Please note the latest updates for all our locations:

• In keeping with orders issued by state, city and county governments, we have temporarily suspended elective procedures requiring the use of PPE as well as bathing and grooming services. We will continue to offer essential medical services and prescription refills. In addition, we will continue to offer boarding and limited dayplay services.
• Curbside services – Please call our office when you arrive and plan to wait in your car while your pet is being treated. The Veterinarian will come to get you or speak to you by phone if there is anything he or she needs to show or discuss with you. This will allow us to reduce the number of people in our waiting areas and limit the overall people flow into our offices. Please be patient with us as this service could lead to longer wait times than usual.

Please call the clinic and reschedule your appointment if you are ill. If your pet requires emergency care, call ahead to allow us to prepare treatment arrangements prior to your arrival.

As of today, “there is no evidence at this point to indicate that pets become ill with COVID-19 or that they spread it to other animals, including people” according to both American Veterinary Medical Association, World Small Animal Veterinary Association, and the Veterinary Information Network. However, if you do become ill the CDC recommends limiting your exposure to your pet as you would with people Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Thank you again for being a valued member of the CityVet family.

David Boguslawski | President and CEO
CityVet Companies
Serving Pets and People since 1999

Although your pet may not understand everything that’s happening, they likely can sense fear and anxiety. We are doing everything we can to eliminate that when you come to see us at CityVet.

We are open for business and are committed to providing you and your pets a safe, clean and sanitary environment. As you know, the situation with the COVID-19 virus is very fluid and continually changing. We have very carefully monitored the CDC, public health authorities, and other expert guidance on how best to safely serve our clients and their pets.

In addition to more stringent cleaning protocols, staff screening, and company travel restrictions, we are now controlling traffic through our offices and encouraging recommended social distancing. We bring you a new solution we hope you will find useful:

Curb-side pickup – We are limiting people in our lobby and moving chairs out of our lobby. We encourage you to allow our trained staff to retrieve your pet outside our front door or directly from your car at your appointment time. You may call our office upon your arrival and wait in the car while your pet is treated. The Veterinarian will come get you if there is anything he or she needs to show you. This will allow us to reduce the amount of people in our waiting areas and limit the overall people flow into our offices. Please be patient with us as this service could lead to longer wait times than typical.

We also ask that you call our office and reschedule your appointment if you are ill. If your pet requires emergency care, call ahead to allow us to prepare treatment arrangements prior to your arrival.

As of today, “there is no evidence at this point to indicate that pets become ill with COVID-19 or that they spread it to other animals, including people” according to both American Veterinary Medical Association and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association.

For more information on the Coronavirus and how you can protect yourself, visit the Center of Disease and Control Prevention.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates through our CityVet website or email as needed.

David Boguslawski | President and CEO
CityVet Companies
Serving Pets and People since 1999

But recently, you’ve started to notice some changes in his personality and behavior. He’s having difficulties going up and down the stairs, he seems to have lost interest in playing outside, he’s eating less food, and he’s had a few accidents in the house.

These are all signs that your dog has attained “senior status”. This is a natural transition, but you may have questions and concerns about caring for your dog through this stage of life.

When Do Dogs Become Seniors?
There is no one-size-fits-all formula for determining whether or not your dog has entered their senior years.

Large dog breeds tend to age more rapidly than small dog breeds. A Chihuahua may not be considered a senior until they are 10-12 years old, whereas a Great Dane may become a senior at 5-6 years old. In general, dogs enter their senior years around 7-10 years old.

In addition to breed and size, a combination of nutrition, weight, environment, and genetics will also play a role in how quickly your dog ages.

Senior Dog Health Concerns
Senior dogs face many of the same challenges and lifestyle changes as senior humans. Much like people, aging dogs are often less tolerant of exercise and activity, and may suffer from limited mobility, fatigue, or aching joints.

These changes may be caused or worsened by degenerative diseases such as arthritis. Depending on the severity of your dog’s condition, she may have trouble getting in or out of the car, walking long distances, going up or downstairs, or even getting into a comfortable position for sleep.

As dogs age, their metabolism slows down. Senior dogs are at a higher risk of obesity (which can further complicate joint or muscular issues) and are often more sensitive to changes in temperature.

On the other hand, some senior dogs may suffer from weight loss and muscle degeneration. This can be caused by dental disease, kidney disease, liver disease, endocrine issues, or other conditions.

