Common Winter Illnesses in Pets

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As the cooler months roll in, we see more and more pets coming into the office with common winter illnesses. Even though our winters don’t get so cold here, pet owners must still be diligent about monitoring their pets for symptoms. In this post, we’ll explore a few of the most common pet illnesses during winter and how to handle them.

If your pet is experiencing a health emergency, please see our emergency services page for more assistance.

Hypothermia

Even though it rarely gets below freezing here in central Florida, that doesn’t mean hypothermia isn’t an issue for pets! Early mornings and late nights outdoors can still cause pets to show signs of hypothermia, especially if they have a short coat, are older, or are immunocompromised. Signs of hypothermia include:

  • Shivering
  • Lethargy
  • Weak pulse

Always make sure your pets have a warm, safe place to sleep indoors or outdoors. Sometimes garages can even get too chilly! If your pet loves the outdoors but can’t handle the cold, consider getting them a cute sweater.

Dry Skin and Coat Problems

Just like humans, the drop in humidity during the cooler months can cause dry, itchy skin in pets. This often shows up as the pet scratching, and they may even show a dull coat. Good nutrition is the best prevention for healthy skin and fur, so talk to your vet about the proper diet for your pets. Omega-3 fatty acids are a great supplement to help combat dry skin, along with regular grooming. Minimize bathing during periods of dry skin, since they can make the problem worse.

Arthritis Flare-Ups

Winter is bad for pets suffering from arthritis, especially older pets. If you notice any of the following signs in your pet during the cooler months, talk to your vet about arthritis and possible treatments:

  • Limping
  • Difficulty moving around
  • Difficulty standing up
  • Noticeable pain when certain joints are touched

If your pet does have arthritis, make sure they stay at a healthy weight and get regular exercise. If lying down and standing cause pain, consider an orthopedic bed for extra comfort.

Indoor Hazards

Some pets spend more time indoors during the winter months, which means they’re exposed to more indoor hazards. Space heaters, electric blankets, human foods, and holiday decorations are all potential hazards for your pets, so be careful when they’re around. 

Prevent Common Winter Illnesses With Regular Checkups

Pets owners who get regular veterinary checkups for their furry friends are more prepared to identify and combat winter pet illnesses. Staying updated on vaccinations, implementing a good parasite control plan, and feeding a highly nutritious diet are all things covered during preventative checkups.

Call Affordable Pet Hospital Today!

At Affordable Pet Hospital, we’re here to help your pets stay as healthy as possible all winter long. If you’re in Tampa Bay, schedule an appointment to discuss your pet’s winter health needs by calling us at 813-991-9898 or request an appointment online.

Signs That Your Pet Has Ringworm

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Ringworm is a common skin infection that affects both humans and animals. Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but by a fungus. This infection is highly contagious and can spread easily from pet to pet, and even to humans. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and to prevent the spread of the infection. Here are some signs that your pet may have ringworm.

Symptoms

  • Circular Lesions

One of the most telltale signs of ringworm in pets is the appearance of circular lesions on the skin. These lesions often look like rings with a clear center, giving the infection its name. The edges of the ring may appear red, raised, and scaly.

  • Hair Loss

Ringworm often causes patches of hair loss, usually in the shape of a circle. These patches can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the head, ears, and paws. The skin in these areas may appear flaky and may have a crusty texture.

  • Itching and Discomfort

Pets with ringworm often exhibit signs of itching and discomfort. You may notice your pet scratching, licking, or biting the affected areas more frequently. This can lead to further irritation and even open sores if not addressed promptly.

  • Dull Coat and Brittle Claws

A less common but still possible sign of ringworm is a dull coat and brittle claws. The fungus can affect the quality of your pet’s fur and nails, making them look less healthy than usual.

