VCA Northwest Animal Hospital

VCA Northwest Animal Hospital Call 719-593-8582 for your appointment
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Meet Tucker and Tilly Blacker! They visited us recently for their first puppy shots. We look forward to seeing them for ...
08/24/2024

Meet Tucker and Tilly Blacker! They visited us recently for their first puppy shots. We look forward to seeing them for their booster vaccines and can't wait to watch them grow!

Pets with DisabilitiesSome disabilities are not immediately obvious but still require lifestyle adaptations. It is impor...
08/23/2024

Pets with Disabilities

Some disabilities are not immediately obvious but still require lifestyle adaptations. It is important to consider what these pets need in the way of day-to-day support and then help them live their very best life within their limitations.

Blindness can be acquired or present from birth. Blind dogs should not have unsupervised access to stairs, for instance, although blind cats can generally negotiate them safely. Blind animals can be trained to localize and follow sounds such as clicks and whistles. In a household with more than one pet, a blind pet will often rely on another animal in the household to lead the way.

Deafness is similar to blindness in many respects. It can be acquired or present from birth. Deaf pets must be protected from traffic and other unpleasant surprises but can otherwise live a fairly normal life and have a normal life expectancy. See the handouts “Living with a Deaf Dog” and “Living with a Deaf Cat” for specific advice on helping an animal with hearing loss.

Other invisible disabilities include issues affecting mentation (mental awareness), such as cognitive dysfunction and anxiety disorders. These are no less real than the loss of a limb, and they require their own specific management strategies.
If your pet has one of these hidden disabilities, your veterinarian can help you create the best plan to help your pet cope.

Today is National Blind Dog Day!Blind dogs can make wonderful companions. Whether they lost their sight later in life or...
08/23/2024

Today is National Blind Dog Day!

Blind dogs can make wonderful companions. Whether they lost their sight later in life or if they were born blind, they can be loving companions. Shout out to the all the blind dogs and their wonderful owners out there!

Meet Mango (orange and white) and Ginkgo (white and calico)! Claire, one of our wonderful employees, have welcomed these...
08/22/2024

Meet Mango (orange and white) and Ginkgo (white and calico)! Claire, one of our wonderful employees, have welcomed these two new kittens into her family!

Today is National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day. Did you know that cats are the most popular vet in the United States? Ye...
08/22/2024

Today is National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day.

Did you know that cats are the most popular vet in the United States? Yet, they are less like to be taken to the vet than other pets. Even though cats are relatively stoic and self-sufficient, it is important that they get regular check-ups!

If it has been a while since your cat has visited the veterinarian, make sure to give us a call so we can get them on the schedule!

Allergies in CatsAn allergy occurs when the cat's immune system overreacts or is hypersensitive to foreign substances ca...
08/21/2024

Allergies in Cats

An allergy occurs when the cat's immune system overreacts or is hypersensitive to foreign substances called allergens. Allergens are foreign proteins that the body's immune system tries to remove. Examples of allergens common in humans are pollens, dust, molds, and pet hair. Hypersensitivity in cats can manifest in one of three ways:
1. The most common manifestation is itching skin, either localized to one area or a generalized reaction all over the cat's body.
2. Another manifestation involves the respiratory system and may result in coughing, sneezing, and wheezing. Sometimes, there may be an associated nasal or ocular (eye) discharge.
3. The third manifestation involves the digestive system and can result in vomiting, flatulence, and/or diarrhea.

If you are worried your cat may have allergies, make sure to bring them into their veterinarian to be checked out!

This is Phoebe Buffay! This 9 week old puppy came to visit us recently for her first puppy visit! We look forward to wat...
08/21/2024

This is Phoebe Buffay! This 9 week old puppy came to visit us recently for her first puppy visit! We look forward to watching her grow!

Allergies in DogsIn dogs, the most common symptom associated with allergies is itchy skin, either localized (in one area...
08/20/2024

Allergies in Dogs

In dogs, the most common symptom associated with allergies is itchy skin, either localized (in one area) or generalized (all over the body). In other cases, the allergic symptoms affect the digestive system, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea.

During this high allergy time, make sure to check with your pet's veterinarian to see if we can help them stay comfortable throughout the rests of summer!

