Pieper Veterinary

02/14/2025

🍫❤️ Happy Valentine's Day! This holiday is filled with love, chocolate, and candy - but while these treats are delicious for us, they can be toxic to our pets! Both chocolate and sugar-free candy pose serious health risks, so be sure to keep them out of reach.

🔴 Why is Chocolate Dangerous?
Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which dogs and cats process much slower than humans. Even small amounts can cause toxic reactions such as:
- Excessive thirst
- Rapid breathing & high heart rate
- Vomiting & diarrhea
- Tremors & seizures

The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is! Baking chocolate & cocoa powder are highly toxic, while milk and white chocolate contain lower levels of theobromine. Small pets are at even greater risk due to their size.

⚠️ Beware of Sugar-Free Candy!
Many sugar-free chocolates and candies contain xylitol, which is extremely toxic to pets. Even small amounts can cause seizures, liver failure, and a dangerous drop in blood sugar.

💖 Keep your Valentine’s treats safely stored away! If your pet ingests chocolate or candy, call your veterinarian ASAP. Let’s make this Valentine’s Day full of love - not emergency vet visits! 🐶🐱💕

02/12/2025

PSA for pet parents – the microchip company “Save This Life” abruptly closed their business, which unfortunately means that chips that were registered with them may no longer work. Microchips are like a tiny barcode for your pet, and when that code is scanned it shows the name and contact info of the pet’s owner. This is VERY important for helping reunite lost or missing pets! With Save This Life being closed, any chips registered to them won’t display the correct information when scanned.

The good news is that there’s nothing broken about the chip itself, and all you need to do is re-register the number with a different company for it to work again.

Not sure if your pet’s chip is affected? You can enter the chip number at https://www.aaha.org/for-veterinary-professionals/microchip-search/ to check. If it shows as being registered to “Save This Life,” you’ll want to re-register the number with a different company (such as HomeAgain, PetLink, or AKCReunite).

Not sure what your pet’s microchip number is? If your pet was chipped at an animal shelter or rescue, check your adoption paperwork to see if it’s written down. If your pet was chipped at your veterinarian’s office, you can call them and ask. Or if you’re still not sure, you can always have your pet’s chip scanned when you bring them in for their next appointment. Just give your vet a call!

If your pet isn’t chipped, the chip isn’t registered, or you need to update the contact information on your pet’s chip, now is as good a time as any to do so!

Pet microchips help reunite lost animals with their owners. A Texas company suddenly closed, leaving pet owners worried about their pet's welfare.

02/10/2025

🌸❤️This Friday is Valentine’s Day, and the U.S. alone is estimated to spend over $2 billion on flowers, many of which can be seriously toxic to our cats and dogs. Before you buy that beautiful bouquet for someone with pets, stop and check that you’re not accidentally gifting them something dangerous – their pets will thank you for it! 🐶🐱💖

Not sure if a plant is pet-safe? Visit https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants to find out! 💐

01/10/2025

Let's end the week with a smile 💜 Phoebe the boxer graduated from chemo today! Dr. Carreras along with Amanda, Mikayla, and Ally were more than happy to help Phoebe celebrate and ring the gong - and Phoebe made sure to let us know that she's feeling great with lots of kisses! Our oncology team does incredible work every day, and nothing makes us happier than when our patients graduate 🐾💕 Congratulations Phoebe - you've earned yourself a lot of spoiling today!

01/02/2025

📸 The average pet parent takes over 400 pictures of their pet every year!
Alright, we’ll admit it – we’re guilty of this too! But who can resist snapping a quick pic (or dozens) when our pets are posing so adorably? 😍✨

🐾 Show us your favorite pet picture from 2024! Drop it in the comments – we can’t wait to see all the cuteness! 🐶🐱

12/31/2024

⚠️ Critical Update for Pet Owners: Fatal Bird Flu Linked to Raw Pet Food

The Oregon Department of Health has confirmed a fatal case of H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) in an indoor cat, linked to “Northwest Naturals” turkey raw & frozen pet food. Tragically, other cases tied to raw diets have surfaced, including the deaths of 20 big cats at a sanctuary in Washington.

What You Need to Know:
🐾 H5N1 Risks: This strain of bird flu mainly affects birds but has also been found in mammals, including cats and humans.
🐾 Cats at Risk: Cats are especially vulnerable, showing symptoms like fever, lethargy, trouble breathing, and even seizures and death. The recent case in Oregon highlights the dangers of feeding raw pet food.
🐾 Protect Your Pets: Avoid raw diets and direct contact with birds, and consult your veterinarian if your pet shows any concerning symptoms.

Visit https://www.pieperveterinary.com/blog/fatal-bird-flu-case-linked-to-raw-pet-food/ to learn more about how to keep your pets safe.

12/31/2024

We're wishing you a happy New Year!

Our ER at 730 Randolph Rd in Middletown will remain open 24/7, and can be reached at (860) 347-8387 in the event of an emergency.

