West End Veterinary Clinic

09/06/2024

*****CONGRATULATIONS *****
to Dr. Mason on her wedding day!

We will be open on Monday. We have two veterinarians that can help you and your pet.

09/03/2024

We will be closed on Friday, September 6 for Dr. Mason’s wedding! While she is away on her honeymoon, there will be no surgeries, but there will be two veterinarians to assist you and your pet. Call 804-360-0111 to schedule appointments, as usual.

Congratulations to Dr. Mason! We wish her the very best as she embarks on this new journey!

08/29/2024

Having a PetPack on hand ensures that you always have provisions for your pet, whether you're at home during bad weather, traveling with your pet, or facing any other situation. It's an important step in taking care of your pet in any circumstance.

Most preparedness websites for people also include a checklist to help you build your PetPack. The American Veterinary Medical Association is a resource for an extensive list of potential supplies to have for your pet. Visit http://www.avma.org as one source.

This is just a short list of items to have ready:

1. Use a waterproof bag or container.

2. Pack water, food, bowls, cat litter/pan, manual can opener, towel, and blankets.

3. Bring along photos and information about your pet including medications, feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian.

4. Leashes, harnesses, and carriers should be available to keep them safe and to help avoid a runaway pet due to unfamiliar situations.

5. Include a typical first aid kit with gloves, gauze/bandages, scissors, and antiseptic.

08/24/2024

It's the weekend! Let 'em have some fun!

Take the time to let loose! There's nothing more entertaining than watching your pets make a mess and enjoying their carefree spirit.

So, grab your camera and capture the moment! Share your muddy pet pictures with us using and let's spread some laughter together!

08/22/2024

Heat Returns to Our Area this Weekend.

August 22, 2024: The heat in our area is not over yet. Temperatures will begin to rise this weekend. These are some of the things to look for in your pet, and how to help them.

SIGNS OF HEAT STROKE
- Difficulty Breathing
- Dark Red or Pale Gums
- Excessive Panting & Drooling
- Vomiting & Diarrhea
- Lethargy & Weakness
- Rapid Heart Beat
- Confusion/Disorientation
- Collapse or Unresponsive

IF YOU THINK YOUR PET HAS HEAT STROKE:
- Get to a cooler and shady place.
- Give small amounts of water often.
- Place cool wet towels around the feet and head.
- Spray with tepid (not ice cold) water.
- Get to your vet as soon as possible!

Be alert and prepared to help your pet during high heat times.

08/20/2024

Protect your puppy from fleas, ticks, heartworm disease, hookworm and roundworm with Simparica Trio! This year's weather has been tough on our furry friends, but Simparica Trio has got them covered with one chew that offers triple protection. Whether your pup is 8 weeks or older, weighing at least 2.8 lbs, they can enjoy the liver-flavored chewable with or without food. Or it can also be broken into pieces and mixed into their food if needed! making it easy to administer.

Give us a call or set up an appointment to discuss the proper amount of Simparica Trio for your dog.



*Source: https://www.zoetispetcare.com/products/simparica-trio. Accessed 8/19/2024

08/16/2024

Many dogs don’t have a**l gland issues and don’t require assistance with an A**l Gland Expression. A few of the signs that your pet may need an expression are:

• Scooting their rear on the floor
• Excessive licking or itching of the a**l area
• Straining when they “go”

A**l glands get expressed when your pet “goes,” and what needs to come out does, but this is not the case for some pets. Sometimes, your pet needs help, and we can assist you. If you know how to do this, you can also do the expression at home if your pet will tolerate it. In addition to the a**l gland expression, dietary changes may need to be considered. Sometimes, the situation may be more serious with infection and/or disease.

www.westend-vet.com 804-360-0111

**lGlands **lGlandExpression

08/15/2024

🐾🏠 We are your local pet care experts!

We understand that your pets are not just animals, they are family. As an independently-owned small business, we are dedicated to providing the personalized care and attention that your furry friends deserve. Our team takes the time to get to know your pet, their unique needs, and any questions you may have.

08/12/2024

🐾 PROTECT THE PAWS! Nail trims are more than cosmetic.

