Services

Here we outline specifics about the following:

General Wellness

Wellness & Preventative Care

Annual wellness exams evaluate your pet’s overall health, detect problems before they become serious, and keep them on track to live a long, healthy life.

Overview

We follow your pet through the many phases of their life. From specialized and preventative care during their younger years, to wellness checks as they age. We seek to prevent and detect problems before they arise. We know your pet is important to you, that’s why we work hard to ensure they are given only the best care through the years of their life.

The American Animal Hospital Association recommends that your pet(s) have a wellness exam at least once every year. As your pet ages, they recommend having even more. We strongly believe in preventative care and have developed wellness protocols for every stage of the life of your pet. Depending on your pet’s life stage, vaccines may be administered, as well as disease screenings.

Why are wellness exams important?

Wellness exams give us a chance to evaluate the overall health of your pet while also giving us a baseline for their own unique bodies and tendencies. They also allow us to detect potential problems before they become serious, and even make your pet more familiar with our animal hospital, making future visits easier on them and you.

When should my pet visit the Vet?

We believe in preventative medicine as the best approach to keeping our patients healthy. We have found that early detection of diseases makes for better treatment outcomes. This includes annual wellness examinations, vaccinations, external and internal parasite prevention, and dietary management. Our doctors will help determine what vaccinations are appropriate according to you and your pet’s needs. We will discuss in detail what your options are to help you make the best possible health decisions for your pet.

How do wellness exams work?

During a wellness exam, our veterinary team will start out by taking your pet’s vital signs. Our Veterinarian will perform a comprehensive examination of your pet from nose to tail and may also perform diagnostic tests such as blood work, urinalysis, or intestinal parasite tests. Depending on your pet’s life stage, vaccines may be administered, as well as disease screenings for heartworm, kidney, liver, blood disorders, and more.

Wellness examinations do not necessarily mean that your pet is going to be subjected to complicated or costly medical tests or treatments. This allows us to prevent major health issues from developing undetected and gives us the opportunity to analyze and record baseline values such as temperature, body condition, and lab work. We measure these when your pet is healthy in order to provide better care in the event of illness or emergency. A dental health exam and a weight check are always important parts of a wellness exam and may indicate problems that can progress rapidly and have significant impact on your pet’s overall health.

Early detection and correction of medical problems will help to ensure that your pet will live a long, healthy, and active life. We firmly believe that an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure!

Vaccinations

Preventative care is an important aspect in maintaining your pet’s optimum health. Proper vaccination is vital in protecting them against harmful diseases.

Overview

We believe that preventative care is one of the most important aspects of maintaining your pet’s health. There are a variety of diseases that affect animals, so adequate vaccination of your pet is important in protecting them from the many types of illnesses to which they are susceptible to.

Why are vaccinations important?

Vaccinations are vital to the health and protection of your pet and serve as a preventative measure in combating viral diseases like Distemper, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Lyme, Panleukopenia, Feline Leukemia virus, Rabies and others. They help to combat diseases by exposing the pet’s immune system to inactive or small amounts of a particular form of bacteria or virus.

When should my pet get vaccinated?

Vaccinations are particularly important for puppies, kittens, and other young animals that have immature immune systems. Veterinary vaccinations generally begin at 6-8 weeks of age and then boostered throughout your pet’s life depending on the vaccine. Our doctors will determine the appropriate vaccination plan for your pet.

How are vaccines administered?

Vaccines are administered through a subcutaneous injection (under the skin), orally, or intra-nasally, depending on the vaccine. They are accompanied by a consultation and examination with our Veterinarians to make certain that your pet’s condition is stable enough to receive them. Proper and timely administration is necessary to ensure optimal protection.

Cat Vaccines

Vaccine schedules can be complicated and confusing. Many options for vaccines depend on the lifestyle for your cat and on any medical problems as well.

Core Cat Vaccines – These are the three core vaccines that we feel all cats should receive:

1. RCP (combo vaccine – Rhinotracheitis, Calici, & Panleukopenia)
2. FELV (recommended only for outdoor cats)
3. Rabies
   

Which diseases do these vaccines treat?

1. Rhinotracheitis (the R in RCP) – This is a herpes virus and is part of the “Upper Respiratory Complex”. It can cause fever, anorexia, sneezing, discharge from the nose and/or eyes and coughing. This virus will remain in the cat’s body for the rest of its life and later cause disease of the cornea or reoccurrence of other symptoms.
2. Calici (the C in RCP) – This is a calicivirus and is another part of the “Upper Respiratory Complex”. It attacks the lungs often causing pneumonia. It can cause fever and ulcers on the tongue, lips and mouth. It is often complicated by other infections and can be fatal.
3. Panleukopenia (the P in RCP) – Also referred to as “Feline Distemper” or enteritis, this disease is caused by parvovirus. This virus causes a significant decrease in white blood cells which are needed to fight off infection. It can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, depression, and high fever. Cats who survive usually don’t have any lasting problems. The virus is highly contagious and often fatal; however, vaccination is an effective prevention.
4. Feline Leukemia – TheFELVvaccine is given at 12 weeks, boostered at 16 weeks and then boostered yearly as indicated. The Feline Leukemia virus affects cat’s bone marrow and therefore its ability to fight off infection. It can cause weight loss, gingivitis/stomatitis, lethargy, chronic infections (especially upper respiratory infections), fever and in some cases even lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes). To date, there is no effective treatment for FELV.  It is important to let us know if your cat is going to be indoors or outdoors. There is a 1 in 10,000 chance your cat will get an aggressive sarcoma tumor at the vaccine site. If your cat is indoor-only, then there is a much less chance of getting FELV than the cancerous tumor. Therefore, this vaccine is NOT recommended for strictly indoor cats. If you are unsure, please discuss it with us. However, this vaccine is recommended for kittens because they have the highest chance of escaping your house and are also the most susceptible to FELV at a young age. Many times, we do not continue this vaccine after their kitten vaccines.
5. Rabies – Rabies is a very serious disease transmitted by saliva either by bite wounds or saliva contact with open wounds. It can infect all warm-blooded animals, including humans. Rabies (hydrophobia) affects the central nervous system. It attacks brain cells which causes neurologic symptoms.  Incubation from time of exposure to symptoms is usually 3-6 weeks but can be up to 6 months. Once an animal gets rabies, it is always fatal. Vaccination for rabies is a requirement in many states; however, not currently in Minnesota. Note: some municipalities and cities across the state of MN do require them.

