VMC of Indian River County

21/01/2024

Veterinary medicine has made incredible advances, but these advancements come at a cost. Pet insurance can mitigate the cost of veterinary care and ensure your pet receives the services they need and deserve. Read our latest blog post to learn how your pet can benefit from health insurance.

There’s nothing more exciting than bringing home a new pet. It’s a big responsibility and lots of preparation is needed, including buying the appropriate toys, food, bed, leashes, and grooming supplies. In all of the excitement, however, remember to prepare for your pet’s long-term health need...

18/01/2024

🍽️🚫 Hey, pet owners! We all know our furry friends LOVE to hang out in the kitchen, hoping for a bite or two.

🐶🐱 But be careful! Many human foods that are safe for us can be TOXIC for pets, such as chocolate, xylitol, grapes, meat bones, garlic, onions, and yeast dough. When in doubt, avoid feeding your pet any human food to keep them safe and healthy!👀

16/01/2024

Has your pet been struggling with dental issues lately? Periodontal disease is a common problem that affects many pets, and it's important to understand the stages of the condition. Call us, today, to learn more and to schedule a dental checkup for your pet! 772-217-4771

11/01/2024

🦟 Lyme disease prevention starts with tick prevention. The best way to keep your furry friend safe is to use tick preventives year-round, including the winter months.

Most veterinarian-prescribed preventives kill ticks only a few hours after the initial bite, preventing disease transmission, which requires 24 to 48 hours of attachment.

Contact us at 772-217-4771 to learn about tick prevention measures that will work best for your pet. Don't wait until it's too late! 🐾

09/01/2024

🦷 Dental disease can affect your pet's quality of life too. By three years old, most cats and dogs already have some form of dental disease.

🤢 Watch out for early signs like bad breath, tartar buildup, and swollen gums. Early detection is important to prevent chronic pain and inflammation.

💙 Show your pet some love by scheduling their preventive care exam with regular dental evaluations at least once a year.

28/12/2023

Dealing with a pet's separation anxiety? 🤔 Remember, medication alone isn't a complete solution. Effective treatment combines three key elements:

- Medication: Anti-anxiety meds and supplements can help calm your pet and disrupt the cycle of anxious behavior.
- Behavior Modification: Training your pet to form positive associations with being alone can reshape their reactions and build coping skills.
- Environmental Management: Adjusting your pet's environment and your own routines can reduce stress triggers. Additionally, ensuring ample mental and physical exercise is crucial.

For a treatment plan that's specifically tailored to your pet's needs, our veterinary team is here to help. Proper care is essential for managing separation anxiety effectively!

25/12/2023

🎄🐾 Merry Christmas from my furry family to yours!

Spending the holidays with our furry friends is the best gift of all. From wagging tails to purring snuggles, their love and companionship make every moment of the season more special. Whether we're cuddling up by the fire or sharing some turkey dinner, it's clear that our pets are just as much a part of the family as anyone else.

Wishing you and your fur babies a happy and healthy holiday season! 🐾❤️🎄

22/12/2023

Are you noticing signs of separation anxiety in your pet? 🤔 Remember, it's not always a result of training shortcomings. Training and socialization are important, but they don't always prevent anxiety.

Potential causes include:

- Loss: Sudden absence of a family member or another pet.
- Environmental Changes: Relocation, rehoming, or changes in the family structure, like a new pet or family member.
- Routine Shifts: Significant changes in daily life, such as returning to work or school after being home for an extended period.
- Health Issues: Recent trauma or pain can also contribute.

To help prevent or reduce anxiety, maintain a consistent daily routine for your pet and ensure they get plenty of physical and mental stimulation. If concerns arise, consulting a veterinarian or a pet behavior specialist can provide tailored advice for your pet’s well-being. 🐶 🐱

20/12/2023

Owning a pet is like having a living work of art that constantly inspires you. From their unique personalities to their beautiful fur patterns and expressive faces, pets are truly works of art. And like any great piece of art, they inspire us to be creative, playful, and curious about the world around us.

16/12/2023

Many pet owners expect their furry pals to become less active as they age, but decreasing mobility can indicate arthritis. A pet who is in early stage arthritis begins exhibiting subtle behavioral changes that you may miss, but our team can identify and treat early arthritis signs and slow disease progression. Check out our latest blog post to learn about arthritis in pets.

Arthritis is extremely common in aging pets but the disease affects each pet differently. Some pets develop mild joint changes that have little apparent effect on their quality of life, while some suffer debilitating mobility issues and pain. Arthritis is progressive, but if your pet begins treatmen...

15/12/2023

Did you know that cats, just like dogs, can suffer from separation anxiety? 🐱 It's important to recognize the signs, as they can sometimes be subtle:

- Behavioral Changes: Pre-departure anticipation, refusal to eat or overeating when alone, excessive self-grooming, and destructive behavior.
- Vocalization: Loud and persistent meowing or yowling.
- Unusual Bathroom Habits: Urinating or defecating on personal items of the owner.

