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Carroll County Animal Hospital

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Carrollton, GA
Carroll County Animal Hospital

At Carroll County Animal Hospital we strive to provide the absolute best in your pet's medical and su

Since 1946, Carroll County Animal Hospital has been providing families and their companion animals with high-quality, compassionate veterinary care. As a full-service hospital, we offer a wide range of comprehensive veterinary services to keep your pets in great health, from wellness exams and vaccinations to dental care, internal medicine and emergency care. We also offer special resources such a

s nutritional counseling, boarding, and care for exotic pets. We look forward to welcoming you and your pet to our hospital!

01/05/2024

🦜 Today is National Bird Day!
Birds are sometimes captured in the wild, traded illegally and sold to consumers in Europe and the US for pets. These birds are often not handled enough to be comfortable with humans and develop destructive or self-mutilating behavior in captivity.
Once they reach their final homes, owners are not prepared to care for them or handle them daily. As a result, the birds become uncomfortable with humans, surrendered to shelters or abandoned and need to be re-trained when rescued. (Like Pesto in the video)
If you are considering purchasing a bird for a pet, it is best to research the bird’s care requirements and speak to a veterinarian about what to expect. Thousands of birds have to be rejoined every year due to owner neglect, unrealistic owner expectations or the owner moves or has other life changes. Before purchasing a bird, check with your local bird and pet rescues to see if you could help change a bird’s life by providing their forever home! We have a whole flock of bird patients here at CCAH so ask us anything! 🐦

(🎥)

01/05/2024

🐦 Birds bring so much enjoyment to life outdoors! Tomorrow is National Bird Day which was founded by the Avian Welfare Coalition to remind humans that they have an impact on the livelihood of birds throughout the world. Bird proliferation is often considered to be a gauge of the environment's health. Sadly, there are many bird species that are either facing extinction or are endangered due to loss of their natural habitat or illegal poaching.
🦜For more information or to find out how you can help, visit https://www.avianwelfare.org/nationalbirdday/index.htm.
🦜 If you have children or grandchildren in your life, read them a book about birds of Georgia like 👉 http://tinyurl.com/brdbook
🦜 Consider adopting a rescued bird from a shelter near you. Visit Petfinder.com and search for rescued birds in your area.
🦜 Place bird feeders in your yard and clean out existing bird houses to make room for new nests this spring.
If you're considering adopting a pet bird, ask our veterinarians for advice about how they will blend into your household schedule and pet family. (770)832-2475

01/04/2024

👨‍⚕️ Does your pet sneeze a lot during winter months?
Just like humans, pets react to the dry, indoor air that is common during winter months. Dust mites, molds, mildews and other allergens from gas and wood heat sources can cause respiratory reactions in pets, especially if their mucous membranes are dry from the air they are breathing.
When does your pet need to see a veterinarian? If...
😿 their nose has colored drainage
😿 they are short of breath
😿 if they show signs of low energy or "aren't themselves"
😿 if they stop drinking or eating
😿 if they begin shaking their head, pawing at their ears or develop colored drainage from their eyes
These are all signs of an upper respiratory viral or bacterial infection. The veterinarian will ask questions about their symptoms, perform a thorough examination and may need to provide medications if they suspect an infection.
If your pet simply sneezes throughout the day or has a clear, runny nose and is otherwise acting normal, you can:
🐾 Wash their bedding and vacuum the rooms they frequent to cut down on possible allergens.
🐾 Run a humidifier in the rooms they stay in.
🐾 Keep them out of the cold as much as possible.
🐾 Watch them for any of the above signs of infection.
If you have any concerns about your pet's health this winter give us a call! (770)832-2475

01/03/2024

🚆✈️🚖 Today is National Pet Travel Safety Day!
Did you know that until the 1980's many pet owners didn't have the option of traveling with their fur babies unless by private plane or car?
A flight attendant named Gayle Martz changed the world of pet travel when she invented the small carry-on for pets that meet airline requirements. After designing the bag, she began convincing airlines to allow pets to fly and the rest of the travel industry followed. Today, there are several chains of hotels and airlines that advertise being pet-friendly.
Here are some tips for traveling with your pet:
🏨 Before planning your vacation or out-of-town trip, call ahead to make sure you are aware of any restrictions. Many airlines and hotels require documentation and certificates of vaccination.
🚖 Practice with short trips to start your pet's travel experience.
✈️ Take advantage of flight routes that are broken into two shorter flights so your pup can stretch their legs and use the bathroom.
👨‍⚕️ Ask your veterinarian for advice about medications or natural supplements that can help your pet relax. Zesty Paws makes a supplement called "Calming Bites" that contains herbs to help calm your pet. It's a great idea to try them out a week or two before travel and adjust the dose as needed. You'll want your pet calm and sleepy, but not so drowsy that they can't walk.
🐾 Pack enough food and prescription medications for an extra day's travel. Find collapsible, lightweight bowls for water and food, as well as puppy "p*e pads" to line the carrier in case of accidents. Have a copy of your pet's health history and vaccination record in a pocket on their carrier.
If you have any questions or concerns about traveling with your pet or need documentation for travel, give our office a call **before** you plan and schedule your trip. Some countries require documents that can take up to a year to process. (770)832-2475

