Boston West Veterinary Emergency & Specialty

08/15/2024

Clyde's wild night! 🐾 A scuffle with the neighborhood skunk left him with a minor scratch and a not-so-lovely fragrance! Thankfully, we know the secret potion to battle skunk perfume: hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and that trusty Dawn dish soap! 💪 Bath time, Clyde! 🛁

08/14/2024

Introducing Vinny, the bravest little pup who, despite a bee sting and a swollen muzzle, keeps his tail wagging! A little emergency visit, some steroids and benadryl, and he's already bounding back into his puppy mischief. 🐾

08/13/2024

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that affects many dogs, causing pain and difficulty in movement. At Boston West, Dr. Alsup & Dr. Aiken offer surgical options such as Total Hip Replacement (THR) and Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) to alleviate pain and improve function. Learn more about how we treat hip dysplasia at https://bit.ly/4deHJb8. 🐶🐱

08/07/2024

Boston West has had two wet labs! This structure simulates a canine neck and jugular vein. It allows technicians to learn how to place central lines! Our Dr. Agnello here is guiding technicians Jenna and Shawna!

08/06/2024

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears are common in dogs and can lead to significant pain and mobility issues. Our surgeons, Dr. Alsup & Dr. Aiken at Boston West Veterinary Emergency & Specialty specialize in ACL repair, using advanced techniques like TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) to restore your pet's mobility. Visit www.bostonwestvet.com to learn more about ACL repair. 🐾

08/05/2024

Introducing Luna, the brave survivor! She weathered the storm of a house fire and emerged stronger. Thanks to the quick maneuvers of the First Responders and their lifesaving animal oxygen masks, she's back home safe and sound after a trip to our ER and a stay in the Oxygen Cage. She's proof that a little bit of TLC and resilience can bring light back after the darkest of times. ❤️ 😻

08/01/2024

Boston West loves learning! We were able to put on two wet labs for our nursing staff to learn new skills and improve existing ones. These skills included central line placement, nasogastric tube placement, nasal O2 lines, bandaging, intubation, and suture techniques.

07/31/2024

Day or night, we've got our furry friends covered!🌞🌜Here's a glimpse from this morning's delightful stroll with our overnight canine guests. Feel their joy and comfort! 🐶🌳

07/30/2024

Pets can suffer from various orthopedic conditions such as fractures, ligament tears, and joint diseases. At Boston West, our skilled surgeons are equipped to handle these issues with advanced surgical techniques. Learn more about the common orthopedic conditions we treat and how we can help your pet stay active and healthy. Shown below is an image of a canine knee and the various ligaments! 🐶🐱

07/29/2024

Meet Penny, our resilient hero who bravely battled through a rough patch of tummy troubles. Thanks to immediate care and treatment, she's now back in action, filled with energy as ever!

07/26/2024

Join us in bringing joy to furry friends in need 🐾 This August, our team is partnering with Yankee Golden Rescue and Metro West Humane Society for a donation drive. Check out our list of needed items and stop by Boston West Veterinary Emergency & Specialty to drop them off. Your little act of kindness could light up their world! 🌟 A donation bin has been set up in our lobby and is ready to receive!

07/25/2024

Meet Sadie, a brave little trooper who just underwent a small ear laceration repair. Here are some behind-the-scenes snapshots of her journey to healing - from the initial damage, to the meticulous care taken during treatment, right through to the restored ear. It's a testament to our team's skills and Sadie's strength. 🐾💪✨

07/24/2024

At Boston West Veterinary Emergency & Specialty, our surgeons, Dr. Joel Alsup and Dr. Sean Aiken, specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions in pets. From fractures to joint diseases, we provide advanced surgical care to help your pet regain mobility and live a pain-free life. Visit https://bit.ly/46fvtou to learn more about our orthopedic surgery services. 🐾

07/23/2024

Say hello to the courageous 2-year-old English Bulldog, Starla! 🐾 After battling Intervertebral Disc Disease, she is now on the move again, and with minimal pain too, all thanks to the neurology and surgery team at our sister hospital, . 🐾Forever grateful to her loving human parents, their unwavering support and belief is a story in itself. See that adorable pride bandana from Boston West? It's a symbol of her triumphant return to happiness. Starla, you are one inspirational pup! 🎉

07/16/2024

Equipped and ready! Our hospital staff just completed their RECOVER training, keeping their Basic and Advanced Life support skills sharp because your pet's health is our top priority.

07/15/2024

Meet, Nova, an adorable 3-month-old Maine C**n cat who sustained a right tibial fracture after taking a nasty spill from a cat tree!

After discussing options with Nova's owner, Dr. Sean Aiken recommended placing a closed type 1A acrylic external fixator to help stabilize the fracture but allow motion of the joints in this young growing cat. He discussed the surgical procedure and postoperative care, including strict confinement for 3-4 weeks and preventing her from licking at the external fixator with the use of an e-collar.

