Fresno Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center

12/21/2024

Happy First Day of Winter! ❄

We wanted to take this opportunity to remind you that extremely cold temperatures can cause serious problems for pets such as hypothermia, accidental antifreeze ingestion, burns caused by fires or space heaters, and more.

Check out this article from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) to learn more animal safety tips for cold weather: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/cold-weather-animal-safety

12/20/2024

🛑 California has declared a state of emergency over growing concerns from the spread of the H5N1 bird flu virus. 🛑

Cats and dogs may become infected if they eat sick or dead infected birds, drink unpasteurized milk or cream from infected cows, or eat undercooked or raw meat, and there might be other ways the virus spreads.

As recommended by the AVMA, here are some tips for preventing HPAI infection in dogs and cats:

🔹Keep cats indoors.
🔹Keep pets that do go outdoors away from wild birds, poultry, and cattle and their environments.
🔹Prevent pets from eating dead birds or other animals.
🔹Avoid feeding pets raw meat or poultry and unpasteurized milk.

Clinical signs of HPAI infection in cats are better known than in dogs. Signs in either species may include the following:
❗️Fever
❗️Lethargy
❗️Low appetite
❗️Reddened or inflamed eyes
❗️Discharge from the eyes and nose
❗️Difficulty breathing/ respiratory distress
❗️Neurologic signs, like tremors, seizures, incoordination, or blindness

If your pet is experiencing any of the above symptoms we recommend having them seen immediately. We are open 24/7 including holidays . Please reach out with any questions or concerns: 559-451-0800.

12/18/2024

Many pet owners are nervous if anesthesia is needed for a surgery or procedure. However, anesthesia or sedation may be the best way for your pet to receive high-quality care without pain, stress, or discomfort.

🐾 Our team is trained to carefully select, dose, administer medications, and monitor your pet while they are at the hospital.

🐾 Some pain medications can last for 8-12 hours in dogs and up to 24 hours in cats. Your pet may act groggy and confused within this timeframe after their procedure.

🐾 Keep your pet from climbing, jumping, or running around for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Your doctor will instruct proper recovery time to prevent injury.

🐾 Call us if your pet isn’t eating within the anticipated timeframe, or if your pet vomits, develops diarrhea, or refuses to eat or drink for more than 12 hours.

Remember, it takes time for the effects of anesthesia to wear off. Don't hesitate to ask your veterinarian questions and more importantly, don't delay treatments that could help your pet have a healthier, happier life!

12/17/2024

Christmas is just a week away! This is a friendly reminder that we will remain open 24/7 for urgent care and emergencies that may arise on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day! Happy Holidays! 🎄🎅

Please contact us at 559-451-0800 with any general questions or concerns, for emergency situations we advise coming straight in.

*Please be advised we cannot give specific medical advice or suggestions over the phone.

12/15/2024

The holiday season is in full swing, which brings excitement, but for male cats it can also bring extra stress - and with it, a higher risk of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD).
If your cat seems to be urinating more frequently, straining , and/or showing signs of discomfort it could be a sign of FLUTD.
Simple steps like creating a quiet, cozy space or using pheromone sprays , can help reduce stress.
If you notice any of these signs it is advised you contact us or your regular veterinarian right away.

12/13/2024

Flying can be a common stressor during the holidays. If you're planning on flying with your pet , check out the link the below to help make travel as comfortable as possible.
https://bit.ly/4hefNal

12/12/2024

With the holiday season in full effect, we know that there may be treats on your pet's wish list. We also know that brushing can be a battle, which is why we recommend dental treats. 🐾
Dental treats are a great way to reduce the severity of periodontal disease. We urge our pet parents to look for the VOHC Seal of Acceptance and to AVOID hard treats such as synthetic or natural bones.

12/11/2024

Congratulations to our December Employee of the Month - Christian! 📣
Thank you for all you do for the hospital, helping with maintenance tasks and keeping a positive and optimistic attitude on your shifts! We are grateful to have you!

