Thrive Pet Healthcare Urgent Care - Catonsville

08/23/2024

🎉🐾 Hey everyone, it’s Mick here, and I’ve got some news... albeit a day late! 😹 Yesterday was National Bring Your Cat to the Vet Day, and guess what? I might’ve celebrated a little too hard for my birthday and missed the memo. 🎂🎈
But hey, better late than never, right? If you missed out on bringing your feline friend in for their check-up yesterday, don’t worry—we’re still here and ready to make sure your kitty is purring with health and happiness! 🩺❤️
While you're scheduling that appointment, keep an eye out for any concerning symptoms in your kitty's behavior. Watch for:
💙 Changes in appetite or weight
💚 Excessive grooming or hiding
💙 Sudden changes in litter box habits
💚 Unexplained lethargy or aggression
💙 Persistent coughing, sneezing, or vomiting
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to get your furry friend checked out sooner rather than later. Don’t let a little party hangover keep you from giving your fur baby the care they deserve!
Call your regular vet office to schedule their annual checkup appointment, or if your pet is exhibiting any odd behavior or symptoms above give us a call so we can get them in for an urgent care visit ASAP and let’s make sure they’re in tip-top shape!
P.S. Thanks for all the birthday wishes and belly rubs—y’all really know how to make a cat feel special! 🥳😻

08/21/2024

🎉🎂 Happy 17th Birthday to our beloved hospital cat, Mick! 🐾

Today, we celebrate not just another year of his crazy life, but an incredible journey of love and service. Mick, you’ve been more than just a furry friend; you’ve been a superhero as a retired blood donor, helping to save countless lives with your bravery and kindness.

You are truly special to all of us, and it's no wonder you have a huge fan base! Your spunky personality, gentle purrs, and occasional affection have touched the hearts of everyone who walks through our doors. From staff and pet parents to the many little ones you’ve cheered up, you have a way of making each person feel like they are your favorite.

Thank you for all the cuddles, the magical moments, and for being the heart of our hospital. Here’s to many more years of naps in the sun, treats galore, and being the adored superstar that you are! 🥳🐱

Join us in wishing Mick a paw-some birthday filled with all the love he deserves!

08/09/2024

🐾 Hello, fur-ends! 🐾

It’s Mick here, your favorite retired blood donor clinic cat, taking over the keyboard to wish you all a purr-fect National Cat Day! 🐱🎉 I’ve hung up my stethoscope and now enjoy lounging in sunny spots and getting extra treats. Today, I want to remind everyone to give your feline friends some extra love and cuddles.

Thank you for all the purrs, pats, and support during my clinic days. Remember, every day is a good day to show your furry companions just how special they are!

Paws and whiskers,
Mick 🐾

08/08/2024

check out this review from a very thankful pet owner who was treated for heat stroke last week. While we hope that you and your pet don't have to visit us frequently, we are always here for your urgent care needs. 10A-8P daily

08/06/2024

Did you know that our furry friends can have allergies just like us? If your pet is feeling under the weather, it might not always be obvious that they’re suffering from allergies. Here are some signs to watch for:
💙 Itchy Skin & Excessive Scratching – If your pet is constantly scratching or biting at their skin, they might be dealing with allergies.
💚 Red, Inflamed Skin or Rashes – Look for any unusual redness or rashes, especially in areas like the belly, paws, or underarms.
💙 Ear Infections – Frequent shaking of the head or scratching at the ears could indicate allergies affecting their ears.
💚 Watery Eyes or Runny Nose – Just like us, pets can have watery eyes or a runny nose if they’re experiencing an allergic reaction.
💙 Gastrointestinal Upset – Vomiting or diarrhea can sometimes be a sign of food allergies or intolerances.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, it's a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. They can help identify the cause and recommend the best course of action to keep your furry friend comfortable and healthy.
Keep those tails wagging and those whiskers twitching! 🐶😺❤️

