Knoxville TN Animal Clinic, Knoxville Veterinarian

Among the other items known to cause problems for pets, holiday plants can be terribly toxic. Whether your pet is simply curious, or has a fondness for chewing up greenery, there are certain holiday plants to be avoided at all costs. 

No matter what kind of winter we’re having in Tennessee, it’s worth it to prepare for the worst. This means placing your pet’s needs front and center. While we may not have to contend with sub-zero temperatures and severe wind chill factors, pets can be highly sensitive to seasonal changes. We’ve got some essential tips for keeping pets warm, cozy, and safe this winter so you can both enjoy all the season has to offer. 

Life is composed of a series of changes, and we either accept and adapt or fight against time. One day, your pet is flying through the air in pursuit of a favored Frisbee; the next, he or she inexplicably refuses to get off the couch for a meal. Embracing this type of change can be very difficult, but through an understanding of basic senior pet care, you can fortify your aging pet’s overall wellness to ensure maximum safety and comfort.

All of us want what is best for our pets, and when it comes to pet nutrition, the amount of information out there can be staggering. It can be difficult to identify the best food for pets, and in truth, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. One nutrition trend that has been big lately is raw diets for pets, and Volunteer Veterinary Hospital wants to help clear up any questions on the topic. 

The start of the new school year can be a time of great excitement for students and parents alike. But in the hustle and bustle of school supplies, backpacks, and first-day pictures, it’s easy to overlook our four-legged friends.

Chances are, your pet has been enjoying the extra time with the kids during the summer break and he or she may wind up feeling lonely or anxious once your children are back at school. Help your pet beat those “back to school blues” with our tips on helping your furry companion cope this fall.

Call it the Achilles heel of our canine friends, but a torn ACL in the knee (more properly called a CCL in the dog) is the nemesis of many a pet. Injuries to the cranial cruciate ligament are one of the most common orthopedic problems diagnosed in dogs. Rupture of this ligament makes the knee joint unstable, and it can be an extremely painful condition. Thankfully, your friends at Volunteer Veterinary Hospital can help. 

Fireworks and pets go together like oil and water. Many pets—cats and dogs alike—are terrified of the loud, cracking sounds that dominate the sky every 4th of July. The team at Volunteer Veterinary Hospital is here with tips to help manage fireworks anxiety in pets. 

Cats are known for their variety of beautiful coats. Just like hair color and eye color in humans, cat colors come down to genetics. If you’ve ever wondered “what color is my cat and why,” you can learn more about cat colors, genetics, and coats with this guide to the different shades of cats:

Heartworm disease is something most pet owners know about, but may only have a vague understanding of, overall. Public education on heartworm disease is lacking, and many pet owners are unaware that it is one of the deadliest diseases threatening our dogs and cats.

What Is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm, Dirofilaria immitis, which is transmitted via mosquito. Mosquitoes pick up heartworm from feeding on an infected animal. Dogs, cats, coyotes, wolves, raccoons, opossums, and other mammals can be infected with heartworm.

While rambling along a trail towards Clingmans Dome or hiking near Paint Rock, it’s easy to immerse yourself in the scenic wonder of our state. But knowing what is in store for you and your dog while on an outing is paramount for a great time as well as a safe return for both of you.

Before exploring, do a bit of research about the different types of wildlife, terrain, and weather hazards in your area. Although it may seem a bit preconceived and to spoil the surprise of discovery, it can actually reinforce the strength and impact of the experience.

Before venturing out on your next adventure, take a moment to ingrain some of these very important outdoor pet safety tips and tricks, and keep your pup safe while you’re both immersed in the great Tennessee wilderness and Smoky Mountains National Park.