Veterinary Specialty Hospital- North County

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Veterinary Specialty Hospital- North County

Veterinary Specialty Hospital of North County makes a difference in the lives of pets and the people
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Since 1990, we have been the preeminent, world-class veterinary specialty center in the North County area, with top specialists providing exceptional service and care using state-of-the-art technology

01/02/2024

National Pet Travel Safety Day serves as a reminder to keep your pet safe every time you travel with them. Whether it's a family vacation, a car ride to the park, or even to the vet, you want to make each and every trip a safe one! 🚗✈

- Keep your pet secure in the car. An unsecured pet can be a distraction for the driver which puts them, any passengers, and the pet in danger. Also, never let your pet ride in the bed of a pickup truck. This is illegal in some states and, regardless of the law, puts your pet at a high risk of injury. The best way to keep your pet secure in the car is by using a harness or putting them in a pet crate and keeping them buckled in.

- In addition to keeping them secure, avoid letting your pet ride in the passenger seat or in your lap. If the airbag deploys in an accident, it could severely injure your pet (or worse). Secured in the back seat is the safest place in the car for your pet.

- Keep them comfortable while traveling with a spacious crate. As a rule of thumb, your pet should be able to stand up, sit down, and turn around inside the crate without touching the sides. You could also place a comfort item in the crate for them to travel with to help relieve some stress.

- Prepare a travel kit ahead of time with everything your pet might need while traveling and when you reach your destination. For example, your kit might include the following: food, water, bowls, medications, a leash, waste bags, a scooper, a litter box, and extra litter.

For additional travel tips, check out this article from the AVMA: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/traveling-your-pet-faq

01/01/2024

🎇HAPPY NEW YEAR!🎇

As you think about 2024 resolutions for yourself, remember to consider your pets too! 🐾

We’d love to know…if your pet could make their own new years resolution for 2024, what would it be? Comment below!

Also, check out this article for some great pet resolution tips from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): https://bit.ly/3SLF15U

12/28/2023

Start the new year off right by pet-proofing your celebration! 🐾🎇 With all the excitement and commotion, NYE celebrations can result in lost pets and accidents.

Here are some tips to keep your pets safe:
🎉 Secure pets in a comfy place indoors
🎉 Make sure all pets have ID tags
🎉 Keep alcohol, treats, and decorations out of reach
🎉 Guard entry and exit points – noisemakers, streamers, popping balloons, and fireworks could cause pets to make a sudden escape
🎉 If you are leaving your pet for the night, do a quick double-check around the house for all of the above and do what you can to make your pet feel comfortable and safe while they ring in the new year!

12/25/2023

From our family to yours, 🎅🎄🐾 MERRY CHRISTMAS! 🐾🎄🎅
We hope your day is filled with love and plenty of treats!

12/24/2023

🎅🎄🤶 Merry Christmas Eve! 🎅🎄🤶 Wishing everyone a warm, joyous, and safe holiday weekend!

12/21/2023

Happy First Day of Winter! ❄

We wanted to take this opportunity to remind you that extremely cold temperatures can cause serious problems for pets such as hypothermia, accidental antifreeze ingestion, burns caused by fires or space heaters, and more.

Check out this article from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) to learn more animal safety tips for cold weather: https://bit.ly/2MO9XCW

12/19/2023

While many people are decking their halls and homes this holiday season, we wanted to share a friendly reminder that several of your favorite festive plants may be toxic to pets.

Please keep potential harmful plants out of paw's reach. A few of the most common toxic holiday plants include:
- Poinsettia
- Amaryllis
- Mistletoe
- Balsam
- Pine
- Cedar
- Holly

If you suspect your pet may have ingested a harmful plant, contact us right away. You can also connect with the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

12/13/2023

🌟⚠HOLIDAY HAZARDS⚠🌟

They might look beautiful but holiday decorations may be hazardous for pets. Here are a few tips to keep your pet safe this holiday season:

🎄 Securely anchor and keep pets away from the tree. Also remember to sweep up any fallen brush or pine needles.

💡 Hang strands of lights higher up. Not only can pets get tangled in strings, but these strands can give them a potentially life-threatening electrical shock if they bite through the wire.

🐈 Tinsel and ornaments can seem like toys (especially to cats) and can cause serious stomach issues if ingested. Avoid using tinsel when possible and stick with larger, shatterproof ornaments that aren’t easy to break or swallow.

12/09/2023

Happy International Day of Veterinary Medicine! 🐾💙🩺

We would like to recognize and celebrate the hard work, dedication, and kindness that our veterinary professionals extend to our patients and their families every day.