08/01/2024

🎉🐾 Happy National Mutt Day! 🐾🎉
Today, we celebrate all the lovable, one-of-a-kind mixed-breed dogs that bring so much joy to our lives. From their quirky personalities to their unique looks, mutts are truly special!
One of the many benefits of having a mixed-breed pup is their generally lower risk of developing some health issues that are more common in purebreds. Thanks to their blended genetics, mutts often enjoy a wider genetic pool, which can contribute to fewer hereditary health problems and a longer, healthier life.
At Thrive Pet Healthcare we’re proud to care for every kind of dog, but there’s something particularly heartwarming about those wonderful mutts who come through our doors. Whether your furry friend is a rescue or a beloved family member, today is all about showing them some extra love and appreciation.
💙🐕 Share a photo of your mutt in the comments below and tell us what makes them so amazing! 🐕💚
To all our amazing clients and their fantastic mixed-breed pups, thank you for being a part of our family. We look forward to many more years of tail-wagging fun with your adorable mutts!

07/30/2024

🌅🐾 Happy National Climb a Mountain Day 🌄🐾
Planning to hit the trails with your four-legged companion? Here are some tips to ensure a safe and fun mountain adventure for both of you:
💙 Prep Their Paws: Mountain terrain can be tough on paws. Consider dog boots to protect their feet from rough surfaces and hot or cold conditions.
💚 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Bring plenty of water for both you and your pup. Dehydration can be a serious issue on the trails.
💙 Check Their Gear: Make sure your dog’s collar and harness are secure and comfortable. A well-fitting harness can make climbing easier and safer.
💚 Know Their Limits: Start with shorter hikes and gradually increase the difficulty. Watch for signs of fatigue or discomfort and be ready to turn back if needed.
💙 Pack the Essentials: Don’t forget waste bags, a first aid kit, and any necessary medications. It’s always better to be overprepared than underprepared!
💚 Stay on the Trail: Stick to marked paths to avoid dangerous areas and protect the natural environment.
💙 Watch for Wildlife: Keep your dog on a leash and be aware of potential wildlife encounters. This keeps both your pup and local wildlife safe.
💚 Cool Down: If it’s hot, find shady spots to rest and allow your dog to cool off. To prevent heat stroke, save the more strenuous climbs for cooler days or early mornings/evenings.

Enjoy the climb and the breathtaking views! If you have any health concerns for your pet, give us a call or stop by!
Here’s to reaching new heights together! 🐾🏔

07/23/2024

📢 July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month 📢

Did you know that over 88 million households have a pet? That’s a LOT of furry friends! While summer brings fun with fireworks and family vacations, it also brings risks for our beloved pets. Here are some essential tips to keep your pets safe and sound this summer: :dog: 😺☀️🏖

💙 Microchipping: Ensure your pets have up-to-date microchips. It’s a quick and easy way to significantly increase the chances of being reunited with your furry friends if they ever get lost. Make an appointment with your vet this month!

💚 Collars and ID Tags: Always keep a collar with an ID tag on your pets, including your phone number and address.

💙 Secure Your Yard: Double-check fences and gates to make sure they are secure. Pets can easily find escape routes, especially during fireworks or thunderstorms.

💚 Travel Safely: If you’re taking your pets on vacation, ensure they are comfortable and secure in their carriers or harnesses. Never leave them unattended in a vehicle.

💙 Stay Indoors During Fireworks: Fireworks can be terrifying for pets. Keep them inside in a safe, quiet space with some comforting background noise.

For more detailed summer safety tips, check out our Thrive Guide: https://www.thrivepetcare.com/thrive-guide/pet-safety-this-summer

By taking these precautions, we can ensure our pets stay happy, healthy, and safe. Let's make this Lost Pet Prevention Month a time to protect our precious companions!

07/17/2024

🌞🐾 Pet Pool Safety Tips for a Splashing Good Time! 🐾🌞

Hey everyone! As the summer heat kicks in, many of us are spending more time by the pool. While it’s a great way to cool off, it’s important to ensure our furry friends stay safe around water. Here are some essential pool safety tips for your pets:

Supervision is Key 👀: Never leave your pets unsupervised around the pool. Even if they are good swimmers, accidents can happen.