Dog Vaccines

Vaccine schedules can be complicated and confusing. Many options for vaccines depend on the lifestyle for your dog and on any medical problems as well.

Core Dog Vaccines – These are the three core vaccines that we feel all dogs should receive:

1. DA{H}PP/LCGIP (combo vaccine – Distemper, Adenovirus – Type II {Hepatitis}, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis) – Unlike the viral-based vaccines that guard against DAPP for up to 3 years, the Lepto vaccine must be administered at least once a year to be effective.
2. Lyme (recommended more so for outdoor dogs)
3. Rabies
   

Which diseases do these vaccines treat?

1. Distemper (the D in DAPP) – Distemper is a prevalent, highly contagious disease which can be carried by raccoons. This disease is a paramyxovirus, which is similar to human measles. Initially, infected dogs will develop watery to pus-like discharge from their eyes. They then develop fever, poor appetite, nasal discharge, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. As the virus attacks the nervous system, infected dogs develop circling behavior, head tilt, muscle twitches, convulsions with jaw chewing movements and salivation, seizures, and partial or complete paralysis. Distemper is often fatal, and dogs that survive usually have permanent, irreparable nervous system damage. It is transmitted mainly through saliva but can be potentially transmitted through any secretion.
2. Adenovirus – Type II {Hepatitis} (the A or H in DA{H}PP) – This disease primarily causes liver failure but can also affect the eyes and kidneys. The symptoms can include dry, hacking cough, retching and gagging, fever, nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in the cornea of the eye and even death. It is spread directly from dog to dog through infected respiratory secretions or by contact with contaminated feces or urine.
3. Parainfluenza (the first P in DAPP) – The parainfluenza virus in one of several agents that can be part of the tracheobronchitis (kennel cough) disease. This virus causes mild disease unless combined with another virus or the Bordetella bacteria. It causes a dry hacking cough and watery nasal discharge but can progress to pneumonia. If left untreated, it can even cause death. It is transmitted by saliva and nasal discharge.
4. Parvovirus (the second P in DAPP) – Parvo is widespread, highly contagious virus that often results in death. Symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, bloating, fever, vomiting, severe, often bloody diarrhea, and dehydration. Most deaths occur within 48 to 72 hours following the onset of clinical signs. If your puppy or dog shows any of these signs, you should contact your Veterinarian immediately. It is transmitted through feces. This virus is very hardy and can live in the environment for months under the right conditions.  
5. Leptospirosis (LCGIP) – This is a bacterium that is found in many types of outdoor environments, with over 200+ strains. The vaccine does not cross-protect (basically each strain needs its own vaccine). It spreads throughout the entire body targeting the liver, kidneys, central nervous system, eyes, and reproductive system. The signs and symptoms may include shivering, muscle tenderness, reluctance to move, lethargy, fever, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and increased drinking/urination. The disease can cause kidney and/or liver failure. Permanent kidney damage or death can also occur. It is transmitted through urine, with contaminated water a likely source. Leptospira Spirochete bacteria is a zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to humans and other animals.
6. Lyme – Lyme disease, also known as Lyme borreliosis, is a bacterial illness that can be transmitted to humans, dogs and other animals by certain species of ticks. It is caused by the spiral-shaped bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi that is carried inside a tick and gets into a dog’s bloodstream through a tick bite. Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria can travel to different parts of the body and cause problems in specific organs or locations, such as joints, as well as overall illness. Signs and symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, reduced energy, lameness (can be shifting, intermittent, and recurring), generalized stiffness, discomfort, or pain, and even swelling of joints. Symptoms can progress to kidney failure, which can be fatal. Serious cardiac and neurological effects can also occur.
7. Rabies – Rabies is a very serious disease transmitted by saliva either by bite wounds or saliva contact with open wounds. It can infect all warm-blooded animals, including humans. Rabies (hydrophobia) affects the central nervous system. It attacks brain cells which causes neurologic symptoms.  Incubation from time of exposure to symptoms is usually 3-6 weeks but can be up to 6 months. Once an animal gets rabies, it is always fatal. Vaccination for rabies is a requirement in many states; however, not currently in Minnesota. Note: some municipalities and cities across the state of MN do require them.  There is a 1-year and a 3-year vaccine.

Non-Core Dog Vaccines – This vaccine is based on lifestyle and exposure:

1. Bordatella – done yearly for those dogs boarding and grooming
   

Which diseases do these vaccines treat?

