Bayou City Veterinary Hospital

09/19/2024

❤️ We all want our furry friends to be healthy and happy, but heartworm disease can be a major obstacle. If your dog is diagnosed with heartworm disease, it's essential to restrict their exercise.

Physical exertion can exacerbate the damage the heartworms cause to the heart and lungs. Treatment is risky, and the dog's condition must be stabilized before starting medication. Dogs with a low worm burden typically have a better prognosis. Stay vigilant and protect your pet's health!

Providing year-round heartworm prevention is an important part of your pet’s health care plan. If you would like to discuss the various preventives, contact our team at Bayou City Vet by calling 713-343-9909, so we can determine what protocol would best fit you and your pet’s lifestyle.

09/17/2024

🦟 Ticks are more resilient than we think, and they can emerge from hiding any time the temperature climbs above freezing—even in winter! Pets are at an ever-increasing risk for Lyme disease.

Because only a single tick bite can transmit Lyme disease, we recommend continuous parasite prevention for year-round protection and peace of mind. Learn how to protect your pet and yourself from this debilitating condition by contacting us at 713-343-9909.

Stay informed, stay safe, and keep your pet healthy!

09/12/2024

Counting calories and exercising daily are great ways to keep your pet at a healthy weight. But what if the number on the scale isn't budging? Your furry friend may have an underlying health condition that makes weight loss difficult.

Pets with metabolic and endocrine disorders, like hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease, often struggle with weight loss. Prescription diets and management of the underlying condition can help.

Once the condition is under control, weight loss becomes much easier. Need help managing your pet's weight? Call 713-343-9909 to talk to your veterinarian.

09/10/2024

Is your cat sneezing, coughing, or drooling excessively? They may have contracted feline calicivirus, a contagious virus that targets their respiratory system and oral lining.

This disease can be spread easily through contact with an infected cat's saliva, nasal discharge, or ocular secretions. If left untreated, it can cause more serious health issues.

Don't let your furry friend suffer, bring them to see us for a checkup.

09/05/2024

Is your pet at a healthy weight? The body condition score chart is a more accurate tool than just looking at the number on the scale. Keep these points in mind when evaluating your pet's body condition:

-You should be able to feel their ribs under a slight fat covering.
-Your pet should have a visible waistline when viewed from above.
-Your pet should have an abdominal tuck.
-If you can see your pet’s ribs and spine, they are too thin.
-On the other hand, if your pet has no discernible waistline and their belly sags, they’re too heavy.

Consult with our team at Bayou City Vet to ensure your pet is at a healthy weight.

09/03/2024

We all know that dreaded feeling of trying to get our cats into their carriers for a trip to the vet. But did you know that you can help reduce their stress by leaving the carrier out all year with the door open? With the help of treats and toys, your cat will learn to love their carrier and be less fearful of it.

08/29/2024

08/29/2024

Pet owners, keep your furry friends safe from w**d killer exposure!

While most w**d killers are relatively safe, ingestion of an extreme quantity of certain products can cause myotonia, vomiting, and weakness in dogs. Roundup® is not particularly dangerous, but undiluted product should be kept away from pets. If your pet is presenting any symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately
👀 Use w**d killers responsibly to keep your pets happy and healthy!

08/27/2024

Boredom can lead to all sorts of problems for pets. Without proper physical exercise and mental stimulation, pets may develop destructive or dangerous behaviors.

A bored dog may become reactive or aggressive, while a bored cat may urinate outside the litter box.

Keep your furry friends entertained by providing them with plenty of outlets for physical activity and mental stimulation. Need ideas? Call 713-343-9909 to talk to your veterinarian. We're here to help!

08/22/2024

Want to keep your pet healthy and happy? Start with proper dental care! We're spreading awareness about the importance of pet dental health to prevent oral infections and promote overall well-being.

Call and book an appointment for your pet, today!

08/20/2024

Did you know that more than half the pet population is classified as overweight or obese? Don't let your furry friend fall into this category!

Overweight pets are more likely to suffer from osteoarthritis, cranial cruciate ligament tears, soft tissue sprains and strains, and other musculoskeletal issues related to excess weight.

Help your pet maintain their ideal body weight by incorporating regular exercise into their routine. Call 713-343-9909 to talk to your veterinarian for tips on how to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

08/15/2024

Neutering your male pet is an important part of responsible pet ownership.

Neutered pets are typically less aggressive, less likely to urine-mark their territory, and less likely to exhibit mounting behavior.

Plus, neutering helps reduce the risk of certain health issues, and can prevent overpopulation.

