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Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is one of the most common infectious diseases affecting cats worldwide. Although the diagnosis can sound frightening, advances in testing, vaccination, and supportive care have helped many cats live happy and comfortable lives. Understanding how FeLV spreads and how to protect your cat is an important part of responsible pet ownership.
What Is Feline Leukemia Virus? FeLV is a virus that affects a cat's immune system, making it harder to fight infections and increasing the risk of certain cancers and blood disorders. The virus only affects cats—it cannot be transmitted to humans, dogs, or other species. How Is FeLV Spread? FeLV is primarily spread through close contact with infected cats. Common routes of transmission include:
Which Cats Are Most at Risk? Cats at increased risk include:
Signs and Symptoms of FeLV Many infected cats appear healthy for months or even years before showing symptoms. Potential signs include:
How Is FeLV Diagnosed? Veterinarians commonly perform a simple blood test that can detect FeLV infection during a routine office visit. Testing is recommended for:
Can FeLV Be Prevented? The good news is that FeLV is largely preventable.
Living with an FeLV-Positive Cat An FeLV diagnosis is not necessarily a death sentence. Many infected cats enjoy years of good quality life with proper care. Recommendations include:
The Bottom Line Feline Leukemia Virus remains a significant health concern for cats, but awareness, testing, and vaccination have dramatically improved prevention efforts. Testing new cats, vaccinating those at risk, and maintaining regular veterinary visits are the best ways to protect your feline family members and ensure they live long, healthy lives. If you have questions about your cat's FeLV status or vaccination needs, your Reese Veterinary Hospital team can help you develop the best plan for your pet!
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Water is essential to nearly every function in your pet’s body. It helps regulate body temperature, support healthy organs, transport nutrients, and maintain normal circulation.
During Georgia’s hot and humid summers, dogs and cats can become dehydrated quickly. Without prompt care, dehydration can progress from a mild concern to a serious medical emergency. Knowing the warning signs can help you recognize a problem early and seek veterinary care before complications develop. What Is Dehydration? Dehydration occurs when a pet loses more fluids than they consume. Along with water, the body also loses important electrolytes, including sodium and potassium, that are necessary for normal body function. Even mild dehydration can leave a pet feeling tired or unwell. Severe dehydration can damage the kidneys, contribute to shock, and become life-threatening. Common Causes of Dehydration in Pets Pets may become dehydrated for several reasons, including:
Signs Your Pet May Be Dehydrated The symptoms of dehydration can vary depending on its severity. Signs of Mild Dehydration
Signs of Moderate or Severe Dehydration
However, this test may be less reliable in older pets, overweight animals, and pets with certain medical conditions. A veterinary examination is the best way to accurately evaluate your pet’s hydration. How to Help Prevent Dehydration Many cases of dehydration can be prevented with a few simple precautions.
When Should You Contact Your Veterinarian? Contact your veterinary team promptly if your pet:
Protect Your Pet’s Health Proper hydration is one of the simplest and most important parts of maintaining your pet’s health. By providing plenty of fresh water, limiting exposure to extreme heat, and recognizing the early warning signs of dehydration, you can help keep your dog or cat safe and comfortable throughout the year. If you notice a change in your pet’s drinking habits or suspect that your pet may be dehydrated, do not wait. Contact our veterinary team for guidance and appropriate care. Spaying and neutering are among the most common and beneficial procedures performed in veterinary medicine. These routine surgeries help prevent unwanted litters while also providing important long-term health and behavioral benefits for pets. For pet owners in Georgia, understanding the timing, benefits, and recovery process can help make the decision easier and ensure the best possible outcome for your dog or cat.