01/01/2024

🥳 Happy New Year! Thank you for allowing us to care for your pets in 2023! We look forward to serving you in the new year.
We are closed at our Oak Mountain location today, but our doctors and staff are here at our Columbia Drive location for all of your pet healthcare needs! Give us a call or drop by to see us. (770)832-2475

12/31/2023

📣 We will be open tomorrow (on New Year's Day) at our Columbia Drive location. ❗️Oak Mountain location will be closed for the holiday but will re-open on Tuesday, January 2 with regular business hours.
🥳 Have a wonderful and safe New Year and thank you for allowing us to serve your pet family this last year!

12/31/2023

🤩 We are counting down the hours until midnight! Here are a few last minute reminders to help keep your pets safe this New Year's holiday:
🧨 Firecrackers, fireworks, noise makers and other unexpected loud noises can cause panic in some pets. See Friday's post for tips about how to prepare your pet for the best experience tonight if you live in an area where these events are common.
🍻 Alcohol can be deadly for pets. It drops their blood sugar very quickly and can cause seizures, coma and death. Make sure all friends and family know to keep their drinks away from your pets. Better yet, keep your pets away from company and in a quiet, safe environment.
🐾 Make sure pets' collars have correct ID tags and are intact. Many pets become disoriented and scared with unfamiliar faces, festivities and noises around the holidays and can run away.
🍇🌰🧄🧅🍖 Grapes, macadamia nuts, onions/garlic, fatty foods and sugar-free foods are all unsafe to pets. Keep all food and trash out of reach and ask guests not to "treat" your pets with human foods.
If your pet family has an emergency this New Year's, we recommend Westside Animal Emergency Clinic in Lithia Springs (770)819-1090.

12/31/2023

😺 Is personal fitness one of your New Year’s goals? This kitty has a head start!

📣We are closed at our Oak Mountain location on New Year’s Day (Monday) but will be at our Columbia Drive location for all of your pet healthcare needs!

🥳 We hope you have a wonderful, safe and happy New Year and look forward to caring for your family in 2024!

12/30/2023

🐾 Did you know that one in every three dogs has noise-aversion? (fear of loud, unexpected noises)
Friday posts are usually reserved for funny, cute, heart-warming videos to brighten your day. We wanted to remind you that we will be open tomorrow if your pet has issues with anxiety during holidays with fireworks, loud noises and celebration horns. Most often, an anxious pet can be soothed with preparation of their environment. However, sometimes a pet needs medication to relieve their distress. Here are some sign that your pet is in distress and/or anxious(see picture):
👀 Dilated pupils (the black part of the center of the eye, as seen in the picture)
😿 Crouching, tail between the legs, hunched over or cowering (as in picture)
👂 Ears pinned back or downward (as in picture)
🐶 Pacing, scratching, yawning, drooling and repetitive licking
🥹 Worried expression (as seen in picture)
📢 Whining, barking, growling
🛏 Hiding under the bed or in closets, avoidant behavior
🔨 Destruction of walls, carpet or other household objects
If your pet exhibits any of these signs or has a history of situational anxiety, you can:
✅ Provide them with a safe, quiet space to hide; crates that have been draped with a blanket provide a dark, den-like space that is soothing
✅ Play white noise or soothing music on your TV or radio
✅ Exercise them 30-60 minutes before the stressful event; feel-good hormones are released with exercise and can combat their anxiety
✅ Provide them with a pet-safe, long-lasting chew toy; you can coax them into chewing by rubbing it with a teaspoon of peanut butter (check to make sure there's no xylitol)
👨‍⚕️ If you have tried these suggestions in the past, and your pet is still fearful, give our office a call and we can provide your pet with medication that will help to further calm their nerves. (770)832-2475

12/29/2023

👨‍⚕️ These are the radiographs (x-rays) from a two-year-old Bull Terrier that was hit by a car and suffered a broken front leg. This particular type of break is called a spiral fracture because the bone breaks in a twisting motion and does not have "clean" edges that match up easily.
The sweet pup was taken to surgery today by Dr. Harden, and her leg was repaired while under anesthesia. The post-op pictures show the metal plate holding the broken bone together and no distinguishable rough edges. After rest and gradual exercise, she will be running and playing again.
You can see in the picture that Bull Terriers are "front-heavy" dogs with a lot of chest and shoulder muscle.
(The picture is an example of what a Bull Terrier looks like and is not our patient.)