1. Bordetella (also known as Kennel Cough) – This disease is usually caused by more than one virus and/or bacteria. Usually, Bordetella bacteria and Parainfluenza virus are the main culprits. However, Herpes virus, Distemper and several other viruses can also be involved. The disease is spread by nasal discharge or fomites. This vaccine goes into the nose instead of being injected under the skin.

Dentistry

Annual dental exams and cleanings are recommended to protect your pet from many health problems and to help the maintain a healthy and clean mouth.

Overview

Studies show that 50% of all dogs and cats have some form of periodontal disease. That number jumps to 80% in pets that are 3 years of age or older. If left untreated, periodontal disease can cause infection, pain, and tooth loss over time. It can also lead to serious health problems like microscopic changes in heart, liver, and kidneys. Because of this, we recommend an annual veterinary dental healthcare examination for all pets.

Why do pets need dental care?

Many health problems start in the mouth. Plaque, tartar, periodontal disease, and infected teeth serve as a source of inflammation and infection for the rest of the body.

Dental disease is one of the most common problems Veterinarians see in dogs and cats. It can cause drooling, reluctance to eat, swelling, bad breath, redness of gums, loose teeth and tooth discoloration.

When should I seek dental care for my pet?

Dental issues and dental related diseases can easily be prevented by visiting our Veterinarians regularly for dental examinations and cleanings. We take a comprehensive approach to dental care including dental health assessment, treatment, and prevention.

How does it work?

Teeth Exams, Cleaning and Polishing

Dog and cat dental cleanings are very similar to human dental cleanings, except that we are required to use anesthesia to properly and safely examine and clean the teeth. After the cleaning, our Veterinarians perform a thorough oral exam and check for signs of disease like gum loss, root exposure, or pockets around the root.

Also, like human dentistry, we do full mouth radiographs (x-rays) of your pet. This allows our Veterinarians to be able to evaluate the roots of your pet’s teeth as well as any disease or abnormalities that are located below the gum line and not visible on examination alone.

Tooth Extractions

We make every effort to save teeth that we feel have a chance to be successfully treated. In many circumstances, however, periodontal disease is so advanced that treatment without extraction is unsuccessful. We only extract teeth that in the doctor’s opinion are beyond saving.

Minor Oral Surgery

Many teeth require oral surgery to safely remove each individual root. We have training and experience to perform these procedures properly. Pain medications are administered in clinic and provided for in-home aftercare.

Diet & Nutrition

Proper diet and nutrition can help your pet fight against disease, maintain a proper weight, and promote the overall well-being of your pet.

Overview

Maintaining a healthy body weight is a very important aspect of a pet’s overall physical health. Good nutrition can help provide your pet with a happier, safer, and longer life.  There are many nutritional supplements that can help fight against disease, maintain a proper weight, and promote the overall well-being of any animal.

Why is maintain a healthy weight important?

Obesity is a common problem among pets, as it can be easy to overfeed a pet that knows how to beg. Being overweight is a serious problem for animals and can cause health problems as they get older. With proper diet and exercise, all pets should be able to meet their dietary needs and be within a healthy weight range. The best way to make sure your pet’s needs are being met is to consult with us about a specific diet for your pet and their lifestyle. Our staff will help your pet battle unhealthy weight gain and counsel you on the best nutritional options available. 

When is a diet change needed?

Pets should be fed a balanced wellness diet based on a number of factors, including their life stage, their breed or size, activity level, and any health issues they have. Diet changes are recommended when they enter a new life stage. For example, transitioning is recommended from puppy or kitten to adult, or from adult to senior, which is usually around age seven. Diet changes may also be recommended if your pet develops any issues that could be treated with a prescription diet, such as obesity or a food allergy.           

How can diet & nutrition help your pet?

We will help you make the right dietary changes for your pet so that they can stay on track living their happy and healthy lives. A healthy diet and good nutrition can reduce or even eliminate the following problems:

• Pet allergies
• Itching and scratching
• Dull coat
• Arthritis
• Joint and hip problems
• Intestinal disorders

Skin and coat supplements are a great way to keep your pet looking and feeling their best. Arthritis and joint supplements can be helpful for many pets as they age.

Microchipping

Microchip identification, if registered, is the most reliable way to reunite lost pets with their owners and provide peace of mind.

Overview

Microchip identification helps return an estimated 8,000 lost cats, dogs, and other animals to their homes every day. Having identification and contact information attached to your pet’s collar makes it more likely that you will be reunited with your pet if he or she is lost. However, collars and tags can break or become unreadable. In order to improve your pet’s chances of returning home, if lost, we recommend microchipping.

Why should I microchip my pet?

The procedure is safe, easy and inexpensive.

 A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, included statistics from 53 animal shelters across the U.S.:

• Only 22% of lost dogs in animal shelters were reunited with their families
• More than 52% of lost dogs with microchips were reunited with their families
• Less than 2% of lost cats in animal shelters were reunited with their families
• More than 38% of lost cats with microchips were reunited with their families
• Only 58% of the microchipped animals’ microchips had been registered in a database with their family’s contact information. Therefore, it is important to not only register your pet’s microchip, but to keep it up to date with your information

When should I microchip my pet?

Some owners feel that their pet doesn’t need identification because they stay indoors, but in our experience, these are the most likely to become lost when they accidentally get outside. As separation from your cat or dog can happen all too easily, permanent identification by microchipping is critical. Every pet should have microchip identification as the procedure can be done at any age.

How does microchipping work?