  • Spread to Other Areas

If left untreated, ringworm can spread to other areas of your pet’s body and even to other pets or humans in the household. You may start to notice similar symptoms appearing in different areas or on other animals.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you suspect that your pet has ringworm, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. The vet may perform tests such as a fungal culture or microscopic examination to confirm the presence of the ringworm fungus. Treatment usually involves antifungal medications, topical ointments, and sometimes medicated shampoos. It’s also crucial to disinfect your home to prevent the spread of the infection.

Prevention

Prevention is always better than cure. To prevent ringworm, maintain a clean living environment for your pet, and avoid sharing grooming tools, bedding, or toys between pets. Regular vet check-ups can also help in early detection and treatment.

Worried Your Pet May Have Ringworm?

Ringworm is a treatable but highly contagious skin infection that can affect pets and humans alike. Knowing the signs can help in early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of spreading the infection. If you notice symptoms of ringworm and you’re in Tampa, contact Affordable Pet Hospital at 813-991-9898 immediately to schedule an appointment for diagnosis and treatment. Remember, the sooner you identify and treat ringworm, the easier it will be to manage and eliminate the infection, ensuring the well-being of your beloved pet. Contact Affordable Pet Hospital in Tampa today for all your veterinary needs, including ringworm diagnosis and treatment.

 

Signs That Your Dog May Have Ringworm

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As a responsible dog owner, it is essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your furry friend. One common condition that can impact dogs is ringworm. Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but rather by a fungal infection. It is highly contagious and can spread to humans as well. In this post, we will discuss the signs that your dog may have ringworm, allowing you to seek timely veterinary care and ensure the well-being of your beloved canine companion.

Sign #1: Hair Loss and Bald Patches

One of the most noticeable signs of ringworm in dogs is hair loss. You may observe bald patches or areas where the hair appears thin and brittle. The affected areas may be itchy, leading your dog to scratch or bite at them. Keep an eye out for any unusual changes in your dog’s coat, particularly if they are accompanied by redness or flakiness of the skin.

Sign #2: Circular or Irregular Lesions

Ringworm lesions typically have a distinctive appearance. They may present as circular patches with a red, raised outer edge and a clearer center, resembling a ring. However, it’s important to note that not all ringworm lesions look the same. Some may be irregularly shaped and lack the classic ring-like appearance. If you notice any skin abnormalities on your dog, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.

Sign #3: Itching and Scratching

Intense itching and scratching can be an indication of ringworm infection. The affected areas can be extremely irritating for your dog, leading them to scratch or lick excessively. This can exacerbate the condition and potentially cause secondary infections. If you observe your dog excessively grooming or scratching certain areas, it’s important to investigate further and seek veterinary advice.

Sign #4: Redness and Inflammation

Ringworm can cause redness and inflammation of the skin. You may notice that the affected areas appear redder than usual, accompanied by swelling or heat. In some cases, the skin may become cracked or scaly. These signs can vary in intensity depending on the severity of the infection and the individual dog. Regularly check your dog’s skin for any signs of redness or inflammation, particularly in areas where the hair is thin.

Sign #5: Dull and Brittle Coat

A healthy coat is a good indicator of a dog’s overall well-being. However, dogs with ringworm often develop a dull and brittle coat. The fungal infection affects the hair shafts, making the fur dry, fragile, and prone to breakage. If you notice a deterioration in your dog’s coat quality, it could be a red flag for ringworm or other underlying health issues.

Treatment for Canine Ringworm

Maintaining good hygiene and cleanliness, such as regular bathing, disinfecting pet bedding, and keeping living areas clean, can help prevent the spread of ringworm. Additionally, follow your veterinarian’s instructions regarding treatment, which may involve topical or oral antifungal medications, as well as isolating your infected pet from other animals until they are fully recovered.

By staying vigilant and seeking veterinary care at the first signs of ringworm infection, you can help ensure the well-being of your furry companion and minimize the impact of ringworm on your pet’s health and overall quality of life.

Think Your Dog Has Ringworm? Affordable Pet Hospital is Here to Help!