We truly appreciate the compassion that veterinarians, technicians, and support team members have for all animals. Join us in saying THANK YOU to everyone who ensures the well-being of the pets placed in their loving care - we are forever grateful!

12/08/2023

During the winter months, cats will often seek out any warm space they can find. Unfortunately, common cozy places include underneath a car and a warm car engine which puts their lives at risk. Here’s a few actions you can take to avoid these types of catastrophes:

🐱 Keep your cat safe and warm inside
💭 Check on your cat before leaving the house or before leaving for a trip
🚗 Make loud warning sounds before starting your car
📢 Give cats time to escape your car after you’ve made the loud noises
🛌 Provide a safer, alternative cozy spot for cats by setting up a cat bed or box with a blanket

12/07/2023

Happy Hanukkah! Wishing you and your family a season full of light and love. 🕎💛

12/05/2023

This is a reminder that both dogs and cats are known to ingest antifreeze (an unfortunately sweet tasting substance). This often occurs when antifreeze isn't stored properly or isn't placed out of paw's reach. Antifreeze can cause serious nervous system damage, kidney failure, and death. All it takes is less than a tablespoon!

If your pet has ingested antifreeze, there is an antidote! However, it is EXTREMELY important to get treatment for your pet as soon as possible. Contact us right away. You can also call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888)426-4435

12/02/2023

🎶 We like cute mutts and we can not lie! 🎶

It's National Mutt Day and we can't miss an opportunity to celebrate your mutt pup! Share your favorite picture of your dog in the comments below 👇🐶🐕

11/28/2023

November is . If left untreated, diabetes can cause a number of serious health issues. Factors that may lead to diabetes include middle to older age, genetics, breed, and obesity.

If you notice any of the following signs, you should reach out to your primary care veterinarian immediately:

🐾 Excessive water drinking and increased urination
🐾 Weight loss, even though there may be an increased appetite
🐾 Decreased appetite
🐾 Cloudy eyes (especially in dogs)
🐾 Chronic or recurring infections (eg. skin infections and urinary infections)

The earlier the diagnosis, the better chance your pet may have for a longer and healthier life.

11/23/2023

Today, and throughout the year, we are grateful for your trust in our team when your pet needs medical care. From our family to yours, we wish you a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving. 🦃❤️

11/22/2023

Thanksgiving is almost here! While we’re excited about the delicious feast ahead, it’s important to understand which foods are toxic for pets.

Keep your cats and dogs away from:
🦃 Stuffing – as it may contain onions or garlic
🦃 Ham and other Pork – can cause pancreatitis, upset stomach, or diarrhea
🦃 Turkey – Dogs should only have a little bit of meat, no skin or seasoning
🦃 Turkey Bones – splinters may cause indigestion or bowel obstruction
🦃 Mashed Potatoes – may have been prepared with butter and dairy
🦃 Salads with Grapes/Raisins – can cause kidney failure
🦃 Chocolate Desserts – toxic to both cats and dogs

If you suspect your pet has eaten something toxic this holiday, check our website for holiday hours of operation. You can also call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

11/20/2023

Take the following safety precautions when traveling with your pets this holiday 🐈🐕:

🐶 No heads out the window of the car, it’s not safe. Pets should always be safely restrained inside the car.
🐾 Frequent pit stops for bathroom, hydration, and exercise breaks.
✔️ Ensure correct food intake and don’t be tempted to share your snacks.
🚗 Never leave your pet alone in the car.
🐱 Ensure your pet is safe and comfortable, bring their favorite blanket or travel bed.

Where are you taking your pet this Thanksgiving? Comment below!

11/15/2023

Would you know if your cat was in pain? Cats will often hide the fact that they are in pain and are often more difficult to read than dogs. Our feline family members will show us how they feel through behavior changes.

Signs of pain in cats:

✅ Reduced activity
✅ Loss of appetite
✅ Quiet/loss of curiosity
✅ Changes in urinary/defecation habits
✅ Hiding, hissing, spitting
✅ Lack of agility/jumping
✅ Excessive licking/grooming
✅ Stiff posture/gait
✅ Guarding behavior
✅ Lack of grooming/matted fur
✅ Tail flicking
✅ Weight loss

If your cat displays any of these symptoms, contact your primary care veterinarian as soon as possible.

11/13/2023

Broken teeth are very common in pets and can result from trauma or from chewing on hard objects such as marrow bones, cow hooves, and even ice. As a rule of thumb, if a toy is harder than your fingernail it should be avoided.

A broken tooth can be painful if infected or if the pulp cavity is exposed, which is the inner part of the tooth with nerve and blood supply.

