Integrity Veterinary Center

12/05/2024

🚨 Planning for Veterinary Emergencies 🚨

When it comes to our pets, emergencies can happen when we least expect them. Whether it’s an injury, sudden illness, or another urgent situation, being prepared can make all the difference in getting your pet the care they need—fast.

Why Planning Ahead Matters:

Vet Services Fill Up Quickly: Many veterinary clinics in our area can get booked up fast, especially in emergencies. Having a plan in place ensures you won’t waste precious time figuring out where to go.

Know Your Nearest Emergency Vets: Identify the closest emergency vet clinics and have their contact information readily available. Save the details in your phone, and consider a backup option in case your first choice is full.

Create an Emergency Fund: Unexpected vet bills can be expensive. Setting aside money specifically for emergencies can help you act quickly without financial stress.

Keep Your Pet’s Records Handy: Having up-to-date medical records easily accessible can help the vet provide the best possible care in an emergency.

First Aid Knowledge: Learn basic pet first aid, like how to safely transport an injured pet or perform CPR, to stabilize your pet while you get to the vet.

Quick Action Saves Lives:

Being prepared for emergencies can make a critical difference in your pet’s health and well-being. A little planning now can help ensure you’re ready to act quickly when every minute counts.

🚨🐾❤️

11/28/2024

Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🍂

We can’t forget our furry family members, and can’t help but to give them a few nibbles of the Thanksgiving meal but it’s good to keep in mind that they can’t always eat what we do!

Check out this infographic to make sure the tidbits you slide under the table are safe for their bellies.

11/25/2024

Meet our newest Specialist!

John Loftus, PhD, DVM, DACVIM (Internal Medicine, Nutrition)
Pronouns: he/him/his:

Dr. Loftus is board-certified in both Small Animal Internal Medicine and Nutrition, and most recently served as section chief of the Internal Medicine Department at Cornell University. He was raised in Massachusetts and attended the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. He earned a BS in Animal Science and his PhD in Animal Biotechnology and Biomedical Science, focusing on immunology.

He moved to Ithaca in 2008 to attend Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, graduating with his DVM degree in 2012. He completed a small animal rotating internship, clinical nutrition residency, and small animal internal medicine residency at Cornell University Hospital for Animals. He is delighted to return to Western MA and join Integrity Veterinary Center. He’s looking forward to developing long-term relationships with clients and their pets. When not working, he spends his time with his wife, two young boys, their dog, and two cats.

Join us in welcoming him by dropping your cutest pet pictures below!

11/21/2024

“We had our first visit for Otis. The staff were friendly, patient, kind, and understanding of our concerns for our dog. They were also very informative, explaining in detail the medical plan they felt would be best for Otis.

They were upfront and honest about the cost, showing transparency and allowing us to make an informed decision about what we were willing to do cost-wise. At no time did we feel pressured or guilty.

We ultimately decided to move forward with the treatment plan, and I feel confident that we have found an internal medicine practice and veterinarian Dr. Loftus that will be good for our boy Otis. Thank you for the warm welcome as a new patient and for your dedication to Otis's well-being. I am grateful for the recommendation that led us to your practice.” -S.

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave this great review!

Come see us for veterinary care with integrity!

11/14/2024

How will we pay for it?

We understand the cost of veterinary care can be significant, and we have several different options available to help.

First and foremost we do our best to be as upfront about cost as we can. We will do your pet’s exam, then we will prepare a cost estimate for you based on the recommended diagnostic and treatment plan so you can decide how to proceed from there.

We always recommend getting pet insurance while your animal is healthy to help prepare for eventual medical bills since that can significantly help with the cost when it is needed.

We also have several ways to help cover the cost through Care Credit, ScratchPay, and VetBilling. They all work in different ways.

Check out our website for more information on our payment options https://zurl.co/qwS9

10/31/2024

Happy Halloween from our Boo Crew to yours!

We hope you have a hair-raising night!

Drop cute pictures of your pets ready for Halloween!

10/24/2024

At Integrity Veterinary Center, our mission is to provide exceptional and personalized veterinary care.

We are committed to practicing the highest standard of medicine, collaborating with our patients’ entire healthcare team, and prioritizing patient comfort. The central question we consider in every decision is:
What is best for our patients?

Let us have the honor of caring for your pet.

10/17/2024

We are here for you when you need us!🐈🐕🩺

Our Urgent Care is open 7 days a week, 8 AM-7 PM.

Call 413-614-0039 for an appointment.

10/16/2024

We will be closing today (Wednesday, October 16th) at 5 pm for a staff event. We will open tomorrow at 8 am.

Halloween is coming. Stay Spooky!

