November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month
Cancer in pets has become more common, and this month we are going to discuss what cancer is, signs of cancer, diagnosis, and some treatment options should you be faced with a cancer diagnosis in your pet. Neoplasia is defined as the uncontrolled or abnormal growth of cells in the body that can be benign or malignant, in other words, a tumor. Benign tumors often grow slowly and don’t tend to invade neighboring tissues. Malignant tumors can be unpredictable and often grow rapidly and spread to other tissues or systems in the body.
Why You Should Take Your Cat to the Vet: Ensuring a Healthy and Happy Life for Your Feline Friend
As a cat lover, your feline friend’s health and well-being are paramount. Cats are known for their independence and seemingly low-maintenance nature, but this doesn’t mean they don’t require regular veterinary care. August 22nd is national bring your cat to the vet day and for the entire month of August we are offering 50% off a routine visit for your feline friend. Here are some compelling reasons why you should make routine visits to see us a priority for your cat.
Allergies and Asthma Awareness
Allergies in Companion Animals If you or someone you know has allergies, you know this time of year means clogged up, sniffly, sneezing misery with every new wave of Spring. People with allergies tend to sneeze and have watery eyes. Dogs and cats increase grooming as well as scratch and lick excessively to try to alleviate their discomfort. This can actually make things worse because these actions can cause further skin irritation and possible infections.
Periodontal Disease: An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure
February is National Dental Month! Did you know that periodontal disease is one of if not the most common diseases that occur in our pets? Periodontal disease ranges from inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), to severe infection and loss of the bone surrounding the teeth (periodontitis).
Antimicrobial Stewardship: Safeguarding Antimicrobial Drug Use
When we think of “Antimicrobials”, to the general public this could mean “antibiotics”. While it is true that antibiotics are antimicrobials, not all antimicrobials are antibiotics. As a definition, antimicrobials are “Products that kill or curb the growth of microorganisms”.
Pet Dental Health Month
February is dental health month for pets! Dental health is just as important in your furry pets as it is in you. During dental month, we want to educate owners about dental disease and what they can do to improve their pet’s dental hygiene. Routine dental care is an important way to keep your pet from needing oral surgery to treat infection, but also keeps bad dog breath out of the way of cuddling with your furry friend. Your pet’s teeth should be shiny, white, and clean.
Canine Separation Anxiety
A tough, but pretty common problem, often seen in canine patients is anxiety. Some level of short term stress is healthy for an animal, and even humans, because it allows us to survive and thrive despite threats to our well-being. However, when the stress becomes long-term negative side effects may occur leading to unwanted behaviors and health risks.
Pets and the Summer Heat
As the summer nears and the weather continues to warm up, it is important to be mindful of the impact it can have on our pets. Dogs, especially, are spending a lot more time outdoors and traveling with their owners which can be a lot of fun, but can be potentially dangerous if we (their owners) are not prepared for the heat.
Dog and Cat Parasites in the Roaring Fork Valley
With spring finally becoming a reality, it is time to about ticks and other parasites that become more prevalent as the weather begins to warm. As a general rule, we are very fortunate in this valley to have less parasite problems than most of the rest of the country. Because we don’t see as many outward signs of parasites here, we tend to grow a little complacent in our approach to preventing parasite infestations and especially in remembering that there can be dangers to humans as well as to our pets.
Safe Summer Fun
Summer is such an amazing season to get outside and spend time with our four-legged friends. Hiking, swimming, playing ball or frisbee, or even relaxing in the sun are all great things to do with you pet. In order to ensure that you and your furry friend can continue to play and have fun safely be sure you are thinking about the activity from your pet’s perspective – they may have a difficult time letting you know when they are feeling overworked or possibly scared. Exposure to the environment can often invoke a fear response in certain animals – knowing how your