Labor Day weekend is fast approaching! If you are planning on traveling or taking a vacation during this time, make sure...
08/20/2024

Labor Day weekend is fast approaching!

If you are planning on traveling or taking a vacation during this time, make sure your pets are well taken care of in our boarding facility! We take both dogs and cats of any age and size. Because we are also a veterinary clinic, we can care for animals with special medical conditions and administer medications while you are gone!

Slots fill up quickly, so make your boarding reservation now! You can call us at (719) 593-8582 to make a reservation and ask any questions you may have about our boarding facility!

August is National Immunization Awareness Month! Make sure your cat is fully vaccinated to keep them healthy and protect...
08/19/2024

August is National Immunization Awareness Month! Make sure your cat is fully vaccinated to keep them healthy and protected for illnesses.

Meet Agitos! This 12-week-old kitten visited us recently for one of their first vet visits and see posing with Amber, on...
08/19/2024

Meet Agitos!

This 12-week-old kitten visited us recently for one of their first vet visits and see posing with Amber, one of our wonderful employees!

Vaccines and Immunization are important and necessary to help prevent hospitalization and stress to your pet. Make sure ...
08/14/2024

Vaccines and Immunization are important and necessary to help prevent hospitalization and stress to your pet. Make sure to speak with your veterinarian on which vaccines are right for your pet's age and lifestyle.

08/13/2024

We're almost through the summer, but the heat is still here. Heatstroke is no joke! Look out for these signs to keep your pet cool this summer.

08/09/2024

Hikes are a great way to spend time with your pet, but they can pose some dangers.

If something pops up on your next hike, make sure to check out our VCA Urgent Care services.

Learn More: https://vcahospitals.com/urgent-care

Happy  ! 🎉😺 To celebrate, we're spotlighting some of our Associates' adorable furry friends!
08/08/2024

Happy ! 🎉😺 To celebrate, we're spotlighting some of our Associates' adorable furry friends!

08/06/2024

Disasters can strike at any moment so it's important stock up on emergency supplies and consider your pet’s needs. Lastly, be sure to download the myVCA app to have access to your pet's medical records.

Download Now: myvca.app

07/31/2024

Thank you Sampson for being a great tour guide on a tour of our VCA Urgent Care hospital! When care can’t wait, go to VCA Animal Hospitals Urgent Care for same-day pet care.

Learn More: https://vcahospitals.com/urgent-care

07/29/2024

Let's go to the beach-beach, let's avoid heat waves! 🛸

Happy National Dog Photography Day! Show pictures of your pooches in the comments below!
07/26/2024

Happy National Dog Photography Day! Show pictures of your pooches in the comments below!

If you let your dog swim in lakes or rivers, it is important to be aware of the risks. Cyanobacteria poisoning can be a ...
07/25/2024

If you let your dog swim in lakes or rivers, it is important to be aware of the risks. Cyanobacteria poisoning can be a problem if your pet ingests any of the contaminated water.

Rising temperatures can cause pets to suffer from heatstroke, which can lead to illness and even death. If your pet has ...
07/25/2024

Rising temperatures can cause pets to suffer from heatstroke, which can lead to illness and even death. If your pet has heatstroke, take the following actions to help lessen the potential severity of the situation.

The dos and don’ts of dog water safety:Nothing beats the summer heat quite like chilling poolside—or lakeside or even be...
07/24/2024

The dos and don’ts of dog water safety:

Nothing beats the summer heat quite like chilling poolside—or lakeside or even beside a creek—and many of our dogs love to splash along with us. But not all our canine companions have mastered the doggie paddle, and even those that have can experience accidental mishaps.

Can you guess that pet? 🐾 Answer in the comments 👇!Hint: They make a clownish and fun-loving companion.Comment below and...
07/24/2024

Can you guess that pet? 🐾 Answer in the comments 👇!

Hint: They make a clownish and fun-loving companion.

Comment below and let us know if you guessed correctly!

Serum ElectrolytesWhat are electrolytes?Electrolytes are the salts and metallic components that are dissolved within the...
07/24/2024

Serum Electrolytes

What are electrolytes?

Electrolytes are the salts and metallic components that are dissolved within the blood serum (serum is the liquid portion of blood). The electrolytes of greatest clinical importance are sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, phosphorus, and calcium.

