Veterinary Services Glossary for Erie Homeowners

Voluntary accreditation from the American Animal Hospital Association indicating a veterinary practice meets the highest standards of care, equipment, and facility quality.

A highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs. Vaccination is required for boarding, grooming, and dog daycare. Spread through airborne droplets and direct contact.

Laboratory tests measuring organ function, blood cell counts, and chemistry values. Recommended annually for senior pets and as pre-surgical screening.

Vaccinations recommended for all pets: rabies (required by PA law), DHPP for dogs, and FVRCP for cats. Protect against common, serious diseases.

Professional dental cleaning under anesthesia, including scaling and polishing. Recommended annually for most pets. Dental disease affects 80% of pets by age 3.

A parasitic worm transmitted by mosquitoes that infects the heart and lungs. Monthly preventive medication is recommended for all Erie dogs, particularly during warm months.

A bacterial infection transmitted by deer ticks causing joint pain, fever, and lethargy in dogs. Vaccination and tick prevention are important for Erie pets due to high tick prevalence.

A tiny chip implanted under the skin that contains a unique ID number. Scanned by shelters and vets to reunite lost pets with owners. A permanent form of identification.

Surgical sterilization of pets. Spaying (females) and neutering (males) prevent unwanted litters and reduce risks of certain cancers and behavioral issues.

Illnesses transmitted by tick bites including Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. The Lake Erie region has a high tick population. Year-round prevention is recommended.

A blood test measuring antibody levels to determine if a pet still has immunity from previous vaccinations. Used to avoid over-vaccination.

A comprehensive annual physical examination of your pet, checking weight, heart, lungs, teeth, eyes, ears, skin, and joints. The foundation of preventive pet care.