It's hard to imagine that Spring will be here soon but here are a few things to keep in mind.

Spring brings insects and pollens which may harm our animal friends. To keep them protected from heartworm disease which is transmitted by mosquitoes, we recommend giving Heartgard Plus® or Iverheart®.

We need to see your dog for a blood test prior to starting the heartworm prevention unless they're on year round prevention (every month of the year) when we may test them every other year during your ani- mal's annual examination.

We also carry Sentinel®; a combination heartworm and flea controller, and Revolution®; a topical heartworm/flea/earmite/roundworm prevention. We also recommend Frontline Plus® for flea and tick prevention.

Remember that ticks come out in early Spring so be prepared.

Beware: Some products can be lethal to cats such as permethrin, a common flea and tick product, so make sure you check the labels. Ask us which products will best suit your animal's lifestyle.

Spring can bring allergies to many pets. Paw licking, face rubbing, hives and itchiness are common signs of pet allergies. Sometimes starting your animals' antihistamines such as Benadryl® (diphenhydramine), hydroxyzine or chlorpheniramine prior to pol- len season may stave off unwanted trips to our office. Please call us for the proper dosages.