08/13/2024

Meet Bowie! A baby Dalmatian with the greatest demeanor. We are so excited to join you on this life journey.

08/13/2024

Did you know that cats can experience separation anxiety too? It's a common myth that only dogs suffer from this condition, but our feline friends can also feel the same distress when left alone. Keep an eye out for signs like excessive vocalizations, destructive behavior, and more.

08/09/2024

Baby Kuali is a baby Xoloitzcuintli, aka The Mexican Hairless Dog.

08/08/2024

If your pet is struggling to lose weight despite your best efforts, it's time for a veterinary visit. Our team at Bayou City Vet can help determine why your furry friend is having trouble shedding those extra pounds.

Call us at 713-343-9909 to schedule your pet's workup and create a plan that works for their unique needs. We're here to help you and your pet achieve a healthy weight.

08/06/2024

Protect your furry friend from Lyme disease by using tick preventives year-round. A canine Lyme disease vaccine also is available and recommended for at-risk dogs.

This vaccine is not a preventive replacement, but a way to more comprehensively protect vulnerable pets.

Learn more about tick prevention and vaccination options by contacting us at 713-343-9909. Let's keep your furry friend healthy and happy! 🦟

08/01/2024

It may seem counterintuitive, but teaching your dog to bark on command can actually help them learn to be quiet.

Speak up — Start by finding a trigger that makes your dog bark naturally. It could be a knock on the door, the doorbell ringing, or even someone saying “Speak.” When your dog barks, reward them with praise and a treat.

Quiet down — Once your dog understands the “Speak” command, introduce a cue for “Quiet,” such as “Enough” or a hand signal. Reward your dog with a treat when they stop barking after you give the cue.

Practice makes perfect — Practice the “Speak” and “Quiet” commands together until your dog can bark and then stop on command. This will help them understand when it’s appropriate to bark and when they should be quiet, giving you more control over their behavior.

07/30/2024

To maximize the health benefits of spaying your female pet, it's best to do it before their first heat cycle.

This reduces their risk of developing mammary cancer to almost zero.

In addition, having a litter can cause health issues for your pet, who may not survive the birth.

07/25/2024

Lyme disease can be difficult to diagnose in pets, as their signs are often vague and nonspecific. Unlike humans, pets do not develop the classic bullseye rash associated with the disease.

We advise Lyme disease testing (i.e., a blood test) for pets with clinical signs that include fever, lethargy, appetite loss, swollen lymph nodes, intermittent lameness, and painful or swollen joints.

Don't wait until it's too late! Protect your furry friend from this debilitating condition by contacting us at 713-343-9909 and asking about annual tick-borne disease testing. ❤️

07/23/2024

Spaying or neutering your pet can help prevent unwanted behaviors such as aggression and urine-marking.

After the procedure, your furry friend will still be the same lovable, devoted pet you know and love.

And, without the need to search for a mate, your pet can focus on enjoying their life with you!

07/18/2024

Struggling with a pet's separation anxiety can be frustrating and worrisome for owners. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help manage this distressing condition. These include medication, behavior modification, and environmental management. By working together, we can help your pet find relief and live a happier, healthier life.

07/16/2024

🦟 Lyme disease prevention starts with tick prevention. The best way to keep your furry friend safe is to use tick preventives year-round, including the winter months.

Most veterinarian-prescribed preventives kill ticks only a few hours after the initial bite, preventing disease transmission, which requires 24 to 48 hours of attachment.

Contact us at 713-343-9909 to learn about tick prevention measures that will work best for your pet. Don't wait until it's too late!

07/11/2024

Loose and missing teeth are just the beginning when it comes to the potential consequences of periodontal disease in pets. Call us, today, to learn more and schedule a checkup for your pet! 713-343-9909

04/21/2022

It is and we're going to tell you the most important items to include in your pet's first aid kit!

🤕 Bandage Materials 🤕
- Absorbent gauze pads
- Gauze rolls
- Adhesive medical tape
- Vet wrap, a self-adhesive bandage wrap
- Non-stick pads for wound bandaging
- Cotton balls or swabs
- Disposable gloves

💊 Medications 💊
- Benadryl
- Activated charcoal
- Fresh 3% hydrogen peroxide
- Antibiotic ointment (e.g., plain Neosporin)
- Antiseptic wash or wipes
- Saline eye solution
- Artificial tears ointment

🌡 Instruments 🌡
- Blunt-ended scissors
- Tweezers
- Oral syringe
- Tourniquet
- Muzzle
- Thermometer
- Small flashlight

🔖 Misc 🔖
Ice and hot packs
Liquid dish soap (e.g., Dawn)
Towels
Styptic powder for torn nails

04/19/2022

Happy ! How many cats before you're officially deemed a "cat lady"?

