Our staff at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County understands the concerns that many area pet owners face when it comes to maintaining their pet’s health and maximizing quality of life. That is why we have put together this list of frequently asked questions about annual pet exams to help you understand how important they are for your pet’s health. If you live in Ferndale, Monticello, Liberty, or the surrounding areas, contact our team to schedule an exam with one of our veterinarians.

Why are annual exams necessary for pets? Annual exams and biannual exams for senior pets are an important part of the preventative medicine aspect of treating your pet. They are your frontline effort to detect potential illnesses early, manage your pet’s healthy weight, ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date and optimize your pet’s health.

What type of testing is conducted during an annual exam? Our veterinary staff will conduct a head-to-tail examination of your pet to monitor your pet’s growth, look for any medical issues, and check on your pet’s dental health. Our veterinarians will also listen to your pet’s heart and lungs to make sure everything sounds good, strong, and clear.

Are vaccinations and preventatives part of the annual exam process? In most cases, if your pet needs vaccinations, they will be administered during the annual examination. We will also discuss preventative medications for your pet. We hope to prevent medical issues before they have a chance to develop into something worse. Your pet will need a heartworm test before administering heartworm preventatives and that will be conducted during the examination.

What types of tests are administered during the annual exam? In most cases, we will conduct blood work as an early tool for detecting a variety of health conditions. Early detection is essential for effectively managing many pet health conditions and this allows us to begin care promptly when these conditions are detected. Also, we will collect urine and fecal samples to test for parasites and other conditions that cannot be detected with a visual inspection.

Is nutritional counseling part of the annual exam process? In some cases, nutritional counseling may be a part of the annual exam for your pet. This is especially true if you are struggling with a finicky pet who does not want to eat or one who is obese. Healthy weight management is a key component to maximizing your pet’s good health and quality of life. That often begins with a few recommendations about nutrition from our veterinary staff.

Contact Our Team at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County

Your pet’s health is our priority. Annual exams for adult pets and biannual exams for senior pets are an excellent tool to maintain your pet’s health for years to come. If you live in Ferndale, Monticello, Liberty, and the surrounding areas, and it has been a while since your pet’s last check-up, call us today at (845) 292-6711 to schedule an exam with one of our veterinarians.

Pet Vaccinations at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County

As a loving pet owner, you'd do anything to keep your pet in optimal health -- and vaccinations are one of the simplest, yet most important, steps you can take toward that goal. Here at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, our veterinary team is proud to provide a lifetime of pet vaccinations that can help your best friend enjoy life to the fullest.

An Essential Aspect of Pet Preventative Care

A vaccine can be thought of as a kind of "start button" for the immune system. This substance bears a close resemblance to the disease organism it's designed to protect against (and many even be a killed version of the organism itself). When the vaccine is introduced into the bloodstream, the immune system mistakes it for a genuine threat and creates antibodies to fight it. With this protection in place, your pet is now safely immunized against the real thing for the duration of the vaccine's potency. This pet preventative care measure is infinitely preferable to allowing a deadly disease to do its worst before your pet's immune system has a fair chance to fight back.

Pet vaccinations are especially critical for puppies and kittens. Not only are these baby animals more fragile than adults, but they're simply "borrowing" antibodies from their mother's milk instead of producing their own. That's why your veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County will urge you to start scheduling vaccinations from 5 or 6 weeks of age.

Pet Vaccines Administered by Your Animal Hospital of Sullivan County Veterinarian

The most important pet vaccines are the "core" vaccines that protect against common killer germs. Dogs and cats have somewhat different core vaccination needs:

• Core dog vaccines - Core dog vaccines protect against canine hepatitis, distemper, parvovirus, and rabies. Except for the rabies vaccine, all these vaccines can be delivered in a single injection. At the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County we have added the lyme vaccine to our core list due to the high prevalence of the disease here.  We have also added leptospirosis to the core list due to its zoonotic potential and a lot of our patients spend a lot of time outdoors enjoying the Catskill Mountain region.
• Core cat vaccines - Core cat vaccines protect against rabies, rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia. These vaccines all also are combined into one shot, with the exception of the rabies vaccine.

Puppy and kittens will need these vaccinations repeated during the first year of life until their immune systems have been thoroughly strengthened. We will advise you as to when you should schedule booster shots to help your pet enjoy ongoing disease protection.

Certain non-core or elective vaccinations may also be recommended if your pet faces additional disease risks. This may be especially true for pets who will be boarded in close contact with other pets, or who will be spending lots of time in outdoors.  Your veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County can determine whether your pet needs vaccinations against kennel cough, canine influenza, feline leukemia, or other diseases.

Contact the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County to Schedule Pet Vaccinations

Give your treasured companion the best possible chance for a happy, long, healthy life. Call the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County in Ferndale at (845) 292-6711 to schedule pet vaccinations with our veterinarian on our team!

