Why Vaccinate?
Puppies and dogs are at risk from a number of serious infections. However, they can be protected from most of these diseases by a simple vaccination program.

As both dogs and their owners are very mobile it is likely that your pet will come into contact with infections present in unvaccinated puppies and dogs or in the environment.

Vaccination is a cost effective way of protecting your dog or puppy against serious disease and the possible high costs involved in their treatment.

All Pfiser vaccines are made to the highest standards of safety and effectiveness.

Puppies and dogs can be protected from the following infectious diseases by vaccination:

6 weeks*	C3 Vaccinate's against... Canine Parvovirus Canine Hepatitis Canine Distemper
12 weeks*	C5 Vaccinate's against... Canine Parvovirus Canine Hepatitis Canine Distemper Canine (Kennel) Cough
16 weeks*	C5 Vaccinate's against... Canine Parvovirus Canine Hepatitis Canine Distemper Canine (Kennel) Cough

Canine Parvovirus
Canine parvovirus causes severe, debilitating disease in dogs of all ages. Young puppies are most susceptible to infection and the development of severe disease. Dogs and puppies can die within days of contracting the disease.

Signs of parvoviral infection include vomiting, diarrhoea (usually containing blood), severe abdominal pain and depression.

Canine parvovirus can remain in the environment for over 12 months.

Canine Distemper
Distemper is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease affecting dogs of all ages. This virus attacks the nervous system and typical signs include fever, discharge from the eyes and nose, respiratory problems, loss of appetite, skin reactions, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle spasms and convulsions. Dogs that do recover from this disease may have thickened foot pads, damaged teeth, permanent brain damage and progressive paralysis.

Canine Hepatitis
Canine hepatitis is a highly infectious disease which causes liver damage in dogs. Puppies are most at risk and signs of infection include fever, ocular lesions, respiratory signs, jaundice, depression, lack of appetite, diarrhoea and abdominal pain (due to liver enlargement).

The virus is passed by contact with infected dogs and through contact with the urine of infected dogs. It can continue to infect dogs for months after apparent recovery from disease. This virus can also cause long-term kidney and liver problems in older dogs.

The most common worms that infect dogs and cats are Roundworm, Hookworm, Whipworm, Flea Tapeworm and Hydatid Tapeworm. To control these worms it is necessary to have a regular worming routine.

It is important that worming take place whenever there is evidence of worms, no matter when your pet was last wormed.

Dogs & Cats	Age	Frequency
	2-8 Weeks	Worm every 2 weeks
	2-3 Months/td>	Worm every month
	4 Months +	Worm every3 months
Contact us to get the appropriate wormer for your pets body weight

Adult fleas can cause severe flea bite dermatitis in dogs and cats and can be detrimental to the animals’ health. It is essential to use products that are safe for pets and their owners, but also very effective in killing the adult fleas on the animals. A wide variety of very effective products exist. Your vet can assist you in choosing the right product for your circumstances.

Adult fleas spend most of their time feeding off dogs cats and other small animals. The adults make up only 5 % of the total flea population. The other 95 % consist of flea eggs, larvae and pupae that exist in the area where the animals live. This is usually in and around the house.

As fleas are largely an environmental problem, it is essential to vacuum clean carpets and floors to keep flea eggs and larvae to a minimum. Focus on the low traffic areas, under furniture, around edges of rooms and animal resting places. It is a good idea to spray the areas with a IGR (insect growth regulator) synthetic pyrethroid. The IGR specifically inhibits development of the flea larva stage.

Products available from Hilton Vet Clinic

• Revolution
  www.revolutionpet.com.au/PetOwners/FleaChallenge.html
• Frontline
  www.frontlineplus.com.au
• Sentinel Spectrum
  www.pets.novartis.com.au/dogs/sentinelspectrum.html
• Advantage
  advantage.petparents.com

Adult female worms in the dog's heart produce microscopic embryonic microfilariae which circulate in the peripheral blood. After ingestion, the microfilariae migrate from the mosquito's midgut, undergo development involving two moults, and after a period of approximately two weeks the infective third stage larvae migrate towards the mosquito's head. These larvae then transfer to the skin of the final host during feeding of the infected mosquito. Following their penetration into the final host, the third stage larvae migrate through body tissue where they develop into fourth stage larvae, then immature adults which finally enter the blood stream and reach the heart via the venous system. Adults mature in about 6 months and are subsequently found in the heart and major vessels. The adults mate, and the female produces millions of microfilariae to circulate in the peripheral blood to renew the cycle. The dog can be severely affected, with major vessels becoming blocked with chronic infections. Death usually results in such cases from heart failure.