Why are electrolytes important?

Electrolytes are involved in most of the body's daily functions. For example, electrolytes are required for proper nerve conduction, for heart and skeletal muscle contraction, for maintenance of proper hydration, and for maintenance of proper blood pH.

What samples are needed to measure electrolytes?

A single blood sample is all that is required for electrolyte determination. This sample may be analyzed in the veterinary clinic or sent to a veterinary referral laboratory for electrolyte determination.

What do changes in electrolyte concentrations mean?

In most instances, changes in electrolyte concentrations do not indicate any specific disease; they occur as secondary changes caused by certain diseases or conditions.
~Serum calcium concentrations may become elevated from inflammation, cancer, or a condition called hyperparathyroidism.
~Diseased kidneys may be unable to eliminate excess phosphorus and potassium through the urine, resulting in one or both electrolytes being elevated.
~Diarrhea may cause an increased loss of sodium and bicarbonate from the gastrointestinal tract.

Occasionally, the pattern of electrolyte change may point to a specific disease. For example, a change in the ratio of sodium to potassium may suggest hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease) in dogs.

If electrolyte changes don't indicate the disease, why bother measuring them?

Changes in electrolyte concentrations may have significant consequences due to their role in muscle contraction, nerve conduction, and water balance.
~Markedly elevated serum potassium concentrations can lead to cardiac arrhythmias (abnormal heartbeats).
~Excessive loss of sodium and chloride may result in dehydration and shock.
~A depleted phosphorus concentration in the diabetic patient may lead to red blood cell rupture and anemia.

It is important to detect changes in electrolyte concentrations so that these changes can be treated before the situation becomes severe or life-threatening. Often, electrolyte changes must be addressed first, before the underlying disease condition is controlled or treated.

As part of hydration awareness month, it is also important to discuss the dangers of waterborne illnesses. It is importa...
07/23/2024

As part of hydration awareness month, it is also important to discuss the dangers of waterborne illnesses. It is important to make sure your pet does not drink contaminated water or water from still ponds or lakes. You should also make sure your pet is full vaccinated, especially against leptospirosis which is a zoonotic illness (meaning it can be spread to humans) that pets can get from drinking unclean water. Make sure your pet always has access to fresh water, both at home and when traveling.

With heat waves sweeping across the country, blue-green algae is appearing in new areas and posing an increased risk to ...
07/23/2024

With heat waves sweeping across the country, blue-green algae is appearing in new areas and posing an increased risk to pets.

Found in lakes, ponds or any source of standing water, it’s extremely toxic and consuming it can be fatal. The best way to prevent accidental poisoning is to keep a close eye on pets when they’re around water.

If you think your pet has been exposed, take them to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital and contact the ASPCA Poison Control at 888-426-4435.

Make sure your pet is up-to-date on their parasite preventative to keep them safe from ticks. Talk to your veterinarian ...
07/23/2024

Make sure your pet is up-to-date on their parasite preventative to keep them safe from ticks. Talk to your veterinarian about what tick preventative is best for your pet.

The third Sunday in July is National Ice Cream Day! What is your favorite flavor?
07/21/2024

The third Sunday in July is National Ice Cream Day! What is your favorite flavor?

How many of you are crafty? Today is the day you can make a difference! For fun ideas, visit https://nationaltoday.com/n...
07/21/2024

How many of you are crafty? Today is the day you can make a difference!

For fun ideas, visit https://nationaltoday.com/national-craft-for-your-local-shelters-day/ #:~:text=National%20Craft%20for%20your%20Local%20Shelters%20Day%20%E2%80%93%20July%2021%2C%202023&text=National%20Craft%20for%20Your%20Local%20Shelters%20Day%20is%20celebrated%20on,and%20cats%20on%20this%20day!

Harvest Mite Infestations in DogsHarvest mites, also known as red bugs, trombiculid mites, scrub-itch mites, berry bugs ...
07/20/2024

Harvest Mite Infestations in Dogs

Harvest mites, also known as red bugs, trombiculid mites, scrub-itch mites, berry bugs or, in their larval stage as chiggers, are mites that are commonly found in forests and grasslands.