Recognizing the signs of ringworm in your dog is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment. Remember, ringworm is highly contagious, so early intervention is essential to prevent the infection from spreading to other pets or even to humans within the household. If you suspect your dog may have ringworm based on the signs mentioned above, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. If you live in Tampa Bay, look no further than Affordable Pet Hospital on Cross Creek Boulevard in Tampa for all your veterinary care needs! Just give us a call at 813-991-9898 to set up an appointment today!

Should I Give My Pet Vitamins?

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For people, it is not uncommon for a medical doctor to recommend taking a multivitamin, along with other possible vitamins. So you may be wondering if this same advice would be beneficial to your pet. Just like with humans, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. While vitamins may benefit some pets, they could harm others. Consulting with your veterinarian is the best way to be sure that vitamins are what your pet needs.

Why Would My Pet Need Vitamins?

Deficiency

Let’s think a minute about why medical doctors might recommend a daily vitamin for their human patients. First, if lab testing indicates that a person is deficient in a certain vitamin (vitamin D is a common culprit), then of course they will recommend supplementing with that vitamin orally until the cause of the deficiency can be corrected. This is generally the same with pets. If lab testing shows that your pet is deficient in any vitamin, mineral, or other nutrients, your vet will recommend supplementation to get those levels back to normal.

Diet

The other reason medical doctors recommend daily multivitamins to humans is that our diets vary so much. The same person might eat drastically different things from day to day, getting plenty of certain vitamins some days while not getting any of those vitamins on others. Plus, there are some people who eat nutrient-poor, junk food all the time. These people definitely need a multivitamin to feel their best.

Pets don’t typically have so much diversity in their diets. Most pets eat commercial-made foods sold at major retailers. These foods are made to be balanced and everything that a pet needs to thrive. Vitamin supplementation for pets on commercial food diets is not usually recommended as it can lead to toxicity and overdose.

However, the exception is pets who eat homemade diets. Whether it’s homemade kibble or a raw diet, homemade diets present some unique challenges in terms of getting the nutrient balance just right. For these pets, a vet may recommend a daily multivitamin just to be sure they are getting everything they need. However, if you know your homemade pet diet is well-balanced, discuss this with your vet, as extra vitamins may be unnecessary and dangerous.

Pet Care in Tampa

If you’re wondering if vitamin supplementation could benefit or harm your pet, don’t make the decision alone. Trust the experts here at Affordable Pet Hospital to fully evaluate your pet’s condition and provide advice and recommendations meant to give your pet the best quality of life. Call us at (813) 991-9898 or request an appointment online today!

Wound Care in Dogs and Cats

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Pet owners know their pets are prone to cuts, scrapes, and other wounds. However, the frequency with which these injuries occur might surprise you. Wounds can range from a shallow cut to a deep gash that exposes bone or even tendons. They can bleed profusely or not at all. They can be clean (no dirt or debris in the wound) or contaminated (soil, debris, bacteria on the wound). Depending on the extent of skin damage and contamination, wounds can heal quickly or require more extensive care and time to heal completely. In general, it’s always best to have veterinary advice when caring for your pet if you are unsure about anything related to your pet’s wound or its treatment. However, there are some general guidelines for wound care in dogs and cats that are good to know. Read on to learn how to manage your pet’s next cut, abrasion, or laceration so that it heals as quickly and thoroughly as possible.

Is Your Pet’s Wound Clean or Contaminated?

Wounds can be either clean or contaminated. Clean wounds are those with little or no contamination: no dirt, grit, bacteria, or other pathogens. Contaminated wounds, on the other hand, have one or more of these pathogens on or around the wound site. Clean wounds are easy to identify since they don’t present as much of a problem. There is no risk of infection or the wound healing poorly. Contaminated wounds are harder to identify since they might not look so different on the surface. Sometimes, the wound might actually look a little redder or swollen (although not necessarily). A contaminated wound, however, is at a much higher risk of developing a bacterial infection. This can lead to the wound healing slowly and requires antibiotics to clear up.

