Mission Animal Hospital of SLO

03/03/2025

Since the invention of money, one thing has been certain at all times and in all places: The tax collector is never a welcome visitor. In certain precincts of 19th century Germany, the reception was downright hostile. All too aware of this was taxman and dog breeder Louis Dobermann, from the town of Apolda. He hoped to breed an imposing but dependable protector to accompany him on his rounds. Dobermann's handiwork was a larger, less refined version of the pinscher that today bears his name (minus an "n," which was dropped somewhere along the way).

The 'Tax Collector's Dog' quickly gained an international reputation as a working dog supreme. Dobes have excelled at police and military K-9 duty, as therapy dogs and service dogs for the disabled, as searchers and rescuers, and in competitive dog sports.

Sleek and powerful, possessing both a magnificent physique and keen intelligence, the Doberman Pinscher is one of dog kind's noblemen. This incomparably fearless and vigilant breed stands proudly among the world's finest protection dogs. Dobermans are compactly built dogs, muscular, fast, and powerful, standing between 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder. The body is sleek but substantial, and is covered with a glistening coat of the following colors, black & rust, blue & rust, fawn (Isabella) & rust, red & rust, and white (fault color)

The Doberman Pinscher came to the AKC in 1908 and has since reigned as one of America's most popular working breeds.

To learn more about the Doberman Pinscher visit the Doberman Pinscher Club of America dpca.org

02/24/2025

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐯𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐚?

When you go to the dentist, you know that what’s being done is meant to help you and keep your mouth healthy. Your dentist uses techniques to minimize pain and discomfort and can ask you how you are feeling, so you accept the procedures and do your best to keep still. Your pet does not understand the benefit of dental procedures, and he or she reacts by moving, trying to escape, or even biting.

Anesthesia makes it possible to perform the dental procedures with less stress and pain for your pet. In addition, anesthesia allows for a better cleaning because your pet is not moving around and risking injury from the dental equipment. If radiographs (x-rays) are needed, your pet needs to be very still in order to get good images, and this is unlikely without heavy sedation or anesthesia.

Although anesthesia will always have risks, it’s safer now than ever and continues to improve so that the risks are very low and are far outweighed by the benefits. Pets go home the same day of the procedure, although they might seem a little groggy for the rest of the day. Your veterinarian and veterinary technician will go over post operative care with you, and answer any questions that you may have.

We are happy to answer any questions you have about our dental procedures. We are just a phone call away! 📞 (805) 781-8888

02/19/2025

Dental care IS essential care! 🦷

Just like humans— dental care is a key piece of overall health. An annual cleaning can remove buildup to help prevent dental disease and allow us to detect oral cancers early, so you and your pet live a longer, happier life together.

From now until April 10th, take advantage of $100 off dental cleanings at Mission Animal Hospital! Call us today to get your pet scheduled! 🩵🦷

***𝐁𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝟑𝟎 𝐝𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬. 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝟐/𝟏𝟎/𝟐𝟓 𝐭𝐨 𝟒/𝟏𝟎/𝟐𝟓. 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐫 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐮𝐬 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐬. 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐮𝐬 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟏𝟎% 𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 $𝟏𝟎𝟎 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐝. 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬; 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐞𝐱𝐚𝐦𝐬, 𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬. 𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲.

02/17/2025

The Alaskan Klee Kai is a small-sized companion dog that is alert, energetic, and curious, yet reserved with unfamiliar people and situations.

The Alaskan Klee Kai have ancient roots descending from the numerous native dogs which have populated Alaska for thousands of years. Many of these dogs became not only loving family pets, but in the harsh environment of Alaska, were crucial for survival for the tribal groups and nomadic people. They excelled at pulling sleds, hiking, hunting, tracking, and were early warning alerts for dangers such as wild animals or enemies approaching. One of the largest groups of native dogs that make up the base of what became known as the Alaskan Husky type of dog are the Alaskan Interior Village dogs. Husky lines from Siberia, which were imported to Alaska in the early 1900s, were added to much of this hearty dog population as dog sled racing started to grow. They developed an intelligent, vigorous, and hardworking dog, with a happy nature.

They stand anywhere from 12 to 15 inches tall, weighs anywhere from 6 to 25 pounds, and has a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years.

The Alaskan Klee Kai was accepted into AKC’s Foundation Stock Service (FSS) in 2020, and has been approved by the AKC to move into the Miscellaneous Class in 2025!

