Is Gastropexy Right For My Dog?

What is it? Gastropexy is a surgical procedure that is performed in large and giant breed dogs with deep chests. This is an elective procedure that is recommended by our veterinarians. In a gastropexy, your veterinarian will surgically “tack” the stomach to the side of the abdominal wall. This will hold the stomach in place, preventing it from twisting. This … Read More

Collecting A Urine Sample For Your Pet’s Urine Protein Creatinine Ratio

What is a UPCR? A Urine Protein Creatinine Ratio (UPCR) is a urine test that is used to help evaluate kidney function and monitor kidney disease. It does this by measuring how much protein is lost through the kidneys. What does this mean for my pet? If protein was found in your pets most recent urinalysis, it is recommended to … Read More

Obtaining a Pet Urine Sample from your Cat or Dog

Why Is A Urine Sample Important? Obtaining a urine sample is important for your pet’s health for many reasons. It can help detect various disorders such as urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and diabetes. It also helps your vet evaluate the hydration status of your pet. Why Do I Have To Bring A Sample In? While it is convenient to … Read More

Recommended Trainers, Groomers, and Kennels in Pittsburgh

We are NOT affiliated with any of these businesses. These are facilities that clients and staff have used and have had great experiences with. Remember it is good practice and your responsibility to do your own research before taking your pet anywhere! Recommended Dog Trainers in Pittsburgh Oh My Darwin Dog Training Rachel Crown – At home training sessions Contact … Read More

What To Expect When Your Pet Is Having Surgery

Pre-operative Lab Work: We require lab work within 30 days of your pet’s anesthesia. This is to help ensure that your pet is as safe as possible to undergo general anesthesia. We will call you with these bloodwork results 2-3 days after we send samples to the lab. If there are any abnormalities the doctor will discuss them with you … Read More

Is Your Pet Stressed at the Vet? Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals

What is a Pre-Visit Pharmaceutical and Why is it Important? This includes any medication given prior to your pet’s vet appointment. These medications are not only important for the safety and comfort of your pet, but also the safety of our staff. These medications are intended to help decrease fear, anxiety, or stress. The goal is to make your pet’s … Read More

At Home Bandage Care

If your pet is being sent home with a cast or bandage, these simple steps will help you keep it as clean as possible. Bandage care is very important to ensure efficient healing for your pet. Lack of appropriate bandage care can lead to complications including delayed healing, infection, sores and ulcers. ALWAYS make sure the bandage stays clean and … Read More

New Puppy Care Information

Vaccinations: DAPP: (Distemper, Hepatitis or Adeno2 virus, Para Influenza and Parvo-virus). This vaccine is given in a series and is one of the most important things you will ever do to protect your dog’s health. The first DAPP is given around 8 weeks of age and then is repeated every 3-4 weeks until the puppy is 16-20 weeks old. The … Read More

How To Apply Topical Medication

Topical medications can be used for a number of things. They are most commonly used for flea/tick prevention, heartworm prevention, or to treat and control certain intestinal parasites. Applying this medication can be done in 3 simple steps! Before applying any topical medication, you should always make sure you are using the correct one. You should never use prevention that … Read More

New Kitten Care Information

Vaccinations: FVRCP: (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calici, and Panleukopenia). This vaccine is commonly referred to as feline distemper. We recommend the first dose be given around 8 weeks of age and then repeated every 3-4 weeks until the kitten is 16-20 weeks old. The vaccine is then repeated in one year. Rabies: Rabies vaccine is first given at 12 weeks of … Read More