Steps to Take When Your Pet Has a Wound

  • Use a soft gauze pad or paper towel to dab away any obvious debris from the wound. If you know your pet has been in a dirt or sand-filled environment, you might want to use a gentle soap (mild dish soap is fine) and warm water to clean the wound further. 
  • Apply pressure using a clean gauze pad or paper towel to stop any bleeding. If there is significant bleeding, press down hard on the wound until the bleeding stops. If the blood doesn’t stop, seek veterinary attention immediately. 
  • Take appropriate antibiotics (if your vet has prescribed them) and follow your vet’s instructions for dosage and frequency of administration. 
  • Keep the wound clean and bandaged as directed by your vet or until the wound site has completely closed. 
  • If your pet’s wound is on the leg or paw, elevate the limb so that the wound is higher than the level of the heart. This helps reduce swelling, which can occur in wounds due to trauma or infection.

When Wounds Aren’t Healing

If your pet’s wound has been healing for two or three weeks and it’s not looking any better, if it’s more swollen than before, or if it seems to be getting red and puffy, then there is a chance that it’s infected. This can happen even if the wound was clean, to begin with, and even if your pet received antibiotics. In this case, it’s best to visit your vet and have the wound cultured and treated with more antibiotics as needed. Your vet may also clean and debride the wound (remove excess tissue or soiled matter within the wound) to help clear it up.

Tips for Cleaning Wounds in Dogs and Cats

  • For cuts and minor wounds, you can use a clean water and saline solution to clean the wound. This antiseptic, salt-based solution is also gentle enough to be used on wounds that are healing.
  • If your pet has a wound that’s been contaminated by sand, dirt, or other materials, you can use an enzymatic cleaner to help remove the materials from the wound. Your vet can also recommend some specific products that are very effective in cleaning wounds.

When to Seek Veterinary Care for Pet Wounds

If your pet’s wound isn’t responding to home care, if it’s getting worse, or if it’s been a very long time and the wound still hasn’t healed, then veterinary attention is a must. Your vet can examine the wound and direct you on what to do next. Depending on the extent of the wound, your vet will develop an appropriate treatment plan. 

Expert Wound Care for Pets in Tampa

Cuts and wounds are an everyday occurrence for pet parents and their pets. While some wounds will heal quickly and easily with just a little TLC, others will require additional care to heal properly. Wounds can be extremely dangerous to your pets if they are not treated properly. If you notice that your dog or cat has a wound, it is important to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible so that they can be properly treated. If you live in Tampa, trust the veterinary experts at Affordable Pet Hospital for all your pet’s care. Call us at 813-991-9898 or contact us online to schedule an appointment today!

 

How to Manage Your Senior Dog’s Arthritis Pain

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According to the Arthritis Foundation, around 20% of dogs have arthritis. Arthritis is most prevalent in older dogs. A dog with arthritis may have:

  • Difficulty standing up from a lying position
  • Difficulty climbing stairs
  • Difficulty jumping onto the couch or bed from the floor
  • A narrow stance in the rear legs
  • Muscle wasting in the rear limbs

If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian immediately for diagnosis.

Arthritis Diagnosis in Dogs

Along with a physical examination and health history, your veterinarian will want to take bloodwork and diagnostic imaging to confirm an arthritis diagnosis. Once the diagnosis is made, you and your vet can start working on a treatment plan that best suits your pup.