Thank you to our staff for their work as always, but especially these past few weeks. We hope that this year has been full of good memories, and that 2025 treats us all with love, joy, and good health. Have a very happy New Year! 🎆✨

12/30/2024

Our 6th annual Holiday Door Decorating Contest has finally concluded - the entries this year were better than ever! Tell us which doors are your favorites! Our departments pulled out all the stops this year, and we're so amazed by all of these creative, detailed, and hilarious entries - what a great way to get everyone into the holiday spirit. ❄

Our judge's choice this year was our specialty Surgery department's door, which featured a life-size, working game of Operation! His nose flashes red if you touch the edge - these doors are getting too hi-tech!
Amazing work, teams! 🎄🚪

12/26/2024

🎁🐾 Show Us What Your Pets Got for the Holidays! 🐾🎁
The holidays are all about sharing joy, and we’re sure that all of your furry friends were on the “Nice List” this year! Did they get a new toy, a cozy bed, or maybe some delicious treats? We’d love to see how your pets are celebrating!

Post a picture of your pet with their holiday gifts or enjoying the festivities in the comments below. Let’s all spread the love this holiday season! 🎄🐶🐱

12/23/2024

Happy Holidays from all of us at Pieper!

Our ER at 730 Randolph Rd in Middletown will remain open 24/7, and can be reached at (860) 347-8387 in the event of an emergency. We sincerely hope your day is full of nothing but peace and joy, but we will be here if you need us.

Thank you to our truly amazing team members for all their hard work, especially to those who will be working over the holidays to help provide care for our patients. From our families to yours, we’re wishing you and your pets a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season! 🐾❤️ ❄️

12/16/2024

Did you know that our Middletown ER sees avian & exotic animal patients? 🐢 In addition to dogs and cats, our hospital is also open to small mammals such as rabbits and rodents, reptiles, and birds – because no matter what type of pet you might have, they’ll always find a way to surprise you! This patient is Tilly, a 38-year old box turtle who was brought to our ER when her family saw that she’d somehow gotten a laceration on her front leg. Dr. Urbonas sutured the wound closed, with our technician Abby and assistant Kara helping to keep Tilly comfortable during the procedure.

Our Middletown ER at 730 Randolph Rd is open 24/7, and our dedicated Avian & Exotics department led by boarded specialist Dr. Sojka is available to see patients by appointment Wednesdays – Saturdays. 🐾🦜🐇

12/10/2024

🎄🌟 Are Poinsettias Safe for Pets? 🌟🎄

If you’re decorating for the holidays, you might be eyeing a festive poinsettia plant. We know some plants, like lilies, are seriously toxic to pets - so what about poinsettias?

Here’s the good news: while poinsettias are technically toxic to cats and dogs, they usually cause only mild, non-emergency symptoms. 🌿🐾 The sap in the plant can cause irritation or rash-like symptoms. If your pet takes a nibble, they might experience:
Red or itchy skin around the mouth or eyes
Excess drooling
Vomiting

✨ How to Stay Safe:
👉 Keep poinsettias out of reach of pets to avoid any temptation.
👉 If your pet swallows leaves or flowers or has persistent or serious symptoms, contact your vet immediately.

With a little caution, you can safely decorate your home with these beautiful holiday plants—just make sure your pets admire them from a distance! 🐕🐈💚

11/27/2024

We are thrilled to share that Whiskey, the 4-month-old Labrador mix who survived Sunday night’s tragic plane crash, has successfully come through his surgeries to repair his two broken legs. His brave little heart and incredible spirit have inspired everyone who has come into contact with him. While it will take time for his legs to fully heal and his recovery will be a long road for this little pup, his surgery team is very optimistic.

This little guy's story has definitely captured all of our hearts - to go through such a traumatic event and still want to wag his tail and give kisses is a testament to little Whiskey's amazing spirit. Veterinary medicine is a collaborative effort, and everyone from the front desk, emergency, critical care, radiology, surgery, anesthesia, and more have all been making sure that we're doing everything we can to help. Whiskey still has a long journey ahead, but we believe in this little miracle puppy. We're honored to play a role in his recovery, and we'll continue to update you on his progress.

Thank you to everyone who has sent their support and well-wishes for Whiskey. If you would like to contribute to his care and help the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley continue their life-saving work, you can donate here: https://linktr.ee/animalshelterofschoharievalley .

To help support the family of Suek Kim, the heroic pilot who tragically passed away in the crash, please visit https://everloved.com/life-of/seuk-kim/obituary/ .

11/27/2024

We’re wishing you all a happy Thanksgiving!

As a reminder: Pieper Memorial Emergency & Specialty hospital at 730 Randolph Rd in Middletown will remain open 24/7 for emergency cases, and can be reached at (860) 347-8387. We hope you don't need to visit us - but we'll be here if you do.

This Thanksgiving, we’re grateful for the trust you place in us to care for your beloved pets. It’s an honor to be a part of your journey as pet parents, and we’re thankful for the joy and love your furry friends bring to our community.

We also want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible team for their dedication, compassion, and hard work. Your commitment to providing exceptional care makes a difference every single day.

