Old York Veterinary Hospital

05/01/2025

04/30/2025

OYVH - May Weekend Closure

Old York Veterinary Hospital will be closed Saturday, May 10th 2025

Friday 5/09 : 8 AM - 6 PM

Saturday 5/10: CLOSED

Sunday 5/11: CLOSED

Monday 5/12 : 8 AM - 7 PM

Thank you for your continued support and understanding!

04/29/2025

🌱🐾 Fertilizer & Furry Friends Don't Always Mix!
Spring is here, and so is lawn care season—make sure you're keeping your pets safe around fertilizers. Check out our tips for a pet-friendly spring!

Fertilizers enrich garden soil with essential nutrients like Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (N-P-K), often listed on the packaging. However, they can be tempting to pets. While N-P-K nutrients are poorly absorbed and typically cause mild stomach upset (vomiting, diarrhea), some organic fertilizers contain higher levels of trace elements, which, in large amounts, may lead to weakness, stiff joints, or lameness.
Most symptoms resolve on their own, but severe cases may require veterinary care. Important: Some fertilizers also contain herbicides, insecticides, or fungicides, which vary in toxicity. Always check labels for added ingredients.

04/28/2025

April Showers May Bring Spring Bulbs. What Does that Mean for Your Pet?

Did you know that the types of toxins that pets frequently ingest can change depending on the time of the year? Calls come in year-round about pets ingesting things like chocolate or medications, but the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) sees a spike in certain toxins during specific seasons. That's because pets become exposed to (and curious about) what is around them.

As we move into spring, APCC reports that they have been getting an increase in calls from pet parents reporting that their pets have either ingested or dug up spring bulbs from their gardens.

As you may already know, some plants and flowers are completely harmless for your pets. But, there are some plants that could pose a serious threat to your pet's health if ingested. So it's important to know which popular springtime bulbs you should be wary of when it comes to your furry friends.

Tulips, Hyacinths and Irises are all considered toxic to both dogs and cats, and can cause vomiting, diarrhea and drooling if ingested.

All parts of the plants contain toxins and can cause issues for your pets, but the toxins are most concentrated in the bulbs of the plant - making the bulb the most dangerous part. Depending on how much your pet ingests, and which parts of the plant are ingested, significant vomiting or diarrhea may occur which can lead to more serious concerns such as dehydration, lethargy and abdominal pain.

Crocus
The first thing to know about the Crocus plant is there are two different types: one that blooms in the spring (Crocus sp.) and one that blooms in the fall (Colchicum autumnale). Crocus sp. may cause gastrointestinal upset when any part of the plant is ingested. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea and drooling.

On the other hand, Colchicum autumnale can be much more serious and may cause severe vomiting, diarrhea (possibly with blood), liver and kidney damage, and possibly bone marrow damage, which could then lead to a decrease in white and red blood cells, as well as platelets.

Daffodil
Daffodils, like the other spring bulbs, can also cause gastrointestinal upset leading to vomiting, diarrhea and drooling. Similar to the Tulip, Hyacinth and Iris, Daffodil bulbs also contain the highest concentration of toxins.

Unlike the other bulbs, however, daffodils may cause depression, hypotension or even seizures when ingested in large amounts.

While you're on alert for bulb poisoning, don't forget about other common garden dangers. While fertilizer is wonderful for your plants, it can be extremely appealing (and potentially dangerous) to curious dogs. When ingested, fertilizers can cause vomiting, diarrhea and, in some cases, weakness or stiffness in your pets' hind legs.

Best practice when gardening is to make sure to keep your pet out of the area when you are using fertilizers. If you feel your garden is incomplete without one of the above spring bulbs, be sure to keep your flowers fenced off and keep any curious paws away from the garden.

04/26/2025

Today, we celebrate the heart of animal care — our veterinary professionals. 🩺🐾

On National Veterinary Day, we honor the compassionate hands, sharp minds, and selfless hearts that work tirelessly behind the scenes. From the exam room to the surgery table, through sleepless nights and emotional goodbyes — you show up, again and again, with unwavering love, deep respect for life, and a fierce devotion to every animal in your care.

It takes humility to serve, passion to heal, and strength to hold space for both joy and loss. You do it all with grace.

💙 To every veterinarian, technician, assistant, and support staff — thank you. You are the guardians of wellness, the voices for the voiceless, and the reason tails keep wagging and hearts keep beating.

Happy National Veterinary Day! 🐶🐱🐰🐾

04/25/2025

In Honor of National Hair Ball Day - take a look as the helpful tips in this article

How to Remove Matted Cat Hair

When you’re petting your silky cat and come across a clump of stuck-together fur, that’s a mat. Matted cat fur is very common in medium and longer-haired breeds and might not seem like a big deal. In reality, mats can be quite painful and full of nasty stuff that can irritate the skin and it could be a sign of health issues. It’s good to know how to handle a mat in a way that won’t cause undue pain or stress for your cat.