Products available from Hilton Vet Clinic

• Revolution Topspot
  www.revolutionpet.com.au/PetOwners/FleaChallenge.html
• Sentinel Spectrum TAblets
  www.pets.novartis.com.au/dogs/sentinelspectrum.html
• Heartgard Tablets
  heartgard.au.merial.com
• Proheart Annual Injection

Surgical sterilisation is the preferred way to go because it is a permanent solution to many behavioural issues and prevention of unwanted pregnancies.

Chemical sterilisation is temporary and can be done in special circumstances to prevent mating for 6 to 12 months.

Why sterilise your dog?

• Dogs are able to start having pups at a very young age, and can potentially deliver many litters.
• Surveys indicate that dogs that are not sterilised have an increased risk of being abandoned or surrendered.
• In Perth, hundreds of dogs are put down each week and about 20,000-30,000 dogs are destroyed each year. Many more are dumped in areas where their likely fate is death by accident, starvation, disease, or from predators. The numbers escalate over the Christmas and Easter periods.
• It is reported that the biggest behavioural effect of sterilisation is the huge reduction in roaming, especially of male dogs. Any reduction in straying dogs has a significant public benefit.
• Sterilisation eliminates health problems later in life like prostate enlargement in dogs and infection and cysts of the uterus in bitches.

Ovariohysterectomy
An ovariohysterectomy (OHE) or spay is the complete removal of the female reproductive tract. The ovaries, oviducts, uterine horns, and the uterus are removed. Not only does this procedure prevent the animal from becoming pregnant, it also eliminates the twice-yearly heat cycles. The surgery removes the source of production of such hormones as estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are responsible for stimulating and controlling heat cycles and play a major role during pregnancy.

Neutering or Castration
In this operation, which is performed under general anaesthetic, both testicles are removed, thus removing the source of sperm and the male sex hormone (testosterone).

At Hilton Vet Clinic we prefer to sterilise both male and female dogs from 6 months of age. Contact us today to find out more and to book your pet in for sterilisation.

A sterilisation subsidy from the Fremantle City Council is available for both cats and dogs. Conditions apply. For further information regarding the subsidy telephone the Service and Information Counter on 9432 9899.

Royal Canin
Since its creation by Dr. Jean Cathary, a veterinarian, in 1967 in France, Royal Canin has become the world leader in Health Nutrition for dogs and cats. Royal Canin was one of the first pet food manufacturers to become ISO – certified, a designation that means they meet international standards for their manufacturing process. Currently only one other pet food manufacturer share this title. Their ISO certification is your assurance of consistent quality and high levels of customer satisfaction.

All the ingredients that are used are fit for human consumption and no artificial colouring or flavouring is used.

Royal Canine has a Veterinary prescription range that is specifically designed to support animals with specific health problems. This includes Skin, Dental, Renal, Joint and many other specific diets.

At Hilton Vet Clinic we can assist you in choosing the right diet to cater specifically for your pet’s needs.

The following are foods that can be toxic or poisonous to your pets

• Avocados
  Avocados contain a toxin known as persin. Persin is found in various parts of the avocado and avocado trees (e.g., leaves, rind, etc). This toxin is known mostly to cause vomiting and diarrhoea. Birds and small pets seem most affected by the negative side effects of consuming avocado.
• Beer
  Not just beer…all alcohol. Depending on how much alcohol your animal ingests, it can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, depression, difficulty breathing, coma, and possible death.
• Nuts
  An unknown toxin in nuts can have negative effects on the nervous, digestive, and muscular systems of your pet. Symptoms can include muscle tremors, weakness, an upset stomach, vomiting, depression, inactivity, and stiffness.
• Chocolate
  Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine that is toxic to pets. If enough is ingested, your animal can suffer from vomiting, diarrhoea, abnormal heart rhythms, tremors, seizures, and possible death.
• Caffeine
  Caffeine is generally highly toxic to pets, having negative effects on both the cardiac and nervous systems. Side effects can include vomiting, diarrhoea, abnormal heart rhythms, tremors, seizures, and possible death.
• Grapes & Raisins
  An unknown toxin in grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure and ultimately lead to death. Symptoms of this poisoning can include hyperactivity, vomiting, diarrhoea, and irregular heartbeat.
• Onions
  Onions, along with garlic and chives, are all part of the same species of plant—the Allium species. Allium species plants contain sulphur compounds that can cause stomach irritation and possibly result in damage to red blood cells. This is referred to as Allium poisoning.
• Some Human Medicines
  While some human medications are prescribed for pets by veterinarians, others can be highly toxic and fatal. Acetaminophen, which is contained in Tylenol and other similar products, for example, can be fatal to cats. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving human medication to a pet.
• Xylitol
  Xylitol is a sweetener used in many products including mouthwash, chewing gum, toothpaste, and various foods. Because it is toxic to pets, products containing xylitol should not be given to your dog or cat.