How to Care for a Senior Dog
Keep your senior dog at a healthy weight. Weight gain and weight loss can both serve as catalysts for other health problems as your dog ages, so keeping them at a healthy weight is essential. This may be achieved by feeding your dog a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age and lifestyle, and perhaps using supplements to enhance nutrition. A body condition evaluation can determine whether your pet is overweight, underweight, or at a healthy body weight. Ask your veterinarian for an evaluation.

Moderate your senior dog’s exercise. Regular activity is essential for keeping muscles, bones, and joints strong, but it’s also important to make sure your dog doesn’t overexert themself. Their lungs and heart are not as strong as they once were! Be especially careful on hot days, or if your dog is not used to frequent exercise. A walk around the block may be all they need depending on their size, breed and energy level. If your senior dog becomes too sedentary, he may be more prone to obesity and mobility issues.

Be aware of your dog’s bathroom habits. Changes in urination and defecation can be signs of many different health concerns, from stomach and kidney diseases to endocrine issues. You may also notice your pet developing incontinence problems as they age. These are all important changes that you should monitor and discuss with your vet as they occur.

Brush your dog’s teeth regularly. Did you know 85% of all pets develop dental disease by age three? By the time your dog reaches senior status, they may have advanced issues such as bleeding gums and missing teeth. Not only is this painful for your dog, but it can also affect their ability to eat. Regular teeth brushing is essential, but dental treats and toys may help too.

Help your senior dog stay comfortable. Sweaters during colder weather, softer bedding, a ramp over the entryway stairs, rugs on slippery hardwood surfaces – these are all ways you can ensure your dog stays cozy and comfortable in their own home as they age. Of course, your senior dog should never be left outside in hot, cold or inclement weather.

Make adjustments for hearing and vision loss. Unfortunately, if your senior dog has lost their hearing or vision, there is usually little that can be done to help them regain these senses. They may have difficulty obeying commands, finding their bed, or navigating the house. Additionally, pets with hearing or vision issues can become more easily startled, which may cause them to instinctively snap or growl. Do your best to keep your dog comfortable and make them feel safe by setting up cozy spots for them and guiding them around the house.

Schedule twice-yearly wellness visits. Senior dogs need more care and attention than juvenile and adult dogs – there’s no way around it. At a minimum, your senior dog should be examined by your veterinarian at least twice per year. Regular checkups by your vet are the best method for early disease detection and preventative care, which are key to ensuring your dog lives a long and healthy life.

By monitoring your pet’s health, working with your vet, and making lifestyle adjustments as needed, you can ensure that your dog’s golden years are as happy, healthy and comfortable as possible.

If you have questions about caring for your senior dog, schedule a wellness exam with your vet.

Here’s everything you need to know about trimming your dog’s nails safely and easily:

Understanding Your Dog’s Nails
A dog’s nails are made up of two separate parts: the nail itself (the hard outer shell) and the quick (the pink inner blood vessel). As the nail grows, the quick grows too; if the quick becomes too long, it may be difficult or impossible to trim your dog’s nails back down to a healthy length.

When a dog’s nails grow too long, they can curl under and hamper the dog’s ability to walk, run and play. This may cause lasting pain and other issues for your pup. Excessively long nails are also more likely to break or catch on things, which could cause the nail to be torn off.

Regular nail trimming will cause the quick to recede to a comfortable and healthy length and is the key to good nail hygiene. Some dogs naturally wear their nails down by playing on rough surfaces, and won’t need to have them trimmed as frequently.

There are several types of nail trimmers to choose from, such as scissors, guillotine-style clippers, and grinders. Choose whichever tool you feel most comfortable using.

How to Trim Your Dog’s Nails

1. Make sure both you and your dog are in a comfortable position. It may help to have a second person who can assist by restraining your dog (if needed) or offering treats.
2. If your dog has light-colored nails, it will be easier to see the quick through the nail. Make sure you do NOT cut into the quick, as it’s very sensitive and tends to bleed a lot when cut. Holding your dog’s paw up to a light may help you see the quick more easily.
3. Hold your dog’s paw gently yet firmly, then snip off a small bit from the end of the nail. In this case, trimming too little is preferable to trimming too much. If you encounter any spongy material while trimming, stop immediately – you’re cutting into the quick.
4. If you do cut into the quick, don’t be surprised if you see a large quantity of blood. The styptic powder can be useful for stopping the bleeding; at a minimum, wrap your dog’s paw in a clean cloth or paper towel until the bleeding has ceased.
5. Don’t forget to trim the dewclaws, which are located on the inner side of the paw. The dewclaws do not touch the ground, which means they do not experience any natural wear-and-tear. If left untrimmed, the dewclaw may grow into your dog’s soft tissue.
6. You’re all done! Offer plenty of praise, petting and treats to your pup for their good behavior.