What is the difference between spaying and neutering? Spaying refers to the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus in female pets, while neutering/castration refers to the removal of the testicles in male pets. Both procedures are performed under general anesthesia and are considered safe when performed by a licensed veterinarian. Health benefits of spaying female pets Spaying greatly reduces the risk of mammary cancer when performed before the first heat cycle. It also eliminates the risk of life-threatening uterine infections called pyometra, which commonly affect older unspayed female dogs and cats. In addition, spaying prevents ovarian and uterine cancers and removes the stress and mess associated with heat cycles. Health benefits of neutering male pets Neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and can decrease the likelihood of prostate disease in male dogs. It may also help reduce roaming behaviors, urine marking, mounting, and some forms of aggression. Neutered pets are often less likely to escape the home or yard in search of a mate, helping reduce the risk of injuries and accidents. Behavioral benefits While spaying and neutering are not miracle solutions for behavior problems, they can positively influence certain hormone-driven behaviors. Many owners notice decreased territorial marking, reduced vocalization, and less wandering after surgery. Pets often become calmer and easier to manage in multi-pet households. When should pets be spayed or neutered? The ideal timing can vary depending on your pet’s species, breed, size, and overall health. Many cats are spayed or neutered around 4-5 months of age. For dogs, recommendations may differ between small and large breeds. Your veterinarian can help determine the safest and most beneficial timing for your individual pet. What to expect during recovery Most pets recover quickly after surgery. Your veterinarian will provide pain medication and home care instructions. Activity restriction is important for approximately 10-14 days to allow proper healing. Pets should wear an e-collar or recovery suit if they attempt to lick or chew the incision site. Common myths about spaying and neutering One common myth is that female pets should have one litter before being spayed. There is no medical benefit to allowing a pet to have a litter before surgery. Another misconception is that spaying or neutering causes laziness or obesity. Weight gain is more closely linked to diet and exercise than the procedure itself. Why spaying and neutering matter In addition to improving individual pet health, spaying and neutering help reduce pet overpopulation and the number of homeless animals entering shelters each year. Choosing to spay or neuter your pet is an important step toward responsible pet ownership and long-term wellness. Whether you are planning a summer vacation, holiday trip, or weekend getaway, boarding your pet can provide peace of mind while you are away. However, most reputable boarding facilities require certain vaccines and screening tests to help protect all pets in their care. Understanding these requirements ahead of time can help avoid last-minute stress and keep your pet healthy.
Why boarding facilities require vaccines Boarding environments bring multiple pets into close contact with one another. Even with excellent sanitation and ventilation, contagious illnesses can spread quickly in shared spaces. Vaccines help reduce the risk of disease transmission and protect vulnerable pets. Core vaccines for dogs Most boarding facilities require dogs to be current on rabies, distemper/parvo combination vaccines, and Bordetella vaccines. Some facilities may also require canine influenza vaccination. Core vaccines for cats Cats being boarded are typically required to have current rabies and FVRCP vaccines. Some facilities may also recommend feline leukemia testing or vaccination depending on exposure risk. What is Bordetella? Bordetella bronchiseptica is one of the bacteria associated with kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory illness in dogs. Because kennel cough spreads easily in boarding, daycare, and grooming environments, Bordetella vaccination is commonly required. Vaccines may be administered orally, intranasally, or by injection. Why fecal testing matters Many boarding facilities require a recent fecal examination to screen for intestinal parasites such as hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. Parasites can spread through shared outdoor spaces and contaminated surfaces, making prevention important for all pets in the facility. How early should vaccines be updated before boarding? Vaccines should ideally be updated at least one to two weeks before boarding to allow adequate time for the immune system to respond. Waiting until the last minute may leave your pet inadequately protected and could delay boarding plans. Additional boarding preparation tips Before boarding, make sure your pet has enough medication for their stay and provide clear feeding instructions if needed. Bring emergency contact information and notify the boarding staff about any medical conditions, allergies, or anxiety concerns. Packing a familiar blanket or toy may also help reduce stress during your pet’s stay. Schedule early before peak travel seasons Summer vacations and holidays are often the busiest times for boarding facilities. Scheduling wellness visits and vaccine updates early helps ensure your pet is fully prepared before travel plans begin. As summer approaches and temperatures rise, don’t forget to make sure your pets are cool and
comfortable. Read on to know the risks associated with rising temps and how to stay prepared and keep your pet cool on those hot days. Heatstroke occurs when the body’s temperature is elevated and the body is unable to effectively cool itself. This generally occurs when the body is exposed to excessively high temperatures. Dogs do not sweat like people do, but regulate their body temperature through panting. When this is not enough, a dog’s body temperature can rise quickly. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, rapid heart rate, and fatigue. Heatstroke can lead to serious complications including organ damage, seizures, and death. It is a medical emergency and requires veterinary attention. If you see signs of heatstroke, immediately move your pet to a cool, shaded place and apply cool, wet towels to your pet’s head and neck and seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Here are a few ways to make sure you are prepared for the warmer weather:
Fleas and ticks may be tiny, but they can cause big problems for your pet’s health. These pests are more than just annoying. They can carry diseases, cause discomfort, and even lead to serious medical issues if left untreated.
