Pancreatitis is a painful and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas. At Scripps Ranch Veterinary Hospital, we see an increase in pancreatitis cases during the holiday season, and we want you to know more about the disease, what to watch for, and how to avoid pancreatitis in your pet. What is the pancreas? The pancreas [...]
Americans consume an average of 10 pounds of chocolate per year, which totals more than three billion pounds! With so much chocolate around, it is no surprise that chocolate ingestion is one of the top four reasons pet owners call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Hotline. More than 24,000 people call this hotline for chocolate-related [...]
Routine wellness care is a vital component of your pet’s health care regimen. Nothing is more effective at staving off preventable illnesses and conditions than regular exams and discussions regarding your pet’s ever-changing health. Let’s take a closer look at this essential care for a happy, healthy pet, by diving into the five W’s of [...]
Did you know that 83% of cats visit the veterinarian before their first birthday, but more than 50% don’t return until they become sick or are in pain, according to one study? Most cat owners clearly understand the importance of the initial kitten appointments and vaccinations, but many skip out on important preventive care as [...]
You are stroking your pet’s silky fur while relaxing on the couch, when your hand stumbles across a small, firm lump. Instantly, your mind goes to “the big C”—cancer. While some lumps and bumps can indicate a cancerous tumor, not all masses are malignant. In fact, many lumps are benign and, although they may grow, [...]
Summer is heating up, and parasites are making their presence known. While capable of surfacing from their hiding places anytime the temperature rises above freezing, fleas and ticks enjoy warmer temperatures much more, and will venture forth in search of their next meal, and make a snack out of your pet. Seasonal changes also stimulate [...]
The cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL), also known as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), is an incredibly important knee-joint component found in the hind limb of our four-legged friends. The ligament provides stability and range of motion in this high-impact joint, so a CrCL injury results in limping, pain and, eventually, chronic changes such as osteoarthritis. [...]
You are still at work on a Friday afternoon, when this pops up on your computer screen: Memo to all employees: June 22 to 26 is Take Your Pet to Work Week. We believe having your pet at work will have many potential benefits, and we encourage you, our valued employee, to join us in [...]
Getting a new pet is a big decision that should not be taken lightly. You must have an open heart, time for adjustment to a new family dynamic, and patience, as your new pet learns to trust you. If you have other family members, especially children, you want to ensure your child’s, and your new [...]