Tips for Trimming Your Dog’s Nails

Many dogs naturally dislike having their nails and paws handled, so it’s a good idea to get your pup comfortable with this process from an early age. If your puppy or dog is especially reluctant to have their nails trimmed, it’s okay to start slow.

Begin by letting them sniff the nail clipper or grinder, then praise them and give them a treat. You may need to repeat this step over the course of several days. When your dog seems comfortable with the nail clipper, try touching it to each of their feet. Again, offer rewards for good behavior and repeat this step as many times as needed.

Finally, it’s time to trim your dog’s nails. You may need to start with one paw – or even one nail – at a time to keep your dog from becoming overwhelmed and stressed. If it’s your first time cutting your dog’s nails, it’s okay, to begin with trimming just the slightest tip off each nail.

Keep offering treats and praise each and every time you trim your dog’s nails. Allowing your pup to lick peanut butter off a spoon may help keep them distracted and happy while you trim.

Still have questions or concerns about trimming your dog’s nails? Schedule a consultation with your vet!

But there is a difference between what pets actually want (such as a consistent routine and a place they feel safe) and what humans think their pets want (like a luxury hotel suite).

CityVet is your trusted expert in complete pet care, and we know what makes pets feel safe, happy and well cared for when it comes to boarding and grooming.

Everything You Need to Know About Pet Boarding
If you’ve boarded your dog or cat in the past, you’ve likely seen the luxurious “pet hotels” that advertise spacious suites decked out with artwork, chandeliers, and televisions. But the reality is that cats and dogs are den dwellers by nature. A big empty space actually makes most animals feel unsafe, and they certainly don’t care about wall art!

Our goal in offering boarding services is to provide you with a practical alternative to a house or pet sitter, and provide your pet with what they really want and need – to feel secure, comfortable, and well cared for in your absence.

1. Care Based on What Pets Really Want
Every overnight guest receives our home-away-from-home attention. We know that boarding is never the same as being at home, but we want to make every pet feel comfortable and safe.

CityVet offers den-sized Studio accommodations, which are ideal for pets that prefer more privacy and security. Your pet will feel cozy and protected, while still having ample room to move around. We also offer roomier Lofts, which are designed for our more energetic and social dogs who need less privacy to feel comfortable.

All guest care includes two healthy meals a day, fresh water at all times, a clean and sanitized throw for bedding comfort, and an abundance of pats and hugs! Your pet will receive multiple walks during the day and lots of one-on-one attention by our caring team members. We treat your pet like one of our own.

This care extends to cats, birds, rabbits, reptiles, exotic animals, and pets with any medical condition requiring extra attention.

2. Food, Medications & Property
It’s best if your pet does not change food while you are away, so please bring your pet’s food with them when you come to board. Please also bring any medications in a well-marked container – enough for the entire stay.

We place a heavy emphasis on hygiene and sanitation and therefore require that all items left with pets be laundered daily. Personal items such as bedding and toys don’t always hold up well in the laundry, so please bring them at home. Rest assured that your pet will have soft, clean, freshly laundered bedding each day.

3. Veterinarians Close By
One unique benefit of boarding your pets with CityVet is that all overnight and day-care services are overseen by our veterinarians. Who better to care for your dog or cat if they become stressed or sick than a trained team of vets?

If your pet experiences an illness while you’re away, it will be promptly and competently addressed by our clinicians – not always a guarantee at traditional boarding facilities.

4. Warranty
To further enhance the trust and value of our services to our clients, we include a warranty policy as part of your pet’s boarding care, at no additional cost.

This warranty extends to boarding & DayPlay, and covers up to $500 for veterinary services in the case of illness or injury during your pets stay. Examples of what is covered by the warranty includes injury during boarding or DayPlay, kennel cough, vomiting, or rash. Illness in pets due to pre-existing medical conditions is not covered.

Everything You Need to Know About Bathing & Grooming
A clean pet is a healthy and happy pet! Bathing and grooming are important components of complete pet care, so we offer services to provide you with a convenient and affordable one-stop option.