Arthritis Treatment in Dogs

Lifestyle Changes

One of the most important parts of any arthritis treatment regimen for dogs is lifestyle modifications. Several adjustments and adaptations will need to be made to keep your dog as pain-free as possible while lessening the chance of future injury. You can try:

  • Moving the dog’s bedding, food, and water to the ground level helps your dog avoid climbing unnecessary stairs
  • Installing ramps for your dog to use outside eliminates the need to climb porch or deck steps
  • Placing extra bedding on the floor will give your dog somewhere to lay instead of jumping up onto the couch or bed

Dietary Changes & Supplements

Eating a well-balanced diet is extremely important for dogs with arthritis. Not only does a healthy diet give your dog the nutrients they need to promote bone health, but it will also help your dog maintain a healthy weight. This reduces the strain on their joints and lessens arthritic pain. Consult with your vet about what food is the best choice for your dog. Prescription dog foods are often beneficial for dogs with arthritis, as they contain antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids.

In addition to a nutritious diet, you may also want to consider supplementing your dog’s diet with glucosamine and chondroitin. While research is conflicting, there are several studies that suggest that these substances reduce pain and inflammation caused by arthritis.

Medications

If lifestyle and dietary changes aren’t enough to give your dog relief from arthritis pain, your veterinarian may suggest prescription medications. It is important that you NEVER GIVE HUMAN PAIN MEDICATION TO YOUR DOG. Many pain relief medications meant for humans are toxic to dogs. Instead, consult with your veterinarian to get a prescription for a medication formulated for dogs.

Alternative Treatments

Alternative treatments are blowing up the veterinary medicine scene these days, much like in medicine for humans. Some of the most popular alternative treatments for arthritis pain in dogs include:

  • CBD products

CBD is purported as a pain-relieving agent for both humans and animals. While the research into using CBD for medical purposes is still early, there does seem to be some sort of relationship between CBD and pain relief. With that said, there is very little regulation of CBD-containing products in the U.S. Products that appear similar may have very different formulations and concentrations that make them work quite differently. It is important, especially in this emerging industry, to do your own research into the manufacturer of any product you intend to purchase for you or your pet.

  • Acupuncture

Acupuncture definitely isn’t a new treatment option, as it has been used widely in eastern medicine practices for millennia. However, its use in dogs is still not well studied or understood. Some owners report significant pain relief from acupuncture treatments on their dogs, while others report little to no change.

  • Physical therapy

Physical therapy is still not common practice in dogs, but it should be! Physical therapy is a common sense approach to dealing with mobility issues in dogs. While more research is needed to find the exercises, activities, and modalities that work best in dogs, we see physical therapy as a great option that should be part of any dog’s arthritis treatment regimen.

  • Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is another great physical therapy option for dogs with arthritis pain. Water relieves pressure on the dog’s joints while providing a firm, massaging treatment that provides pain and stress relief.

  • Yoga

Yes, dog yoga is a thing. And while it certainly isn’t for all dogs, we can definitely see how the stretching and weight-bearing moves used in yoga would be beneficial for dogs with arthritis. So…namaste!

Arthritis Treatment for Dogs in Tampa

If your dog is showing signs and symptoms of arthritis, do not delay in getting them proper veterinary treatment. Every day they go without proper care risks increasing their pain and furthering joint damage. If you and your furry friend are in Tampa, the veterinary experts at Affordable Pet Hospital can help you with diagnosis, treatment, and long-term disease management. Call us at (813) 991-9898 or request an appointment online to get your dog started on a path to healing today.

What You Need to Know About Bad Breath In Dogs

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Puppy breath is adorable, but adult dog breath? Not so much. But even though your older dog’s breath might not smell like roses, it shouldn’t stink either. If it does, it could be a sign of bigger problems.

If you notice that your dog has unusually bad breath, it may be caused by:

  • Something they ate

It’s no secret that dogs like to eat some pretty nasty stuff. Of course, some of these things will give the offending dog funky breath. No worries, the smell should go away fairly quickly.

  • Foreign object

If your dog gets something stuck in its mouth and it begins to deteriorate, it will likely begin to smell. A thorough inspection of the inside of your dog’s mouth should reveal if this is the cause of their bad breath.

  • Dental disease

Dental or gum disease is actually the most common cause of bad breath in dogs. Many dogs require assistance to keep their teeth clean and dental disease at bay. Regular dental exams and cleanings are recommended.

