pork from her diet first.  It is usually the most likely culprit with dogs. 

Interesting!

Quote
Teeth aren't great, but not bad.

Do you feed raw bones?  For the life of me, I can't remember.   :-[

That's great that the appointment (not the wait) went well and you liked this vet.  Do you think you'll keep going to her?  You (and Lacy) must be so relieved it's over!