Why Fleas Are a Problem Fleas can make your pet itchy and uncomfortable, but the trouble does not stop there. Flea infestations can lead to:
Why Ticks Are Dangerous Ticks can be harder to spot, especially if your pet has thick fur. Unfortunately, ticks can transmit several serious diseases, including:
The good news is that many tick-borne diseases can be successfully treated with antibiotics when caught early. If your pet is showing any unusual symptoms, contact your veterinarian right away. What Is Tick Paralysis? Certain types of ticks can carry a neurotoxin that may cause tick paralysis. This condition can begin with weakness or loss of coordination in the back legs and may progress to affect all four limbs. In severe cases, it can cause complete paralysis. Prompt tick removal is an important part of treatment, so it is always a good idea to check your pet regularly, especially after they have been outdoors. Prevention Is the Best Protection When it comes to fleas and ticks, prevention is much easier than treatment. There are many safe and effective products available, including topical treatments, oral medications, and collars. The best option depends on your pet’s age, weight, health, lifestyle, and environment. Before starting a flea or tick prevention product, talk with your veterinarian. They can help you choose the option that is safest and most effective for your pet. Keep Your Pet Protected Year-Round Fleas and ticks are not just a warm-weather problem. Depending on where you live, they can be active for much of the year. Keeping your pet on consistent prevention helps reduce the risk of infestations, discomfort, and disease. A little prevention now can save your pet from a lot of discomfort later. If you have questions about flea and tick prevention, contact your veterinarian to find the best plan for your pet. Introduction
Pets are curious by nature, and while their adventurous spirit is part of what makes them wonderful companions, it can also place them in unexpected situations. Accidents and emergencies can happen quickly, and knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in your pet’s safety and recovery. Pet first aid does not replace professional veterinary care, but it can help stabilize a pet until they can receive medical attention. Understanding common emergencies and having a basic first aid plan can help pet owners feel more confident during stressful situations. When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care Some situations require urgent veterinary care and should never be treated solely at home. If your pet experiences any of the following signs, contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic immediately: • Difficulty breathing • Severe bleeding • Loss of consciousness • Seizures • Suspected poisoning • Trauma such as being hit by a car • Severe vomiting or diarrhea • Inability to stand or walk Rapid veterinary intervention is often critical during these emergencies. Handling Minor Wounds Small cuts and scrapes are relatively common in active pets. If your pet has a minor wound, gently clean the area with warm water or a veterinarian approved antiseptic solution. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide repeatedly, as it may delay healing. Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze if bleeding occurs. If bleeding does not stop within a few minutes, seek veterinary care. Keep the wound clean and monitor for signs of infection such as swelling, redness, or discharge. What to Do If Your Pet Is Choking Choking is a frightening situation that requires immediate attention. Signs of choking may include pawing at the mouth, excessive drooling, gagging, or difficulty breathing. If your pet is conscious and calm enough to handle, carefully open the mouth and check for visible objects lodged in the throat. Never place your fingers deep into the throat unless you can clearly see the object. If the obstruction cannot be removed quickly, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Recognizing Heatstroke Heatstroke is a common warm weather emergency, especially in southern climates. Pets can quickly overheat when exposed to high temperatures, especially if they are exercising outdoors or left in enclosed spaces such as vehicles. Signs of heatstroke include: • Excessive panting • Drooling • Vomiting • Weakness or collapse • Bright red gums If heatstroke is suspected, move your pet to a cooler environment immediately. Offer small amounts of cool water and apply cool—not ice cold—water to the body while transporting the pet to a veterinarian. Suspected Poisoning Pets may ingest toxic substances such as household cleaners, medications, certain foods, or poisonous plants. Symptoms of poisoning vary but may include vomiting, drooling, tremors, seizures, or lethargy. