Annual Exams
Why does my pet need a yearly exam? This is a great time to assess your animal. How do the teeth look- is there gingivitis, plaque or any broken teeth? Any lumps or bumps? How is the heart, do we hear any murmurs? Do the lungs sound clear? Is the Doctor able to palpate any masses in the abdomen? Are all the lymph nodes normal size? What about the pet’s weight? Weight is commonly overlooked but just like people, plays a huge role in health.
Pet Cancer Awareness Month
November is pet cancer awareness month. There is no easy way to talk about cancer, but as a pet owner, it is important to be aware of the warning signs. Just as in humans, cancer can develop suddenly in dogs and cats; and an unexpected diagnosis can be devastating to pet owners. Early recognition is a key step to intervening and improving the outcomes for our companion animals.
Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease
By Meggie Garvey, DVM Coughing dogs seem to be all around us this season! Dogs can acquire infectious respiratory disease when they are in close quarters with other dogs, such as when they go to the dog park or groomer, or are boarded at a Kennel. Respiratory disease in dogs has many causes. It can consist of a mild “tracheobronchitis”, inflammation of the trachea and airways, or a more serious pneumonia.
Pet Obesity Awareness Month
This month is pet obesity awareness, which is an extremely important topic!! Most people don’t know that their pet is overweight or the complications that it can cause in the long run.
12 Things Your Pet Could Be Allergic To
Itching, watery eyes, and sneezing are all allergy symptoms that our pets may have to deal with, especially in spring and summer when seasonal allergies are at their peak. But even though pet allergies are usually easy to spot, many pet owners are left wondering exactly what caused them.
Can Dogs Get Sunburnt? Dog Sunburn Signs, Symptoms, and When to See Your Veterinarian
When temperatures start to heat up and the days grow longer, people and their pets naturally begin spending more time outdoors exploring nature, catching up on yard chores, or simply soaking up the sunshine. Just like us, most dogs enjoy the warmer weather. As pet parents, we fill their days with walks, games of fetch, and sunbathing while we take care of all the yard chores we previously mentioned.
Why An Annual Pet Blood Test Can Be a Lifesaver (And What It Detects)
We all want our dogs and cats to live long and healthy lives, but what if I told you that there was a chance that your pet could be suffering from silent health issues that you may not even notice? Though your pet may be acting like their normal, energetic, and affectionate self, the truth is, they could be sick or in pain without you even realizing it. If that concerns you, rest assured there's something your veterinarian can do to ease your mind and make sure your pet is in good health: an annual pet blood test.
Why Does My Dog Lick So Much? Decoding Dog Licking Behaviors
As veterinarians, we often get asked about a common canine behavior: licking. Licking is a natural and normal behavior for dogs, allowing them to groom, investigate their surroundings, and even communicate with other people and pets. Whether it's a quick swipe of the tongue or a full-on facial bath, dogs lick for a variety of reasons – some you might not even expect. Let's explore some of the most common explanations behind this behavior and talk about when owners should be concerned about excessive licking in dogs.
Annual Exams for Cats: Why They’re Just as Important as Dog Checkups
Cats are true masters of disguise, fitting into the smallest spaces, concealing themselves in hard-to-find places, and even hiding their pain from their owners. It can be quite challenging to tell when your feline friend needs a bit of medical attention. This may explain why more than 90% of dog owners make sure to take their pups to the vet each year, while only around 40% of cat owners do the same.
9 Ways to Manage Cat Anxiety and Stress at Home
Many people assume that cats lead exceptionally carefree lives, but the truth is they are surprisingly sensitive creatures. Stress and anxiety can affect cats more than we realize, often triggered by subtle changes in their environment or routine.