12/27/2023

😻 We're coming to the end of National Cat Lovers' Month. If your cat is getting older, there are a few things to make them more comfortble over the winter months.
💧Cats can easily get dehydrated in the winter when the air is dry and indoor heat is keeping their humans warm. Consider having multiple sources of fresh water in favorite rooms. If you notice that your cat has dry, hard stool in the litter box, talk to our veterinarians about adding wet food to their diet to help with hydration.
🥩 Cats (and dogs) are generally less active in winter months due to shorter days and colder weather. Try keeping them active with feather toys, balls, and other light-weight objects that they can chase. Add catnip spray to their toys if they need extra encouragement to be active.
😿 If you have a senior cat that suffers from arthritis, their joints may be stiffer and more painful during cold months. Consider moving their bed off the floor where it's drafty. Provide ramps up to hiding places and furniture to help prevent the need to jump up and down.
🚘 Cats are notorious for hiding in engines and wheel wells to get close to the warmth of the motor. If your cat has access to the garage or your vehicles, make sure you bang on the hood and/or honk the horn before starting your car to prevent injuries.
If you have questions about your cat's health this winter, give our office a call or schedule a visit. (770)832-2475

12/27/2023

🎄Today is National Candy Cane Day! Are peppermints OK for your pets?
There are several forms of peppermint used around the holidays: candies, oils for topical use, and oils for lotions and aromatic diffusers.
🍬🍫 Candies can be problematic if they contain a sugar replacement known as xylitol. Xylitol is found in hard candies and chewing gum and is highly toxic to pets, capable of causing death with just a small amount. Peppermint chocolate candies are also toxic to pets due to the chemical compounds in chocolate.
🐾 Some people use the essential oil form of peppermint as a natural method of pest control and spray or place it on their dog's fur or skin to repel ticks and fleas. However, peppermint oils contain compounds like menthol and menthone, which cause vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling if licked off the skin while grooming. In larger amounts, ingested peppermint oil can cause liver failure. Peppermint oil has also not been shown to conclusively repel fleas and ticks.
😷 Another way that peppermint oil and fragrance is used over the holidays is in candles and aromatic diffusers. When inhaled in concentrated amounts, peppermint oil can cause wheezing, coughing and breathing difficulties in humans and pets. If a diffuser is spilled, your pets can walk through the liquid and later groom it off their paws and fur causing the above issues.
While a small piece of "regular" candy cane is OK for a pet to eat, it's best to stay with healthier, low-sugar versions of treats that are known to be safe.
We hope you've had a wonderful Christmas! We are in both office locations all week to serve your pets in any way. (770)832-2475

12/25/2023

🎅 Merry Christmas to all! We hope you have a wonderful time of food, family and celebration with ALL of your loved ones, furry and feathered. Our veterinarians and staff are home with their families and wishing you the best!

📣 If your pets have a medical emergency today(Christmas Day), we suggest taking them to Westside Animal Emergency Clinic in Lithia Springs on Thornton Road. (770)819-1090.

🎄 We will reopen at both locations on Tuesday, December 26 for regular office hours through Saturday. (770)832-2475

12/24/2023

🎅 Merry Christmas to all! We hope you have a wonderful time of food, family and celebration with ALL of your loved ones, furry and feathered. Our veterinarians and staff are home with their families and wishing you the best!

📣 If your pets have a medical emergency today(Christmas Eve) or tomorrow(Christmas Day), we suggest taking them to Westside Animal Emergency Clinic in Lithia Springs on Thornton Road. (770)819-1090.

🎄 We will reopen at both locations on Tuesday, December 26 for regular office hours through Saturday. (770)832-2475

12/23/2023

👨‍⚕️ A common issue that pets face over the holidays (that is also distressing to pet parents) is diarrhea. It's hard to keep friends, kids and visiting family members from "treating" your pets when you're busy cooking and entertaining. When pets eat foods that are high in sodium, fat, sugar or fiber, they can easily become bloated and have diarrhea. Here are some tips to help you with diarrhea if your pet has issues over the holidays.
😕If your pet has diarrhea, contain them to a crate or small room without food or water. Monitor them for the amount, color and frequency of diarrhea. Once they have been symptom-free for 6 hours, you can give them water. If they tolerate water without having more stomach discomfort or diarrhea, then after 12 hours, you can feed them half of a normal meal of dog food. If the diarrhea returns, repeat withholding food and water for another 12 hours and monitor them.
⚠️ Your pet should see a veterinarian:
* If the diarrhea is bloody
* If you observe small pieces of what appears to be rice or spaghetti noodles, they may have intestinal worms
* If it is very liquid and has small pieces of a toy or other foreign objects, they should be monitored for stomach swelling and possible intestinal obstruction.
* If they are lethargic, their stomach is large and tender, they are having trouble breathing or cannot walk.
❌ Toxic foods for pets are: raisins, grapes, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, onion and garlic, nutmeg, sugar-free candies/gum with xylitol, macadamia nuts and uncooked yeast dough. If your pet eats any of these substances, call the ASPCA poison hotline at (888) 426-4435.