Puppy and Kitten Care From Animal Hospital 

of Sullivan County

Once you get over the excitement of adopting a new puppy or kitten, it is time to get to work. So much goes into raising a pet. The rewards of love and companionship, however, make it all worthwhile. At the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, we are more than happy to help with your puppy or kitten’s veterinary needs.

For your convenience, we serve pet owners in Ferndale, Monticello, Liberty and Sullivan County. Here is what you should know about puppy and kitten care.

Wellness Exam

As soon as possible after bringing your kit or pup home, schedule a visit to our veterinarian for a wellness exam. At this time, we will review your pet’s medical history and answer any questions you may have concerning his nutritional needs, vaccinations, parasite control, house training, and behavior.

Once we have updated your pet’s records, we will conduct a thorough physical exam to confirm his health. We will inspect his eyes, nose, ears, mouth, joints, and skin and listen to his lungs and heart. We will also test your puppy or kitten for flea infestations and parasites that can weaken his health. By starting early in caring for the health and welfare of puppies and kittens, you do your part to help them grow into healthy dogs and cats.

Vaccinations

While your puppy or kitten is nursing, he receives immunity from his mother’s milk. Once he is weaned, however, he is vulnerable to life threatening diseases. For this reason, we recommend your pup or kit start receiving vaccinations around 6 to 8 weeks of age with boosters given every 3-4 weeks until he reaches 16 weeks of age. We will vaccinate your pet against such deadly diseases as rabies, distemper, parvovirus and others to protect his health.  

Spay & Neuter

If you do not plan to breed your kit or pup, we recommend you considering spaying or neutering your pet. Spaying and neutering your pet can help improve his temperament and health and reduce overpopulation of dogs and cats. Spay/neuter procedures are safe and effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies and litters. We can help you determine the best time to spay or neuter your pet.

Microchipping

Microchipping is a painless, secure means of identifying your kit or pup if he should get lost or stolen. Through microchipping, you stand a better chance of getting your pet back safely if he gets lost, runs away, or is stolen.

See Your Sullivan County Veterinarian for Puppy and Kitten Care

Routine veterinary care is key to your pet’s health and happiness from babyhood through his senior years. Give your pet a healthy head start by calling (845) 292-6711 to schedule a wellness exam at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County today. We serve animal lovers in Ferndale, Monticello, Liberty, and Sullivan County. 

Senior Pet Care in Sullivan County

As your dog or cat ages, their veterinary needs begin to change. They may need to see our veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County for senior pet care as a result. Here are some things to consider when determining whether or not your furry friend might need senior pet care.

Do You Have A Senior Pet?

Depending on the type of pet you have, they may become a senior pet earlier or later in life. A cat becomes a senior cat once they turn nine years old. A dog becomes a senior dog at the same age if they’re a smaller breed. If they’re a bigger breed, they become a senior once they turn six years old.

For a cat, seven years old is the same as 45 human years. For dogs, that can be anywhere between 44 and 56 years. At that age, a human is bordering on becoming a senior themselves. It makes sense that domestic pets have the same distinction.

Common Ailments for Senior Pets

In some cases, a pet may age and be as healthy as they were when they were a puppy or a kitten. In other instances, though, just like with humans, pets are susceptible to health issues as they get older. It’s at this point you should consider taking them to our veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County for senior care.

Older pets may develop:

• Bone disease
• Joint disease
• Liver disease
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Cancer
• Thyroid disease
• Kidney disease

With our preventative care and emergency surgery at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, we can care for your pet and cure what ails them.

Our preventative care consists of regular consultations. If your pet is experiencing any of the above medical issues or any other issues, this is the time to mention it to our Ferndale veterinarian. We’ll have follow-up appointments to make sure the issue is taken care of.

We also offer the most effective tick and flea prevention to prevent the transmission of vector-borne diseases, heartworm medication, preventative care exams, and a variety of vaccines, including those that protect against Lyme disease, Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Rabies,  Influenza,  Kennel Cough and Leukemia.

If your pet does need surgery, we understand how this can be a scary time. With a trained and well-experienced veterinarian at the helm, you can feel confident that your pet is in the best hands possible at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County.

Surgical procedures that we offer include gastrointestinal surgery, urinary tract surgery, internal surgery for tumors, skin lump removals, dental surgery, neutering, and spaying. We even do emergency surgery to treat deep cuts, bladder obstructions, and twisted digestive organs.

Call the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County Today!

Is it time to take your senior pets to the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County?  For over 50 years, we’ve served Ferndale, Wurtsborough, Rock Hill, Livingston Manor, Roscoe, Callicoon, Parksville, Jefferson, Youngsville, Swan Lake, Loch Sheldrake, and Liberty.

