Olney-Sandy Spring Veterinary Hospital

07/12/2025

Koryak is a husky, Denali is an Alaskan Klee Kai.

07/10/2025

COMING TOMORROW!

This is a great event to enjoy the festivities and learn about Warrior Canine Connection and how everyone can help in our mission to better serve our Veterans. There is no admission cost, but WCC will have food available for purchase. You will also have the opportunity to make your own leash for a $25 donation, which you can take home with you or donate to a future veteran/WCC dog team! 

NOTE: Please leave your own puppies at home for this event — this is a chance for you to meet Warrior Canine Connection Dogs that are attending! 

07/09/2025

🐶 Heat Stroke in Dogs Inside Cars: A Hidden Danger

Despite common assumptions, even a running car with air conditioning does not guarantee safety for dogs—especially large, double-coated breeds.

📍 Tragic Case in Ohio: Bruno, the Newfoundland
• On July 4, 2025, in Ohio, Bruno, a 4‑year‑old Newfoundland, suffered fatal heat stroke in a running SUV with A/C on and windows cracked.
• On a CBS news broadcast Dr. Brandon Michels of Sugarcreek Veterinary Clinic explained that airflow in larger vehicles is uneven, often concentrated at the front, failing to cool dogs in the backseat properly .
• Breeds with thick or double coats, like Newfoundland, Husky, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and others are particularly vulnerable, even when a vehicle appears to be climate-controlled.

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Why A/C Can Be Misleading
1. Insufficient airflow to the backseat or cargo area – front vents don’t always reach the rear.
2. Ventilation drops significantly when the car is idle—without motion, AC efficiency plummets.
3. Trapped heat in cargo spaces or kennel-style crates, where hot air accumulates faster.

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Broader Risk: Dogs Indoors Without Cooling
• In Maine, multiple dogs recently died from heat stroke indoors without air conditioning, proving that ANY enclosed, warm space can turn deadly  .
• For pets both indoors and in vehicles, cooling and continuous airflow are essential.

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🔴 Recognize Heat Stroke Early in Dogs

Early signs: heavy panting, drooling, dry gums.

Progression: trembling, uncoordination (“drunken” gait), vomiting, diarrhea.

Severe cases: collapse, seizures, unconsciousness; all are life-threatening.

At-home response:
• Move to shade or cool area.
• Offer lukewarm water (not cold).
• Apply cool, damp towels to body.
• DON’T leave unattended—seek vet care immediately and don’t delay!

Final Thoughts

Bruno’s heartbreaking death is a potent reminder: heat stroke can happen fast and under deceptive conditions. To protect our canine companions—from puppies to giants—owners must stay vigilant, ensure proper ventilation and hydration, and never assume automatic safety just because a car or home is running.

🔔 If you notice any sign of heat distress in a pet, start cooling measures immediately and get to a veterinarian without delay. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about survival.

A dog in Carrollton died of heat stroke inside an air-conditioned SUV, prompting a vet to warn pet owners about the dangers of extreme heat and poor air circ...

07/05/2025

07/03/2025

Here are some friendly reminders on how you can keep your pets safe for Independence Day! In the comments, you will find a printable list of steps to create a comforting space for your pet to stay during the festivities. 

06/28/2025

We love seeing photos of our adorable patients. We thought you’d enjoy seeing these pictures of Papillon Eteri and her two tiny puppies! Thanks to Eteri’s mom for sharing!

06/19/2025

Microchipping is especially important around July 4th because fireworks and celebrations can startle pets, causing many to run away in fear. Animal shelters consistently report a spike in lost pets during this time. A microchip provides a permanent form of identification that can’t be removed or lost like a collar or tag, greatly increasing the chances of being reunited with your pet if they go missing during the holiday chaos.

06/19/2025

UPDATE: HOME SAFE!

MISSING: 7 month old puppy, 7 lbs. No collar or microchip. If you have any information or sightings, please contact the office. 

06/18/2025

July 4th is coming up soon! Be prepared in advance if you have a noise-sensitive dog!

06/06/2025

Through July 30 1st–10% discount on veterinary services for federal employees and those recently unemployed. (exclusions: reproductive services, pet food and retail items).