If you notice your cat displaying any of these behaviors, it's crucial to have them examined by a vet. A full physical check-up can help determine if these signs are due to separation anxiety or other health issues.

13/12/2023

🐾💞 Pets may be a part of our lives for a short time, but the memories they leave behind last a lifetime. Cherish every moment with your furry family member.

08/12/2023

Struggling to tell if your pet has separation anxiety? It can be a challenge, as its signs often overlap with other behavioral issues.

Look for these indicators:

When You're Around:
- Pacing or restlessness
- Vocalizing
- Panting
- Trembling
- Body or door blocking

When You're Away:
- Intensified vocalizing
- House soiling
- Vomiting
- Destructive actions
- Digging or scratching

Remember, if these behaviors occur mostly in your presence, they might be linked to training rather than separation anxiety.

If in doubt, consulting with a vet or pet behaviorist is always a good step.

06/12/2023

🐾🤖 If you could create a robot version of your pet, what feature would you add?
A) The ability to do chores around the house 🧹
B) Laser eyes 🔥
C) Voice commands 🗣️
D) A built-in treat dispenser 🍖

30/11/2023

FACTS! Read more...

Throwback to 1963: Félicette, the stellar Parisian stray who paws-itively made history as the only cat to venture into the great cosmic litter box!

On October 18th, with the French space program, this whiskered pioneer leaped further than any cat had ever dreamed - straight into space!

Out of 14 feline trainees, Félicette was the chosen one, proving that even stray kitties can reach for the stars. Swipe to journey back in time with our spacefaring feline!

28/11/2023

Owning a pet is like having a personal trainer that doesn't care about your fitness level. They'll always be ready to go for a walk or play fetch, no matter how out of shape you feel. And the best part? They never judge you for taking a break or slowing down. Your furry friend just wants to spend time with you, no matter what.

23/11/2023

🍂🐾 Happy Thanksgiving from our furry family to yours! 🦃🐶🍁🐱🍂

This year, we are grateful for the unconditional love and constant companionship of our furry friends. From snuggles on the couch to walks in the crisp autumn air, they bring so much joy to my life. Today, we're giving thanks for their wet noses, wagging tails, and silly antics that always make me smile. And of course, we're thankful for the delicious turkey dinner we'll be sharing together! 🍗🐾🍽️

Wishing you and your furry family a wonderful Thanksgiving full of love and laughter from our crew to yours! 🦃❤️🐶🐱🍁

22/11/2023

Did you know that pets can also develop skin tumors? Here's some information on two common types:

#1: Mast cell tumors
🐾 These tumors are often found in cats and dogs and can vary in size and appearance.
🐾 Mast cell tumors are the most common malignant tumor in dogs.
🐾 Surgical removal is often necessary in dogs, as they can be highly aggressive and spread rapidly.
🐾 Cats can develop two forms of mast cell tumors, usually benign and may not require treatment.

#2: Squamous cell carcinomas
🐾 These skin tumors develop as firm, raised masses that often have open sores and are commonly found in pets with thin hair coats or white/light-colored fur.
🐾 Cats can also develop oral tumors from grooming carcinogens, such as cigarette smoke or flea collar ingredients, from their fur.
🐾 Squamous cell carcinomas are highly invasive, often spreading into surrounding tissues and bones, or other body parts.

Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify these tumors early and provide the best course of treatment for your furry friend. 🩺🐾

17/11/2023

Amid the holiday hubbub, your furry pal can easily get into mischief that may land them in an ER waiting room. Use the tips in our latest blog post to keep your pet safe, healthy, and happy throughout the holiday season.

As the end-of-year holiday season kicks into high gear, your ever-present to-do list keeps running through your mind. Have you bought all the ingredients you need for your famous sweet potato casserole? What about that last-minute present for your work gift exchange? And, don’t forget to set up th...

17/11/2023

Do you know what to do if you find a lump on your pet? Here are some things you should know about common benign lumps in pets:

#1: Sebaceous cysts and pets
A sebaceous cyst is essentially a large pimple on your pet's skin that can be messy and emit a cottage cheese-like discharge. They are often more irritating to the owner than the pet.

#2: Lipomas and pets
Lipomas are common in dogs and are fat-filled tumors that are usually soft, rounded, and non-painful. Obese dogs are more likely to develop them, and surgery is recommended if they grow too large or restrict movement.

#3: Histiocytomas in pets
Histiocytomas are common in young dogs and appear as red, raised bumps. They are usually hairless, but may be ulcerated. They are considered benign and typically resolve on their own in 2-3 months, but surgical removal is necessary if they bother your dog.

Remember to always have your vet check any lumps or bumps you find on your pet, as some can be more serious.