12/09/2024

Happy International Day of Veterinary Medicine! 🐾💙🩺

FVSEC would like to recognize and celebrate the hard work, dedication, and kindness that our veterinary professionals extend to our patients and their families every day.

We truly appreciate the compassion that veterinarians, technicians, and support team members have for all animals. Join us in saying THANK YOU to everyone who ensures the well-being of the pets placed in their loving care - we are forever grateful!

12/08/2024

A disease like Parvovirus in dogs is highly contagious and can have deadly consequences. Here’s what you need to know:

🐩 Parvovirus attacks the gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular system
💩 The main way that dogs contract Parvovirus is through the f***s (stool) of infected dogs
🐶 Parvovirus can affect puppies too young to be vaccinated, puppies within their vaccination course, and unvaccinated adult dogs
🐕‍ Vaccinating your pet is the only way to protect them from the disease

Some of the signs of parvovirus include lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain and bloating, fever or low body temperature (hypothermia), vomiting, and severe (often bloody) diarrhea. Persistent vomiting and diarrhea can cause rapid dehydration, and damage to the intestines and immune system can cause septic shock.

If your dog exhibits symptoms of parvovirus, take them to your nearest veterinarian to be tested immediately. You can call us at 559-451-0800.We are open 24/7! The quicker they can be treated, the better the chance of recovery.

12/07/2024

🌟⚠HOLIDAY HAZARDS⚠🌟

They might look beautiful but holiday decorations may be hazardous for pets. Here are a few tips to keep your pet safe this holiday season:

🎄 Securely anchor and keep pets away from the tree. Also remember to sweep up any fallen brush or pine needles.

💡 Hang strands of lights higher up. Not only can pets get tangled in strings, but these strands can give them a potentially life-threatening electrical shock if they bite through the wire.

🐈 Tinsel and ornaments can seem like toys (especially to cats) and can cause serious stomach issues if ingested. Avoid using tinsel when possible and stick with larger, shatterproof ornaments that aren’t easy to break or swallow.

12/06/2024

🎊Thank you for being a member of our team and our CSL Supervisor! We appreciate you!🎊

12/05/2024

Today is ! You can celebrate this amazing day by adopting a pet from a shelter, volunteering at a local shelter or rescue, or spreading awareness about shelter animals. 🩷

12/05/2024

11/30/2024

November is .

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 50% of dogs over age 10, and 25% of all dogs will develop cancer. Although there is less information for cats, our feline friends also commonly develop cancer.

Cancer can develop in any body system. Symptoms vary according to the organs affected, but may include:
• A lump or mass anywhere on your pet's body
• Difficulty eating or chewing, or a decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Persistent vomiting, drooling, or diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing
• Bleeding from the nose or mouth
• Abdominal swelling
• A wound that will not heal
• Limping or lameness
• Excessive drinking/urinating
• Straining to defecate or urinate

Other diseases may cause similar symptoms, but reaching a diagnosis as quickly as possible is important. Cancer will not resolve on its own and early detection is critical for successful treatment.

If you have any questions about your pet’s health, please contact your veterinarian.

11/28/2024

Today, and all through the year, we are grateful for your trust in our team when your pet is in need of medical care.

From the FVSEC family to yours, we wish you a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving. 🦃♥

11/25/2024

November is . If left untreated, diabetes can cause a number of serious health issues. Factors that may lead to diabetes include middle to older age, genetics, breed, and obesity.

If you notice any of the following signs, you should reach out to your primary care veterinarian immediately:

🐾 Excessive water drinking and increased urination
🐾 Weight loss, even though there may be an increased appetite
🐾 Decreased appetite
🐾 Cloudy eyes (especially in dogs)
🐾 Chronic or recurring infections (eg. skin infections and urinary infections)

The earlier the diagnosis, the better chance your pet may have for a longer and healthier life.

11/23/2024