Rabies vaccination is currently required for dogs and cats on an annual basis.

The altitude of 6500 feet above sea level can be a problem for some animals, but is usually a lot more of a problem for the owners. Adaptation to the lower oxygen levels normally takes place in a few weeks. Gradual introduction of exercise over a 8 week period will suffice for most pets.

An existing cardiac condition will sometimes require an adjustment in medication when moving to the area.

Our local weather can be very cold in the winter, and we usually have 2 to 3 weeks of bitterly cold weather in December and January.

We recommend that all cats be given shelter when outside for over a few minutes especially when the temperature is lower than 40 degrees.
Freezing damage can occur in cats in a few minutes if the temperatures are below zero.

Advice for your Dog | Advice for your Reptile

 Feline Leukemia (FELV) and Feline Aids (FIV) Viruses are common in the area. They are spread from cat to cat by bites, scratches, or in the womb. Outdoor cats are particularly susceptible due to the likelihood of encountering and being bitten by an infected animal. There is an effective vaccine for Feline leukemia, but as yet we have no vaccine for Feline Aids. Treatment of either virus is very difficult.

 Fleas and ticks are present, and cause problems during the warmer months from May to October. We recommend "Frontline", an easily applied topical flea treatment that lasts an entire month in dogs and cats, even if bathed. Frontline is very safe, and kills both fleas and ticks. In our area, treatment of the house and yard is rarely required.

 Bubonic Plague is present in our area, and is transmitted from the bites of infected fleas to dogs and cats. Fleas get the infection from infected rodents, predominantly rabbits and squirrels. Clinical signs of plague in dogs and cats takes two forms. The "Pneumonic form" is characterized by a high fever and signs of pneumonia such as coughing. The "Bubonic form" is characterized by large swollen lymph nodes draining infectious material. Both forms are contagious to humans, and suspected cases should be handled cautiously and examined ASAP.

Prevention is centered around limiting contact with rodents, and flea control as mentioned above. Dogs and cats that spend any time outdoors are at risk, and should be treated with some type of flea control product.

 Allergies are common and can either improve or worsen when moving to a new area. Common clinical signs of allergy are itching and scratching, especially on the feet, inside legs, and inside the ears. Pets with previous allergies will often improve for 1 to 2 years, and then develop their allergies again.

 The dry climate frequently causes dry flaky skin in people and their pets when moving from a more humid climate. Some adaptation will occur over time. The condition can be helped by the use of soap-free shampoos which do not dry the coat as much. Humectant sprays that moisturize the coat, room humidifiers, and fatty acid food supplements are also beneficial.

 Rattlesnakes are present in the areas surrounding MSPH, and bites are not uncommon. Rapid treatment is the key to survival. It is important to realize that the degree of swelling at the area of the bite does not indicate the severity of the bite. Most deaths are caused by shock resulting from the toxins in the bite. Most pets can be saved by prompt, aggressive treatment.

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