Pets come in all shapes, sizes, and species, but no matter what they look like, adopting a new pet is a remarkable experience. The many choices can overwhelm you. The decision to add a pet to your family—and which type of pet to choose—takes careful consideration, and our Driftwood Animal Hospital team is here to [...]
One of the biggest problems with obesity in pets is that pet owners are often unaware their furry pals are carrying extra weight. If they don’t realize their pet is overweight, then pet owners fail to take action to help them achieve a lean body condition, which can create a cascade of health consequences. To [...]
Dogs and cats are living longer than ever now thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, science, and nutrition. Most pet owners these days can expect to spend at least 10 to 15 years, and up to 20 years in some cases, with their pets by their side, with the exception of giant-breed dogs. One area [...]
In some cases, deciding whether to take your pet to the veterinarian can be difficult. Changes in your pet’s behavior may indicate they need attention, but should you rush them to the veterinary emergency hospital, schedule an appointment, or monitor them at home? Our Driftwood Animal Hospital team knows your pet means the world to [...]
Summer can be extra hot here in sunny Florida. Do you know how to protect your pet from the most common heat-related hazards? Find out in this Driftwood Animal Hospital guide to pet heat safety. Heatstroke and pets Heatstroke is a rapidly fatal condition that occurs when pets cannot effectively cool themselves and their internal [...]
Hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver disease, is a condition that occurs in cats who haven’t eaten much, or at all, for several days or weeks. The cat’s body turns to stored fat for energy, which overwhelms the liver and leads to severe illness or death. Cats stop eating for many reasons, including stress, pain, concurrent [...]
While pets and children often become the best of friends, miscommunication can result in bites and scratches. Remember that we speak a different language than our canine and feline companions, and what we may think is acceptable actually may be unpleasant behavior for pets. Learn how to keep your child safe around pets as our [...]
You ensure your pet receives the best veterinary care possible, so they can live a long, happy, and pain-free life. One strategy to help accomplish this goal is to protect your pet from contracting a preventable disease. Heartworm disease is one of the most devastating—and preventable—conditions pets face. Despite safe, proven, and easy-to-administer preventives, the [...]
Although every job has its share of stressors that take a toll on mental health and wellbeing, the veterinary industry is faced with a great deal of challenges. From euthanizing beloved companions, to working long hours while short-staffed, veterinary professionals tackle multiple hurdles in their everyday work lives that can carry over into their personal [...]
Many pet owners know little about the importance of their pet’s dental health. Yet, dental health is an integral part of your pet’s general health, and knowing how to take good care of your pet’s teeth will improve their overall health. In honor of National Pet Dental Health Month—and with the desire to spread awareness [...]