Nova's external fixator bandage will need to be checked weekly. Risks of surgery, including implant failure, infection, and angular limb deformities were discussed with the owner.

Nova's surgery went very well, and she recovered uneventfully from anesthesia.

Providing compassionate, specialty care to pets in the Metro West area.

07/15/2024

🔥🐾 Pet Fire Safety Day Awareness! 🐾🔥

Today marks Pet Fire Safety Day, a crucial reminder for all pet owners to safeguard their furry family members from unexpected dangers. Each year, house fires affect not just humans but thousands of pets. Here's how you can prevent these tragedies:

🚫 Secure Pets: Keep pets away from open flames including candles, cooking appliances, and fireplaces. Never leave your pet unattended near an active fire.

🔌 Electrical Safety: Check your home for loose wires and potential chewing hazards. Pets can accidentally start fires by chewing on electrical cords.

🧯 Accessible Exits: Make sure your pet has an easy escape route in case of fire. Consider a pet door or keep pets near entrances when you’re not home.

🏷️ Visible Alerts: Use a pet alert window decal to inform firefighters about pets in your home. It could save their lives!

📞 Preparation is Key: Have a plan that includes your pets. Practice evacuation routes with your pets to reduce panic during an actual emergency.

🛑 Smoke Detectors: Regularly test smoke detectors and have them in key areas around your home to increase your reaction time during a fire.

As pet lovers and caregivers, it's our responsibility to ensure their safety. Share your own fire safety tips or how you keep your pets secure. Let's keep our pets safe, not just today, but every day! 🔥🐶😺

From all of us at Boston West Veterinary Emergency & Specialty, wishing you a safe Pet Fire Safety Day. Remember, we're here to help with any concerns about pet safety or health!

07/11/2024

Unsure what to expect during your pet's ER visit? Our dog waiting room has a special "What to Expect" presentation to answer all your common queries, from check-in to check-out. Curious why the wait can be a tad long? Feel free to ask your questions below!

07/10/2024

🐾🎉 Happy National Kitten Day! 🎉🐾

Today at Boston West Veterinary Emergency & Specialty, we're celebrating the tiniest, most adorable members of our pet family—kittens! 🐱💕 Every day, we see the joy these little furballs bring into our lives, and we're committed to keeping them happy and healthy.

From their playful antics to their curious natures, kittens remind us of the wonder and joy in the world. As an emergency animal hospital, we also know the importance of early care in a kitten's life. That’s why we encourage all kitten parents to consider regular wellness checks to ensure these little ones grow up strong and healthy.

📸 Share a photo of your kitten in the comments below and tell us what you love most about them! Let's fill our feed with these adorable faces! 😻

And if you ever need us, remember, Boston West is here 24/7 to ensure your kitten's health is never put on pause. 🏥

07/09/2024

Oh, Olive! Our furry friend had a little adventure in the world of forbidden snacks. Of course, right to the ER we go! 🐾 With an overnight fast and some hydration boosters, staff pet Olive is back to her playful self! 👏🐶💕 Home is where the paws are, right Olive?

07/08/2024

🐾 July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month! 🚀 At Boston West Veterinary Emergency & Specialty, we're committed to ensuring the safety of our beloved pets in the Natick area and beyond!

🔖 ID Tags & Microchipping: Equip your furry friend with ID tags for immediate contact details and a microchip for permanent identification. These small tools can be lifesavers if your pet ever gets lost.

🏡 Secure Your Fencing: Ensure your yard’s fencing is escape-proof to keep your adventurous pets safe at home. Check for any gaps or weak spots and make sure it's tall enough to prevent any over-the-fence excursions.

📣 Help us spread the word and keep all our pets safe this month!

07/07/2024

Hats off to our culture ambassador, Ryan for organizing a fantastic outing to Level 99 in Natick. Work can indeed be fun when you have an incredible team!

07/05/2024

A huge shoutout to our brave buddy, Dude! Our 8-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel weathered quite the stomach storm. After two days of discomfort, it was discovered he had a serious case of rock-eating! Thanks to our committed ER and internal medicine teams, 11 rocks were successfully and safely scooped out. Check out the photos for an x-ray transformation you'd never believe! 😮

07/04/2024

Happy 4th of July! 🇺🇸🎆 Today, we celebrate America's independence and the values of freedom and democracy that define our nation. As we honor this important day, let’s also remember to keep our pets safe amidst the celebrations.

🌟 Patriotic Pets: Dress up your pets in fun, safe, and comfortable patriotic gear! Share your adorable photos in the comments. Let’s see who’s wearing the red, white, and blue with pride!

