Hello! I am a new mom of a bouncing Boston Terrier.
I had one a few years ago, but lost custody
during my divorce.

Lee
Barberton, Ohio

I have known several dogs (and even a few cats) that have served as companions for long-haul truckers. All of these pets seemed very content with their lives. Most dogs I know love adventure, and they adjust very well to life on the road.

There are, of course, some basic precautions that you will need to take. Your dog should receive vaccines that are appropriate for the areas he’ll be visiting, and you should ensure that he is protected against fleas, heartworm and intestinal parasites.

As well, make yourself familiar with the dog laws in the municipalities through which you’ll be traveling. Different areas have different requirements for rabies vaccination. Some areas may require veterinary health certificates for dogs traveling through. Make sure that you have a current dog license in your home town.

In my experience, the authorities generally are quite relaxed about dogs and cats traveling by car or truck (airport screeners can be a different story). However, it is always wise to have all of your paperwork in order. Your veterinarian should be able to help you with rabies certificates, health certificates and other bureaucratic miscellany.

Finally, be sure to carry plenty of food and water for your pup. Take regular breaks for exercise and bathroom activities. And don’t forget to carry a leash–you don’t want your dog to run onto a busy freeway!

If your dog is like the ones I have known, he’ll happily and easily adjust to life on the road.

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Hi,
We have a new Boston Terrier pup (9 weeks) who
tested positive for coccidia but has no symptoms
yet. Our vet has prescribed a 7 day course of
Albon. However, some other people have told me
that she needs a 28 day treatment regimen. Do you
think that this is necessary or should I just do
the 7 day treatment and follow up with the vet
next month (we see her for vaccines then)?
Also- could my cat catch this from my puppy?
Thanks!

Beth
Stoneham, MA

Coccidia are microscopic parasites that are incredibly common in puppies and kittens. Some animals can tolerate Coccidia infestations without showing any symptoms. Others develop diarrhea. In severely afflicted young pets, profuse diarrhea can lead to dehydration, failure to grow and severe illness.

Sadly, there is no perfect treatment for Coccidia. Albon is used to arrest the reproduction of the organisms within the intestinal tract. However, in the long run it is up to the pet’s immune system to tackle and eliminate the parasites.

Because every pet’s immune system is unique, some pets need to take Albon longer than others. I have known some puppies and kittens who had to take it for a month or more before they were cured. I have known others who cleared the parasite on their own, without any medication whatsoever.

Since your puppy isn’t showing symptoms, I think it is reasonable to start with a less aggressive treatment plan. It sounds like her immune system is already fighting the Coccidia. I’d recommend that you complete the seven day course of Albon. Have her stool tested after the medicine runs out. If parasites are still present, your vet can prescribe more medicine.

If your cat is an adult, it is extremely unlikely that the parasites will spread to her. Adult animals with fully-developed immune systems almost never contract Coccidia.

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