Read through some commonly asked questions and answers on matted cat hair, below.

Why do cats get matted hair? What’s the big deal?
Mats occur in cats with hair long enough to get tangled as they move and shed. Sometimes the knot is just hair. Other times, something dirty or sticky starts the mat, and hair continues to join the party over time. Wet food, debris like mud or small twigs, and even a little p**p left behind can start a mat. Over time, the mat gets larger and tighter.

Sometimes if a cat is having a health problem, they may start to develop mats. If they have osteoarthritis pain they may not be comfortable grooming or it may be a skin problem causing their hair to mat. So, if you have noticed a change in your cat’s coat take them to the veterinarian to get checked out.

This can pull on the skin in very painful ways, particularly because mats tend to form in the more sensitive areas like the belly, chest, and butt. If left untreated, mats can prevent your cat from squatting in the litterbox, sitting, stretching, jumping, and other necessary movements.

Thick mats can also block airflow to the skin and limit your cat’s ability to groom that skin. It can become irritated and even infected. This is why mat removal is a priority.

Should you remove mats from your cat’s hair yourself?
If you have a medium or long-haired cat, it’s important to get them comfortable with regular grooming in a slow, positive way. Whether you do some of their grooming at home or take your cat to a professional groomer depends on understanding the grooming process and how your cat responds to you. Regardless, there may be times when your cat has a serious mat, and you can’t get into the groomer or veterinarian right away to remove it. In those situations, if you feel comfortable, you can try and remove the mat yourself. Just remember, this can be scary and painful for your cat if you aren’t prepared and careful. There can be instances where you could accidently cut or hurt your cat when trying to remove these mats, so you should rely on trained professionals when possible.

Have your tools handy, like:

• Cat treats or other food they enjoy

• Detangling spray for cats (optional)

• Metal mat comb

• Electric clippers

• Someone to help (if available)

You may have seen a special comb called a “dematter.” These are designed for removing mats, but they are very sharp and can cut your cat’s skin and yours, so exercise caution when using them. Only use a dematter if you’re experienced, your cat is very calm during grooming, and you have someone to help you keep your cat still (without using force).

Avoid bathing your cat while they have a mat – that’s likely to make it worse.

Throughout the dematting process, reward your cat often with a treat. Try not to force them into stressful positions or hold them against their will. It may take a few short sessions to deal with the mat – you don’t have to get it all in one shot. It is also a good idea to get your cat used to grooming before you start removing mats.

Steps To Remove a Cat’s Matted Hair
First, try working the mat out with your fingers, but only if your cat is comfortable. This may not be feasible with tight, painful mats that sit close to the skin. Start when your cat is relaxed. Soak the mat with detangling spray, let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes (or as directed by the manufacturer), and very gently try separating the hair apart. Don’t pull hard – it will hurt.

If the mat loosens up enough, you can use the metal comb to continue working it out. Use one hand to hold the base of the hair close to the skin. This will help ensure the comb isn’t pulling too hard, like brushing a knot out of a child’s hair and holding the hair at the scalp. Use short strokes, and don’t force the comb if it’s not moving easily.

If you cannot manipulate the mat with your fingers or the comb, you may have to cut it out. Do not pull the mat up and cut it at the base. The pulling is uncomfortable, and you risk catching the skin with the skin. Using an electric pet clipper is often safer than using scissors. It’s faster and decreases your likelihood of cutting your cat’s skin. Make sure you spend some time getting your cat used to the sound and feel of the clippers before you need to use them for grooming.

Start just before the base of the mat, so the clippers don’t immediately pull and get caught up in the mat. Gently and slowly move the clippers along your cat’s skin in short strokes, lightly lifting the mat as it comes away from the skin.

For bad mats, you may need to clip them down in levels, starting at the top where it’s the least tangled, taking off a section, then moving down to take off the next section, and repeating until you reach the skin or a point where you can switch to the comb. Be careful when clipping the hair, as the mats can be close to the skin and you could cut your cat.

When the mat is free, check the area for any signs of irritation. And pile on the rewards for your calm, patient kitty.

Preventing Mats in Your Cat’s Hair
Prevention is always the best option for keeping mats at bay, and it’s pretty simple.

Brush your cat daily. Even if it’s just one area each day, that’s fine. Brushing will limit the formation of mats and help you catch them early, so they’ll be much easier to work through with a brush or comb.
Consider a short cut. Having your cat’s hair trimmed shorter means it isn’t long enough to mat, but keep in mind this can impact their ability to keep warm in cooler temperatures.