If your bather or groomer notices something isn’t right with your pet or if they aren’t current on their immunizations, no worries! We can take care of everything on-site same day and save you an extra trip. We offer the following services for dogs and cats:

• Bath Basic: Shampoo, blow-dry and quick brush out. A great value for high frequency!
• Bath Works: Basic Bath plus a nail trim, anal gland expression (if needed) and ear cleaning.
• Grooming: Bath Works followed by a haircut and style to your specifications; from simple trims to show-cuts.

Although choosing a boarder or groomer can be a tough decision, CityVet makes it easy by offering a one-stop-shop for all your complete pet care needs.

Your vet knows what your dog or cat needs to feel happy and healthy, and can ensure your pet feels well cared for while you’re away. You can always contact us with any questions or concerns you have before you schedule your first visit!

The bad news is that most modern pet foods are far from what nature designed dogs and cats to eat. Many of the ingredients in today’s “best selling” and “premium” foods. have little or no nutritional value.

While the shelf price of these foods may be lower, the effects on your pet’s health and wellbeing end up costing you more in the long run. Choosing healthier foods will result in improved health and quality of life for your pets.

“Lean pets live longer,” explains Dr. Chip Cannon, CityVet Founder. “Feed [your pets] good foods, not junk foods, and don’t overpay for popular or “premium” when the true cost to feed a healthy, all-natural, meat-based food can be the same cost or less.”

At CityVet, our pet food recommendations are based on the science of pet nutrition. With this foundation, we can help pet owners evaluate food choices and select the healthiest option for their furry family members.

Pet Nutrition Basics
Science tells us that dogs and cats are carnivores by nature. In the wild, their diet would consist of nutrient-dense, protein-rich foods such as muscle and organ tissues. Grains (carbohydrates) would make up a very small percentage of their natural diet.

Unfortunately, the vast majority of modern pet foods are carbohydrate-based. This is true even for pet foods that list meat as the first ingredient, and advertise claims of “healthy” and “high-quality ingredients”.

The reality is that many of these name brand foods primarily consist of inexpensive, low-quality ingredients such as cheap grains, grain fractions, grain fillers, and by-products. Pet food manufacturers can meet the minimum regulatory requirements using these lower quality ingredients. This allows them to keep prices low but means the nutritional value is low as well.

Dogs and cats who consume these lower quality foods will survive, but they don’t always thrive. Health issues such as obesity, arthritis, diabetes, allergies, kidney disease, and cancer are all linked in some way to nutrition.

Pet Food Economics
Lower quality grain-based pet foods may appear to be cheaper upon first glance, but the real cost may be higher than you think. When evaluating pet foods, you should consider the “cost to feed” rather than the “cost per volume”. This is a more accurate reflection of the true price point of pet foods.

There are two key factors that affect the purchase price of pet foods:

1. The QUANTITY of meat they contain
2. The QUALITY of the meat and other ingredients

Foods containing more meat and better quality ingredients have a higher nutrient value and greater digestibility. This results in less food consumed and less pet waste produced, leading to an overall lower “cost to feed”.

For example, consider a healthy 50-pound, 5-year-old dog. This breakdown shows the cost difference between feeding the dog a grain-based food vs. an all-natural meat-based food:

• Economy / grain-based food
• Requires 3.1 cups of economy feed per day
• Costs to feed per day: $0.95
• Feed them this to survive
• All-natural meat-based food
• Requires 2.4 cups of CityVet Select feed per day
• Costs to feed per day: $1.18
• Feed them this to thrive

In this example, the daily cost difference between a grain-based food and healthier meat-based food is just $0.23 per day. This equates to just $6.90 more per month, for a significantly healthier dog!

Top Pet Food Ingredients to Avoid

• Animal Fat – A generic by-product of rendering; includes things such as restaurant grease, slaughterhouse waste, and diseased cattle.
• Artificial Colors – Artificial colors are only used to make kibble look attractive.
• By-Product – Dry rendered waste products made from what is left of a slaughtered chicken or cow after all the prime cuts are removed. This can contain almost anything . feet, beaks, undeveloped eggs, etc.. All are low-quality sources of protein.
• Corn, ground yellow corn, corn gluten meal – These are inexpensive grains and grain by-products with limited nutritional value. They are often primary ingredients in “Economy” and “Premium” pet foods and should be avoided.