Teach Them to Swim 🏊‍♂️: Not all dogs are natural swimmers. Introduce them to water gradually and consider a pet life jacket for added safety.

Provide an Exit Plan 🚪: Make sure your pet knows how to get out of the pool. You can use pet-friendly ramps or teach them to use the pool stairs.

Fresh Water Supply 💧: Always have a bowl of fresh water available so your pet isn’t tempted to drink pool water, which can contain harmful chemicals.

Pool Cover Caution ⚠️: When the pool is not in use, keep it covered securely. Pets can get trapped under pool covers if they accidentally fall in.

Rinse After Swim 🚿: Chlorine and other pool chemicals can irritate your pet’s skin. Rinse them off with fresh water after a swim.

Know the Signs of Trouble 🆘: Be aware of signs of water fatigue or distress, such as heavy panting, coughing, or difficulty swimming. Act quickly if you notice any of these symptoms.

Let’s make this summer fun and safe for all members of our family, including our four-legged ones! Share your poolside pet photos and any additional safety tips you have. Stay cool and safe, everyone! 🐶🐱💦

07/17/2024

Woof! Hey everyone, it's Coda the Dalmatian here (owner by our beloved CSR Asheley), finally waking up from my toasty snooze to share some belated thoughts on National Pet Fire Safety Day! 🐶💤

So, here's the scoop: While everyone was busy learning about fire safety and making plans to keep their fur babies safe, I was blissfully snoozing away the day in the coolest corner of my house. With this heat, can you blame me? 🔥😅

But hey, I may have missed the official day, but that doesn't mean I don't care about fire safety! My human always makes sure I'm safe and sound, even when I'm napping through important events like this one. 😴💕

Remember, friends, it's crucial for you to make a family evacuation plan and practice it with your pets to make sure you keep those you love safe from harm. 🚒🐾

Here's to staying cool and staying safe, even on the hottest of days. Catch you all later—I've got some more napping to do! 💤✨️

07/11/2024

🐾🎉 Happy National Kitten Day from all of us at Thrive Catonsville Pet Urgent Care! 🎉🐾

We are thrilled to introduce the newest purr-fect additions to the Thrive family - Mavis, and Mufasa! 🐱💕 Mavis, the adventurous grey kitty, was adopted from BARCS, while Mufasa, the brave little panther, came to the clinic after a good Samaritan rescued him off the side of the road just in time. These adorable kittens are owned by our beloved practice manager, Mandi, and they have already stolen our hearts with their playful antics and sweet meows.

Join us in celebrating National Kitten Day by sharing photos of your precious feline friends in the comments below! 📸🐾 Let's spread the love and joy that kittens bring into our lives today and every day. 🐾

07/09/2024

Mick here with an important PSA:
Due to the recent surge in heat stroke cases we have seen among pets, we are making another post about HEAT! We urge all pet owners to take extra precautions during these exceptionally high temperatures. Cats and dogs are particularly vulnerable to heat-related emergencies, and it is critical to be vigilant and proactive in protecting our furry companions. 🌡️

To beat the heat, we recommend:
✅ bringing water for your dog when on hikes or walks.
✅ avoiding walks during the hottest parts of the day.
✅ steering clear of new or longer routes that may overexert your pet.
✅ walking in the shade and on grass whenever possible.
✅ never leaving pets in a parked car, even with windows cracked.
✅ ensuring access to cool, shaded areas.
✅ using pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas like noses and ears for hairless and light colored animals

Some warning signs to watch for:
❌excessive panting
❌collapsing or inability to get up
❌vomiting after drinking
❌dark red gums
❌sudden lethargy
❌diarrhea

🐾 If your pet has burned paw pads or is showing any warning signs of or , seek urgent or emergency care.

07/04/2024

Hey everyone, it's Mick here! I just wanted to wish all my fellow pets and their humans a fantastic Independence Day! 🎉 While you're enjoying the fireworks and festivities, please remember us four-legged friends might find the loud noises a bit scary. Keep us safe and secure indoors to avoid any mishaps or running away. 😺🐶❤️🤍💙
Have a pawsome day, and let's celebrate responsibly together! 🐾🎆

07/02/2024

As always, please call before coming and be prepared for a wait depending on our capacity.

