Owning a pet is one of life’s greatest treasures. Although it can be difficult at times we are here to help you with any questions or concerns you may have with your pet. When adopting a new pet have in mind what breed you want and which one best fits your life style. Its very important that your pet has good nutrition and weight management with plenty of exercise. Little things like having a high quality diet, or even cutting down extra calories is key for a healthy and strong life. To maintain a healthy balance you can start by adding green beans with meals, and substituting treats like baby carrots. This will be a great start to benefit your pets weight and over all health.

            Everyone fears the word Cancer. Especially when 60 to 70 percent of dogs and cats pass away from it, but that doesn’t mean it cant be prevented or treated. It depends on the type of cancer and therapies used, to help with extending your pets quality of life. Talking with your veterinarian about any disease or treatments can help you feel more knowledgeable and comfortable about the misconceptions of cancer. Some pet owners aren’t aware of what signs to look for and that’s okay, we are here for you! We recommend yearly exams to help us catch any health problems that may need treatment. Pets 7 years or older should have exams every 6 months. This will help catch anything early but will also increase the treatment options you may have. This will also benefit your pet and your budget in the long run. Early diagnosis is a key factor in survival. That’s why we will be offering free lump exams for May’s cancer awareness month!

            Bumps and Lumps are one of the most common and early signs in pets if caught early. We also use x-rays as a tool to help diagnose internal masses that we couldn’t find during a physical exam. If there is a mass or lump, we can remove the lump and send it to a pathologist to check if it is a cancer, and what kind of cancer to help treat your pet.

            Keep in mind when getting a new dog, cat, kitten, or puppy, it’s best to get them spayed or neutered. We usually recommend to do the procedure around 16 weeks or so depending on the size of your dog. This will help females have a lower risk of mammary cancer and males with testicular cancer or enlarged prostrate which can turn to cancer if left untreated. Come in today to talk to a veterinarian and get all your questions answered, and to help your pet have a healthy long life!

By Laina Diaz