Top Pet Food Ingredients to Choose

• Carbohydrates – Healthy carbs come from ingredients such as peas, beans, potatoes, soy and healthy grains such as rice, oats, and barley in limited amounts. These are a good source of energy.
• Fruits and Vegetables – Provide a good source of fiber, vitamins, minerals and other micronutrients.
• Specified Meat Protein – Ingredients such as chicken, beef, fish and eggs. The most nutritious foods will have meat protein as the first ingredients.
• Specified Fats and Oils – Provide essential fatty acids, energy and natural flavor. Healthy fats also help maintain a healthy coat and immune system.

Evaluating Pet Food Quality
Understanding pet food options should be easy, but the pet food industry has not set it up that way. Reading pet food labels and evaluating ingredients can be tricky, so CityVet has committed to tackling the hard part.

Below is CityVet’s process for evaluating pet food quality:

That’s right – CityVet veterinarians only recommend the pet food products that we actually feed our own dogs and cats. You’ll never find unhealthy grain-based foods with poor nutrient quality ingredients on our shelves!

CityVet emphasizes all-natural foods that feature only healthy grains and are high in protein and real meat ingredients. Complete pet care begins with nutrition – learn more about our natural, meat-based pet foods.

Boguslawski joins CityVet from Deca Dental, where he was Chief Operating Officer and the first executive hired by its founding dentists. In this role he was instrumental in growing the Deca Dental business from 28 locations to 85 locations in less than four years, including the expansion into four new markets. He was awarded Dallas Business Journal’s 40 under 40 for his efforts at Deca Dental. His experience with Deca Dental gives him excellent experience and insight into working with doctors and clinical staff, positioning him perfectly for his new role with CityVet.

Andy Anderson, DVM, Executive Chairman of the Board, said, “The Board is delighted to welcome David to CityVet. His strong leadership and experience in high growth, multi-location retail healthcare will be critical to CityVet’s success. Dave understands the power of values-based leadership and is the perfect fit for our DVM partnership model.”

“I am excited to start this new chapter in my career and am honored to be a part of the highly respected CityVet team,” said Boguslawski. “CityVet has long been recognized as the premier organization for unparalleled care for pets, pet owners and employees. I look forward to continuing the positive momentum and bringing a fresh perspective to the team.”

“We are thrilled to welcome David to the CityVet family,” said company founder Chip Cannon, DVM. “CityVet was built on family values principled in caring for both clients and team members, with the understanding that healthier pets lead longer, happier lives. I am confident that David.s experience, disposition and passion for care make him uniquely qualified to lead the CityVet team toward an even brighter future.”

Boguslawski’s appointment is effective immediately. He will partner with the local DVMs and lead a staff of more than 300 employees in the strategic vision as well as the daily operations across 17 business units including: 12 state-of-the-art CityVet veterinary hospitals and five Ruffit DayPlay and boarding operations.

Boguslawski started his career at Lockheed Martin, where he graduated from the Leadership Development Program and earned his Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification. He has a MBA from Southern Methodist University and an Industrial Engineering degree from the University of Arkansas. He loves animals and spending time outside with his family. His commitment to animals and family make him an ideal match for CityVet.

About CityVet
CityVet is a veterinarian-owned pet care business that offers complete pet care services, including highly qualified, competent and compassionate veterinarians; boarding, bathing and grooming services; and healthy pet foods and supplies. Headquartered in Dallas, the company has been in business for 20 years with a focus on treating pets and people with the right care while remaining affordable, so that pets can live longer, happier lives. CityVet now has 17 business units, 12 veterinary clinic locations and five DayPlay and boarding facilities, including one CityVet clinic in Denver, Colo.

The blue-green algae epidemic seemed to peak in the Southeastern U.S., but cases occurred as far north as New York and Minnesota, and as far west as Colorado. In Austin alone, blue-green algae in Lady Bird Lake resulted in the deaths of at least five dogs.

Understandably, these news headlines have left pet owners with many questions. What is blue-green algae, why is it so dangerous, and most importantly, how can they keep their dogs safe?

What is Blue-Green Algae?
“Blue-green algae” is a bit of a misnomer; it’s actually not a true algae at all, but rather a type of bacteria called cyanobacteria. It thrives in water and moist soil environments, especially during warm, sunny weather. This may include lakes, ponds, rivers, and even backyard pools and decorative ponds. Scientists have observed cyanobacteria in all 50 states over the years.

Blue-green algae tends to be more prevalent during summer and early fall, when the weather is warmest. Officials in Texas and other affected states had previously predicted that the algae blooms would clear by mid-October.