  • Kidney or liver disease

The kidneys and liver keep the bloodstream clean and free of toxins, so when they aren’t functioning correctly, waste begins to build up. This can sometimes cause bad breath.

  • Tumor

Oral tumors are common in older dogs. If they become infected, which they often do, the infection leads to a very undesirable smell.

  • Nutritional imbalance

There are several nutritional deficiencies that can cause bad breath by disrupting the balance of bacteria in the stomach and intestines. This prevents some nutrients from being absorbed properly along with leaving a bad smell in the dog’s mouth.

Treatment for Bad Breath in Dogs

If your dog has bad breath, don’t wait to get them the care they need. If you live in or around Tampa, call the veterinary experts at Affordable Pet Hospital at (813) 991-9898 to schedule an appointment for your furry friend today!

Spring Allergies in Pets

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Did you know that your pets can have seasonal allergies just like humans? Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever or seasonal allergies, is very prevalent in pets, especially dogs. Any dog can have these allergies, but they are especially prevalent in pit bulls, boxers, bichon frises, cocker spaniels, German shepherds, and Golden retrievers.

Identifying Seasonal Allergies in Your Pet

While both humans and pets can have seasonal allergies, they don’t usually show up in the same ways. Humans have more respiratory symptoms, while pets tend to present their allergies through their skin. Look out for these symptoms when deciding whether or not to visit your vet about seasonal allergies:

  • Red, inflamed skin
  • Biting, gnawing, or scratching at the skin
  • Excessive shedding
  • Bald spots in the fur (known as hotspots)
  • Constant licking of the paws
  • Licking at the anal gland
  • Rubbing the anal gland on the floor
  • Red, waxy inner ears
  • Foul smell inside the ears
  • Drainage from the ears
  • Rubbing their face and snout on the carpet or furniture (mostly in dogs)
  • Respiratory problems (mostly in cats)

Treating Your Pet’s Seasonal Allergies

If you believe your pet is suffering from seasonal allergies, contact your local veterinarian immediately for advice and care. If you live in Tampa Bay, call Affordable Pet Hospital at (813) 991-9898 to schedule an appointment. It’s essential for a veterinary professional to evaluate your pet’s symptoms and condition so a proper treatment plan can be developed. In the meantime, follow these steps to keep your pet’s allergies at bay and reduce symptoms:

  • Bathe your pet regularly to remove allergens from their fur
  • Wash their ears out with a pet-friendly solution
  • Wipe off their paws after every visit outside
  • Keep your pets on a flea and tick preventative. Many of the skin symptoms caused by fleas mimic seasonal allergy symptoms.
  • Use anti-itch sprays or creams developed specifically for pets
  • Limit outside time
  • Try an over-the-counter allergy medication, only after consulting with your veterinarian first. Some allergy medications that are safe for pets include:
    • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®)
    • Loratadine (Claritin® – Note: NEVER give your pet Claritin-D®. It can be lethal even in small amounts! Use original Claritin® only!)
    • Cetirizine (Zyrtec®)
    • Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton)

Spring Allergy Care for Your Pet

Don’t wait to get your pet relief from spring allergies. If you’re in Tampa Bay, contact the veterinary professionals at Affordable Pet Hospital for compassionate, competent, evidence-based care. Call us at (813) 991-9898 or contact us online today!

The Importance of Regular Vet Visits

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As a committed and compassionate pet owner, you want to do everything you can to keep your furry family members healthy and happy. One of the best ways to do this is to keep up with routine veterinary care.

Why is Routine Veterinary Care Important?

Just like humans, early identification of health issues leads to more positive outcomes in our pets. When you bring your pet in for routine vet check-ups, you’re upping the chance that any emergent health issues will be caught in the early stages, when most diseases are much more easily treatable.

What if My Pet Isn’t Sick?