We care for the pets we see as much as we do our clientele, as we can prove with our AAHA (aka American Animal Hospital Association) accreditation. We’re driven by compassion in all we do. We also boast state-of-the-art equipment to help your four-legged friends feel better sooner. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call us today at (845) 292-6711!

Emergency Veterinary Care

When you come to the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, your four-legged friends can get the help and support they need to feel better fast. Our Ferndale animal hospital is dedicated to giving you and your pets options when it comes to veterinarians. Our talented veterinary staff provide quality emergency care and have the skills and equipment to perform blood work, x-rays, emergency surgery, and other treatments to save the life of pets or treat their conditions quickly.

Some Symptoms Require Emergency Pet Care

There are times when your pet needs care right away. These can include serious accidents, sudden illnesses, and other issues. Sometimes, it's difficult to tell if emergency treatment is needed, or if the problem can wait. There are certain concerns you should never leave until the next day. These include:

• Pale gums
• A weak or rapid pulse
• Seizures
• Trouble breathing
• Difficulty with standing or walking

If your pet is displaying any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to bring your pet in for a check-up. We know it can be stressful and frightening when a pet is not well, and we are here to help.

At-Home First Aid Steps You Can Take

There are ways you can help your pets at home with certain conditions. Some at-home care may be all your pets need, or you may need to help them at home before you bring them to our animal hospital. If you're in the Ferndale area, here at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County can help your pets be healthy again. Before you bring them to us, though, there are some steps you can take. To help stabilize your pets when transporting them to us for urgent care, use direct pressure and elevation to stop any bleeding from an injury.

Uncontrolled bleeding can be fatal, and treating your pet as quickly as possible matters. A broken bone can also be a problem, and using a board or other stable surface to support the area while transporting your pet can help reduce further damage. Wrap a blanket or towel around the board and your pet, and bring him to us right away. With help from our animal hospital, your pet can heal and be whole again. Call the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County today at (845) 292-6711 if your pet is need of urgent care, or to schedule an appointment for any one of the many different preventive and wellness services we offer.

When Is It a Veterinary Emergency?

It's not always easy to tell whether your pet is experiencing a full-blown veterinary emergency or just an uncomfortable problem. Situations and symptoms that should raise a red flag include:

• Staggering, fainting, seizures, and other neurological symptoms
• Poison ingestion
• Heat stroke or hypothermia
• Uncontrollable bleeding, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Fractures, burns, and deep lacerations
• Difficult labor or lengthy delivery between babies (dystocia)
• Abdominal swelling (a sign of bloat)
• Difficult or painful urination
• A swallowed foreign object

Our Veterinary Hospital Can Rescue Your Pet's Health

There's no predicting when an emergency situation will unfold. That's why, in addition to dealing with pet emergencies during our standard office hours, our veterinary hospital also offers on-call emergency care between 7:30 am and 9 pm seven days a week. The first thing you should do in a suspected emergency is call our hospital for specific recommendations. We can instruct you on any care you need to provide immediately before getting your pet to our hospital.

We'll be ready to perform prompt, accurate diagnostic procedures to determine exactly what's happening to your best friend. In addition to X-ray imaging and external evaluations, we can perform diagnostic lab work to ascertain your pet's condition. Our on-site facilities allow to us perform this lab work as quickly and precisely as possible.

Rest assured that you've brought your pet to the right place for emergency treatment. The Animal Hospital of Sullivan County can administer a wide range of procedures to get your pet out of danger and possibly even save his life. Our veterinarian can:

• Perform internal surgery to correct bloat, remove urinary blockages or foreign objects, and aid in delivery
• Surgically repair damaged internal organs or external features
• Stabilize fractures
• Administer fluids to combat dehydration
• Neutralize or remove poisons
• Stabilize temperature and other vital signs

...and much more.

How Do I know if My Pet is Experiencing an Emergency Situation?

You know your pets better than anyone else, so if you believe they are sick or hurt, you’re probably right. Some of the most common reasons for an emergency vet visit may include:

• Unexplained bleeding
• Animal attack
• Seizures
• Difficulty breathing
• Auto accidents
• Vomiting and severe diarrhea
• Chronic fatigue and sudden collapsing
• Unresponsiveness
• Difficulty urinating

If you are unsure whether or not your pet has an emergency, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

My Pet May Have Eaten Something Poisonous. Now What?

If you believe your pet may have ingested something poisonous, you should call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 for immediate instructions. If you are instructed to bring your pet to our animal hospital, they should provide you with a case number to help our veterinarian provide additional care.

Can You Give Out Emergency Vet Care Advice Over the Phone?

Veterinary advice is rarely given over the phone. It is difficult for our veterinary team to give owners meaningful advice without examining the patient first. If you are concerned about your pet’s well-being, our best advice is to bring him or her into the hospital so that they can be seen by the vet.

