“Dr. Gorbea is the best vet I have ever had! She does an excellent job with my dog who hates shots. She is very knowledgeable and understands animal behavior. All the staff are very kind and professional as well.” -Ashlynne S., Google Review

Your pet’s eyes are windows to their soul! This means that keeping them clear, bright, and healthy has to be a priority.  Pets’ eyes are just as susceptible as our own to allergies, scratches, and infections, so it’s important that you, as a pet owner, know what to keep an “eye” out for (pun intended).

What does a pair of perfectly healthy feline or canine eyes look like? Take a look at their peepers in a brightly lit room. You should see equal-sized pupils looking back at you and the eyes should be shining clear. Gently pull down their lower lid to see a healthy pink lining.

Last month we discussed the importance of preventive care for dogs and cats.  This month we would like to touch on a subject that is near and dear to Dr. Gorbea’s heart; the care of senior patients.  Older dogs and cats still require the preventive care outlined in our last blog, but their age can lead to physical and mental changes that may need additional attention from their veterinarian.

Canine Influenza Outbreak Update!

The Michigan Veterinary Medical Association has received information that at least three cases of canine influenza virus have been confirmed in Michigan. Canine influenza virus is one of several pathogens that can cause infectious respiratory disease in dogs. Any pet owner who suspects that their dog may be sick should see their veterinarian. Signs of illness include cough, fever, lack of appetite, and lethargy.

Here are some tips on minimizing your dog’s risk of exposure:

We at Plymouth Veterinary Hospital take great pride in the level of attention, detail, and thoroughness we devote to each and every appointment at our practice.  We like to say that coming to our hospital is more like taking your child to the pediatrician than your pet to the vet.  That is the AAHA way, after all!

Spring is finally in the air! While we all love the warmth and sunshine it brings (and, for our canine friends, the fun of rolling in sun-warmed grass), not everything about the season is so pleasant. Pollen looks pretty dancing in the air, but for allergic dogs and cats it can be a sign of rough times ahead.  Rolling in the dirt?  There’s bacteria and yeast in there, you know.  Even water can be a problem as it can linger in the ears after a long romp in the lake, providing yet another avenue for a common canine health problem…the dreaded ear infection!

Arthritis doesn’t just affect humans; millions of pets in America also suffer from this debilitating condition. And, like us humans, arthritis in pets is generally seen the most throughout the senior population.  Arthritis occurs when the cartilage between joints wears thin, causing the bones to grind against each other. This can lead to issues such as chronic pain, joint stiffness, and difficulty walking and moving.

Hurricane Katrina. Wildfires in California. Flash floods in Texas. Emergency trips to the hospital. We never know what kind of a disaster we’ll be facing or when, but if we’re prepared ahead of time no event is too big for us to handle. We’ve gathered the best tips around to help you and your beloved pet get ready for any emergency and have put them into one list. Get together with your family soon and make a plan; not only for yourself and your home, but for the little furry/feathered/scaly creatures within.