Keep the backend clean. A messy posterior means more nasty stuff that can stick in the hair and start the matting process. An unscented, hypoallergenic pet wipe is an easy way to clean the backside. It’s also helpful to give your cat a sanitary cut where the longer hair is shaved around this messy area. You can have your groomer do this for all your cat’s sensitive matting areas (chest, inner thighs, etc.)

Use the right tools. Different brushes and combs do different things. Talk with your veterinarian or groomer about the best way to brush your cat at home. If you’re using a tool with metal prongs, make sure they’re not too sharp.

04/24/2025

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04/23/2025

Pet First-Aid Basics: Essential Tips for Every Pet Parent

Understanding pet first aid is important for every pet parent, giving you the know-how and confidence to handle all sorts of situations. From knowing CPR for pets to dealing with things like choking or poisoning, a little first aid training goes a long way toward keeping your pet safe and healthy.

It’s important to act fast if you think your dog or cat has ingested something they shouldn’t have. Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or contact your veterinarian right away.

Basic Precautions
Remember, first aid is just a temporary measure. It's important to follow up with your veterinarian as soon as possible. First aid can help stabilize your pet and keep them comfortable until they receive professional care.

Set a Plan
Chat with your vet about an emergency plan, especially if their clinic isn't open 24/7. Having a clear game plan ensures you know exactly what to do and where to go if an emergency pops up, minimizing panic and confusion.

Be Careful
Before beginning first aid, assess the situation to ensure there are no additional dangers to you and your pet. Handle an injured pet with caution — even the sweetest pet can act out when they're hurting. Using a gentle approach and being mindful of their pain can prevent further injury and keep both you and your furry pal safe.

Stay Calm
Try to keep your cool, so you can think clearly and avoid upsetting your pet even more. Your calm demeanor can help soothe your pet and make it easier to administer the necessary first aid.

Pet First Aid Kit Essentials
Emergencies can happen anytime, so it's crucial to be prepared with a well-stocked first aid kit for your pet. Having the right supplies on hand can make a world of difference in keeping your furry friend safe and healthy.

Make sure to check your pack every few months to make sure nothing has expired or needs to be replaced, and always keep it out of reach from children and animals.

Are Human Bandages Safe for Pets?
Using human bandages on pets is not recommended as they can cause more harm than good. Human bandages are not designed to accommodate pet fur and skin, potentially leading to restricted blood flow or ingestion of bandage materials. This same thinking applies to over-the-counter medications designed for humans. That's why it's essential to use first aid supplies specifically designed for animals.

Pet First Aid and CPR Certification for Cats and Dogs
Becoming certified in pet first-aid is crucial for making sure you’re prepared for any situation that may arise. Many organizations, such as the American Red Cross, offer certification courses both in-person and online, so you can learn at your own pace and convenience. These courses cover essential skills, such as recognizing when your pet is in distress and performing CPR on a cat or dog.

Properly learning pet CPR through specialized courses can give you the knowledge and confidence to handle critical situations effectively.

While some first aid techniques work for both cats and dogs, there are also some differences you need to know about. For example, the way you restrain them and the approach to CPR might vary. First aid for cats often involves handling their more delicate bodies and understanding how they react to stress, while first aid for dogs might focus on their larger physique. These courses may teach you how to check for breathing and pulse, do chest compressions, and give rescue breaths for both cats and dogs.

Basic Pet First Aid: Steps You Can Take at Home
Most emergencies require immediate veterinary care, but administering first aid may help you stabilize your pet for transportation or keep them comfortable until help arrives. Here are some steps you can take to help your pet in an emergency:

Bleeding
If your pet is suffering from external bleeding due to trauma, try elevating and applying pressure to the wound.

Choking
If your pet is choking, place your fingers in his mouth to see if you can remove the blockage. Take care to not push the object and lodge it even deeper. If you’re unable to remove the foreign object, perform a modified Heimlich maneuver by giving a sharp rap to his chest, which should dislodge the object.

CPR
CPR may be necessary if your pet remains unconscious after you have removed the choking object. First, check to see if they’re breathing. If not, place them on their side and perform artificial respiration by extending their head and neck, holding the jaws closed, and blowing into the nostrils once every three seconds. (Ensure no air escapes between your mouth and the pet’s nose.)

If you don’t feel a heartbeat, incorporate cardiac massage while administering artificial respiration—three quick, firm chest compressions for every respiration—until your dog or cat resumes breathing on his own.

Pet first aid is an invaluable skill set for any pet owner. By getting certified in pet first aid and CPR, and keeping a well-stocked pet first aid kit, you can ensure that you are prepared to handle emergencies and provide the best possible care for your best friends. And remember, in any serious situation, always seek professional veterinary assistance as soon as possible.

