Posts in Category: Pet Safety

Although they love their time in the sun, pets can be at risk for skin cancer just as humans can. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the most common type of cancer diagnosed in dogs is skin. Although cats are less likely to be diagnosed with skin cancer, they can still develop it, especially if they have short hair and frequent sun exposure. It is important to maintain your pet’s annual wellness exams, where they receive head-to-claw examinations, including a skin examination. Skin cancer can be detected at these visits, but it is important for pet owners to be informed and on the lookout as well, especially as their pets get older.

If you have known anyone who has lost a pet, you know the extreme heartbreak that ensues is incomparable to anything else. Because pets are naturally curious and want to explore their surroundings, it is important to ensure that they have a way to be found if they become lost. The quick solution is to apply a pet collar with an ID tag, however, these can easily break, fall off, or can be removed by others. 

Though it is hard to believe, approximately 10 million cats and dogs are lost or stolen each year. Microchips are a permanent ID solution that has helped countless families reunite with their fluffy loved ones. 

Our veterinary team would be happy to help explain more about the benefits of microchipping at your initial visit. In the meantime, here are some of the microchip basics.

Pet vaccinations are very important for overall wellness and Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital would like to share with you our top three reasons to keep your pets current on routine wellness care. 

There are many known medical benefits of spaying and neutering pets, such as decreased risk of cancer, infection, or urinary incontinence. There are loads of behavioral advantages, too, like reduced roaming or aggression. Plus, who could argue with the positive impact spaying or neutering has on the overpopulation of homeless pets? 

While all of the above are important aspects of this straightforward surgical procedure, spaying or neutering pets can actually affect their overall happiness, too.

Your pet doesn’t care about Valentine’s Day, but what doesn’t escape their notice comes in a heart-shaped box. Indeed, chocolates are ubiquitous this time of year and pets have a certain proclivity for seeking them out. Once you put away all the goodies, what’s left? You can still celebrate this annual celebration of love by making your very own DIY pet treats. With our recipes for heart-shaped yummies, your pet can safely participate in the holiday. You might even be surprised at how satisfied your pet will be!

Super Bowl parties are typically full of loud noises, lots of people, and lots of tempting food. While fun for humans, they can be a stressful and hazardous environment for your pets. Even for pets who enjoy spending time around lots of people, too much excitement can be nerve-racking and cause anxiety. For pet owners looking to throw a party, the team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital has put together these pet safety Super Bowl party tips. 

Whether they are stray or just indoor/outdoor cats, felines are pretty independent in most cases. When the temperatures start to drop in the winter, however, some of these outdoor cats might need a little help to stay warm and avoid issues like frostbite and hypothermia, both of which can be deadly. 

The season is upon us where we often enjoy festive and indulgent meals amongst our family and friends. While your pets may not be directly included in your holiday meal plans, oftentimes they are a part of the event. Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital wants to be sure that you know how to safely include your furry family member and what holiday food dangers for pets you should be aware of. 

Diabetes affects many cats (most of them are older, but even young felines can deal with this disease). Being able to recognize the early symptoms of diabetes in cats is one of the best ways to start managing it early. At Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital, we want your cat to have access to effective treatment options for diabetes.

In honor of Disaster Preparedness Month in September, Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital wants to challenge our readers. How knowledgeable are you about disaster preparedness for pet owners? Are you ready if something were to happen?