Pets get colds, too and if their coughing persists, come see us. It could be bordetella (kennel cough), which presents with a dry cough, occasionally followed by dry heaving or vomiting.

It’s very contagious, but there is a preventative vaccine and your pet can be medicated if it occurs.

Superficial lacerations may heal by themselves, but if the cut is deep or won’t stop bleeding, come see us, as it may require stitches or antibiotics to stave off infection.

Ear infections are very common in pets and can worsen without medication.

The infected ears often look red and puffy and may develop a smell or black or yellowish discharge. You might also notice frequent head shaking or ear scratching.

Eye infections can cause discomfort, redness, or sensitivity to light. Common causes of eye infections are viruses, bacteria, fungal spores, irritants, or allergens, such as smoke or shampoo.

Eye infections require immediate treatment to avoid complications, and any medication placed in the eye should be reviewed by your veterinarian.

You may occasionally see growths appear on your pet, which can be alarming. Watch the growth to see if the shape, color, or size changes and if the pet’s behavior has changed. Growths can appear for many reasons such as infections, allergic reactions, fat, tumors, cysts, warts, or abscesses, and your veterinarian can guide you on the appropriate treatment. Some may be surgically removed or biopsied to determine the severity and if further treatment is necessary.

If your pet is limping, bring them in as soon as possible. Limping indicates pain, and the sooner we are able to identify the reason, the better the prognosis, and the quicker the recovery. 

Reasons for limping can include things as simple as a broken toenail to others as serious as ACL tears or fractures. It is important for your veterinarian to perform a full physical exam to help get your furry friend back to full health.

We all know pets sometimes eat something they shouldn’t. Occasionally they snag something you were really looking forward to… These tummy troubles can be minor or severe.

Persistent or bloody diarrhea or vomiting is a cause for urgent concern and will likely need urgent attention, especially if in combination with dull hair, weight loss, fatigue, or a swollen belly.

Itching can often be a reaction to environmental or food allergies, and your veterinarian can test for allergies to keep your pet comfortable and safe in the future. 

Scratching can also be a harbinger of fleas or ticks, which can spread to humans. Ask your veterinarian about the best options to protect your pet and your family. 

Pets can be mischievous and may sometimes ingest toxic substances! Signs can include changes in urination, diarrhea, skin or gum discoloration, tremors or shaking, changed heartbeat, panting, reduced appetite, and collapse.

Identify the poison, if you can, and confer with your veterinarian about how best to treat the toxic ingestion within your pet’s system.

Your pet may also get rashes, which may look alarming and uncomfortable, but they are quite common. Rashes can be anything from a simple bacterial skin infection to a more serious underlying condition.

Consult us about new or persistent rashes on your pet.

Scooting is your dog's attempt to alleviate irritation on the glands around their anus. Dogs have two sacs, called anal glands, on either side of their rear end, which are typically emptied by regular bowel movements but can clog, causing discomfort, infection, and bad smells for you. Your veterinarian and their team will express the gland to get things back to normal.

If you notice changes in your pet’s peeing habits or accidental / inappropriate urination in the house – often a significant change in volume or frequency, discoloration or smell – your pet may be suffering from a urinary tract infection, cystitis, urinary stones, or enlarged prostate. 

Urinary issues can quickly become serious in pets, so visit your veterinarian for urinalysis and treatment.