During feeding, they pierce the skin with their small, hooked fangs and inject powerful enzymes that digest skin cells, which become liquefied and are consumed by the larvae. The enzymes are irritating to the skin and result in intense itching. Itching causes the dog to chew or scratch itself, causing self-inflicted wounds. The resulting skin lesions vary from crusted spots to areas of hair loss to raw and moist bleeding areas. In dogs, harvest mites are more commonly found around the ears and between the toes but can be found almost anywhere on the body.

If your dog has spent time in areas were harvest mites like to live and you notice they are itchy or have sores on their body, please bring them into their veterinarian to be checked out! Keeping your pet up-to-date on parasite preventions is a great way to protect your pet as well!

Make sure your pet is drinking enough water!
07/20/2024

Make sure your pet is drinking enough water!

If you plan on traveling with your dog this summer, make sure to follow these travel and roadtrip tips!
07/19/2024

If you plan on traveling with your dog this summer, make sure to follow these travel and roadtrip tips!

It is important that pets are well-hydrated. It is also important to replace their electrolytes as well. Call your veter...
07/19/2024

It is important that pets are well-hydrated. It is also important to replace their electrolytes as well. Call your veterinarian about ways to keep your pet healthy during these hot summer months.

Like many businesses, VCA Animal Hospitals is experiencing an IT system outage. We are still seeing pets but please know...
07/19/2024

Like many businesses, VCA Animal Hospitals is experiencing an IT system outage. We are still seeing pets but please know that our services may be limited.
Thank you for your patience while we work to get our hospitals back online.

Some dogs are more at risk of dehydration than others.
07/18/2024

Some dogs are more at risk of dehydration than others.

07/18/2024

If the pavement is too hot for you, it's too hot for them. Make sure to be aware of the dangers hot pavement can have on your pet's paws.

Happy Birthday to our wonderful Hospital Manager, Lynne!You do such an amazing job keeping VCA Northwest Animal Hospital...
07/18/2024

Happy Birthday to our wonderful Hospital Manager, Lynne!

You do such an amazing job keeping VCA Northwest Animal Hospital running. You are irreplaceable! She is shown below with her best Belgian Malinois boy, Peyton!

We hope all your birthday wishes come true!

Most people take vacations during the summer months. While we are always happy to take care of your furry friends while ...
07/17/2024

Most people take vacations during the summer months. While we are always happy to take care of your furry friends while you are away, it is not uncommon that people will travel with their pets. Traveling with cats, while rewarding, can also be challenging. Below are some tips to consider when traveling with your cat:

Tornadoes form during intense thunderstorms and can reach wind speeds of 200+ mph. Although tornadoes can occur anywhere...
07/17/2024

Tornadoes form during intense thunderstorms and can reach wind speeds of 200+ mph. Although tornadoes can occur anywhere, they are prevalent in the Southeast and Midwest. Stay informed by downloading the FEMA app and signing up for weather reports and evacuation notices.

Keep a list handy of pet-friendly shelters and contact information for your local animal control office and ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) in case of evacuation.

Just like we need to drink water to stay healthy, so do our pets!
07/17/2024

Just like we need to drink water to stay healthy, so do our pets!

Address

4575 North Chestnut Street
Colorado Springs, CO
80907

Opening Hours

Monday 7am - 6pm
Tuesday 7am - 6pm
Wednesday 7am - 6pm
Thursday 7am - 6pm
Friday 7am - 6pm
Saturday 7am - 2pm
Sunday 9am - 12pm

Telephone

+17195938582

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Northwest Animal Hospital

At Northwest Animal Hospital we care about and love the people in the community that we serve as much as their pets. We emphasize comprehensive, high-quality medicine and patient care and strive for customer service excellence. Every person on our staff is kind-hearted and trained to the highest standards. Our environment is one of compassion and caring, not just for our clients and patients, but for each other as well. When you are here you will meet exceptional and unique people, and we know that you will come to care about our team as much as we do. Our dedicated staff has a mission to help your pets live long, healthy lives. Come and see us, you’ll like who you meet.

We are also proud to be an accredited member of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). We undergo regular inspections by AAHA to ensure that we comply with their high quality standards of care. These standards cover nearly every aspect of our hospital, including surgery, pharmacy, laboratory, exam facilities, pet health records, cleanliness, emergency care, dentistry, nursing care, diagnostic imaging, and anesthesiology.


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