March Is Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month: Are Your Pets Safe? 

cat next to flower pot

The world is chock full of things our pets can get into. From human food to houseplants, the list of fascinating things your pet will want to chomp on is endless.

Most things may not be that harmful, but certain substances and items around the home can cause a pet emergency. Since we cannot rid the world of these things that are potentially poisonous, we can create greater awareness.

To observe national Poison Prevention Awareness Month, your team at Volunteer Veterinary Hospital is here with some tips on how to better protect your cherished friend.

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Understanding and Preventing Pet Heat Diseases

Keeping your dog hydrated during the heat will help with pet heat diseases that often happen in the summer. It’s hot, it’s sticky, and all you want to do is hide inside with the air conditioning or jump into an ice cold pool. Summer in Tennessee is not for the faint of heart, and if humans are feeling the effects of extreme heat, you can be sure our pets are also experiencing it. Because of the differences in the way our pets’ bodies handle the hot weather, they’re at greater risk for certain heat-related ailments; keeping an eye on them during the hottest part of the year is essential.

Let’s take a moment to learn more about pet heat diseases, including how to prevent and recognize them.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is defined as a life-threatening elevation in body temperature, and it’s the most dangerous of all pet heat diseases. Heat stroke usually occurs in warm weather, and it can lead to multiple organ failure and death if left untreated. Signs your pet may be experiencing heat stroke or heat exhaustion include: Continue…

Pet Cancer: A Primer  

pet cancerHearing that your pet has cancer is a frightening experience, but according to the National Canine Cancer Foundation, 1 out of 3 dogs will receive a diagnosis of cancer in their lifetime. For cats, the statistic is 1 out of every 5 according to the Animal Cancer Foundation.

There is good news, however. Some pet cancers are treatable, especially if caught early and treated aggressively. There’s also ongoing research for the development of new treatments, as well as cures for some forms of cancer.  At Volunteer Veterinary Hospital, we honor Cancer Awareness Month by exploring common forms of pet cancer and some possible treatment options.

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Volunteer Veterinary Hospital: What Sets Us Apart as Your Veterinarian

Your VeterinarianWhen it comes to choosing a veterinarian, we know you have a lot of options, which is why we’d like to let you know what you can expect from our team of veterinarians and support staff. Besides our strong knowledge base, focus on keeping up with the latest research, and state-of-the-art facility, our staff takes a caring and individualized approach with each patient.

Our commitment to healing and prevention, combined with the importance we place on the relationships we form with you and your pet, is what makes our team at Volunteer Veterinary Hospital so special.

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