Is your furry friend due for a nail trim? Don't let them suffer from slips and paw pain. Our experts are here to help! We understand that at-home nail trims can be a struggle, but our professional team can make it quick and stress-free for you and your pet.

Nail trims are more than cosmetic. Keeping their nails trimmed, dogs can avoid slips, getting a claw caught in a rug, and paw pain.

Schedule an appointment with us today! Our schedules fill up quickly, so plan ahead if possible. Your furry friend will thank you for it.

08/09/2024

Ready to enjoy your weekend?
We are.

Take a break and enjoy some much-needed relaxation. Whether you're spending time with your furry friend or just taking some time for yourself, make sure to have fun and unwind. You deserve it!

Don't forget to share your weekend adventures with us using and . Let's spread some laughter and joy!

08/08/2024

🐾 We always hit the mark for top quality and care for your fur-baby 🐾

At West End Veterinary Clinic, we understand that your pet is an integral part of your family, and we believe that they deserve nothing but the best! That's why we always strive to provide top-quality care to your fur-baby. Our team of experts ensures that your pet is treated with utmost care and love at all times.

08/06/2024

As an independently-owned practice, we have the flexibility to tailor the care for every pet to their specific needs.

We provide general pet care with physicals, vaccinations, and free nail trims on Tuesdays.
We offer advanced diagnostics with digital radiography and ultrasound capabilities, as well as in house laboratory equipment for rapid diagnostics.

Conveniently located near Short Pump Town Center, we offer the highest quality, most advanced veterinary care at an affordable price.

You can reach us by phone, text message, email, our website, or our social media. For times that we are closed, take your pet to an Emergency Vet Clinic in your area.

08/02/2024

Have a great weekend everybody with lots of Giggles & Wiggles!

07/31/2024

Don't get caught off-guard during emergencies with your furry friend!

Prepare a PetPack Kit with must-have essentials like water, food, bowls, and a first aid kit. You never know when disaster might strike or when you'll need to hit the road with your fur baby. That's why it's essential to have everything you need in one convenient pack!

Most preparedness websites for people also include a check list to help you build your PetPack. The American Veterinary Medical Association has an extensive list to help.https://www.avma.org/sites/default/files/2023-11/aph-pet-evacuation-kit-checklist.pdf

07/29/2024

We are independently owned and operated. We put your pets first…always.

Over the last several years, large corporations have bought many veterinary clinics in our area and around the country.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association Out of all veterinarians, 21.3% percent identified themselves as practice owners in 2018, and 29.3% identified themselves as associates. https://www.avma.org

More information on this topic will be posted over the next few weeks.

07/26/2024

Happy Friday, everyone! Sharing a little Friday humor for us all to close out the week. 😂🎉

Here's to a great weekend with giggles, wiggles, and naps!

07/24/2024

Snakes are out and about, keep your pets safe!

It's that time of year again when snakes are more prevalent and your pets could be at risk of getting bitten. Snakes like to hide in wood piles, so if you have one in your backyard, it's best to either get rid of it entirely or place some kind of fence or barrier around it to keep your dogs from nosing around in them.

Read our blog at http://www.westend-vet.com/snake-bites/ for more detailed, informative information.

07/19/2024

ALERT: WATERWAY ADVISORY

The Virginia Department of Health has issued an important announcement: Locals (and their pets) should stay out of the James River from the Manchester Bridge (around Ninth Street) to Osborne Landing in Henrico, due to “a leak in a sewage pipe on the Pipeline Trail was reported to officials Tuesday, and crews responded immediately, the city said in a news release.”

Please share this information to help ensure everyone's well-being and the health of our waterways. The links below will take you to more detailed information.

WRIC Local News Richmond - July 18, 2024 - News

https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/richmond/recreational-water-advisory-issued-for-james-river-due-to-sewage-release/

AXIOS Richmond - July 17, 2024 - News

https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2024/07/17/virginia-health-department-james-river-swimming-sewage

VDH Website – Virginia Department of Health for more detailed information for the James River as well as all waterways in the state of Virginia.

https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/news/2024-regional-news-releases/vdh-issues-recreational-water-advisory-for-the-james-river-from-manchester-bridge-to-osborne-landing-due-to-sewage-release/

07/16/2024

Don't let the heat get the best of your pet. or you!