For more information about Alaskan Klee Kai, please visit the national breed club: Alaskan Klee Kai Club of America www.akkcoa.org

02/08/2025

What happens during a professional veterinary dental cleaning?

During a professional dental cleaning, the veterinarian thoroughly examines and evaluates your pet’s entire mouth and oral structures, and cleans their teeth. Steps involve:
🔹Conscious oral exam — The veterinarian will examine your pet’s mouth, looking for dental disease signs and any abnormalities.
🔹Blood work — A professional dental cleaning requires anesthesia, so the veterinary team will perform blood work to ensure your pet has no underlying health issues that would complicate the procedure.
🔹Anesthesia — The veterinary team will place an intravenous (IV) catheter and induce anesthesia, monitoring your pet closely throughout the procedure until they are fully recovered.
🔹Dental X-rays — More than 50% of a tooth’s structure is below the gumline and can only be seen on X-rays.
🔹Teeth scaling — The veterinary team uses specialized dental instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surface above and below the gumline.
🔹Polishing — Scaling leaves microabrasions on the tooth surface, and the veterinary team will polish your pet’s teeth so bacteria cannot adhere to these lesions.
Periodontal probing — The veterinary team will probe around each tooth, looking for abnormally deep areas and pockets.
🔹Extractions — In some cases, dental disease damages the tooth and the supporting structures, and extractions are necessary.
🔹Antibiotic treatment — If your pet’s dental disease is extensive, and especially if they require an extraction, the veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics.

02/05/2025

Did you brush your teeth this morning? Most people brush their teeth daily and see their dentist twice a year. But, you may be surprised to know that your pet needs the same level of dental care. Dental disease can cause serious problems for your pet, including devastating systemic issues. Fortunately, the appropriate dental care can protect your pet against this serious disease.

Many pets with dental disease show no signs because they are experts at hiding pain and discomfort. This is why regular dental exams are so important to your pet’s health. When the disease progresses, you may notice:
🔹Bad breath
🔹Excessive drooling
🔹Discolored (e.g., yellow or brown) teeth
🔹Red, swollen gums
🔹Blood on your pet’s chew toys
🔹Tilting the head to eat or eating on only one side of the mouth
🔹Dropping food
🔹Nasal or ocular discharge
🔹Facial swelling

If you notice any of these signs, please give us a call! 📞 (805) 781-8888

02/03/2025

February is awareness month and we're helping to spread the word on the importance of spaying or neutering dogs and cats to help them live longer, healthier lives. 🐶 🐱

Did you know a single unaltered cat and her offspring can produce more than 400,000 cats in their lifetime? Over time, this creates a massive burden and impact on local shelters, which can stretch resources and available space.

Spaying and neutering pets can help reduce the number of unwanted litters and the number of homeless animals that end up in shelters. This can help improve the quality of life for pets and the overall welfare of animals in communities.

01/31/2025

February is just around the corner!
Healthy smiles = healthy pets. Tartar buildup can lead to tooth and gum decay, which can cause more serious problems in your pet’s kidneys, heart, and liver. Talk to your veterinarian about dental care and help your pet’s smile shine.

01/28/2025

Mahi is now offering biscuit massages! 😻

01/23/2025

Mahi went in for an interview at and I think she got the job! 🤭

01/22/2025

01/15/2025

Meet our new clinic cat, Mahi Mahi Tuna! Mahi for short. She came into our lives back in December. Some of her favorite activities include sleeping in her hunni pot, walking around making sure we are all working, and getting love from the doctors in the mornings. She’s a sweet old lady who will live out her golden years with us at Mission Animal Hospital. 🩵🐾

01/13/2025

As the LA fires continue to impact areas across Los Angeles, countless animals—both in shelters and in the homes of families who have been displaced—are facing unimaginable hardship. The devastating LA fires have left many animals without shelter, food, and the comfort. Shelters, rescues, and pet owners across the city are in urgent need of supplies and funds to help care for these vulnerable animals.