A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice. It is encased in a smooth, strong, biocompatible glass and is small enough to fit into a hypodermic needle. There is virtually no chance of the body developing an allergy or trying to reject the microchip. It is inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades with a needle. The pain from having the microchip inserted can be compared to the pain from having a vaccine injection. The chip is permanent, lasting the whole life of the pet.  After being microchipped, your pet needs to be registered in a pet recovery database, which helps reunite lost pets with their families.

If a pet is found, all animal care facilities (shelters, hospitals, etc.) will scan the pet for a microchip using a special microchip reader that is simply waved over the skin. Once a microchip is found, a special hotline is called, and the lost pet is reported. The pet owner is then called immediately and given the contact information about where to pick up their pet. 

Looking for your pet? Click here to access the Universal Pet Microchip Lookup.

Parasite Control (Fleas, Ticks & Heartworms)

Parasites such as fleas and ticks can be very damaging to your pet’s health. Preventive measures should be taken year-round to inhibit potential outbreaks.

Overview

The idea of your pet being infested with parasites is a disturbing thought, but it’s also a medical issue that can have serious consequences. Parasites can diminish quality of life, deprive them of essential nutrients and even cause life-threatening health issues. 

Common internal parasites include heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms and giardia. The most frequent external parasites include fleas, ticks, lice and mites. Your pet should be free from parasites, both internal and external.

Why are parasites dangerous?

Fleas:

Fleas are small, wingless, brown, fast-moving insects you can see in your pet’s fur. Some animals are allergic to the saliva of fleas, which can cause inflammation and more discomfort. If ingested while your pet is grooming themselves, fleas can transmit an intestinal parasite called tapeworm. Flea infestations can lead to anemia and fleas are also capable of transmitting serious diseases.

Ticks:

Ticks are members of the spider family and live in cracks and crevices in the home or outside in vegetation such as grassy meadows, woods, brush, and weeds. Some tick bites only cause mild irritation or swelling at the site, but other tick bites can infect your pet with serious illnesses. If left untreated, these diseases, such as Lyme, can lead to more severe health problems or even be fatal.

Note: If you see a tick and cannot remove it, we will gladly help you. Call us immediately to limit the impact of the tick’s attachment. It’s much safer to have one of our trained professionals remove the tick for you. Make an appointment with us immediately to limit the impact of the tick

Heartworm Disease:

Heartworm is a serious disease caused by a worm that lives in the animal’s heart and its surrounding blood vessels. It is transmitted when an infected mosquito bites your pet. The adult heartworm produces offspring called microfilariae, which circulate in the pet’s blood. Unrecognized and untreated heartworm infections are often fatal. Early detection and treatment are important; however, prevention all together is the best way to protect your beloved companion from this serious disease. Call our clinic to schedule your pet’s annual heartworm test today.

When should I seek treatment for parasites?

Fleas:

If your pet is showing signs of fleas such as continuous scratching, gnawing or licking, schedule an appointment immediately. Additionally, flea dirt, the byproduct of fleas that looks like coffee grounds or pepper, can usually be seen by looking at your pet’s abdomen or by combing your pet’s coat with a fine-tooth comb.

 Ticks:

If you see a tick on your pet, do not try and burn it off with a match. This does not work and could harm your pet. It’s much safer to have one of our trained professionals remove the tick for you. Make an appointment with us immediately to limit the impact of the tick.

Heartworm Disease:

The best treatment for heartworms is prevention. One of the most common and effective prevention methods is a monthly oral medication. 

The parasite is transmitted through mosquito bites and usually the pet shows no signs for months. Later symptoms include difficulty breathing, coughing, weight loss, tiring easily and listlessness. In many cases pets do not show outward signs until advanced stages of the disease. An annual blood test is recommended to screen for heartworms. This disease can be treated if found early, but it can be costly.

How can I prevent parasites?

Our veterinary team is happy to help you choose the correct preventive regimen based on your pet’s risk factors and health status. It is important to discuss with us yearly which pest control products are ideal for your household based on the everyday life of your pet.

Diagnostic Services

Laboratory Services

Diagnostic testing can identify problems your pet may be experiencing so that proper treatment can begin before a condition worsens.

Overview

Unfortunately, pets can’t tell us where it hurts, and oftentimes, a healthy appearing animal may be masking symptoms of disease or illness. We recommend veterinary diagnostic testing to identify any problems and to begin treatment as early as possible. These tests are especially helpful when symptoms are unspecific or hard to define.

When would laboratory work be needed?

 Most laboratory work is done through routine wellness exams as directed by our doctors. For emergencies or unscheduled visits, our diagnostic lab will run various tests to determine the best treatment for your pet. We recommend regular tests to determine your pet’s health. If any concerns or conditions are found, we will help you decide on proper treatment. If your pet is showing irregular behavior, please schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Our doctors will determine which laboratory services are appropriate during your exam.

Our full-service in-house lab facilities provide us the ability to obtain precise blood values in a rapid fashion for sick animals. These capabilities include hematology, serum chemistry levels, serology, urinalysis, cytology, and parasite testing. We also utilize a commercial veterinary laboratory for routine and specialized diagnostics.

How do veterinarians use lab work?

To ensure a proper diagnosis, we first examine your pet by looking at their eyes, ears, and skin; then we check their cardiovascular, neurological, gastrointestinal, and skeletal systems for any abnormalities. We will then perform blood and/or urine tests if necessary to check their kidneys, liver, pancreas, and endocrine system. Based on your pet’s condition, we may recommend further diagnostic testing. If you’re concerned that something may be wrong with your pet, please call us to schedule a medical assessment.

Radiography

We’re equipped to perform routine radiography services to identify many types of illness or injury when pets are sick or suffer a trauma.