But as of October 16th, officials in Austin say that Lady Bird Lake and surrounding bodies of water are still contaminated. As such, pet owners should keep their pets away from these bodies of water until officials announce the “all clear”.

In order for this to happen, there needs to be a shift to consistently cool temperatures (below 75 degrees) and increased water flow. Scientists are also looking ahead to summer 2020, and preparing to handle the potential of more blue-green algae blooms.

Why is Blue-Green Algae Dangerous?
Cyanobacteria is incredibly toxic to pets, wildlife and even humans. This is because it feeds off sunlight to produce its own energy, and may release neurotoxins as a byproduct. These toxins can be fatal within just minutes of exposure.

Fortunately, most humans know to state out of scummy, foul-smelling water, which is why you don’t often hear about it affecting humans. But playful pups will happily swim in – and consume – contaminated water. Dogs have even been known to eat dried clumps of algae on the shore.

How Can I Spot Blue-Green Algae?
You may be able to identify bodies of water containing blue-green algae by looking for water discoloration and foam on the surface. In some cases, cyanobacteria may even look like a shimmering substance on top of the water, easily mistaken for paint or oil.

Blue-green algae may also have a foul stench, much like the smell of rotting plants. Unfortunately, these tell-tale signs are not always apparent. Cyanobacteria can lurk on the bottom of the lake, or in small patches that are easy to miss.

What Are the Symptoms of Blue-Green Algae Exposure?
If a dog has come into contact with blue-green algae, they will usually begin showing signs within 15-20 minutes. However, in some cases, it may take hours or days for symptoms to arise.

Signs that a dog has been exposed to cyanobacteria may include:

• Disorientation
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Weakness
• Twitching / convulsions / seizures
• Difficulty breathing
• Liver failure

Unfortunately, due to the extreme toxicity of blue-green algae, ingestion will almost always result in death. That said, you should still immediately bring your dog to the vet if you notice any of these symptoms and suspect blue-green algae contamination.

How Can I Keep My Dogs Safe From Blue-Green Algae?
When it comes to protecting your pets from blue-green algae, prevention is key. There is no known cure, so if a dog has been infected with a high enough dose of the toxin, there is usually nothing that can be done.

You can keep your pup safe by keeping them leashed around bodies of water, especially if it appears dirty or foamy. Never allow your pet to drink from ponds, lakes or other stagnant bodies of water.

If you believe your pet may have come into contact with blue-green algae, immediately wash them with clean water and soap. Be sure to wear gloves to protect yourself! Then, bring them in to see your vet as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation.

Pet owners who live in areas with known blue-green algae blooms should stay especially vigilant. Keep an eye out for signage, and look for updates from the public health department to see if your area has been cleared before letting your pets near any bodies of water.

Environmental scientists say that although blue-green algae blooms have historically been quite rare, they are becoming more common as a result of increasing global temperatures, as well as the use of crop fertilizers.

As the weather continues to cool, experts hope that the current outbreaks will begin to subside. However, pet owners should remain aware of this threat once the weather begins to warm up again in spring, and continue taking all measures to keep their dogs safe.

To make it easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 questions our vets get about pets. Read to the very end for the one question that we wish pet owners would ask more often.

1. Does my pet really need a yearly exam?
Yes – at a minimum! Regular wellness checkups are an important part of pet ownership. Bringing your pet in for a checkup may feel like a chore, but studies show that preventative care is essential to disease prevention and early detection of potential problems.
Dogs and cats age much more rapidly than humans, so a lot can change in just a few months. We actually recommend general physical exams every 6 months, especially for pets older than 5 years of age. For puppies and kittens, we recommend having exams performed at 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age.

2. What type of food is healthiest for my pet?
Our veterinarian recommendations for feeding your pet are based on the science of nutrition. The reality is that dogs and cats are carnivores by nature, and their diet would consist of nutrient-dense, protein-rich foods such as organ tissue in the wild.

We recommend pet foods with proteins such as chicken, beef, fish, and eggs listed among the first ingredients. Foods containing more meat and better quality ingredients have higher nutrient value and greater digestibility.

3. What vaccinations does my pet need?
Core vaccines are those immunizations recommended for all dogs and cats regardless of life stage or lifestyle.