06/27/2024

🎉Retirement Announcement 🎉
After 30 years of dedicated service to our community, we announce the retirement of the beloved ophthalmologist, Dr. Janet Isherwood. Dr. Isherwood has been a cornerstone of our community, providing exceptional care and compassion to countless pets and their families. Her commitment to her patients and her passion for veterinary ophthalmology will be deeply missed.
As Dr. Isherwood embarks on this new chapter, we want to ensure that all of her clients continue to receive the best care possible. We invite you to visit https://www.thrivepetcare.com/location to find a new ophthalmologist at one of our several Eye Care for Animals offices in Annapolis, Cockeysville, and Columbia.
Please join us in wishing Dr. Isherwood a happy and fulfilling retirement! ❤️🐾

06/26/2024

BARCS Animal Shelter is in desperate need of help! If you are able to foster please reach out to them!

Today was not a good day. Early this morning, we did our rounds and were negative dog kennels right from the jump from animals brought in overnight from Baltimore City Animal Control. What we did not predict was that the day would only get worse. While we were working to solve the 11-kennel deficit we had in the morning, 43 more animals came in this afternoon–notably, 30+ large dogs seized by Animal Control from unsafe conditions.

BARCS cannot handle this alone. We are already tremendously understaffed, underfunded and this year saw a 71% increase in dogs. That’s 2,300+ more dogs to take care of and find outcomes for. Our live release rate is dropping after so many years of lifesaving progress. This is not sustainable without major and immediate support from the Baltimore community and beyond.

**These are BARCS’ immediate calls to action starting tomorrow, Wednesday, June 26**

➜ Adoption fees are waived for all animals in our shelter located at 2490 Giles Road, Baltimore, MD 21225. We will waive fees through Sunday but please do not delay. Animals must start leaving on Wednesday.

➜ Large adult dog emergency fosters are needed. Please walk into our shelter tomorrow and pick out a dog to take home temporarily. (Extended hours through Friday of 10:30AM-5:45PM.)

➜ Rescue partners are needed to pull animals from the shelter. If you are an existing partner, please reach out to help. If you are a rescue but not an existing partner, please contact [email protected] to fill out an application.

➜ If you adopted in recent days and are scheduled to pick up your new pet post-surgery, please look for calls and emails from our team with updates as we are trying to get those animals home to you immediately.

➜ If you find a lost pet, hold onto it–don’t bring it to the shelter–and help look for the owners. A majority of lost pets are found within a few blocks of their homes. Notify the shelter and follow these steps on our website: https://www.barcs.org/lost-and-found-help/

➜ If you need to rehome your pet follow these tips to rehome them and also use our rehoming platform on our website https://www.barcs.org/resources-rehoming/

We have done everything we can on our own to save as many as possible. In order to save the lives of the animals still coming in above our capacity, we need to call on you–our community–to foster, adopt and help us make room for the overflow of animals we continue to get.

BARCS is a nonprofit that does not have the funding, kennel space or resources to save lives under these current circumstances without our community's support.

Please help us help them.

For questions about adoption, fostering or volunteering, please email [email protected].

06/24/2024

With 4th of July coming up we are approaching the beginning of firework season. 🎆 Dogs and cats have a much higher sense of hearing than us humans do. While we may hear fireworks as musical pops, our pets experience them with much higher intensity! As with thunder, displays of fireworks are unpredictable and cause a lot of confusion for our pets. Cats and dogs can't understand what is happening when they hear fireworks, which instinctively triggers their fight-or-flight response to unknown threats.