If your pet has a broken or injured tooth, it is important to seek medical care. If you act quickly and your pet gets the right medical attention, they should recover well.

Symptoms can include difficulty chewing, excessive drooling, reluctance to eat, avoiding chew toys, or acting more aggressive/short-tempered.

11/11/2023

Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans. We’re so grateful to all those who serve our country and help keep us safe! 💙❤️

11/09/2023

Many pet owners are nervous if anesthesia is needed for a surgery or procedure. However, anesthesia or sedation may be the best way for your pet to receive high-quality care without pain, stress, or discomfort.

🐾 Our team is trained to carefully select, dose, administer medications, and monitor your pet while they are at the hospital.

🐾 Some pain medications can last for 8-12 hours in dogs and up to 24 hours in cats. Your pet may act groggy and confused within this timeframe after their procedure.

🐾 Keep your pet from climbing, jumping, or running around for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Your doctor will instruct proper recovery time to prevent injury.

🐾 Call us if your pet isn’t eating within the anticipated timeframe, or if your pet vomits, develops diarrhea, or refuses to eat or drink for more than 12 hours.

Remember, it takes time for the effects of anesthesia to wear off. Don't hesitate to ask your veterinarian questions and more importantly, don't delay treatments that could help your pet have a healthier, happier life!

11/04/2023

Daylight saving time ends this weekend! ⏰

At 2:00am on Sunday, clocks will "fall back" an hour, giving us an extra hour of sleep (and snuggle time with our pets!).

As a result of the time change, pets may need extra time to adjust -- something to keep in mind when it comes to their meal times and bathroom breaks.

11/01/2023

November is .

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 50% of dogs over age 10, and 25% of all dogs will develop cancer. Although there is less information for cats, our feline friends also commonly develop cancer.

Cancer can develop in any body system. Symptoms vary according to the organs affected, but may include:

• A lump or mass anywhere on your pet's body
• Difficulty eating or chewing, or a decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Persistent vomiting, drooling, or diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing
• Bleeding from the nose or mouth
• Abdominal swelling
• A wound that will not heal
• Limping or lameness
• Excessive drinking/urinating
• Straining to defecate or urinate

Other diseases may cause similar symptoms, but reaching a diagnosis as quickly as possible is important. Cancer will not resolve on its own and early detection is critical for successful treatment.

If you have any questions about your pet’s health, please contact your veterinarian.

10/31/2023

Happy Halloween! We hope your day is filled with fun, spooky vibes, and wagging tails! 👻🎃🦇

Are your pets in costume this year? Comment a picture below!

10/30/2023

Halloween is almost here! 👻🎃 Are you ready? We recommend taking a few extra precautions to keep your pets calm and safe this holiday:

#1 Make sure your pets are wearing their collars and identification tags.
#2 Keep them clear of the door (in a separate room) if you expect a lot of new visitors or unusual activity. This will prevent them from darting outside.
#3 Watch out for decorations that can be hazards like lit candles, glowsticks, wires, cobwebs, or other items.
#4 Have a dress rehearsal. Check your pet’s costume to ensure they have full mobility and can breathe properly. Ill-fitting outfits can get twisted and may lead to injury.

If you encounter any emergencies with your pet over Halloween contact us right away.

10/29/2023

As the holiday quickly approaches, it’s important to remember that several popular Halloween treats are considered toxic to pets. Some of these include:

🎃 Chocolate
🎃 Sugar-free candies or gum containing xylitol
🎃 Raisins (especially chocolate-covered)
🎃 Candy Corn
🎃 Caramel Apples
🎃 Macadamia Nuts

If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, contact us right away. You can also call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435

10/27/2023

October is National Animal Safety and Protection Month - a month dedicated to promoting the safe practices of handling and caring for all animals.

Here are a few simple things you can do for your pet today:

✅ Make sure your home is pet safe by keeping all toxic materials out of reach of curious pets. Here is a full list of pet toxins:
https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poisons/

✅ Microchip your pet in case they get lost

✅ Update all ID tags and information

✅ See your primary care veterinarian for a full physical exam to ensure your pet is in good health and up to date on all vaccines.

10/25/2023

Autumn is a beautiful time of year, but there can be some pet hazards during this season. Here are some yard cleaning safety tips to consider:

🐈 When applying lawn care products, confine your pet in a safe area.
🐕‍ If your pet is exposed to any products, contact your primary care veterinarian immediately.
🍑 Even fruit that has fallen to the ground (e.g., fruit pits, berries, seeds, leaves, stems, etc.) need to be removed from the yard.
🌿 Plants that have lost their leaves can pose a hazard to your pet’s eyes as they run or play in the yard. Secure plants with a small barrier until they sprout leaves.