Core Vaccines for Puppies and Dogs

• DA2PPV: Recommend starting at the 8-week puppy visit with boosters at the 12-week and 16-week puppy visits. Another booster should be given 1 year after completing the initial puppy vaccines, and every 3 years thereafter.
• Bordetella – Recommend starting at the 8-week or 12-week puppy visits with a booster 3-5 weeks after the initial vaccine. Recommended every 6 months for dogs regularly exposed to high-risk situations such as grooming, boarding, day play, and dog parks.

Core Vaccines for Kittens and Cats

• Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Panleukopenia, Calicivirus (FVRCP)
• Recommend starting at the 8-week kitten visit with boosters at the 12-week and 16-week visits. Another booster should be given 1 year after completing initial kitten vaccines, and every 3 years thereafter.

The Rabies vaccination is another core vaccine that is required by law for all dogs and cats. Non-core vaccines that may still be recommended include Canine Influenza and Leptospirosis for dogs and Feline Leukemia for cats.

4. Does heartworm / flea / tick prevention need to be given year-round?
Absolutely, yes! Prevention is the key to avoiding parasite infections and infestations, which are damaging to your pet’s health and expensive to treat. There are many different ways for your dog or cat to contract parasites. Indoor pets can even be infected when their humans bring fleas in on their clothing or shoes!

Fleas and ticks can be found at any time of year in the United States, so year-round prevention medication is essential. Dogs and cats can be exposed to heartworms in almost any location where mosquitoes can be found. Feline heartworm disease is especially dangerous; infected cats may die from the development of just one heartworm.

Learn more about preventing parasites in pets.

5. How often should I groom my pet?
Keeping your pet clean and well-groomed is an important part of complete pet care, so we are glad to see so many pet owners asking this question. But the truth is, the answer depends entirely on the breed and coat of your pet.

For example, some dogs (such as poodles) will need to be professionally groomed every 4-6 weeks in order to keep their coats free of painful mats and tangles. On the other hand, short-haired dogs may be able to go 8-12 weeks between professional groomings, although they will still require regular upkeep at home.

Long-haired and medium-haired dogs and cats usually need to be brushed daily or every other day, while short-haired pets only require brushing once or twice a week. You should also keep your pet’s teeth, ears and nails clean and tidy with regular maintenance.

Bonus: One Questions Vets Wish Pet Owners Would Ask
Our vets regularly field a long list of questions from loving pet parents, but one question we would like to hear more often is this: “Is my pet at a healthy weight? If not, what should I do differently?”

Vets know weight management can be a sensitive topic, and many pet owners don’t want to hear that their dog or cat is severely overweight. But the truth is, it’s an essential component of complete pet care.

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, a whopping 59% of cats and 54% of dogs in the U.S. are classified as either overweight or obese. They define “obese” pets as weighing more than 30% above their ideal weight.

Data shows that the pet obesity epidemic is on the rise, and this is a growing concern for veterinarians. Excessive fat in pets can significantly increase the risk of chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure, liver and kidney disease, diabetes, and asthma. Ultimately, pet obesity can even lead to a shortened lifespan and heart failure.

By starting this conversation, we can work towards helpful habits like establishing an exercise or play routine, changing the quality or quantity of your pet’s food, and replacing food treats with other activities.

Still, have questions about your pet’s health? Schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian!

The best way to avoid these hassles is by preventing parasite infestations and infections in the first place. This parasite prevention guide covers everything you need to know about protecting your pets against fleas, heartworms, and other common parasites.

1. Fleas
Fleas are a common “ectoparasite”, which means they live on the outside of their host. Flea infestations can affect dogs, cats, and other mammals. These pesky parasites live everywhere we live, including our lawn, furniture, carpet, and yes, on our pets.

Many pets are exposed to fleas in outside environments like backyards, patios, dog parks, or walks around the neighborhood. Humans can even bring fleas into the home on their shoes or clothing without noticing!

Did you know a single female flea will lay up to 60 eggs a day, and up to 2000 in her lifetime? She can also consume up to 15 times her bodyweight in blood! Since fleas multiply so quickly, one flea turns into a flea infestation very rapidly.

Even though these infestations can be treated, it can be very difficult (and expensive) to completely eradicate fleas from your home, since flea eggs can survive for 2 to 3 months.

Besides being irritating parasites, fleas can negatively affect our pets in many ways by causing itching, hair loss, allergies, anemia, and skin infection. They can also transmit other parasites and diseases such as tapeworms and haemobartonella.

The key to preventing fleas is consistent administration of a safe flea preventative. Without consistent application, your pet and property will be susceptible to flea infestation.