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinary professional. Keeping potentially harmful substances out of reach is the best preventive strategy. Seizures in Pets Witnessing a seizure can be alarming for pet owners. During a seizure, pets may lose consciousness, paddle their limbs, drool, or exhibit muscle twitching. If your pet experiences a seizure: • Remain calm • Move objects away to prevent injury • Do not place your hands near the mouth • Time the duration of the seizure After the seizure ends, contact your veterinarian for guidance. Prolonged or repeated seizures require emergency care. Building a Pet First Aid Kit Having a dedicated pet first aid kit can help you respond quickly during minor emergencies. Useful items include: • Gauze pads and bandages • Adhesive medical tape • Antiseptic solution • Digital thermometer • Tweezers • Disposable gloves • Emergency contact numbers Keep the kit in an easily accessible location and consider bringing it when traveling with your pet. Prevention Is the Best Protection Many pet emergencies can be prevented through basic safety precautions. Keep toxic foods and chemicals secured, supervise pets outdoors, and ensure they receive regular veterinary checkups. Microchipping, proper identification tags, and secure fencing can also help reduce risks associated with lost pets or outdoor hazards. Conclusion Knowing basic pet first aid can help pet owners respond quickly and effectively during unexpected situations. While first aid can provide temporary support, veterinary care remains essential for diagnosing and treating underlying injuries or illnesses. Preparing in advance, keeping emergency numbers accessible, and maintaining regular veterinary visits can help ensure that pets stay safe, healthy, and protected throughout their lives. Introduction
Heartworm disease is one of the most serious and potentially life-threatening conditions affecting dogs and cats in the southeastern United States. Because Georgia has a warm climate and a long mosquito season, pets in our region are at particularly high risk. Many pet owners believe heartworms are only a summer problem, but mosquitoes can remain active for much of the year, allowing the disease to spread even during cooler months. Heartworm disease is caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart, lungs, and surrounding blood vessels of infected animals. These worms can grow up to a foot long and cause severe damage to the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. The good news is that heartworm disease is almost entirely preventable with consistent veterinary care and monthly prevention. Understanding how heartworms are transmitted, what symptoms to watch for, and why year round prevention is essential can help keep your pets healthy and protected. What Are Heartworms and How Are They Transmitted? Heartworms are parasitic worms scientifically known as Dirofilaria immitis. They are spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. When a mosquito bites an infected animal, it picks up microscopic heartworm larvae circulating in the bloodstream. These larvae develop inside the mosquito and are then transmitted to the next animal the mosquito bites. Once inside a new host, the larvae migrate through the tissues and bloodstream over several months. Eventually, they mature into adult worms that settle in the heart, lungs, and pulmonary arteries. Adult heartworms reproduce and release microscopic offspring into the bloodstream, continuing the cycle. Because mosquitoes are common in Georgia, especially in warm and humid environments, pets that spend time outdoors—or even indoors—can be exposed. Why the Southeast Has a Higher Risk The southeastern United States consistently reports some of the highest rates of heartworm disease in the country. Warm temperatures, humidity, and abundant mosquito populations create ideal conditions for heartworm transmission. Even pets that live primarily indoors are not completely safe. Mosquitoes can easily enter homes through doors, windows, and garages. Additionally, many pet owners travel with their pets, visit parks, or spend time outdoors during spring and summer, increasing exposure risk. Veterinarians in Georgia strongly recommend year round heartworm prevention because our climate allows mosquitoes to remain active for extended periods of time. Symptoms of Heartworm Disease in Dogs Heartworm disease can progress silently for months or even years before obvious symptoms appear. Early infections may not show noticeable signs, which is why routine testing is so important. As the disease progresses, dogs may develop: • Persistent coughing • Fatigue after moderate activity • Decreased appetite • Weight loss • Difficulty breathing • Swollen abdomen due to fluid accumulation In advanced cases, heartworm disease can lead to heart failure and severe lung disease. Without treatment, the condition can become fatal. Heartworms in Cats While heartworm disease is more common in dogs, cats can also become infected. Even a small number of worms can cause serious illness in cats. Symptoms in cats may include: • Coughing or asthma like breathing • Vomiting • Loss of appetite • Lethargy • Sudden collapse Because heartworm infections in cats are harder to diagnose and treat, prevention is particularly important. Why Prevention Is Better Than Treatment Treating heartworm disease is significantly more complicated, expensive, and risky than preventing it. Treatment for