12/23/2023

🎄 Happy Holidays to everyone and their fur families! Our holiday hours are as follows:
🎅 Today, December 23: open at Columbia Drive location all day for scheduled visits, walk-ins and emergencies. Please call ahead if you know you'll be visiting with an emergency so that our staff can prepare for your pet's arrival and situation.
🎅 Sunday, Christmas Eve and Monday, Christmas Day: we will be closed at both locations.
🎇 New Year's Day: open at Columbia Drive location and closed at Oak Mountain location.
📣 If your pet needs medical attention and we are not available, we recommend taking them to Westside Animal Emergency Clinic in Lithia Springs on Thornton Road. (770)819-1090

12/23/2023

🥰 Does your pet have a special toy that he or she just can’t live without?!
We’d love to see a picture! We hope you have a wonderful Christmas season with your pets and human family!
We are here for your pet healthcare needs all day tomorrow.
We will be closed Sunday and Monday for the Christmas holidays so our staff can be home with their families.

12/22/2023

🎄 Happy Holidays to everyone and their fur families! Our holiday hours are as follows:
🎅 Saturday, December 23: open at Columbia Drive location all day for scheduled visits, walk-ins and emergencies. Please call ahead if you know you'll be visiting with an emergency so that our staff can prepare for your pet's arrival and situation.
🎅 Sunday, Christmas Eve and Monday, Christmas Day: we will be closed at both locations.
🎇 New Year's Day: open at Columbia Drive location and closed at Oak Mountain location.
📣 If your pet needs medical attention and we are not available, we recommend taking them to Westside Animal Emergency Clinic in Lithia Springs on Thornton Road. (770)819-1090

12/22/2023

❄️ Today is the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year. So do dogs and cats get Seasonal depression like some humans do?
Some pets are affected with low energy and seem to sleep more in the winter than in the summer. However, depression in pets is generally tied to a specific event like losing a buddy, moving to a new home or a change in "their human's" routine. Here are some reasons that your pet may become less active in the winter and how to help prevent weight gain:
😔 Some pets pick up on their human's behavior and feelings. If you're feeling down during the winter months, plan a fun activity for you and your pet. Play chase, throw the ball, teach them a new trick. You may not feel like doing the activity, but in the end it will help both of you feel better.
🌬 Cold weather and poor conditions outdoors often result in lack of playtime and fewer walks for your dogs. Try to take them outdoors during the warmest times of the day or play fetch in an open garage or shelter to get them out of the house.
🚶‍♀️Sometimes, the lack of exercise causes pets to resist exercise when it's offered. Provide extra encouragement if needed to break the excessive sleep-cycle and praise/treat them when they go for a walk or chase a ball! The good-feeling hormones will kick in for both of you, and you'll feel good knowing it's what is best for your pet!
🍎 When pets are less active, they might want to snack more too! Consider changing your pet-treats to small pieces of fresh, pet-safe fruits and veggies or healthy, homemade treats from recipes from our posts.
🤩 Staying active over winter months prevents weight gain, and you'll be supporting a longer, healthier lifespan for your pet! If you have questions about your pet' s mood or lack of energy, give us a call today! (770)832-2475

12/21/2023

😺 Have neighborhood cats or cats of your own that are outside this winter?
Here are a few tips about how to help them stay safe and healthy.
🏠 Cats are good at finding shelter on their own, but providing extra shelter is beneficial when the weather is below freezing. When providing your own shelter, make sure:
*the doorway is too small for other animals
*the doorway is turned away from the wind (you can turn the shelter where the doorway is facing a structure like the foundation of your home or barn to accomplish both)
*the structure is large enough for the numbers of cats using it but not so large that their body heat is lost; it should be small and cozy (ex. 3 ft x3 ft for 3-5 cats)
*the bottom of the shelter is off the ground and lined with straw (not hay, towels or shavings which can freeze and stay cold)
*the sides of the structure are solid and prevent wind and rain from entering
*if possible, provide multiple types of housing (high and low) for cats that have different needs/comfort levels
*if the cats are not used to the new shelter and resistant to using it, sprinkle cat nip, silver vine or treats around the doorway and inside
🥣 Consider buying electric heated food and water bowls to prevent freezing
🥣 Check their food and water daily for freezing; leave dry food out at all times and put out wet food regularly since wet food uses less energy to digest than dry food and encourages hydration
🐜 Check the inside of the shelter for bugs, fleas and other insects and treat with pet-safe pesticides as needed
If you have questions about your outdoor pets this winter, give us a call. For temperatures below freezing for several days in a row, it is always best to offer access to an indoor area like a basement, garage or barn.

