Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies

02/15/2025

In case your pet needs urgent medical care, remember, we're open 24/7 over the weekend and on Presidents Day. If in doubt, call us at 303-660-1027. https://bit.ly/42zDaX1

02/14/2025

Nothing says love like a happy, healthy pet! For Valentine’s Day, show your furry friend some extra love with a new toy or special treat, an extra cuddle, or a long walk or play session.

Remember, some Valentine’s treats can be dangerous for pets, — like chocolate for dogs and lilies for cats.

02/12/2025

February is National Cat Health Month! A healthy cat is a happy cat, and small changes can make a big difference.

✔️ Schedule regular checkups with your primary care veterinarian and keep up with dental care
✔️ Encourage play & exercise
✔️ Watch for subtle signs of illness

Cats are masters at hiding discomfort—if something seems off, don’t wait! Our team is here 24/7 for emergencies.

02/11/2025

Even though your pet sports a cozy fur coat, they still need protection from the cold. Here are a few reminders to keep pets safe and out of the ER during cold weather:
✅Limit outdoor time – If it's too cold for you, it's probably too cold for your pet.
✅Fashion = function – Sweaters and booties aren't just cute; they help protect against frostbite and frozen paws.
✅Check under the hood – Outdoor cats love warm engines. Give a quick honk or tap before starting your car.
✅Watch for ice melt – Some salts and chemicals are toxic to pets. Be sure to wipe down paws after walks.
✅No backyard campouts – Bring outdoor pets inside or provide a warm, dry place out of the elements with water protected against freezing.
See more details in our winter weather blog. Stay warm, stay safe, and if your pet does get into a winter wonderland mishap, we’re here for you!
https://bit.ly/3NXQbRF

02/09/2025

Before you tune in for tonight's big game, check out the 21st annual Puppy Bowl at noon MT, streaming on Discovery+ and airing on Animal Planet. Don't miss the inspiring adoption stories from 80 shelters across 40 states, including 11 special needs pups! https://bit.ly/3EybAiT

02/06/2025

Save the date for the Denver Dumb Friends League Furry Scurry on May 3! This two-mile walk is an annual event to support local pets in need. We are the Pet First Aid Sponsor again this year and can't wait to see you at Wash Park for this fun event. Early bird registration rates end on February 9, so sign up today! https://bit.ly/3WKORGC

02/06/2025

If you haven't reviewed your pet's care routines in 2025, Responsible Pet Owners Month may be a good time. From annual checkups to microchip information and from quality food to appropriate exercise, care needs can change throughout a pet's life. Check out this helpful list of pet owner resources from American Veterinary Medical Association for everything from preventative care recommendations to pet considerations when you're away from home. https://bit.ly/3WFi8Ta

02/03/2025

With H5N1 (avian flu) seemingly a daily topic in news reports, you may have questions about how your pets are affected, especially cats. This article from American Animal Hospital Association gives some good background on how the disease was transmitted to cats, diagnosing the disease, and precautions. Symptoms may start with loss of appetite, lethargy, and fever, progressing to respiratory issues, discharge from the nose and eyes, and neurologic signs such as tremors or seizures. To limit the possibility of exposure, avoid feeding raw or unpasteurized dairy or meat, limit exposure to wild birds and other wildlife, and prevent contact with livestock, poultry, and their environments. Cats seem to be susceptible to severe illness or even death, so contact a veterinarian if your pet shows signs of illness or if you suspect exposure.
https://bit.ly/4aGSX8s

01/30/2025

Cats seem like independent creatures, but do they ever get lonely? Changes in eating or litter box habits as well as destructive behaviors could be signs that your cat misses you. To keep your cat happy at home while you're away try:
✅ Interactive toys or puzzle feeders.
✅ Setting up a comfy perch near a window for birdwatching.
✅ A pet camera to talk to them.
✅ Adopting a feline friend.
✅ Spending quality time together when you’re home!

Here are some more tips from PetMD.
https://bit.ly/4g9ESBr

01/27/2025

Just like with people, injured or sick pets sometimes need blood transfusions as part of their treatment. This means we also need pet blood donors. Find out more about this life-saving donation...
https://bit.ly/40N4Oi3

01/24/2025

Today is National Peanut Butter Day! With all the peanut butter dog treats on the market, have you ever wondered if peanut butter is actually healthy for dogs? Peanut butter is a good source of plant-based protein, healthy fats, and niacin and is generally healthy for dogs -- in small amounts. That said, if you're considering raiding the human pantry for a dog snack, watch out for added salt and extra calories from sugar. Plus, be sure the peanut butter doesn't contain xylitol, a common sweetener that's toxic to dogs. You can also consider peanut butter specifically formulated for man's best friend.

01/23/2025

Tomorrow is Change a Pet's Life Day. Thousands of pets are waiting in shelters for their forever homes. Here’s how you can help:
🐾 Adopt a homeless pet and give them the love they deserve.
🐾 Volunteer at your local shelter to provide care and companionship.
🐾 Donate food, supplies, or funds to support local shelters like The Denver Dumb Friends League or others.
https://bit.ly/40tsZjZ

01/22/2025

We're not seeing as many cases as this time last year, but with more time indoors, take a minute to review our blog on canine respiratory disease for symptoms and tips to keep your furry family members healthy.
https://bit.ly/4hrtCS1

01/21/2025

Today is National Hug Your Puppy Day. If you have a new furry family member, we would love to see your photos!

01/16/2025

Exercise is as important for dogs as it is for humans, but frigid temps can put a damper on daily walks. Check out these ideas to help your dog burn off some energy indoors.
https://bit.ly/4g7fwEi

01/15/2025

The recent fires in the LA area have deeply impacted many lives, including those of our beloved pets. Our hearts go out to everyone affected. If you want to help, consider joining families around the country making donations to the Red Cross relief efforts. You can also check this website for specific organizations needing resources to care for pets and help with reuniting lost pets with their families. https://bit.ly/3PCa0Pd Let’s come together to support our neighbors, furry friends, and first responders during this challenging time.
redcross.org/kcal

Please join CBS Los Angeles in supporting the lifesaving efforts of the American Red Cross.

01/14/2025

This month we're spotlighting Dr. Erin Arnold who has joined Dr. Jen Arthur in our Oncology department. Dr. Arnold obtained her doctorate of veterinary medicine from North Carolina State University and completed her oncology residency at Purdue. Her professional interests include electrochemotherapy treatment for tumors of the face and mouth and treatment strategies to improve survival times. Dr. Arnold strives to provide high-quality medical care for animals while offering emotional support for families. Read more. https://bit.ly/4hg08Xm

01/13/2025

Did you know dogs' super-sensitive noses could help revolutionize cancer screening? Researchers are combining the incredible scent detection skills of canines with advanced AI to better interpret the dogs' cues. After testing 1,400 patients in Israel with the help of 3 Labradors, the team at SpotitEarly is gearing up for a larger clinical trial in the U.S with results expected as early as 2026. Check out this article from Science News for more details. https://bit.ly/3DN1fPM

Scientists paired Labrador retrievers with an AI model in a new screening test for breast, lung, colorectal or prostate cancer.