Overview

Radiography, also known as X-rays, is one of the most common and valuable medical diagnostic tools. X-rays are highly useful for screening areas of the body that have contrasting tissue densities, or when evaluating solid tissues.

Why would my pet need X-Rays?

If your pet is sick or has suffered a trauma, X-rays provide a minimally invasive tool to help our doctors diagnose your pet. X-rays are also used in general wellness exams to diagnose potential problems before they become serious.

When is X-Ray testing appropriate?

 We may recommend veterinary X-rays as part of a diagnostic procedure if your pet is experiencing any health conditions or as a preventive measure in a routine senior wellness examination. We use radiology alone or in conjunction with other diagnostic tools depending on the patient’s condition. We’re fully equipped to perform routine radiology services to identify many types of illness or injury when pets are sick or suffer a trauma.

How is X-Ray testing used?

X-rays can be used to detect a variety of ailments in animals including arthritis, tumors, bladder and kidney stones, and lung abnormalities such as pneumonia. They are also used to evaluate bone damage, the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, genitourinary system, organ integrity, and even identify foreign objects that may have been ingested. Dental radiographs help distinguish healthy teeth from those that may need to be extracted and identify any abnormalities beneath the gums including root damage, tumors, and abscesses. In some cases, we may need to sedate your pet or use short-acting general anesthesia.

Diagnostic Ultrasounds

An ultrasound is a highly useful tool when evaluating heart conditions, internal organs, cysts & tumors, and diagnosing pregnancy.

 Overview

A veterinary ultrasound is an invaluable resource for evaluating heart conditions. It can detect alterations in abdominal organs and assist in the recognition of any cysts and tumors that may be present. Many times, x-rays will be utilized in combination with an ultrasound as they reveal the size, dimension, and position of the organ. With the ability for real-time monitoring, ultrasounds are also utilized for pregnancy diagnosis and development monitoring.

When would my pet get an ultrasound test?

An ultrasound is excellent at evaluating your pet’s internal organs. An ultrasound is usually recommended when our doctors find abnormalities on bloodwork or x-rays, or to monitor a disease process.

How does ultrasound testing work?

Ultrasound equipment directs a narrow beam of high frequency sound waves into the area of interest. The sound waves either transmit through, reflect, or absorb in the tissues that they encounter. Any ultrasound waves that are reflected will return as echoes and convert into an image that is displayed on the monitor, giving a 2-dimensional image of the tissues under examination. With the ability to obtain real time information, outcomes can often be determined immediately.

The exam is completely painless. Light sedation may be used to help the patient lie comfortably while the scan is being performed. Your pet may need to be shaved in the area of interest, as veterinary ultrasound images are of better quality if they have complete contact with the skin.

Allergies

Allergies can make life uncomfortable for your pet. Protect them from irritation with proper testing and treatment to relieve any symptoms.

Overview

Allergies such as skin, bacterial, and food sensitivities make life uncomfortable for your pet. Protect your cat, dog, or other animal from irritating allergies with a proper diagnosis.

Why should my pet get tested for allergies?

With a proper diagnosis, we can implement a long-term treatment plan to help relieve symptoms and improve your pet’s quality of life. Every environment is unique, and every animal species and breed have their own reactions to those environments.

When should my pet get tested?

Your pet deserves to be free of discomfort. The first step in allergy treatment is preliminary testing through a routine wellness exam. If your pet is currently showing signs of discomfort, please schedule an appointment with our veterinarians as soon as possible. Allergic reaction symptoms include:

• Scratching
• Shaking of the head
• Rubbing of the ears or muzzle
• Licking of the feet
• Raised circular lesions
• Generalized flakiness and hair loss
• Intense itching
  

How does allergy testing work?

We’re determined to help you discover the cause of your pet’s irritation. We will recommend the best long-term treatment plans to get them back on track to live their happy, healthy life. Veterinary allergy testing can be done in a variety of ways, including hypoallergenic diet testing to determine food allergies. We can diagnose and address these types of allergies in hospital, or we can refer you to a dermatologist or other specialist.

Allergy Types

Bacterial Allergy:

Staph bacteria that are normally present in the environment can produce an allergic response in some dogs. In animals with poor immune systems, the bacteria can invade the deeper layers of the skin and cause an infection called pyoderma.

Contact Allergy:

Contact allergies are not commonly seen in pets. This form of allergy is a local reaction to some type of chemical.

Inhalant Allergy:

Inhalant allergies, or atopy, is the most common kind of allergy seen in pets. Allergic reactions may be from tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, mold spores, and house dust mites.

Food Allergy:

Food allergies typically take a long time to develop and can display themselves as skin problems or digestive issues.

Surgery Services

Our state-of-the-art surgical suite allows for the performance of a wide variety of diagnostic and surgical procedures, such as pericardiocentesis, biopsies, enucleations, cystotomies, spays and neuters, soft tissue surgery, tumor removals, exploratory surgery, advanced intestinal surgery, major abdominal surgeries, amputations and limited orthopedic surgery.

We utilize the safest available anesthetics to provide that extra margin of safety, especially for our older or high-risk patients. Using the most modern monitoring equipment, the patient’s vital signs are monitored during all anesthetic procedures. We routinely monitor EKG, blood pressure, pulse oximetry, respiratory rate, end tidal carbon dioxide levels. All of our surgical patients are maintained on IV fluids as well.

Spay & Neuter

Spaying or neutering your pet can help them live a longer, healthier life, minimize behavior problems, and help control the population of unwanted dogs and cats.