Other foods that can be toxic to your pets

• Garlic (see "Onions" above)
• Chives (see "Onions" above)
• Fruit pips, especially those of apricots, peaches, plums, nectarines and cherries
• Apple seeds
• Mustard seeds
• Rhubarb leaves
• Tea
• Potato leaves and stems
• Tomato leaves and stems

By the age of three, about 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have gum disease. The first thing that you might notice is that your pet has persistent bad breath. Peek at your pet's teeth, especially the molars buried at the back of the mouth. If you notice a yellow and brown discolouration on the teeth and red, inflamed gums then dental disease is present. If you also notice what resembles a coating of moist and smelly concrete attached to the molar teeth this is tartar and your pet is certainly going to be in pain. Are there any loose teeth or cracked or worn teeth?

Small dog breeds are more likely to develop periodontal disease because the teeth of small dogs are often too large for their mouths. The teeth are crammed together and decaying food lodged between them causes the build up of bacteria.

What problems does dental disease cause?
Bacteria combine with the soup of saliva and food at the junction between the tooth and gums and form plaque. The plaque grows on the tooth and, as the bacteria continue to proliferate calcium salts combine with the plaque. These calcium salts form the concrete-like tartar to develop on the teeth.

If the tartar is not removed, pockets of pus appear along the gum line. This pus further separates the tooth from the gum allowing more food and bacteria to accumulate. If left untreated, gingivitis and then periodontal disease occur.

Gingivitis means that the gum is damaged and inflamed. It is reversible and preventable. Periodontal disease is more severe and is not reversible.

Periodontal disease causes red swollen, tender gums. The gums often recede and bleeding is common. Pain occurs when the animal eats and it may not eat properly due to the discomfort. Eventually tooth loss occurs as infection destroys the bone around the gum. The bacteria are also continually absorbed into the pet’s body and can cause heart, liver, kidney and lung disease.

How can dental disease be prevented?
The simple task is to keep your pet's teeth clean. Regrettably most pet owners neglect this important part of pet care.

Soft foods cause the biggest problem. Dry biscuits and a daily raw meaty bone will help to keep your pet's teeth cleaner as they help to remove the plaque that is developing.

There are new foods available, such as Royal Canin Dental Care, that have a unique and specially formulated kibble to clean your pet's teeth by removing plaque and tartar with every bite. These prescription diets are available from your veterinarian and are intended for prophylactic use following professional cleaning.

Giving your pet a rawhide chew or a smoked pig’s ear to gnaw on will also help. If your pet will chew raw carrot sticks, these are also good for cleaning teeth.

Brushing your pet's teeth is also an excellent idea. Nowadays a variety of pet toothbrushes and pet toothpastes are available. One such tooth brush fits over the end of your finger like a thimble. Don't use human toothpaste, as your pet will not like it. Pet toothpastes come in tasty flavours such as Beef and Chicken.

You will need to get your pet used to having its teeth brushed. One method with dogs is to dip your finger into vegemite or beef bullion and then to rub your finger gently over your pet's teeth and gums. Your pet will like the taste and will look forward to this game. Then put some gauze bandage over your finger and continue doing the same thing. When you pet is coping with this then introduce the toothbrush or finger brush. For cats, use liverwurst or tuna water and follow the same process.

What should I do if my pet has dirty teeth?
If your pet's teeth appear discoloured or tartar is present, then you will need to visit your veterinarian to have the teeth scaled. Unless the problem is only minor, it is unlikely that you will solve the problem on your own.

Tooth scaling is usually done under anaesthetic, as, unlike humans, animals don’t tolerate the manipulations needed to scale the teeth. Ultrasonic dental scalers are usually used and the result is a set of sparkling, pearly white teeth. If periodontal disease is present then some teeth may need to be removed.

After the cleaning, the home dental care program described above will keep your pet's teeth in good condition.