Even if your pet doesn’t seem sick, it is still important to bring them in for regular veterinary visits. In addition to receiving expert advice from the vet about the best lifestyle practices for your pet, they will also keep your pet’s vaccination status up-to-date and in compliance with state laws. This will ensure that your pet is safe when interacting with humans, other pets, and wildlife.

How Often Should I Bring My Pet in for Routine Care?

Pets should be brought in for routine health checks at least every six months. Dogs, cats, and other pets age faster than humans, which is why they should visit the vet more frequently than we visit the doctor. If your pet has a chronic health condition, they may need even more frequent visits to best manage the condition.

What Will the Vet Check for During the Visit?

What the vet checks for during each routine visit will depend on your pet’s age, breed, and current health conditions. Most routine health visits will go over the following at a minimum:

  • Skin
  • Musculoskeletal system
  • Cardiovascular system
  • Respiratory system
  • Abdomen
  • Ears
  • Eyes
  • Mouth

Your vet may recommend a variety of diagnostic tests for your pet, including:

  • Bloodwork
  • X-rays
  • Heartworm test
  • Fecal analysis
  • Urinalysis

Where Can I Take My Pet for Routine Visits in Tampa Bay?

For the highest-quality routine vet care in Tampa Bay, trust the experts at Affordable Pet Hospital in Tampa. We offer a full range of preventative health services for dogs and cats of all ages, from wellness exams to vaccinations to dental care to grooming… we’ve got it all! Call us at (813) 991-9898 or request an appointment online today!

The Benefits of Spaying and Neutering

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Spaying and neutering your pet can be a controversial subject, but it shouldn’t be! The evidence is clear… spaying or neutering your pet has many benefits and should be a first step for owners of a new pet.

When should I spay/neuter my dog or cat?

Dogs

You should wait at least 6-12 months to spay or neuter your small or medium-sized puppy. For larger canine breeds or breeds prone to orthopedic issues, we suggest waiting until they are at least 9-18 months.

Cats

It is standard practice to spay or neuter kittens at around 5-6 months old.

Behavioral Benefits

There are several behavioral benefits to spaying or neutering your pet as early as possible, including:

  • Females do not experience estrus (do not go into “heat”) or exhibit any associated behaviors
  • Males are less likely to roam
  • Less territorial behaviors like spraying, humping, howling, or aggression

Medical Benefits

Along with the behavioral benefits, your pet will also enjoy the following medical benefits after being spayed or neutered:

  • Longer life
  • Reduced risk of uterine infections (pyometra) in females if spayed before the first estrus
  • Reduced risk of breast tumors in females if spayed before the first estrus
  • Reduced risk of testicular cancer and prostate issues in males
  • Lower chance of contracting feline AIDS or feline leukemia (due to lowered aggression, resulting in less biting and fighting)

Community Benefits

When you have your pet spayed or neutered before they are able to reproduce, you aren’t just doing what’s best for their health and quality of life; you are also doing your local animal shelter, pet rescue organizations, and feral dog and cat populations a huge favor by reducing the number of unwanted and homeless pets in the community. Not only do these unlucky pets cause havoc by getting into trash, spreading diseases, and reproducing uncontrollably, they can also cause automobile accidents, fight with pets and other wildlife, and attack and frighten children and vulnerable people. The sad reality is that many of these feral animals are euthanized, when a combination of spay/neuter programs for feral populations, along with responsible pet ownership, could solve the problem and save so many lives.

 

Spay and Neuter Services in Tampa

 

If you’ve brought home a new puppy or kitten and want to give it the best start in life possible, check out our Puppy and Kitten Wellness Plans quality veterinary care during their first year. Our Puppy Gold and Kitten Gold plans include spay and neuter services, so you’ll be 100% covered when the time comes for surgery! Our wellness plans allow you to make monthly payments instead of having to come up with the entire amount for care at once, making responsible pet ownership easier and more affordable than ever. Call us at (813) 991-9898 or request an appointment online today!