12/20/2023

🐶 Have outdoor pets? Here are some cold weather tips to keep them safe and healthy.
🏠 Their dog house should be large enough to turn around in, but small enough to trap their body heat.
🏠 Keep the entryway to their dog house pointed towards the southeast so the northern winds don't blow in and the morning sun warms it
🏠 Use straw or hay to line the bottom. Old quilts or towels can get wet and freeze, causing it to be even colder.
🏠 Make sure the roof and sides are without cracks so the trapped heat stays inside and cold winds and rain stay out.
💧Check their water bowl daily and replenish with fresh water. Outdoor dogs become dehydrated and need access to water that's not frozen.
🦴 Make sure you increase their daily calorie intake. Give our office a call if you need advice about a calorie target for your dog's size.
🌬 Provide a sunny area that is blocked from the wind so they can warm up during the day.
🏕 If possible, bring them inside the garage or shelter at night to prevent exposing them to extremely cold temperatures.
❗Remember that senior dogs and puppies are more sensitive to cold temperatures and can develop low body temperatures more easily than healthy dogs in their prime.

12/18/2023

🍁 Yesterday was National Maple Syrup Day! Is maple syrup good for your pets?
Maple syrup is a good source of manganese and potassium, but it is very high in sugar. However, it is a more natural sugar than some of the sweeteners found in commercial treats. Cats don't have the tastebuds that pick out sweetness, but dogs can. When added to healthy recipes, a small amount of natural sugar is not harmful.
This recipe also contains flax seed which is excellent for your dog's skin during the winter months when air moisture is low due to indoor heat.
Ingredients:
2 cups dry, rolled oats (not quick cooking)
2 cups boiling water
1/4 cup ground flax seed
2 large, ripe bananas
2 Tbsp Maple syrup (or honey)
1 Tbsp cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder
2 1/2 cups brown rice flour (can also use almond flour or oat flour*)
Preheat oven to 325 degrees and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together oats, flax, and boiling water. Stir a few times to combine. Set aside for 10 minutes then add the rest of the ingredients except for the flour. Stir well.
Add flour 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue to add flour until a sticky, firm dough forms. (You can also use a stand mixer.)
Once combined, use a tablespoon and drop treats an inch apart onto prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes then reduce oven temperature to 300 degrees. Bake for 45 minutes or until browned and completely dried out. Allow to cool on pan for five minutes then remove to wire rack to cool completely. Store in airtight container on the counter for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months.
*Oat flour: to make oat flour, place dry oats in a blender or food processor and pulverize until flour consistency.
❗️As with all treats, they should only comprise 10% of your pet's daily caloric intake.

12/18/2023

☠️ Yesterday we discussed the dangers of rock salt when de-icing walkways this winter. A substance called ethylene glycol, commonly found in antifreeze, is also highly toxic to pets.
❗️According to the ASPCA, ethylene glycol poisoning is the second most common cause of fatal pet poisonings, causing the deaths of over 10,000 animals per year.
❗️Less. than 1/2 tsp. of antifreeze per pound can kill a pet. For a 50 pound dog, that could be as little as a few licks from a puddle or spilled container.
❗️❗️ Ethylene glycol is also found in windshield deicing agents, SNOW GLOBES, brake fluid, wood stains, paint solvents, ink cartridges, freezable eye/face masks, reusable ice packs and winterized toilet bowls!
Ethylene glycol affects the brain, liver and kidneys and causes kidney failure which leads to death. There are three stages of ethylene glycol poisoning:
🔺Stage 1:(30 minutes-12 hours after ingesting) dog seems drunk, staggering, confused, muscle twitching, trouble getting up and standing. Vomiting and excessive thirst may occur. The stomach and intestines absorb the substance and the liver breaks it down into toxic metabolites.
🔺Stage 2:(12-24 hours after drinking) most dogs appear like they are recovering from the drunken phase, but the toxic substances are beginning to damage the brain, liver and kidneys; thirst may be seen.
🔺Stage 3:(36-72 hours after ingestion) the toxic metabolites build up and cause permanent and severe damage to the kidneys, brain and liver. Coma, collapse and death will occur.
🛑 Take your pet to a veterinary hospital immediately if you suspect they have come into contact with antifreeze. They should be treated during the first 12 hours, but best prognosis is if treated within the first 5 hours after ingestion.
If you have questions about ethylene glycol poisoning, call the ASPCA poison control hotline at (888) 426-4435.
❗️There are several pet-safe antifreeze agents on the market. If you have a pet and service your own equipment, look for them at your local hardware and automotive stores.