10/10/2024

Thank you so much Nithin R, for this great review!

We were happy to help your pet!

If you are ready for 5-star Veterinary service give us a call! 🐾

10/04/2024

🌟 Welcome Dr. John Loftus, Ph.D, DVM, DACVIM! 🌟

We’re excited to introduce our new specialist at Integrity Veterinary Center! Dr. Loftus brings extensive experience in Small Animal Internal Medicine and Nutrition, previously serving as section chief at Cornell University.

Originally from Massachusetts, he’s thrilled to return to Western MA and build lasting relationships with our clients and their pets. When he's not at work, Dr. Loftus enjoys family time with his wife, two boys, their dog, and two cats.

Join us in welcoming Dr. Loftus to the team! 🐾✨

10/03/2024

🐾 Planning for Increased Veterinary Care Costs as Your Pet Ages 🐾

As our pets grow older, their health needs change, often requiring more frequent and sometimes costly veterinary care. From arthritis to dental issues, senior pets face various challenges that may require more regular check-ups and treatments.

How to Prepare:

🐾 Estimate Future Costs: Consult your vet about common health issues for your pet’s breed and age, and what treatments may cost.
🐾 Consider Pet Insurance: Review your policy or explore new options that better cover senior pets.
🐾 Start a Savings Fund: Set aside money monthly to prepare for unexpected vet bills.
🐾 Invest in Preventative Care: Quality food, exercise, and regular dental care can help prevent costly health issues.
🐾 Explore Payment Plans: Some vets offer payment options such as CareCredit, ScratchPay, or VetBilling.

By planning ahead, you can focus on what matters most—enjoying your pet’s golden years together. These years are precious, and with proper care, you can ensure your furry friend remains happy and healthy for as long as possible.

❤️🐾

09/26/2024

Navigating cancer and the uncertainty that goes with it is hard enough, so we provided this resource to answer a lot of commonly asked questions and let you know what you can expect during cancer treatments.

Our Oncology staff negotiates the balance for optimal comfort and time. They talk about what trade-offs feel right and safe, and what are the most important factors to protect.

For more information on what to expect for your pet's cancer journey click here. https://zurl.co/LCJe

Broadly speaking, chemotherapy involves using different medications to treat cancer. There are many kinds of chemotherapy medications, and they work in multiple different ways. Some chemotherapy medications are injectable, and some are oral (pills). Chemotherapy for Dogs and Cats: In veterinary onco...

09/19/2024

🩺 Early Cancer Detection and Prevention for Your Pets 🩺

Cancer is a serious concern for our pets, but early detection and prevention can make a world of difference. Just like in humans, catching cancer early often means more treatment options and a better prognosis.

Steps to Take:

Regular Vet Check-ups: Annual exams are crucial for spotting early signs of cancer. As your pet ages, consider increasing the frequency of these visits.

Know the Signs: Lumps, unexplained weight loss, changes in appetite, or unusual behavior can all be early signs. Don’t wait—if something seems off, consult your vet.

Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of cancer.

Screenings: Ask your vet about cancer screenings, especially if your pet is at higher risk due to age or breed.

By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help ensure your pet lives a long, healthy, and happy life.

❤️🐾

09/12/2024

Sometimes it can be hard to know whether you should bring your pet to Urgent Care or an Emergency Vet. 🚑

Our Urgent Care service is available 7 days a week, and we strive to have evaluation appointments available within 1-3 days.

Save this infographic for quick reference!

09/05/2024

"Wow, can’t say enough good things about the availability and professionalism of the Integrity Vet Center staff. It was really tough when our dog Bruno was diagnosed with Lymphoma and we called around to Oncology vets in our Central Mass area and were told there were no openings for 3-4 weeks (which was roughly his prognosis without treatment).

When calling Integrity they were able to fit us in the next day, and were supremely available and flexible to fit our busy schedules during the first 6 weeks of his treatment before we were able to transfer to a clinic closer to us. The docs were kind and compassionate and made the whole process easy to understand, and went to bat for us to get us transferred to a clinic 10 minutes from our house instead of the 75 minutes we were driving to Integrity.

The whole staff seemed to be aware of our commute for his appointments and really prioritized great communication to make it clear how long his appointments might take etc. Can’t recommend them enough."

Thank you for your review! We love Bruno (such a handsome boy), and we hope he continues to do very well. Our oncologists both loved taking care of him!

Contact us for 5-star Oncology care.

09/02/2024

Happy Labor Day from all of us!

We hope you get plenty of cat naps in!

09/01/2024

We will be closed on Monday, September 2, 2024 in observance of Labor Day. Our Urgent Care and Specialty Services will open again on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at 8 am.