It's a scorcher out there and we all need to find ways to stay cool. Stay safe and heed the heat advisories for you and your pet.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Keep your pet - and yourself - hydrated, and take breaks from the sun.

If it's too hot for you, it's hotter for them.

07/12/2024

Funny Friday to add a smile to the end of your week and some Giggles & Wiggles this weekend!

07/10/2024

At West End Veterinary Clinic in Short Pump Virginia, we love hearing from our pet-parents! Our knowledgeable team provides top-notch care for furry friends in a clean, calming, and inviting atmosphere. Join our happy and caring pet-parent community today and let us show your pets the respect and kindness they deserve.

07/08/2024

Trimming your pet's nails goes beyond grooming - it's essential for their safety and comfort. Don't let them slip or suffer from paw pain. Keep their claws in check. We understand also that the "at-home" nail trim is a real struggle. Stressful for you, stressful for them. Our team treats each and every pet for their time with gentleness and love.

07/06/2024

🚨 Attention everyone! 🚨

Signed in April by the Governor, this law is now in effect. It's important to stay informed about the changes happening in your state. If you're interested in reading the full bill, you can find it at https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?241+sum+HB1354.

07/02/2024

We’ll be unavailable on July 4-5. In case of any pet emergencies, please find our reliable veterinary contacts below. Stay safe and happy Fourth of July! 🐾🎆

07/01/2024

🐶❤️ We love hearing from happy customers!

Our team at West End Veterinary Clinic is always delighted to receive feedback from our customers, especially when it's about their furry friends! Recently, one of our lovely clients left us the sweetest testimonial after their visit, and we couldn't be more grateful for their kind words. It's moments like these that remind us of why we love doing what we do!

06/30/2024

FIREWORKS AND YOUR PET –
HOW YOU CAN HELP THEM

Pets can be scared by the noise, smell, and flashes of light. They might tremble, shake, shiver, howl, bark, and some become quite frantic.

HOW TO HELP YOUR PET:
Keep your pet away from fireworks and keep them inside.

Make sure your pet has proper ID and is wearing it on their collar.

Create a safe-haven for your pet by designating a quiet space away from windows where they can feel secure. Areas like the back of a closet, a small bathroom, or a crate can work well. Make sure to provide pet beds, blankets, and familiar toys within this space.

Play white noise like a fan, TV or sound machine to help mask the loud noise.

Comfort them – long slow, firm strokes along the length of their body is soothing to both of you.
Be as calm as you can. Use the same voice that you always use. A higher-than-average pitch voice saying “It’s OK, It’s OK” over and over can ramp up their anxiety.

Take them for a walk or play with them inside or out, before the fireworks start.

For pets that have severe anxiety, give us a call at 804-360-0111 and let discuss the options that are best for your pet.

You can visit www.akc.org as a source of more in depth information.
-------------------
Traverse, T. (2024, May 22). Holiday stress: How to keep your dog calm during fireworks. American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/how-to-keep-your-dog-calm-during-fireworks/

06/28/2024

06/28/2024

IF YOU THINK IT'S HOT OUTSIDE, IT'S EVEN HOTTER FOR YOUR PET.

SOME PREVENTION STEPS:
- Ensure there is an ample supply of water for your pet.
- Make sure your dog has access to shade.
- Walk or exercise your pet at the cooler part of the day.

IF YOU THINK YOUR PET HAS HEAT STROKE:
- Get to a cooler and shady place.
- Give small amounts of water often.
- Place cool wet towels around the feet and head.
- Spray with tepid (not ice cold) water.
- Get to your vet as soon as possible!

MOST AT RISK:
- Short-nosed pets
- Long-haired pets
- Puppies and Senior Dogs over 7 years old.

All pets are at risk, but these groups are especially vulnerable.

Visit
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/heatstroke-in-dogs/ for more