04/14/2022

This debate is as old as time! Let's hear it...are you a dog person? Or a cat person?

Let us know in the comments below.

04/12/2022

On average, 4.5 million dog bites are reported each year! Although this statistic is alarming, most of these bites can be prevented!

Here are 6 things to remember when trying to prevent dog bites:

1. Learn to read a dog's body language
2. Never approach a strange dog without the owner's permission
3. Avoid leaning over dogs
4. Teach children to interact respectfully with dogs
5. Don't bother dogs while they are eating or playing with their favorite item
6. Be comfortable telling others to give your dog space

04/07/2022

To help with your new kitten's care, here are our top five tips to get set your kitten up for success!

1. Good kitten nutrition
2. Kitten Wellness Check-up
3. Socialize your kitten
4. Choose appropriate toys made specifically for cats
5. Set up your home for environmental enrichment complete with safe spaces for your kitty to rest and/or hide.

04/05/2022

⚠⚠⚠ Even if your pet is indoor only, they can still get heartworm! ⚠⚠⚠

Heartworms can be transmitted by mosquitoes that can easily slip inside. ALL cats and dogs are at risk for heartworm infection whether or not they spend time outside.

03/30/2022

😥 Unfortunately, detecting your cat's physical discomfort can be incredibly difficult! Because untreated pain can harm your cat’s health, quality of life, and the cat-owner bond, prompt diagnosis and treatment are necessary, to ensure your cat enjoys nine lives of comfort.

Unless their pain is severe, cats tend to hide their discomfort. here are some abnormal behaviors you can look for:

❗ Decreased Appetite
❗ Altered litter box habits
❗ Abnormal aggression
❗ Increased vocalization
❗ Excessive sleeping or isolating
❗ Limping, stiffness, or changes in mobility
❗ Sensitivity to touch
❗ Reluctance to jump, climb, or use stairs
❗ Excessive grooming, resulting in bald spots
❗ Matted hair, or dirty appearance from a lack of self-care

What are some other things you notice when your cat is uncomfortable or acting out of the ordinary due to pain?

03/25/2022

As it gets warmer going into 💐 spring, flea and tick populations increase. Make sure your fur-baby is protected year-round from the threat of parasitic diseases!

⭐ Tick Trivia⭐
- All tick life cycles must feed on a host before maturing to the next stage.
- Ticks can transmit multiple diseases through a single bite.
- Ticks don’t fall from trees.

⭐ Flea Facts⭐
- Fleas have an incredibly flexible life cycle.n incredibly flexible life cycle.
- A female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day.
- Fleas can transmit parasites and diseases that can affect pets and people.
- Your pet can develop allergies to flea bites.

03/23/2022

In honor of Poison Prevention Week (March 20-26) we're giving you a list of common pet poisons lurking in your very own kitchen! Many of the toxic foods may be hidden, but your furry pal can likely sniff them out if they’re not securely out of reach. Not all of these are exactly "poisons" but they can lead to potentially life-threatening situations for your pet!

When cooking or baking, avoid sharing the following items with your pet:

- Chocolate
- Xylitol, a sugar substitute
- Macadamia nuts
- Alcohol
- Unbaked yeast dough
- Garlic
- Onions
- Leeks
- Chives
- Bones
- Fatty foods

03/17/2022

☘ Happy St. Patrick's Day! ☘

Check the chart to see what your pet's leprechaun name would be and let us know the results in the comments! 💚 🇮🇪

03/15/2022

Who woke up first today? You or your pet?

Is your pet an early riser or are you the one who is bright-eyed and bushy-tailed when the sun begins to rise? 🌅

03/13/2022

"Spring" forward! Today is !

03/11/2022

If you want a healthy pet, the #️⃣1️⃣ thing you can do is stay up to date on preventative care. This includes routine physical exams, parasite prevention, baseline bloodwork, planning a diet and exercise routine, and checking dental health.

Wellness visits are so much more than just vaccinations! They are geared towards preventing disease and helping them live longer and happier lives. And, let's be honest, who doesn't want that for their pet?! 💗 🐾

03/08/2022

Help us celebrate International Women's Day! Today, we want to give a special shoutout to all of the women we know in Veterinary Medicine! You are loved, appreciated, and valued beyond belief!

03/03/2022

Today is "If Pets Had Thumbs Day"!

So, let's hear it! If your pet had thumbs, what is the first thing they would use them for! Would they shoot you a thumbs up? Or go into the pantry and grab some coveted treats? Maybe they'd let themselves outside?

Let us know in the comments below!