Wishing you and your pets a safe, happy, and love-filled Thanksgiving! 🧡🐶🐱

11/26/2024

Whiskey, a 4-month-old Labrador mix, was being transported by plane along with two other dogs from high-euthanasia shelters in the South to the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley. Tragically, the plane crashed on Sunday night, claiming the lives of the pilot, animal rescuer Suek Kim, and one of the dogs onboard.

Miraculously, two dogs survived the crash. Whiskey sustained minor chest injuries and two broken legs, while the second survivor, Pluto—a 1.5-year-old male Yorkie/Terrier mix—was evaluated at Capital District Veterinary Hospital before being released to the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley. Pluto suffered pulmonary contusions and internal and external bruising but is reported to be recovering well. Sadly, the third dog, a puppy named Lisa, was lost in the crash.

Whiskey is currently being stabilized here at Pieper Memorial Emergency & Specialty Hospital by our Emergency and Critical Care Team. He is scheduled for surgeries on his legs tomorrow, and we are optimistic about his recovery.

This heartbreaking event has profoundly affected the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley, an organization that dedicates itself to rescuing and caring for animals in need. As they navigate this challenging time, we’re asking for your support. Please consider donating to the shelter to assist with Whiskey’s recovery, as well as the care of other animals, and to help the shelter continue its life-saving mission.

You can find a link to their donation page here: https://linktr.ee/animalshelterofschoharievalley.

We would like to express our deepest sympathies to Suek Kim’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. Suek’s dedication to rescuing animals was truly extraordinary, and this tragedy is a profound loss for everyone who knew him and for the animal rescue community at large.

11/25/2024

🦃 Thanksgiving Pet Safety Tips 🐾

Let’s talk turkey! Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food - but don’t forget about keeping your pets safe during the festivities! Here are some tips to ensure a happy and healthy holiday for everyone:

🍗 Watch the Table Scraps: While some plain baked turkey or potatoes can make a nice snack for your pup, many foods on the table can cause some serious digestive trouble. Foods with lots of cream, butter, salt, and sugar should be saved for humans only, and make sure to watch the garbage to make sure your pet doesn’t go on a raid!

🚗 Travel Safety: If you’re hitting the road, make sure your pet is secured in a crate or with a pet seatbelt. Keep your dog leashed when you’re traveling

🕯️ Holiday Hosting: If your house is going to be busy and bustling, it may be easier (and safer) to keep your pet in a quiet room or behind a baby gate to ensure they don’t dash out the door or find trouble in the kitchen.

Let’s make this Thanksgiving a safe and enjoyable one for all our furry friends! Share your favorite holiday moments with your pets in the comments below. 🐶🐱❤️

11/21/2024

Meet the Pieper Oncology Team! 💜🐾

Did you know that Pieper has the largest oncology specialty team in Connecticut? With three veterinarians supported by a team of experienced technicians, assistants, and client care staff, our oncology department is available in both Middletown and Stratford to help provide expert care for their patients and help them live happy, quality lives. Whether that means providing more information and options at a consult, working on an individualized chemotherapy treatment plan, or collaborating with other departments to approach problems from all angles, we couldn’t be more proud to be leading the state in providing exceptional patient care.

🌟Dr. Alexie Baja is a board-certified veterinary oncologist. She attended Florida Atlantic University with an undergraduate degree in biology, and achieved her doctorate of veterinary medicine from St. George’s University in Grenada, where she graduated summa cm laude. She completed her clinical year, rotating internship, and residency in medical oncology at North Carolina State University, and is a member of the ACVIM, VCS, and AVMA.

🌟Dr. Janet K. Carreras is a board-certified veterinary oncologist. Originally from Connecticut, she graduated with honors from the College of the Holy Cross in Chemistry and achieved her doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1998, where she also completed her internship and residency programs. She worked as a veterinary oncologist in Texas at Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists for 14 years, and worked an additional six years at IDEXX Laboratories providing specialty consultations.

🌟Dr. Rita Ho received her DVM from National Taiwan University in 2007, and received certification from Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) in 2010. Dr. Ho completed internships in small animal medicine and surgery and in oncology, as well as a three-year residency at a specialty cancer hospital. Dr. Ho has co-authored scientific journals, provided lectures overseas for continuing education in Mandarin, and is a member of several states and national veterinary organizations.

11/15/2024

Let’s end your week on a happy note by showing off another of our oncology superstars! Bar is a 5-year old Plott hound mix who visited the oncology team for her recheck appointment, here with our technician Jamie and assistants CC and Maddie. She was originally diagnosed with large cell lymphoma last summer, and underwent a course of chemotherapy with our oncology specialty team in Middletown. We’re happy to say that Bar’s lymphoma has been in complete remission since February and she’s been doing great at home!

November is Pet Cancer Awareness month, and now more than ever it’s important to discuss not only the warning signs of cancer but also the success stories – our amazing oncology doctors and team treats patients every day and helps them live comfortable, quality lives 💜🐾