How do you know if your pet is fearful or stressed by loud noises?
You may note any of following behaviors:

🔴Pacing or restlessness
🔴Lip licking
🔴Trembling or shaking
🔴Panting
🔴Excessive alertness or hypervigilance
🔴Cowering
🔴Hiding
🔴Brow furrowed or ears back
🔴Freezing or immobility
🔴Owner-seeking behavior or excessive clinginess
🔴Refusing to eat
🔴Yawning
🔴Vocalizing (whining or barking at the sounds)

DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE!⏰ These loud celebrations can be very stressful for our pets. That’s why we wanted to remind pet owners to call your vet today to get a refill on anxiety medication or schedule a consult today so your pet can enjoy a fear/anxiety-free holiday! Having medication can help prepare for stressful events like fireworks and thunderstorms!

When you know fireworks will soon be lighting up the sky nearby, prepare beforehand using our guide: https://www.thrivepetcare.com/.../how-to-calm-pets-during...

06/22/2024

With temperatures on the rise, it's important to keep an eye on our pets, as cats and dogs are highly susceptible to heat-related emergencies.
Some warning signs to watch for: excessive panting, collapsing or inability to get up, vomiting after drinking, dark red gums, sudden lethargy.
In addition to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, be aware of the dangers of burned paw pads from walking on hot pavement or venturing onto rough trails without prior conditioning. These injuries may result in weeks of bandaging, pain management, and potential permanent scars.
If your pet has burned paw pads or is showing any symptoms of or , seek Emergent Care ASAP at a 24hour Hospital near you!

06/20/2024

check out this review from a very thankful pet owner. While we hope that you and your pet don't have to visit us frequently, we are always here for your urgent care needs. 10A-8P daily

06/17/2024

It's ! We’re lucky to be able celebrate that every day here at our clinic by getting to see your pets. Today Mufasa joined his mom at work to help us with social media posts, parking lot security, run some lab work and fill some prescriptions. Having animals around a work environment has been shown to help reduce stress, increase morale, reduce absenteeism, and bring co-workers closer together.

Did you take your pet to work with you? If so, share some pictures in the comments! 👇

06/13/2024

check out this review from a very thankful pet owner. While we hope that you and your pet don't have to visit us frequently, we are always here for your urgent care needs. 10A-8P daily.

06/10/2024

Did you know that around 25% of the total pet poisoning cases each year are caused by ingestion of a toxic plant?! There are several varieties of plants that can be toxic to pets, but we’ve compiled a list of some of the most toxic house plants for cats and dogs to help you keep your pet safe at home. Learn more about plants and pet safety here:
https://www.thrivepetcare.com/thrive-guide/pets-and-plants-keepingyour-furry-loved-ones-safe

06/03/2024

Happy National Pet Week We're honored to be your trusted partner in providing the healthcare your pet needs to live a happy, healthy life. Share any favorite snaps of your pets with us in the comments below

05/30/2024

check out this review from a very thankful pet owner. While we hope that you and your pet don't have to visit us frequently, we are always here for your urgent care needs. 10A-8P daily.
Many thanks for the evaluation and excellent treatment for my precious senior cat, Malina!! Dr. Lauren Peterson & her staff were all professional, knowledgeable, and caring, as indicated by recommendations for Malina's health concerns. Ms. Simmy, who I spoke with prior to our visit, has excellent customer service skills!! I certainly highly recommend your clinic/ hospital to others who are seeking excellent service!💯❤️

05/28/2024

With grilling season in full swing, here's a refresher on common cookout foods you should NEVER feed pets! While most pet owners know that certain foods like chocolate, onions and garlic and grapes pose serious health risks for dogs and cats, visiting friends, family and children may not. It’s a smart idea to remind your guests to NOT feed your pet table foods - especially if they are expert beggars.

If you suspect your pet may have eaten something they shouldn’t
have, go directly to the closest urgent/emergency vet if your veterinarian is not available. Be sure to bring the item ingested, if possible, to help them diagnose and treat your pet.

05/23/2024

check out this review from a very thankful pet owner. While we hope that you and your pet don't have to visit us frequently, we are always here for your urgent care needs. 10A-8P daily.

The staff is so supportive and they really made my sister and I feel like we were with family!! ^_^ They helped take care of my dog when he was having an allergic reaction. And also when her diabetic cat was suffering from a life threatening UTI. Our pets are alive, happy and healthy! Thanks to this awesome team. Thank you guys!