12/16/2023

🌬 Cold weather is moving in next week! Here are a few things to remember to keep your pets safe:
❄️ Icy steps and sidewalks can cause us to sprinkle rock salt on dangerous surfaces. Did you know that most brands are poisonous to animals? The puddles and residue left behind are very high in sodium chloride. When your pet comes inside after walking through treated areas, the residue will likely cause his paws to burn which will lead to him licking his feet and other wet areas. Even a small amount of pure salt from the residue can lead to high sodium levels in your pet's blood. High sodium levels can cause nausea, vomiting, lack of energy, and in extreme cases seizures and kidney damage.
❗️It's best to use a pet-safe de-icer when preventing icy build-up on walkways and steps. Look for brands like Safe Step SurePaws and Safe Paw PetSafe Ice Melt (found at Ace Hardware and Tractor Supply).
❗️During icy weather, it's also helpful to keep a damp towel by the door to wipe their paws as they enter.
Stay tuned tomorrow for tips about antifreeze and other common sources of ethylene glycol, which is toxic to pets.

12/15/2023

🦌 What do you feed your reindeer this time of year?
While whole carrots are definitely a choking hazard, smaller pieces of carrots, green beans, cucumbers and apple make good treats for your pups!
If you have questions about your pet’s diet, give us a call or schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians. (770)832-2475

12/15/2023

🎁 Last call for discounts on stocking stuffers for your pets!
Save 40% in our online store and pharmacy! Follow the link below, use code SNOWY40 at checkout and save up to $75 off your entire order!
Free shipping for most orders over $49!

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12/13/2023

☁️ Yesterday we talked about the physical characteristics that can affect your dog's body temperature when it's cold outside. There are more factors that should also be taken into account when deciding when and how long to take your pet outdoors in the winter.
🌥 Cloud cover: Dogs absorb heat from the sun during daylight hours. Be wary of cold AND cloudy days when taking dogs outside who have physical limitations (as discussed yesterday).
🌬 Windy days: Wind chill often drops the temperature by 5-10 degrees than what actually registers on the thermometer.
💦 Dampness can make cold weather feel colder.
⚽️ Activity: Exercising and moving/walking is preferable to standing on cold ground or concrete(as in an outdoor kennel). However, be careful to monitor them for sign of cold intolerance and be aware that they become dehydrated quickly while exercising in the cold. Pets should come in shortly after exercise is finished so their temperature doesn't drop too quickly.
🌡 So how cold is too cold? Temperatures above 45 degrees are considered safe for most dogs. When temps drop below 40, some dogs may become sensitive to the cold. At freezing(32 degrees), older dogs, puppies and those with chronic conditions should have very limited exposure outdoors.
If you have questions about your pet's health this winter, give us a call! (770)832-2475

Address

635 Columbia Drive
Carrollton, GA
30117

Opening Hours

Monday	7am - 7pm
Tuesday	7am - 7pm
Wednesday	7am - 7pm
Thursday	7am - 7pm
Friday	7am - 7pm
Saturday	7am - 7pm
Sunday	7am - 7pm

Telephone

+17708322475

Website

https://www.carrollcountyah.com/site/home?y_source=1_MTIzNjUwNTEtNTU5LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D

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🦜 Today is National Bird Day! Birds are sometimes captured in the wild, traded illegally and sold to consumers in Europe and the US for pets. These birds are often not handled enough to be comfortable with humans and develop destructive or self-mutilating behavior in captivity. Once they reach their final homes, owners are not prepared to care for them or handle them daily. As a result, the birds become uncomfortable with humans, surrendered to shelters or abandoned and need to be re-trained when rescued. (Like Pesto in the video) If you are considering purchasing a bird for a pet, it is best to research the bird’s care requirements and speak to a veterinarian about what to expect. Thousands of birds have to be rejoined every year due to owner neglect, unrealistic owner expectations or the owner moves or has other life changes. Before purchasing a bird, check with your local bird and pet rescues to see if you could help change a bird’s life by providing their forever home! We have a whole flock of bird patients here at CCAH so ask us anything! 🐦 (🎥@jaco_n_pesto_quakerparrots)

😺 Is personal fitness one of your New Year’s goals? This kitty has a head start! 📣We are closed at our Oak Mountain location on New Year’s Day (Monday) but will be at our Columbia Drive location for all of your pet healthcare needs! 🥳 We hope you have a wonderful, safe and happy New Year and look forward to caring for your family in 2024!

🥰 Does your pet have a special toy that he or she just can’t live without?! We’d love to see a picture! We hope you have a wonderful Christmas season with your pets and human family! We are here for your pet healthcare needs all day tomorrow. We will be closed Sunday and Monday for the Christmas holidays so our staff can be home with their families.