15/11/2023

Pets have a way of bringing joy and happiness into our lives, even on the darkest of days. Remember to appreciate the little moments of sunshine they bring.

10/11/2023

Did you know that pets can also develop skin issues? Here are some common ones to watch out for:

#1: Skin tags on pets
Skin tags are benign growths that commonly appear in older pets as distinctive bumps or stalk-like growths with a wart-like surface. Pets with one skin tag often develop more as they age.

#2: Papillomas on pets
Papillomas, also known as warts, are caused by papillomaviruses and can pop up in dogs as benign bumps around the mucous membranes of the eyes and mouth, skin, or abdomen. They often go away on their own, but in rare cases, they may progress to invasive squamous cell carcinomas. In cats, papillomavirus can cause multicentric squamous cell carcinomas.

#3: Papules and pustules on pets
Papules and pustules can appear on pets with an underlying skin infection, usually from a bacterial infection. They start as small, round bumps that can become filled with pus. Treatment may involve antibiotics to clear the infection.

If you notice any of these skin issues on your pet, it's best to consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

07/11/2023

If your dog could have a superpower, what would it be?
A) The ability to talk 🗣️
B) Super speed 🏃‍♂️
C) Invisibility 🤫
D) Teleportation ✨

02/11/2023

Is your pet experiencing discomfort or pain? Two common health issues to keep an eye out for are allergic reactions and abscesses. Here's what you need to know:

#1: Allergic reactions in pets
Just like humans, pets can have allergic reactions too! Allergies in pets can be caused by things like bee stings, pollen, cleaning products, and even vaccinations. If your pet is experiencing an allergic reaction, you may notice hives or bumps that can manifest as a rash of red, round bumps, or one firm, inflamed lump. The itching can be intense, but antihistamines or steroids can help soothe the itching and calm the inflammation.

#2: Abscesses in pets
Abscesses are often-painful swellings under the skin that are trapped pockets of pus. They can be caused by bite wounds from other animals, insect bites, or injuries from sharp, penetrating objects like sticks or grass awns. To treat an abscess, our vet will drain and flush the pocket to find and remove any foreign objects like wood splinters, and prescribe antibiotics to help your pet fight infection. Once the painful pressure is released, your pet should feel much more comfortable.

Remember to keep an eye out for these common health issues and contact us if you notice any signs of discomfort or pain in your furry friend.

31/10/2023

🎃🐾 Happy Howl-o-ween from our furry friends and our team! 🐶👻🐱🎃

Wishing you and your pet(s) a hauntingly good time this Halloween! 🕸️🦇🐾

24/10/2023

🐱🎥 Which famous cat would you want to play your pet in a movie?
A) Garfield 🍝
B) Cheshire Cat 🎩
C) Salem from Sabrina the Teenage Witch 🧙‍♀️
D) The Aristocats 🎼

19/10/2023

🐱🩺 Is your cat suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD)? In addition to dietary changes, medications may be necessary to manage this condition. Here are some potential medications that our veterinary team may prescribe for your CKD cat:

1️⃣ Phosphate binders: These oral medications can lower the amount of phosphorus absorbed through the intestinal wall if phosphate levels remain high despite reduced dietary phosphate.

2️⃣ Blood pressure lowering medications: CKD cats are at risk for high blood pressure, which can exacerbate kidney damage. We will monitor your cat's blood pressure and prescribe medications to lower it if necessary.

3️⃣ Anti-nausea medications: CKD cats frequently experience nausea and vomiting, which can lead to a lack of appetite and negatively affect their quality of life. Our veterinary team may recommend anti-nausea medications if your cat is affected.

4️⃣ Anemia treatment: The kidneys initiate red blood cell production in the bone marrow, and many CKD cats develop anemia. Our veterinary team may prescribe medications to stimulate bone marrow production if your cat is anemic.

We understand that managing CKD can be challenging, but we're here to help. Contact us today to discuss treatment options for your furry friend. 🐾💙

19/10/2023

Traditional medical or surgical treatments are good options to treat your pet’s ailments, but they aren’t the only ones. Check out our latest blog post to learn about science-backed, tried-and-true laser therapy for pets.

Laser therapy has been available in human and veterinary medicine for decades, but only relatively recently have studies explained the mechanisms behind its success. Now, we have more powerful machines and refined therapy protocols to help pets with all types of illnesses or injuries. We know

17/10/2023

Owning a pet is like having a therapist that never charges you and always gives you unconditional love. They listen to your problems without judgment, offer comfort when you're feeling low, and celebrate with you when you're happy. No matter what kind of day you've had, your furry friend is always there to make it better.

10/10/2023

Owning a pet is like having a child that never grows up. They rely on you for everything, from food and water to love and attention. But unlike a human child, your furry friend never outgrows their dependence on you. They'll always be your little baby, no matter how big they get.