infected dogs requires multiple injections, strict exercise restriction, and careful monitoring by a veterinarian. Even after successful treatment, some pets may experience permanent damage to the heart or lungs. Preventive medications, on the other hand, are safe, effective, and easy to administer. Most heartworm preventives are given once a month or as an extended release injection administered by a veterinarian. Preventing heartworms protects your pet from serious illness and saves pet owners from the emotional and financial stress of treatment. Types of Heartworm Prevention There are several types of heartworm prevention available for pets. Your veterinarian can help determine which option is best based on your pet’s age, health, and lifestyle. Common forms of prevention include: • Monthly oral chewable tablets • Monthly topical medications applied to the skin • Long acting injectable preventives administered by a veterinarian Many heartworm preventives also protect against other parasites such as intestinal worms, fleas, and mites. Why Annual Heartworm Testing Is Necessary Even pets on regular prevention should be tested for heartworms once a year. Annual testing ensures that prevention is working and that no infection has occurred. If a pet misses doses or receives medication late, there is a possibility that heartworm larvae could develop into adult worms. Early detection allows veterinarians to intervene before severe damage occurs. Testing typically involves a simple blood test performed during your pet’s annual wellness visit. What to Do If You Miss a Dose Missing a dose of heartworm prevention occasionally happens. If this occurs, contact your veterinarian for guidance. In many cases, restarting prevention promptly can help reduce risk, but your veterinarian may recommend testing depending on how much time has passed. Consistent dosing is the best way to ensure your pet remains protected. Conclusion Heartworm disease is a serious but preventable condition that affects thousands of pets each year. In Georgia’s mosquito friendly climate, year round prevention is the safest way to protect your dog or cat from this dangerous parasite. Regular veterinary exams, annual heartworm testing, and consistent preventive medication work together to keep pets safe. If you have questions about heartworm prevention or would like to discuss the best options for your pet, contact your veterinary team. Preventive care today can protect your pet’s health for years to come. Signs, Causes, and Treatment Options
If your pet starts itching, chewing paws, or getting frequent ear infections this time of year, you’re not alone. Georgia’s warm climate and long pollen seasons create the perfect conditions for environmental allergens—meaning pets in the Southeast can experience symptoms for many months each year. Common types of allergies in pets Allergies generally fall into a few categories: Environmental (Atopy): Triggered by pollen, mold spores, grasses, and dust mites. Flea Allergy Dermatitis: A reaction to flea saliva. For some pets, even one flea bite can cause intense itching and inflammation. Food allergies: Often related to proteins such as chicken, beef, or dairy. What allergy symptoms look like in dogs and cats, unlike people, pets often show allergy symptoms through the skin. Watch for:
Over time, chronic inflammation can weaken the skin barrier and increase the risk of secondary bacterial or yeast infections. How we diagnose allergies Diagnosis starts with a physical exam and history, and may include:
Treatment options Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:
When to schedule an exam If your pet is persistently scratching, licking, or experiencing recurrent ear infections, an exam is recommended. Early intervention prevents ongoing discomfort and helps reduce the risk of chronic skin issues. 📞 Call Reese Veterinary Hospital at 762-279-8381 to schedule an appointment.  Poison Prevention Matters!
Accidental toxin exposure is one of the most common emergency situations veterinarians see since many everyday household items can pose serious health risks to pets. Common household dangers include cleaning products, laundry detergent pods, essential oils, rodenticides, human medications, chocolate, and xylitol. Outdoor risks include fertilizers and herbicides, sago palms, azaleas, lilies, mushroom ingestion, and compost piles. Signs of possible poisoning include vomiting or diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or seizures, pale gums, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxin: ● Remove access to the substance ● Do NOT induce vomiting unless instructed ● Call your veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435. Most poison exposures are preventable with awareness and proactive planning. Prevention tips include: ● Storing chemicals in secure cabinets ● Keeping medications out of reach ● Avoid leaving food unattended ● Supervise pets outdoors ● Use pet-safe products whenever possible |
AuthorDr. Hollie Reese is the owner and veterinarian at Reese Veterinary Hospital. Archives
April 2026
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