All dogs over three months need to be registered. Registrations are issued for a period of either one year or three years, from the 1st November of each year.

Dog registration forms are available from the Service and Information Centre, Ground Floor, Town Hall. The form must be completed and signed by an applicant over the age of 18 years.

Reduced rates are available for pension cardholders. A member of Council Staff must sight your Pensioner Concession Card.

It is a legal requirement that dogs wear a tag clearly showing the owners name and address. It is also handy to include a telephone number to enable owner to be easily contacted should the dog wander from home.

If you wish to claim a sterilisation discount you will need to provide proof of your dogs sterilisation. If you do not have a sterilisation certificate from a veterinary surgeon you can complete a Statutory Declaration and have it signed by the JP in the Town Hall Centre on the Ground Floor. Alternatively, if your dog has a sterilisation tattoo in his/her ear you may bring your dog into the Town Hall Centre and have the tattoo sighted by a Council Officer.

Dog Sterilisation Rebates

If you are considering getting your dog sterilised talk to our Service and Information Centre on 9432 9899 about a possible subsidy. Fremantle residents can apply for a $25.00 dog sterilisation subsidy. Dogs must be registered with the City of Fremantle to receive the subsidy.

Application forms are available from the Service and information Counter, Ground Floor, Town Hall.

You will need to supply proof of your residency within the City of Fremantle, and will be required to show proof of your dogs sterilisation.

Dogs need to be kept on a leash in all public places except dog exercise areas.

Dog Exercise Areas

• Rocky Bay foreshore, Rule Street, North Fremantle
• North Fremantle foreshore, Johanna Street, North Fremantle
• Beach Street Reserve, Beach Street/Canning Hwy, Fremantle
• *Fremantle Park, Ellen/Ord Street, Fremantle
• Knutsford Street Playground, Knutsford/Swanbourne Street, Fremantle
• Wilson Park, South Terrace/Douro Rd, South Fremantle
• Parmelia Street Reserve, Parmelia/Chester Street, South Fremantle
• *Bruce Lee Reserve, South/Caesar Street, Beaconsfield
• Davis Park, Conway/Edgar Court, Beaconsfield.
• *Hilton Park, Lefroy/Carrington Street, Hilton.
• Griffiths Place Reserve, Griffiths Place/Nicholas Crescent, Hilton
• Grigg Place Park, Grigg Place/Snook Crescent, Hilton
• Sir Frederick Samson Park, Sellenger/McCombe Avenue, Samson
• 8 Horrie Long Reserve, Amherst/Forrest Street, Fremantle
• *Gibson Park, High/Chudleigh Street, Fremantle
• South Beach Reserve (north of Douro Rd to Sailing Club only), Marine Terrace, South Fremantle.
• Leighton Beach (area north of railway footbridge), Port Beach Rd, North Fremantle

What are microchips?

Microchips are what is known as an RFID device. They are approximately the size of a grain of rice (see photo below) and safe to use on your pets for identification purposes.

A microchip is implanted in an animal with a sterile implantation device in the soft scruff of the neck. It is a n extremely common and safe procedure. You must get your pet microchipped at an authorised implanter which is usually your local veterinary clinic.

Microchips make use of Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) technology. RFID technology was discovered in 1948 by Harry Stockman, it allows information to be transmitted though radio waves, and has been used in many applications such as security and surveillance, and the tracking of animals, vehicles and even artwork for around the last 30 years. A microchip is an RFID device that can transmit stored information.

The microchip contains three components

• Silicon Chip - containing the identification number and circuits to relay that information back to the microchip scanner
• Iron core wrapped in copper wire - acting as an antennae that receives the signal from the microchip scanner
• Capacitor - acting as a tuner with the antennae coil

These components are encased in biocompatible glass, and as such it does not have any physical or behavioural effect on your pet. The microchip is completely inert, meaning that it has no power source and it is not active until it passes under

For further information go to www.petregister.com.au

If your dog wanders from home it may be picked up by a Council Ranger and taken to the pound. Impounded dogs are available for collection between the hours of 3.30pm and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday and 9.00am to 10.00am Saturday. The poundage fee is $40 plus $5 per day for each day your dog is kept at the Pound.

Council's pound is situated at 35 Forsyth Street, cnr Hines Rd, O'Connor.

For lost cats, you can also check with the Cat Haven ph. 9381 1644 or contact the RSPCA for Lost animals and Adopt a Pet program.

If you require more information regarding dog ownership please telephone 9432 9885.

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