2. Heartworms
Heartworms are a common internal parasite affecting dogs and cats. Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworms live in the heart and blood vessels, which results in heartworm disease.

Clinical signs of progressing heartworm disease include persistent cough, reluctance to move or exercise, fatigue after only moderate exercise, reduced appetite and weight loss, and even sudden death.

While heartworm disease can be treated, treatment is expensive and requires hospitalization. The good news is that heartworm disease is 99% preventable! Compared to heartworm treatment, prevention is safe, easy, effective, and inexpensive.

There are a variety of options for preventing heartworm infection in both dogs and cats, including monthly chewables, topical products and semi-annual injections.

Heartworm prevention interrupts the development of heartworm larvae before they can grow into adult worms in the heart and cause disease. When administered properly on a timely and consistent schedule, heartworm infection can be prevented.

A Warning About Feline Heartworm Disease
Although heartworm disease is more common in dogs, prevention for cats is even more important. Currently there is no treatment for heartworms in cats!

Most infected cats will die from the development of even one heartworm – in fact, sudden death is often the first and only sign of heartworm disease.

Cats may also exhibit clinical signs that are very non-specific, mimicking many other feline diseases including vomiting, gagging, difficult or rapid breathing, lethargy and weight loss.

Signs associated with the first stage of heartworm disease are often mistaken for feline asthma or allergic bronchitis, when in fact they are actually due to a syndrome newly defined as Heartworm Associated Respiratory Disease (HARD).

Indoor cats can be infected with heartworm disease just as easily as outdoor cats. Therefore it’s recommended that all cats be on heartworm prevention.

3. Ticks
Ticks are external parasites that attach to your pet by inserting their mouthparts into your pet’s skin. After attaching, the tick begins to feed on your pet’s blood. Ticks can consume enough of your pet’s blood to cause a deficiency called anemia.

More importantly, ticks are capable of transmitting many debilitating diseases such as Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Ehrlichia. Many of the diseases ticks carry can also be transmitted to people.

How often you see ticks will depend on the region of the country in which you live, the time of year (tick activity varies in warm and cool weather), the habits of your pet, and how and when you use tick control products.

It is very difficult to prevent your pet’s exposure to ticks. Therefore, the best way to prevent ticks on your pet is with the regular use of tick prevention / control products.

4. Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites are best prevented by keeping your pet on a regular Heartworm/Flea preventative that also contains anthelmintic. All pets should be regularly screened (annually or bi-annually) and dewormed (annually or bi-annually).

Roundworms are large worms that live in the intestines of puppies, kittens, dogs and cats, and can even be transmitted to humans (children are at the highest risk). They are transmitted through the environment (sniffing and licking fecal contaminated soil, grass, etc.); eating infected prey such as birds or rodents; through the placenta (to puppies); and through nursing (puppies and kittens). In pets, these parasites can cause coughing, dull/thin coat, vomiting, diarrhea, a pot-bellied appearance, and failure to gain weight.

Hookworms are very common microscopic worms that live in the intestines of puppies, kittens, dogs and cats, and can also be transmitted to humans. They are transmitted through the environment (eggs from fecal contaminated soil or grass can penetrate the skin, or pet ingests eggs during grooming its coat); eating infected prey such as rodents or insects; or through nursing. In pets, these parasites can cause anemia, diarrhea, dull/thin coat, skin problems, lethargy, and failure to gain weight.

Whipworms are intestinal parasites that live in the large intestine. They are transmitted through ingesting infected matter such as soil or fecal material from the environment. Once present, the eggs can remain viable for years. Clinical signs include bloody diarrhea, dehydration, anemia, and weight loss.

Tapeworms are transmitted by ingesting an infected flea. Tapeworms are diagnosed by seeing short, white, rice-like segments around the anus, or by seeing the eggs of the tapeworm on a fecal examination. Tapeworms are best prevented by keeping your pet on flea prevention year-round.

The Best Parasite Prevention Products for Dogs and Cats
Prevention is key when it comes to parasites, both internal and external. Heartworm / flea / tick prevention products are an important investment for your pet’s health and comfort, and choosing the right one can be a difficult process.

CityVet has done the hard part for you! Our veterinarians evaluate all parasite prevention products, including monthly chewables, topical products, and semi-annual injections, and can provide recommendations for you at your appointment.

Learn more about our preventative care plans for dogs, cats, puppies and kittens, or contact your local CityVet veterinarian today for recommendations.