🐾 Safety First: While fireworks are a traditional part of our celebrations, they can be frightening for pets. Here are quick tips to ensure your furry family members stay calm and safe:

Keep pets indoors in a quiet, sheltered space.
Play soft music or turn on the TV to mask the sounds of fireworks.
Ensure all pets have ID tags and microchips in case they get scared and escape.
🇺🇸.

Reflecting on Freedom: As we enjoy the festivities, let's reflect on the bravery of those who fought for our freedoms. Today is a day to cherish and celebrate the liberty we share as a nation.

We're here to help if you need advice on keeping your pet secure during the holiday celebrations. From all of us at Boston West Veterinary Emergency & Specialty, have a safe and splendid Fourth of July! 🎇🐶😺

07/03/2024

Calling all shepherd lovers, meet the beautiful Emma! German Shepherds are
highly intelligent & driven to work. They are natural herding dogs & are one of the most loyal dog breeds, so they require ample quality time with their owner & plenty of mental & physical stimulation. They bode a heavy double coat which makes them big shedders & live an average life span of 9-13 years. These dogs make incredible companions!

07/02/2024

🎆 How to Have a Happy and Safe 4th of July with Your Pet! 🐶🐱

👉 Be Prepared
⚪ If your pet is anxious around loud noises or doesn't like them, it's best to keep them at home. Consider talking to your vet about medication to help calm them. Don't wait—talk to your vet today! 🏥
⚪Exercise your pup before the festivities begin to burn off any pent-up energy. 🏃‍♂️🐾

🏡 Create a Safe Space
⚪Keep a close watch on your pet during cookouts. Many foods can be toxic to dogs especially, and it's easy for food to accidentally drop where your pup can eat it. 🍔🚫
⚪Crowds can overwhelm dogs. Keep an eye on them, and if needed, take them away from crowded spaces. 👀
⚪ Be mindful of the heat. Always provide plenty of water, keep animals in the shade, and if it gets too warm, bring them inside where it's cool. ☀️🌊
⚪ Fireworks can be scary! Keep them inside during firework displays to avoid stress. If your dog or cat needs medication, make sure to administer it as directed. Try to keep them occupied with toys or games. 🎇🧸

🌟 Have a Safe and Happy 4th of July! 🌟

07/01/2024

🌞🐾 Keeping Pets Hydrated: Your Summer Guide! 🐾🌞

As we dive into the hottest season of the year, it's crucial to ensure our pets stay hydrated. Just like us, our furry friends can suffer from dehydration and heatstroke. Here's how you can keep your pet safe and hydrated:

🚰 Fresh Water Always: Ensure your pet has access to fresh water at all times. Change their water daily and consider multiple water stations in your home.

🌳 Shade is a Must: Whether indoors or out, make sure your pet can relax in cool, shaded areas, away from direct sunlight.

👅 Watch for Signs of Dehydration:

Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
Increased heart rate
Dry or sticky gums
Weakness or lethargy
Sunken eyes

🕒 Mind the Time: Avoid vigorous play or walks during peak sun hours. Early mornings or evenings are safer and cooler.

🍉 Fun with Ice & Treats: Spice up their hydration routine with ice cubes, frozen treats, or fruits safe for pets (like watermelon, minus the seeds!).

🚑 Know When to React: If your pet shows any signs of dehydration or heatstroke, it's essential to act fast:

💦 Provide them water immediately
💨 Bring them to a cool, air-conditioned area
🆒 Apply towels soaked in cool (not cold) water to their head, neck, and chest
📞 We're Here to Help: If your pet’s symptoms persist or worsen, bring them in to be seen. Our team is ready to ensure they receive the care they need.

Let’s make this summer safe and enjoyable for our pets! July is Pet Hydration Awareness Month. Remember, if you're ever concerned about your pet's hydration or heat tolerance, give us a call or visit us. Your pet's health is our top priority! 💧🐶😺

06/30/2024

🌍📱 Happy World Social Media Day! 📱🌍

Imagine if our furry friends had their own social media accounts! 🐾✨ If your pet could update their status, what do you think they would say?

🤔 Let's get creative and share in the comments below! Whether it's a purr-fectly posed selfie or a "pawsome" adventure update, let's celebrate the joy our pets bring to our lives, both online and off! 🐶🐱💕

📱🐾

06/28/2024

📣 Exciting News! 📣

Boston West Veterinary Emergency & Specialty has launched a brand-new Instagram page! 🎉🐾 Follow us for behind-the-scenes glimpses of our dedicated team, heartwarming pet stories, tips on pet health, and so much more!

We invite all our wonderful Facebook followers to join us on Instagram. Engage with us, share your pet photos, and stay connected with the latest updates from our hospital. Let's build a vibrant community of pet lovers together!

🐶🐱📸 See you on Instagram ! 🌟

06/26/2024

Meet Aila, ready and excited for her Internal Medicine consult with Dr. Langer at Boston West! It's going to be a great day!