Overview

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, nearly 12,500 puppies are born in the United States each hour. Spaying females or castrating males eliminates unwanted litters, which contribute to thousands of euthanasia procedures and millions of stray animals. Additionally, these procedures can minimize behavior problems and help your pet live a longer, healthier life by reducing the likelihood of certain cancers and tumors.

When should I have my pet spayed or neutered?

In general, we recommend spaying or castrating small dogs and cats between 4-6 months of age. With large breed dogs, we often recommend delaying the surgery until they are 6-12 months of age.

Why should I have my pet spayed or neutered?

There are many benefits that come with spaying your female companion animal. They include helping to control the stray dog and cat population, eliminating the sometimes ‘messy’ heat cycles that attract male dogs, and preventing diseases in your pet such as pyometra (infection in the uterus) and mammary cancer. Spay surgery also costs much less than what it costs (in time and finances) to responsibly fulfill all of the care needs of a surprise litter of puppies or kittens. Additionally, research has shown that spayed pets live longer than pets that have not been spayed.

There are also many benefits that come with castrating your male companion animal. These benefits include helping to control the stray dog and cat population, eliminating undesirable and embarrassing behavior, drastically reduces his desire to spray, mark and roam, calms him down, and preventing diseases in your pet such as prostate disease and testicular cancer.

Choosing to have your pet spayed or neutered benefits both you and your pet. If you have any questions about spay and neuter surgeries, or would like to learn more about any pet health concern, contact our animal hospital today!

How is a spay or neuter surgery performed?

Spaying, also called an “ovariohysterectomy,” is a surgical procedure in which both ovaries and uterus are completely removed from your female pet while they are under general anesthesia. Castrating refers to the surgical procedure in which both testicles are removed while your male pet is under general anesthesia. 

Before the operation, we will assess your pet to minimize risk. Note: Current vaccinations are required at the time of surgery. While your pet is under anesthesia, we take individual care for the safety of each pet. Our certified veterinary technicians and doctors are trained in advanced monitoring to ensure your pet’s comfort.

Your pet’s safety and comfort are our primary concerns when performing a spay or castration. We routinely use an IV catheter and fluids on canine spays and castrations, as well as feline spays.  This is important for maintaining blood pressure and perfusion to the kidneys and other organs as well as allowing immediate IV access in the event of an emergency.  We use advanced pain management techniques in conjunction with anesthesia to make sure your pet is as comfortable as possible during the procedure and after they are discharged. Our spay and castration patients receive 2 or 3 different injectable pain medications during the procedure and usually go home with oral pain medication. We also perform local anesthetic blocks at the surgical site.  Proper pain management makes the procedure as comfortable as possible and allows for faster recovery.

Soft Tissue Surgery

We perform soft tissue surgery for a number of medical reasons. This common surgery can be used for most anything non-joint or bone related.

Overview

Soft tissue surgery is any surgery non-joint or bone related, and can include ear, nose and throat, cardio-thoracic, hepatic, gastrointestinal, urogenital, skin reconstructive and oncological surgeries. If soft tissue surgery is recommended for your pet, we will do everything possible to keep them safe and comfortable before, during, and after the surgery.

Why would my pet need soft tissue surgery?

Veterinary soft tissue surgery is recommended for a variety of reasons. The most common soft tissue surgeries for animals are spay procedures, neuter procedures, hernia repairs, and mass removals. More advanced soft tissue surgeries include cystotomy, abdominal exploratory surgery, and splenectomy.

When would soft tissue surgery be needed?

Soft tissue surgeries are used for a wide array of medical conditions. These include “routine” procedures such as spays and neuters, as well as mass removals, trauma and emergency surgery, wound management and reconstructive procedures.

How do you care for my pet during surgery?

Our Veterinarians adhere to the highest level of care standards for all surgical procedures. Our highly skilled doctors place the utmost emphasis on pain management to ensure your pet is safe and comfortable throughout the treatment process. We believe that keeping our patients safe and comfortable before, during and after surgery is of the greatest importance and an essential component of your pet’s care

Special Health Services

Endocrinology

Endocrinology is the study of the endocrine system and its functions. If your pet is suffering from any number of endocrine diseases or disorders, we can help them on their road to recovery.

Overview

In each of our bodies, we contain a system of glands that work to secrete essential hormones that help regulate the functions of the body. These glands include the: thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, adrenal gland, pituitary gland, pancreas, ovaries, and testes. The collection of these glands make up our endocrine system, which plays a vital role in our health and happiness. Our pets have a very similar endocrine system, making it easier for us to study and evaluate if they may be suffering from an endocrine disorder.

Why should I consider endocrinology for my pet?

The study of veterinary endocrinology can be particularly useful when combatting a number of diseases and disorders including:

• Diabetes
• Hyperthyroidism
• Hypothyroidism
• Cushing’s disease
• Addison’s disease

When the glands in your pet’s endocrine system secrete either too many or too little hormones, their body will very likely be negatively impacted. If they are not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner, the consequences could be severe.

When should I consider endocrinology for my pet?

We all care for our pets, which makes it imperative to seek help whenever it may be needed. Unfortunately, endocrine disorders can be incredibly difficult to identify by an animal’s physical symptoms alone. This is a primary reason why regular health check-ups are imperative to your pet’s long-term health. Some of the physical symptoms you may notice include:

• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Major increase or decrease in thirst
• Persistent panting
• Loss of vision
• Weakened energy levels

If your pet is experiencing any of the above, or just seems to be behaving unusually, it is imperative that they be examined by one of our veterinarians at your earliest convenience.

