The Spelzer Chronicles

Back to the Vet

Today was my annual physical. My vet says I'm a very healthy dog. My skin looks good, my teeth look much cleaner (thanks to the PetzLife Oral Care Gel), and my heart and lungs sound good. I also tested negative for heartworms and lyme disease. My erlichea titer is still showing up, but it's so faint you can barely see it. My doctor said that she has consulted the local infectious disease unit at the vet school and they have said that these titers can last for a long time, even after treatment with antibiotics. Since the titer is so faint, and my last test was two years ago, she's not concerned which is a mixed bag because taking pills means peanut butter. But I guess I'd rather be healthy.

I also got my leptospirosis/parvo/distemper vaccine. Leptospirosis is a nasty bacterial infection that requires annual boosters. Dad was a little concerned about reactions from it, but they said that's really only a concern for small dogs. Also, the vaccination being used now only contains the antigens, not the bacteria, so it's a lot less worrisome.

I was a pretty good patient considering all the poking and prodding. I also had to get my temperature taken in the butt and get a fecal test with the swabby thing in the butt...rapture. But I got lots of treats, and was mostly cooperative. I'm a healthy dog. YAY!