Where to donate:
🔹Pasadena Humane Society: Urgently seeking monetary donations to support their efforts in caring for over 300 animals rescued from the devastating Eaton Fires in Los Angeles.
🔹Palisades Fire Canine Relief Fund: has established a flexible donation fund to provide emergency shelter, medical care, food, and essential supplies to affected dogs, ensuring they can act swiftly and effectively as the situation evolves.
🔹Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
🔹Red Cross (LA Chapter)
🔹Direct Relief
🔹Operation Blankets of Love: Supplies needed include pet food, blankets, beds, towels, carriers, leashes and harnesses or collars, cat litter, medical and grooming supplies and more. You can donate via amazon wishlist!
🔹LA Fires Dog Rescue Fundraiser: Fi.dogs have create a GoFundMe to help displaced pets and families recover from the devastating LA fires.
🔹Best Friends Los Angeles: Best Friends’ emergency response team is on the ground in Los Angeles, working alongside local animal welfare organizations to provide vital support while also ensuring the safety of their pets and staff at their Pet Adoption Center.

Other ways to help!
⭐Fostering: Become an emergency foster. Shelters and rescues across Los Angeles have been receiving a huge influx of pets. Contact your local shelter or animal rescues to see how you can help.
⭐Volunteering: With the influx of animals coming into shelters, volunteers will be needed to help take care of all the pets. Reach out to your local shelter and apply to become a volunteer. Also reach out to evacuation shelters or relief organizations like American Red Cross to see if they are looking for volunteers.

01/10/2025

Training helps strengthen the bond between you and your doggo! This National Train Your Dog Month, take time to teach a new trick or brush up on old ones. Afterward, get your pup AND yourself a treat, because you both deserve positive reinforcement.

01/01/2025

Wishing everyone a very happy new year!

12/13/2024

Merry and bright or holiday fright? Holiday safety tips for you and your pet!

⭐️ Delicious Dangers: While this time of year may include some of the best food, we recommend keeping your pet’s diet the same as any other day. Fatty, sweet and spicy foods as well as turkey or chicken bones can all be dangerous to our pets.

⭐️ Watch Out for Wires: You may have more festive décor out this time of year, so be sure to keep wires, batteries and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws' reach. Wires can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus, while shards of breakable ornaments can damage your pet's mouth and digestive tract.

⭐️ Mistletoe, Oh No: Both mistletoe and holly can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems if ingested by pets. Many types of lilies that are typically found in holiday bouquets are highly toxic and can cause kidney failure in cats. Poinsettias can also make pets sick with mild to moderate gastrointestinal irritation. So, be sure to keep floral decorations out of paws reach!

⭐️ Caution Around Candles
Whether you are lighting a menorah or filling your home with scented candles, make sure you do not leave any candles unattended. Curious paws and happy wagging tails could knock them over, potentially burning your pet or starting a fire.

⭐️ Loud Noises
It can be easy to forget that our pets may be sensitive to loud sounds while having fun. Loud music, fireworks, celebratory poppers or noisemakers can scare our furry companions. Make sure there is a safe space your pet can retreat to if they need some quiet time, like an interior room.

⭐️ Salty Hazards
Ice melt and salt-dough ornaments—even when dry—may be enticing to pets but can cause life-threatening imbalances in electrolytes.

⭐️Tinsel-less Town
Kitties love tinsel as it’s sparkly, light-catching and easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But ingestion can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery

11/27/2024

Mission Animal Hospital will be closed 11/28 & 11/29 so we can spend time with our families. We will be back in the office Monday, December 2nd.

Wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving!

If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, please contact Atascadero Pet Hospital & Emergency Center at (805) 466-3888

11/23/2024

Want to spread some holiday cheer? We are accepting donations for both our two and four legged friends!

🐾 Pets of the Homeless are accepting pet food and pet supplies. Donations are accepted all year long.

🧸 Astound is sponsoring a toy drive to support the 5 Cities Homeless Coalition for the holiday season. Suggested items for kids under the age of 10 include new, in-package toys, bikes, skateboards, helmets, sports gear (soccer ball, basketball, baseball glove, baseball, and baseball bat), new apparel (jackets and shoes), age-appropriate board games, matching bed sets, and new stuffed animals.
For tweens and teens ages 11-18, the following items are needed: board games, headphones, makeup sets, nails painting kits, bluetooth speakers, and reusable water bottles. These gift cards are also encouraged and can be placed in an envelope: Wal-Mart, Target, Central Coast Aquarium in Avila Beach, escape rooms (such as The Locked Inn in Grover Beach), makeup stores, food locations, shoe stores, theaters, clothing stores, and accessory stores.