04/22/2025

🌍💚 Happy Earth Day from Old York Veterinary Hospital 💚🌍

Today, we celebrate the beautiful planet we all call home — pets, people, and all creatures in between. 🐾 Let's work together to protect it for future generations of furry friends! 🌱

Small changes can make a big difference — like using reusable water bowls, recycling pet food containers, and supporting eco-friendly pet products. 🐶♻️🐱

04/21/2025

Testing 1-2-3: Why Your Pet Needs Annual Wellness Testing

Is your pet acting a little ‘off,’ but you can’t quite put your finger on it? Wellness testing can provide the answer you need. This valuable testing gives more than a grade—it provides important clues about their health. Here are some of the many reasons why your pet’s yearly veterinary testing is key to a longer, healthier, and happier life.

Early disease detection and treatment
Many health issues in pets don’t show obvious signs right away. Signs of pain and discomfort are often subtle and hard to spot, even when they start to show. Wellness tests, including bloodwork and urinalysis, can uncover these hidden problems, even if your pet appears to be feeling fine at first glance. With early detection, many diseases can be managed or even cured with less invasive and less expensive treatments.

Tailored health care
Every pet is an individual, inside and out. Wellness testing allows your veterinarian to better understand your pet’s unique health. They can compare results, track any changes, and find subtle patterns over time. This lets them customize your pet’s care to meet each need and achieve ideal health at every age. For example, if your pet’s blood work shows slightly elevated liver enzymes, your veterinarian might recommend a change in diet or further testing.

Some dog and cat breeds are prone to certain diseases. Regular testing helps screen for these. While pet genetic testing performed by the breeder can provide great insights, continued wellness testing is crucial to ensure your pet receives truly personalized care, taking into account any genetic predispositions and their current health.

“Screening testing isn’t just about finding illness; it’s also about confirming wellness,” said Bryan T. Clarke, DVM, DABVP. “With so many common conditions following an insidious course in patients that can’t verbalize the subtle clinical signs, screening testing as part of a patient’s wellness care is absolutely essential. Not only does it enable early detection of illness, but it also confirms if a patient is truly as healthy as they appear behaviorally and on physical exam.”

Effective protection against parasitic disease
Year-round flea, tick, and heartworm prevention protects your dog or cat against parasites and their diseases. However, no product is 100% effective. Routine testing is the only way to confirm that your pet’s prevention plan is working. These tests include:

F***l tests for dogs and cats — To look for intestinal worms and protozoa
Heartworm testing for dogs — To identify immature heartworms in the blood
Tick-borne disease testing for dogs — To identify exposure to disease-carrying ticks
If your pet tests positive for parasites, your veterinarian will recommend targeted treatment. They will also revisit your pet’s prevention plan to correct any gaps and reduce future risks.

Monitoring chronic conditions
Ongoing health issues like cancer or diabetes require long-term care to slow down disease progression. Tests such as blood work, urinalysis, and blood pressure checks can help track changes in your pet’s condition over time.

These diagnostics can give your veterinarian important information about your pet’s total health and how they’re responding to treatments or medications. Regular testing allows your vet to spot any changes early, adjust care when needed, and help your pet live a more comfortable, longer life.

By staying on top of your pet’s health with regular testing, you can avoid unexpected emergencies and catch problems before they become serious.

Avoid unexpected emergencies
By uncovering illness sooner, wellness testing can help you avoid costly and stressful emergency vet visits and prevent further painful, unpleasant, or even life-threatening complications. With prompt treatment, affected pets can enjoy a relatively normal life. Plus, early treatment is often less costly, making it easier to afford necessary care.

Confidence in your pet’s care
You love your pet, and you worry about them, too. This concern for their health and safety only grows as they age or face new challenges. Wellness testing allows you and your veterinarian to work together as a team, making informed decisions about your pet’s health and ensuring they receive the best possible care. Your pet’s results help your veterinarian provide customized advice and support in times of sickness and health. Together, these things will help you feel confident that you’re doing everything possible for your four-legged friend.

Your pet’s diagnostic testing
Recommended wellness testing will change based on your pet’s health and life stage. Your veterinarian can guide you on which tests are best for your dog or cat and when they are needed. Regardless of your pet’s testing needs, consistency is key. Make diagnostic testing a regular part of your pet’s veterinary care, and stay one step ahead of any health changes.

Invest in your pet’s present and future health. Ask your AAHA-accredited veterinarian about diagnostic wellness testing.

04/21/2025

This week is Veterinary Receptionist Week!
We would like to take a moment to say thank you to Scott, Megan and Courtney who do an amazing job caring for your clients!
Thank you for all you do!! ❤