How do you treat endocrine disorders?

We tailor each and every treatment plan to the individual condition and needs of your pet. After being properly examined by one of our veterinarians, a number of treatments may be offered depending on the disease or disorder your pet is suffering from. If caught early, most endocrine diseases and disorders can be managed effectively by hormonal supplements or other prescription medication. If your pet’s condition is more advanced, we may suggest radiotherapy or surgery. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact one of our veterinarians at your earliest convenience.

Gastroenterology

 Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine that focuses on disorders of your pet’s stomach and intestines.

Overview

 We are committed to helping every pet owner find ways to manage their pet’s stomach and intestinal problems. Gastrointestinal issues can come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, which makes diagnostic testing vitally important for your pet’s care. Once a diagnosis has been reached, our veterinarians will work with you to ensure your pet receives proper treatment in order to regain comfort in their life. 

Why should I consider a gastroenterology work-up for my pet?

As pet owners, we don’t want to see any of our pets in discomfort. We know all too well how stomach problems can throw off our entire day. Therefore, it is crucially important to consider a gastroenterology work-up as a means of diagnosing and finding the right treatment plan for your pet. Commonly diagnosed conditions related to gastroenterology include:

• Gastroenteritis
• Pancreatitis
• Colitis
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
• Small intestinal malabsorption
  

When should I consider a gastroenterology work-up for my pet?

As with humans, digestive issues in animals can surface in a number of unpleasant ways. Symptoms commonly related to gastrointestinal diseases and disorders can include:

• Flatulence
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Excessive belching
• Enlarged abdomen
• Bloody stool

It is important to keep a close eye on your pet if they are exhibiting any of the above symptoms. If your pet continues having vomiting or diarrhea issues, it is important that you schedule an appointment with one of our Veterinarians immediately. Delaying your pet’s treatment will only cause their condition to worsen if they are dealing with a more advanced gastrointestinal disease.

How do you treat gastroenterology issues?

Many gastrointestinal issues will clear up on their own after a few days, however it is important to continuously monitor your pet’s symptoms for changes. If their symptoms continue, or get worse, schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians as soon as possible. Through careful diagnostic testing, our skilled veterinarians will make the proper diagnosis for your pet’s condition and tailor a treatment plan that will work best for both you and your pet. Most gastrointestinal issues can be treated simply by changing your pet’s diet to a more digestible food. In more advanced cases, long-term nutritional management or even surgery may be required. Talk to your veterinarian in order to determine what is best for your pet.

Urology

Urinary diseases are some of the most common and severe disorders in pets. We can diagnose and treat many of these urological conditions.

 Overview

Veterinary urology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of the urinary tract and kidneys. Urinary diseases (especially UTIs) are some of the most common and severe diseases in dogs, cats, and other animals. Oftentimes symptoms go unnoticed until they become life-threatening.

Why would my pet need urology treatments?

Some symptoms and urological disorders may be caused by a concurrent condition. If your pet is experiencing any of the following, you should bring them in to see us for an examination. However, urinary obstruction is a medical emergency, so if your pet is unable to pass urine they need to be treated immediately. 

• Fever
• Bloody or cloudy urine
• Inability to urinate
• Loss of bladder control
• Strong odor urine
• Increased frequency of urination
• Soiling inappropriate places
• Obsessive licking of urinary opening
• Lethargy
• Weight loss
• Vomiting 

When would my pet need urology treatments?

Depending on the pet’s symptoms and examination, your veterinarian may diagnose your pet with a urinary disease. Urinary diseases are common diseases in animals and require medical attention. Common urological disorders include:

• Urinary tract infection
• Kidney disease and failure
• Urine crystal and bladder stones
• Incontinence
• Urinary tract obstruction
• Feline urological syndrome
  

How will you treat my pet?

Depending on the diagnosis, we may recommend any of the following treatment options. Some conditions are simply treatable with medications, while others may require surgery.

• Antibiotics
• Nutritional counsel and dietary management
• Medical therapy
• Drug Therapy
• Urethral bulking
• Blood pressure control
• Urethral catheterization
• Surgery
• Renal transplantation
• Interventional radiology
• Minimally invasive surgery
• Soft tissue surgery
  

End of Life Care

Hospice Care

We strive to provide the best quality of life possible for pets who may be suffering from a terminal condition or disease.

Overview

We know how difficult it can be to see your pet suffer from old age or an illness. We are passionate about providing the best quality of life possible for an animal who may be suffering from a terminal condition or disease.

Why would my pet need hospice care?

The goal of veterinary hospice care is to maintain a good quality of life for your pet as long as possible while they are suffering from a terminal illness. Hospice care shifts from treating a patient’s illness to keeping them comfortable and happy, while avoiding any form of treatment that could have significant effects on the pet.

When is hospice care appropriate?

Hospice care is typically appropriate for a pet if they have been diagnosed with a terminal illness, have a life-expectancy in the range of a few days to months, and the pet owner does not want to euthanize at this time. Hospice care can give pet owners peace of mind knowing that they helped their beloved pet live a life that was as long and happy as possible.

How is hospice care structured?

Typical treatment options in hospice care may include nutritional support, ensuring proper hydration, managing symptoms, assisting with urination and defecation, keeping pets well-groomed and clean, helping pets move around their environment safely, and providing mental stimulation and plenty of love.

Euthanasia

Euthanizing a pet is not an easy decision. We are here to discuss options and assist in every way we can during this difficult time.