If your pet is exposed to any concerning substances, contact your primary care veterinarian immediately. If your pet is experiencing an emergency, call or visit us right away.

10/23/2023

Be sure to keep your pet safe from toxic plants this season! 🍂🍁

The ASPCA has created a list of the top 10 most popular fall plants so you can see which are pet-friendly and which are not: https://www.aspca.org/news/which-popular-fall-plants-are-safe-pets

If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact your family vet or an emergency vet near you. You can also call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435

10/21/2023

To close out National Veterinary Technician Week, we wanted to share the passion that veterinary technicians demonstrate in their day to day lives.

From the moment your pet is brought into our care, our veterinary technicians are actively working on creating a safe and calming environment. Our technicians always go above and beyond to ensure our pet patients are comfortable, loved, and get back to feeling their best selves as quickly as possible.

Veterinary technicians are guided by their passion for animals and their well-being and are some of the kindest and most caring individuals you will meet.

Thank you again to our tech teams for their hard work, passion, and dedication. Without you, we would not be able to deliver the caliber of care that we do!

10/15/2023

Today kicks off ! This is our favorite time of year when we get to show additional gratitude for our team members that work tirelessly to care for our pet patients pets. 🐕🐈❤️

From our entire family here, thank you all for the love and compassion you give to our patients daily!

Please join us in celebrating our dedicated vet techs by commenting your appreciation below!

10/12/2023

Today is National Pet Obesity Awareness Day! Although we love the different shapes and sizes of our pet patients, obesity can lead to many serious health issues including diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, decreased life expectancy, and cancer.

If you are concerned about your pet's weight, we recommend speaking with your primary care veterinarian to determine the most appropriate plan for diet and exercise.

Check out this resource from AVMA for more information about speaking to your veterinarian about your pet's weight: https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/your-pets-healthy-weight

10/10/2023

October 10th is World Mental Health Day, raising public awareness of mental health issues around the globe through education and advocacy. 🧠🌎

Far from being all puppies and kittens, veterinarians face long hours, staffing shortages, financial pressures, and other challenges associated with providing medical care to so many pets in need, all of which take a mental toll.

Let's remember to show kindness and patience towards your veterinarian and hospital staff the next time you visit. ❤️

NOMV Crisis Numbers: https://www.nomv.org/crisis-numbers/

10/08/2023

Jumping into a pile of leaves is full of fall fun! 🍁🍂🍁🍂 However, this environment can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Here are a few outdoor hazards to watch out for and tips to help keep your pets safe this season:

🍁 Monitor your pets when they are outside exploring new fall foliage that may be toxic.
🍁 Clear out any small sticks or items that may damage their gastrointestinal tract if ingested.
🍁 Inspect their fur regularly for ticks, fleas, or small wounds.
🍁 Check paw pads to ensure they don’t have any foxtails, thorns, or other materials stuck between their fur.

10/04/2023

Did you know this week is National Walk Your Dog Week? Walking provides many benefits for dogs (and humans too!):

✔️ Helps maintain a healthy weight
✔️ Promotes joint health by avoiding a sedentary state for too long
✔️ Regulates the digestive and urinary tract
✔️ Provides mental stimulation and helps release excess energy

Plus, walking together is a great bonding experience for you and your canine companion! What are some of your favorite local places to enjoy a walk with your dog?

10/02/2023

Fall calls for all kinds of autumn decorations around the house to kick off the season! But many decorations can look like fun new toys or tasty treats to your pets. Be mindful this season when putting up new décor around the house and do what you can to proactively prevent accidents!

Keep what you can out of paw's reach and double-check that any new plants, foods, and household products are pet safe before bringing them into your house: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

We hope your fall season is fun and safe for all family, friends, and pets! 🐕🐈🍂

09/27/2023

Fall weather can be warm one day and cool the next! Be aware of the fluctuating weather every day so you can make sure your pet is prepared no matter what!

Keep plenty of water handy when you are out with your pet in case they get overheated and be ready to head inside if it becomes too rainy or cold.

09/25/2023

Ear infections are a common problem in cats and dogs due to the L shape of their ear canals.

🐶 Causes of pet ear infections include allergies, heat, trapped moisture, excessive ear wax, ear mites, foreign material, and unknown growth.

🦮 Breeds with floppy ears like Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, or Golden Retrievers can be more prone to ear infections.

👀 Symptoms of an ear infection include red or inflamed ear, black/brown or yellow/green discharge, strong odor, ear scratching or shaking of the head, whimpering, loss of balance, hearing loss, unusual eye movements, or walking in circles.

