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Interactive Symptom Checker

This tool is for guidance only and is not a diagnosis. If you are ever unsure or your pet seems in distress, please call us right away at (985) 320-8716.

1. What kind of pet?

2. What is the main concern?

3. Select any symptoms that apply

Recommended Supplements

These are the supplements Dr. Stafford trusts and recommends most often. Most are available through our Online Pharmacy; a few (like Rejensa) are available in-clinic only.

Joints & Mobility

Rejensa Joint Care Chews for Dogs
For Dogs – Our Top Pick IN-CLINIC ONLY
Rejensa (Phibro Animal Health)

Fast-acting joint support made specifically for dogs. Contains Gluco Blu®. This is our first-choice recommendation for canine joint comfort and mobility.

Available only at our hospital — not sold through the Online Pharmacy. Call or stop by to get it for your dog.

Dasuquin Advanced for Cats
Also Excellent – Dogs & Cats
Dasuquin Advanced (Nutramax)

High-quality joint support from Nutramax. Formulas are available for both dogs and cats (photo shows the cat version). A strong option when additional joint support is needed.

Skin & Coat

Welactin Advanced 3TA Omega-3 Liquid
Recommended
Welactin Advanced 3TA (Nutramax)

Concentrated omega-3 fish oil liquid that supports skin & coat health, joints, heart, brain/vision, and immune function. A go-to Nutramax product we trust.

We also use other Nutramax omega formulas and select Purina Pro Plan Veterinary skin & coat options when appropriate.

Digestive Support

Proviable-Forte Digestive Health Supplement
Recommended – Dogs & Cats
Proviable-Forte (Nutramax)

Probiotic supplement that helps support intestinal health. Clinically evaluated in both dogs and cats. Useful during stress, diet changes, or mild digestive upset.

We also recommend Purina FortiFlora (veterinary line) when appropriate.

Liver Support

Denamarin Advanced Liver Health Supplement
Recommended
Denamarin Advanced (Nutramax)

Liver health supplement that supports and protects liver function. Available in formulas sized for different dogs. We’ll recommend the right strength for your pet.

General Wellness

For everyday nutritional support we favor quality Nutramax products and select Purina Pro Plan Veterinary supplements, chosen based on your pet’s individual needs.

Shop These Products in Our Online Pharmacy

Questions about which product is right for your pet? Just call us at (985) 320-8716.

Practical guides on common topics — plus advanced treatments we stock that many local clinics don’t carry.

Advanced Care Available Here

Stafford Veterinary Hospital carries modern treatments that can make a critical difference in emergencies. Two examples:

  • Parvo monoclonal antibody — targeted support for dogs fighting canine parvovirus
  • Antivenin — for venomous snakebites, important in our Louisiana area

If you suspect parvo or a snakebite, call us right away at (985) 320-8716.

🧬 Parvo Monoclonal Antibody

Canine parvovirus is a serious, fast-moving disease — especially in puppies. We carry parvo monoclonal antibody, a modern treatment many local clinics do not stock.

  • Targets the virus to support the body’s fight against infection
  • Most useful when started early in the course of illness
  • Works alongside intensive supportive care
  • Prevention with vaccines is still the best protection
Call us if: Your dog (especially a puppy) has vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite — don’t wait.

🐍 Antivenin for Snakebites

Venomous snakes are part of life in Louisiana. We stock antivenin so we can respond when a pet is bitten — another treatment many nearby clinics don’t carry.

  • Used for serious envenomation from venomous snakes
  • Time matters — seek care as soon as a bite is suspected
  • Signs can include swelling, pain, weakness, or bleeding
  • Keep pets on leash in high-risk areas when possible
Call us if: You see or suspect a snakebite. Do not wait to “see if it gets better.”

🦷 Dental Care

Dental disease is one of the most common problems we see — and one of the most preventable.

  • Brush teeth several times a week if possible
  • Use pet-safe toothpaste only
  • Watch for bad breath, red gums, or difficulty chewing
  • Professional cleanings remove tartar below the gumline
Tip: Starting dental care early makes a big difference later in life.

💉 Vaccines

Vaccines protect against serious and sometimes fatal diseases.

  • Core vaccines are recommended for nearly all pets
  • Lifestyle vaccines depend on your pet’s risk
  • Puppies and kittens need a series of boosters
  • Adult pets still need regular updates
Tip: Ask us which vaccines are most important for your individual pet.

🦟 Parasite Prevention

Heartworms, fleas, and ticks are common in Louisiana.

  • Heartworm prevention should be given year-round
  • Fleas can cause itching, allergies, and anemia
  • Ticks can transmit serious diseases
  • Monthly preventives are the easiest protection
Tip: Even indoor pets can be exposed to parasites.

🥗 Nutrition & Weight

What (and how much) you feed has a huge impact on long-term health.

  • Choose a complete and balanced diet
  • Measure food instead of free-feeding
  • Limit high-calorie treats
  • Ask us about ideal body condition
Tip: Gradual weight loss is safer and more successful than rapid dieting.

🚨 When to Call the Vet

Some signs mean you should contact us promptly.

  • Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than a day
  • Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
  • Difficulty breathing or coughing
  • Sudden limping or inability to walk
  • Seizures, collapse, or extreme lethargy
  • Straining to urinate
Tip: When in doubt, call us — we’re happy to help you decide if an exam is needed.

🐾 Senior Pet Care

Pets age faster than we do. Senior checkups help us catch age-related changes early.

  • More frequent wellness exams are often recommended
  • Blood work can reveal hidden issues
  • Joint comfort and mobility become important
  • Dental disease is very common in older pets
Tip: Many “just getting old” signs are actually treatable medical conditions.

Articles We Often Share with Clients

These are clear, trusted handouts from Veterinary Partner — the same resources we recommend in the clinic.

New Puppy Owners

What First Time Puppy Owners Should Know →

Bringing a puppy home around 8–10 weeks is ideal for bonding and learning. Early socialization between about 3 and 14 weeks helps shape how your dog handles people, places, and everyday life. Housetraining works best when you take them out after waking, eating, playing, and before bed—puppy bladders are tiny. Starting house rules on day one, stocking the right supplies, and establishing care with your vet sets everyone up for success.

New Puppy Owners Guide →

This article covers practical next steps for new puppy households. It reinforces why early vet visits, vaccines, and parasite prevention matter in those first months. You’ll also find guidance on building good routines at home so training and socialization stay on track. Read it alongside the first-time owner article for a solid foundation before problems show up.

Common Concerns

Ear Infections What causes ear infections, what to watch for, and why treatment matters. Post-Operative Care for Pets Home care after surgery — activity, medications, incision care, and when to call us. Preventing Heartworm Infection Why year-round prevention matters in Louisiana and how preventives work. Parvovirus: Vaccination and Prevention How parvo spreads, why puppy vaccine series matter, and how to protect your dog. Rattlesnake / Pit Viper Bites What happens in a venomous bite and why prompt care (and antivenin when needed) matters. Flea Control for Allergic Dogs and Cats Why even a few fleas can cause big itch problems, and how to get real control. Flea Anemia How heavy flea burdens can cause dangerous blood loss, especially in puppies and kittens. Skin Allergies (Atopic Dermatitis) Itchy skin from environmental allergies — signs, common triggers, and treatment options. Vomiting and Diarrhea (GI Upset) Common causes of GI issues, when home care may help, and when to call the clinic.

Links open on Veterinary Partner (VIN). We can add more of your go-to articles anytime.

Have a specific question about your pet’s health? We’re always happy to talk it through.

Call (985) 320-8716 Contact Us