🦌 What do you feed your reindeer this time of year? While whole carrots are definitely a choking hazard, smaller pieces of carrots, green beans, cucumbers and apple make good treats for your pups! If you have questions about your pet’s diet, give us a call or schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians. (770)832-2475

😻 December is National Cat Lovers’ Month! Do your cats share their food and toys or compete for everything? The best thing that Cat Lovers can do for their cats is to make sure they have their yearly veterinary exam! Cats are notorious for hiding illness until they are very sick. Having regular vet check-ups is a good way to keep hidden medical conditions in check. Schedule yours today at (770)832-2475.

🎅🏼 The look on the cat’s face! Do your pets barely tolerate funny outfits, like to be dressed up or shake them off? A few tips for pet costume safety: 🧑‍🎄 Leave two fingers of extra space between the clothing and your pet 🧑‍🎄 Make sure it is safety-rated for pets and fire-safe if you have open flames in your home 🧑‍🎄 Watch your pets for signs of anxiety while they are wearing costumes or clothing: excess panting, pawing at the item, rolling on the floor, drooling or shaking 🧑‍🎄 Make sure there aren’t small objects or decorations that can be chewed off and swallowed (jingle bells, faux fur, plastic berries, etc) Happy Holidays!

🥱 Anyone else looking forward to sleeping in this weekend? Not us! We’re here all day tomorrow at our Columbia Drive location for any pet healthcare needs your family might have! Come see us from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

🇺🇸 A heartfelt "Thank You!" from the CCAH family to all who served and are serving our country. We enjoy so many blessings today because of your sacrifices.

😹 In your pet family, do you have an instigator? We’re here all day tomorrow for any pet healthcare needs, even if it’s caused by sibling disputes! Have a safe and healthy weekend!

😴 Does your pet snore when they sleep? Snoring is caused when the soft tissues of the pet’s upper palate vibrate when they breathe. It’s common for it to occur when they are sleeping since their body is relaxed. Some pets snore more loudly if they have an upper respiratory infection, a foreign body in their nose or throat, excessive weight or are a brachycephalic breed (“smushed” face). If you are concerned about your pet’s breathing, it’s always a good idea to have them examined by a veterinarian.

👻 What is your favorite pet costume? When choosing an outfit for your pet this Halloween, consider these tips: 🎃 It should allow for normal movement and your pet should be able to bark, meow, drink, hear and move as usual. 🎃 Make sure all makeup, paint or body decorations are non-toxic to pets. Avoid items with zinc, chemicals and essential oils. 🎃 Let your pet wear the costume at home in their usual environment before taking them out to a party or get-together. 🎃 Avoid small attachment pieces that could become dislodged and eaten or strings that can tangle around the neck or legs. 🎃 Watch them for signs of stress and remove the costume if your pet is panting, drooling, pacing, grumpy or otherwise “out of sorts”. Have a safe and Happy Halloween!

🐢🐍🦎 Tomorrow is National Reptile Day! What’s your favorite reptile? We care for and treat lizards, snakes and other reptiles here at CCAH. Did you know that over 5 million households own at least one reptile in the U.S.?! Stay tuned tomorrow for more fun facts about reptiles as pets! (🎥@globalgeckosreptleshop)

🍼 One of the most time-consuming possibilities with breeding puppies is bottle feeding. While it may sound fun, in reality, puppies need to be bottle fed every two to three hours and weighed to make sure their nutrition is adequate if the mother is unable to nurse. The bottles and nipples have to be purchased, boiled and cleaned between feedings and formula mixed correctly and warmed to the right temperature. Depending on the puppy, actual feeding time per puppy can be 15-30 minutes for each feeding! There are several reasons for having to bottle feed puppies: 🌡️ Mom has milk fever which is a life threatening emergency. Low blood levels of calcium can develop after birth and while nursing puppies. The mom has to be given calcium supplements and must take a break from feeding her puppies to recover. 🌡️Mastitis develops which is an infection of the mammary glands that produce milk. Puppies can’t nurse in case the infection is transferred to them through the milk and because the mom’s antibiotics could cause them harm. 🌡️ Mom doesn’t bond with her puppies and won’t allow them to nurse or won’t stay in the whelping box with the puppies. Sometimes new mothers won’t care for their puppies. This can also happen after a C-section since mom is recovering from surgery and groggy from anesthesia. Her puppies have also been cleaned and handled by humans so she doesn’t bond with them while cleaning them as during a normal delivery. 🌡️ Mom isn’t producing enough milk. A mothers milk supply depends on her overall health at birth and her nutrition and hydration after delivery. It’s important to encourage the mother’s eating and drinking every hour or two. 🌡️ A puppy is too weak to nurse and needs extra help.

