Oak Knoll Animal Hospital has been a St. Louis Park landmark for more than 30 years. One thing that has remained constant during that time is the overwhelming spirit of compassionate care that's a part of everything we do.
The medical staff at Oak Knoll is trained to practice the most current treatments available in veterinary medicine today. And they do it all with the same level of care that Oak Knoll Animal Hospital has always been known for.
From routine wellness exams to complex laser surgery, Oak Knoll Animal Hospital is still St. Louis Park's best choice for state of the art medical care combined with friendly, compassionate service.
We look forward to proving that to you!
We are now offering ProHeart12, an injectable Heartworm Preventative. Please call us for more information.
Most dogs infected with heartworms do not show any signs for a long time. Eventually, as the disease progresses, the animal may exhibit such signs as coughing, weakness, shortness of breath, and exercise intolerance.
Heartworm disease is diagnosed with a blood test that detects antibodies to the parasite in cats and antigen produced by the worms in dogs. We recommend testing all dogs once a year, and using healthy and heartworm preventative once a month all year. We recommend testing cats that go outside, and any cats that show signs of respiratory distress or coughing.
General information
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is one of the most common and destructive of all cat viruses. It is highly contagious and is spread primarily by saliva during catfights, grooming or mating. The virus may also be spread by blood, urine and feces. Kittens may become infected while still in the womb, at birth, or during nursing.
Currently, there is no effective treatment for cats infected with FeLV. Of the cats persistently infected, about 25% will die within one year, and 75% will die within three years. Some may live longer, but tend to have various chronic illnesses.
Illness
There are no signs specific for FeLV infection, because it can affect any organ system. The main effect of the virus is to disrupt the cat’s immune system. While anemia is the most common disorder caused by the virus, cancer and various other diseases are common. Some disorders commonly associated with FeLV include: chronic GI or respiratory disease; chronic infection of the mouth, gums and tongue; chronic eye disease; frequent or chronic skin disease and frequent or chronic urinary tract infections.
Prevention
Outdoor cats (ie those exposed to other cats) are at risk for developing FeLV infection. Testing and vaccination before exposure to the virus is the best means of preventing FeLV infection. The vaccination protocol is two initial vaccines one month apart, followed by yearly boosters. Without vaccination, isolation from other cats is the only means of prevention.
The numbers of ticks and tick transmitted diseases are on the rise in Minnesota and throughout the U.S. The SNAP 4DX test allows our staff to perform your dog's annual heartworm test as well as screen for exposure to 3 of the more common tick borne diseases in MN - Lyme, Anaplasma and Ehrillichia. Oak Knoll has offered this test for many years in lieu of a standard heartworm test, and many clients have taken advantage of this more comprehensive care option. Now we have been able to procure better pricing on this test and are excited to announce that in 2019 we are using this test exclusively for our annual heartworm testing. Those clients who have already been taking advantage of the test will be pleased at its lower cost. For those new to the test, take comfort in knowing we are providing optimal medical care for your dog. Please don't hesitate to call with any questions. We look forward to keeping your pets healthy in 2019 and beyond!
Sincerely,
The staff at Oak Knoll Animal Hospital