💭 If you suspect your furry friend has an infection, take them to your veterinarian to get checked out.

09/23/2023

Happy First Day of Fall! 🍁 🍂
This time of year marks the beginning of hazards that come with the start of cooler weather. Be aware of these dangers and follow this link to learn more about each: https://bit.ly/3EDPvLa

✅ School Supplies
✅ Rodenticides
✅ Antifreeze
✅ Mushrooms
✅ Wildlife

Let's work together to keep pets safe!

08/29/2023

Happy Tuesday it is! 😁 This pretty pup is Brooklyn, a 1-year-old Miniature Schnauzer. Here you can see her playing with our Patient Care Technician Jaiden while in our care. Then, she gives a nice "Boop!" to the camera! Thank you for making us smile, Brooklyn. 💚

Address

2055 Montiel Road UNIT 104
San Marcos, CA
92069

Telephone

+17604660600

Website

https://vshnc.ethosvet.com/

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Videos

Patient playing with team member at hospital

A look at the behind-the-scene of blood donation

A day in the life of a blood donor hero!🩸🐾 Meet Blue! This 4-year-old Great Dane is a donor hero at our sister location in San Diego, and is giving a behind-the-scenes look at donating blood! Our goal is to ensure a safe & relaxing experience for all our donors - complete with treats at the end! Blue is the best boy, and we are so appreciative of his donations! Are you interested in having your pet participate in this life-saving program? We are actively looking for more candidates, both canine and feline! Learn more and find out if your pet is eligible here: https://bit.ly/3KNqLVw

Today is a special day 🥳 It is the Universal Birthday for Shelter Dogs, better known as #DOGust! "Treat" your pup to these super easy & quick refreshing 1-ingredient Pumpkin Pops! Ingredients: Just 1 can pure Pumpkin 🎃 Be careful not to purchase pumpkin pie filling in a can as it's full of sugar. You can also mix in yogurt, peanut butter, or banana for an additional spin on this treat! Check out our quick recipe video below, and a big happy birthday to all our amazing shelter pups! 💚

Heidi, one of our talented and wonderful Surgery Veterinary Technicians, recently had her last day with us at VSH – North County. Heidi started 7 years ago after joining in August 2015 and has been a part of our Surgery Department ever since! Our surgery team celebrated one last "hoorah" before Heidi walked out of our hospital for the last time, throwing their caps in the air as a sendoff. The photos in the end show our surgeon Dr. Scherer, surgery tech Crystal, surgery vet assistant Crystal, Heidi herself and Gabi who is one of our AD's. Thank you, Heidi, for all the hard work and excellence you brought to work with you every time you walked through our hospital doors. You're already very missed! 💚

Here's the answer to Dr. Thomson's World Spay Day question: An ovariectomy is the removal of the ovaries, which is commonly performed laparoscopically by a board certified surgeon (as seen in the video). An ovariohysterectomy is when the ovaries AND the uterus are removed, which is performed through a traditional spay with your pet's primary care vet. Here's Dr. Thomson explaining the benefits of a laparoscopic ovariectomy!

In honor of #WorldSpayDay this past week, we're switching up X-Ray Friday with a video question! Here's our very own veterinary surgeon Dr. Thomson with a minimally invasive spay question: 👨‍⚕️ What is the difference between an Ovariectomy vs. an Ovariohysterectomy? We'll post a video with the answer tomorrow morning!

Look at Clutch go! This 6-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier is one of our therapy & rehab patients. Clutch is performing his aquatic therapy session using an underwater treadmill that’s working on building his strength and improving his walk. Combining the properties of water and exercise in a controlled environment allows for a number of wide-ranging benefits and we're glad to offer this service to many pet's in their recovery journey! Read more on the benefits and uses to aquatic therapy: ethosvet.com/blog-post/treadmills/

The PAWEDcast: Wildlife Rehabilitation & Rescue

New MRI

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Making a Difference in the Lives of Pets and the People That Love Them

The Veterinary Specialty Hospital of North County (VSH – North County) is proud to provide the highest quality specialty care to pets and the highest customer service to owners in the North County community. VSH – North County is truly a unique facility, with some of the most advanced equipment for pets found anywhere in the country. We work closely with family veterinarians to provide comprehensive care for our patients. Our staff of doctors, technicians, and client care specialists has exceptional training, motivation, and compassion for the pets we treat. We have the latest equipment, including, CT scan, digital radiography, a state-of-the-art intensive care unit, ultra-modern surgical suites, endoscopy, ultrasound, and much more.

Open 365 days a year, 24 hours per day, we offer state-of-the-art technology and exceptional patient care.