😄 Does your pet have funny habits or tricks when it’s playtime? Dogs love the mental stimulation that comes with hide-and-seek games. Try some out this weekend and let us know how it goes! We will be open at our Columbia Drive location tomorrow for any routine or emergency pet care that you may need! (770)832-2475

🎃 Are your Fall decorations safely entertaining your pets? Cooler temperatures and falling leaves bring out new decorations and tempting opportunities for pets. Here are a few ways to make sure your pets stay safe this Fall: 👻 Secure all electrical cords underneath rugs or tape to discourage chewing. 👻 Make sure all batteries are locked away. 👻 Keep items that aren’t pet-safe out of reach. 👻 Only use candles or incense burners in rooms where your pet can be supervised. 👻 Secure strings of lights, ceramic decorations, potpourri and gourds/pumpkins so your cats can’t knock them off elevated surfaces and your pups can eat them. Have a wonderfully cool, fall weekend! Temperatures possible into the 50’s!🎃

😁 Do your pets run from the noise or love to have their bodies vacuumed? September is Responsible Dog Owner Month and part of the AKC’s pet owner pledge includes maintaining your pet’s good hygiene. Removing dead and loose hair prevents build-up of mats, improving air flow to your pet’s skin and removing loose dirt and debris that they pick up when outdoors. This can be done using a brush, comb or grooming equipment. If your pet sheds excessively, make an appointment to see our groomers today and let us help with de-shedding! (🎥@chunkythemagnificent)

🥳 Oak Mountain/Stripling Chapel location: Our driveway and parking lot have been completely repaired and resurfaced! We will be open tomorrow morning for regular office hours and look forward to serving you and your pets. Striping and marking parking spaces will be completed after hours. Thank you for your patience over the last few months and while we were closed earlier this week!

😎 Is everyone trying to squeeze in a few more days of summer? We are here for your pet healthcare needs every Saturday at our Columbia Drive location for walk-in or scheduled appointments! No need to rush in during a weekday when you can swing by on the weekend. 📣Note: Our Oak Mountain location (Stripling Chapel Road) will be closed on Monday and Tuesday for parking lot/driveway repairs and resurfacing! Thanks for your patience. We look forward to serving your needs after a much-needed update! (🎥@ brownhikingtrails)

🦎In honor of National Iguana Awareness Day today, check out this beautiful Iguana eating hibiscus flowers! Iguanas are herbivores, meaning they eat plants. In the wild, iguanas eat the leaves of trees and vines, along with a few fruits and flowers. In captivity, veterinarians recommend feeding organic leafy veggies like kale, collard greens, beet and mustard greens, bok choy, parsley, and Swiss chard. Less than 20% of their diet should consist of fruits and yellow/orange/red vegetables. Have a wonderful weekend! If your iguanas or other family pets need healthcare, we are open tomorrow at our Columbia Drive location for routine or emergency pet medical care. (770)832-2475 (🎥@ontarioiguanas)

🐈 Today is Ginger Cat Appreciation Day! How much do you know about the felines ? 🐈 Ginger cat is not a breed of cat, but they are all Tabbies! Tabby cats have coats with stripes, spots or a combination of both. Gingers have a variation of orange, red and gold. 🐈 Most Gingers are males! Only around 20% of all Ginger cats are female. 🐈 Ginger Cats are said to be more friendly, affectionate and easy-going than other colors of cats (according to cat lovers). 🐈 Ginger cats get their coat color from a pigment called pheomelanin (which is also responsible for red hair in people). 🐈 Some cat breeds are more likely to exhibit Ginger coloration: Abyssinians, Bengals, Egyptian Mau, Munchkins and Persians. 🐈 Many Ginger cats develop black freckles on their nose, lips and gums as they age. Do you have a favorite Ginger in your life? We’d love to see your favorite pose! (🎥@maple.nd.pumpkin)

🍉 Sunday is National Melon Day! Are you celebrating with your melon bestie? Fruit is a great treat for pets because it is full of water, fiber and vitamins. Just take it slow at first to make sure that GI upset, bloating and/or diarrhea is not an issue for your pet. Have a great weekend! We’re open at our Columbia Drive location all day on Saturday for any healthcare needs that may arise for your pets. #thinkcarrollfirst #ccah #carrollcountygapets #carrollcountyanimalhospital #carrolltongapetcare #carrolltongapets #puppyhealth #puppylovers #dogdads #dogmoms #petlife #dogparents #pethealth #doglife #puppyparents #doglovers #petparents #petlovers #fruitforpets

😂 Do your fur babies ever fake an injury to get attention? Pets are amazing at picking up on cues we give them every day and changing their behavior to gain treats and privileges! A good rule of thumb for injuries is that if there is no blood or obvious signs of trauma, you can monitor a limp at home for 24-48 hours before bringing them in for evaluation. If the symptoms get worse or there is swelling involved, there might be an injury that needs medications, rest or X-rays. ❗️Don’t give your pet any over-the-counter human medications for pain since they can be toxic to pets.