Overview

Euthanasia is commonly referred to as “putting down” or “putting to sleep”. This is a very hard decision many pet owners must make at the last stage of their pet’s life.

Why euthanasia?

Just as we all age, so do our beloved pets. As much as we would love for all of our pets to be in our lives forever, there comes a time to say goodbye. Euthanasia offers a peaceful, controlled option for the end of our pet’s life. Based on your pet’s quality of life, euthanasia may be something to consider.

When is the time right?

Knowing when the time is right can be a difficult choice. There are many factors that go into deciding to euthanize an animal, and it is a personal issue that differs from pet owner to pet owner. Your top concern should be about your pet’s quality of life, difficulties that come with old age, and any pain they may be suffering from.

What should I expect?

Our euthanasia process is designed to be as peaceful as possible. Once you and the doctor have determined that this is the best choice, your pet will have a drug administered that results in deep sedation. During the time it takes to reach this state, you and your family remain with your pet. It is a quiet few minutes of saying goodbye. Some people choose to leave at this point, having bid their pet farewell, taking comfort in knowing it was calm and pain free. Others choose to stay for the entire time. The choice is yours.

How should I get more information or ask for help?

Our Veterinarians are available to discuss your options. They are very familiar with the experience and are able to talk about the process and the feelings that come with it. Please make an appointment or contact us for information on options, timelines, and references for support through the grieving process.

Cremation

There are a number of wonderful ways to memorialize your beloved pet. Cremation can be a lovely way to honor and celebrate their life.

Overview

Dealing with the end of a pet’s life is never easy. We want to make the process less difficult for you by offering cremation services as a way to memorialize and honor the life of your beloved pet.

Why should I consider cremation for my pet?

Cremation can be a wonderful and flexible way to celebrate and memorialize the life of an animal. Cremated remains can be buried, kept in an indoor or outdoor urn, or commemorated in jewelry or keepsake items.

When should I consider cremation for my pet?

We all wish our pets could live forever, but unfortunately there comes a time where we have to say goodbye. Please consult with us as close to end of the pet’s life as possible, so we can determine the most humane and appropriate end of life care.

Misc. Services

Domestic Health Certificates

Are you traveling domestically within the USA? We can issue travel certificates for your healthy pet so they can travel with you.

Overview

If you are planning on traveling by plane, boat, or car with your pet to another state, your pet may require a domestic health certificate. As a federally accredited Veterinary practice, we can issue travel health certificates (Certificate of Veterinary Inspection) for your healthy cat, dog, or other animal so that they may travel with you.

Why does my pet need a certificate to travel?

Health Certificates are federal documents that indicate your pet is healthy to travel and won’t pose a health risk to other pets or people. Animal health requirements may differ from state to state; even airlines may have their own pet travel requirements. Check with your airline and the states you’re traveling to, to see if they require a Health Certificate. We highly recommend checking:

USDA | APHIS United States Department of Agriculture

When should I start the process?

Since animal health requirements may differ between states and airlines, we encourage you to contact our accredited veterinary practice to obtain a health certificate as soon as your travel dates are solidified.

Certificates must be issued within 10 days of travel. It is important to note that a pet must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned before traveling. Again, we highly recommend looking at the APHIS website for specific information. The process should be started early to allow time for meeting requirements. 

How can I obtain a domestic health certificate? 

First, check with your airline and destination states to see if a travel Health Certificate is required. If a certificate is required, your pet must pass a health exam and have an up to date rabies vaccination to travel. If all of these requirements are met, we will issue a travel certificate for your pet. We will work with you to determine your needs, based on your travel destination. Since requirements differ by each state and airline, we encourage you to gather information as early as possible.

Learn More

International Health Certificates

Going out of the country? As a federally accredited veterinarian practice, we can issue travel and acclimation certificates for your healthy pet so they can travel internationally with you.

Overview

 We understand that your pet is family, and that when you travel, you want them right by your side. As a federally accredited veterinarian practice, we can issue travel health certificates (Certificate of Veterinary Inspection) for your healthy cat, dog, or other animal so that they may travel internationally with you.

Why does my pet need a certificate to travel?

Only pets in good health are permitted to travel by plane or boat. The country you are traveling to may have specific health requirements that must be met before your pet can enter. Certain health requirements may include: up to date vaccinations, a passing health exam, etc. Health Certificates ensure that your pet is healthy to travel and isn’t susceptible to transferring diseases to other pets or people. 

When should I start the process?

Certificate timing varies greatly by country: For example, rabies-free territories such as Australia and New Zealand take six months. We strongly encourage checking the APHIS website as early as possible.

How can I obtain an international health certificate? 

Before you start the process, you need to determine the destination country and dates of travel. We will work with you to determine the health certificate requirements based on your travel destination. Since requirements are determined by each country and can change frequently, we suggest you check the current pet travel health requirements for your destination country on the USDA website:

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel/take-pet-to-foreign-country

We will perform a health exam to determine if your pet has any sign of disease or health risks that could pass along to others while traveling. We will also ensure that your pet has all required vaccinations to travel. Once all requirements are met, we will issue a certificate indicating that your pet has been cleared to travel.

Referral Program

There is no greater complement to our practice than when you recommend us to someone you know. We appreciate the opportunity to provide referred clients the same quality medical care and customer service that you have come to know and expect from us. Referrals are our most valuable resource for growing this practice, and we are proud that most of our clients came to us through a referral of a current client.

Thanks for your vote of confidence!

–All your friends at MAH