What Should I Do If My Pet Has an Emergency?

Owners should do what they can to remain calm in an emergency situation and call our offices ASAP. If possible, stay with your pet in the back seat of your car and ask a friend or family member to drive you to our offices.

Contact the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County Today

Want to learn more about the veterinary services we offer in Ferndale? Call (845) 292-6711 or contact our team online today for more information or to schedule an initial consultation.

Need an Emergency Veterinarian? Call Us!

Your pet is always there for you, so make sure you're ready to be there for him when an emergency strikes. Keep the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County's contact information handy, and call (845) 292-6711 immediately if you suspect your pet needs an emergency veterinarian!

Cats are very good at hiding any signs of illness, injury or discomfort, even the pain caused by tooth resorptive tooth lesions. Resorptive lesions can make chewing difficult and painful. If your cat is struggling with this degenerative, progressive oral condition, rest assured that relief is at hand here at Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, where we routinely treat a variety of dental issues for cats and dogs in the Ferndale, Monticello and Liberty area.

A Painful Dental Problem for Cats

The condition currently known as tooth resorption has gone by a number of names over the years, from "feline resorptive lesions" and "cervical line erosions" to "cat cavities". The condition is characterized by the erosion and breakdown of dentin. Dentin is the bony structure that gives teeth their bulk and hardness; it surrounds and protects the sensitive nerve tissue known as the pulp. This material can break down along any part of the tooth, including the root and as it does, the pulp becomes increasingly exposed.

The majority of cats aged 5 and older will experience resorption in at least one tooth. Depending on the extent of the resorption, your cat may suffer anything from minor pain to acute pain and tooth loss. In severe cases, cats may refuse to eat or even to be touched on the face. Other signs to watch for include:

• Jaw trembling
• Drooling
• A bloody mouth
• Tilting of the head while eating (an effort to chew on the unaffected side of the mouth)
• A new, unaccountable preference for soft foods

The cause of tooth resorption remains something of a veterinary mystery. It doesn't necessarily indicate poor dental hygiene, malnutrition, or any underlying medical condition.

Our Veterinarian Can Help Your Cat Feel (and Eat) Better

Regular preventative care exams can help our veterinarian spot a case of tooth resorption in its early stages. Of course, you should also bring your cat to us anytime you see clear signs of dental distress. X-rays can confirm resorptive lesions in any parts of the teeth.  Filling these resorptive lesions has not been found beneficial and it is best to extract the affected tooth to relieve pain and discomfort.   We can extract the tooth and recommend any necessary dietary changes to ensure that your cat gets their daily nutrition.

Meeting Your Veterinary Pet Care Needs in Ferndale, Monticello, and Liberty

When you need pet care for dogs or cats in Ferndale, Monticello, and Liberty, then you need Animal Hospital of Sullivan County. Call our veterinary office at (845) 292-6711.

Pet Surgery at Our Animal Hospital of Sullivan County  

Providing the right pet care for your beloved pets may mean scheduling surgery for them at some point or other. At times like this, it really helps to know that your Animal Hospital of Sullivan County has the necessary equipment, skills and expertise to offer the best possible outcome and the easiest possible recovery. Here at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, each veterinarian on our team can give your pets the high standard of surgical care they need and deserve.

The Many Applications of Pet Surgery

Pet surgery can play a role in everything from routine preventative pet care to life-saving emergency treatment. Our Animal Hospital of Sullivan County’s surgical services include:

• Spaying and Neutering - Our Sullivan County veterinarian always recommend spaying and neutering in keeping with our emphasis on preventative pet care. Spay and neuter is more than just pregnancy prevention; it also removes the threat of uterine, testicular and ovarian cancer while drastically reducing the risk of other health dangers, from mammary cancer to heat-driven compulsive behaviors.
• Dental Surgery - The bacterial infiltration of an infected tooth can spread to other teeth, sometimes making extraction surgery necessary. Oral cancer is an even more dangerous, even potentially fatal threat. We can surgically remove an oral cancer tumor from your pet's mouth.
• Skin Lump Removal - Lumps on or just underneath the skin may be skin cancer, a common occurrence in pets. Most skin tumors are benign, but removal of the lump (lumpectomy) can help us make sure. If a biopsy reveals a malignancy, we can recommend further treatment options.
• Internal Surgery - When something is going wrong inside your pet's body, the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County can help.  Our surgical skills enable us to perform procedures such as C-sections, and the removal of internal tumors, bladder stones, intestinal foreign bodies or obtain surgical biopsies.
• Orthopedic Surgery - If your pet has trouble lying down, standing up or moving quickly, joint pain or injury may be the reason. Your Sullivan Country veterinarian can diagnose the problem and treat medically if appropriate or refer your pet to a board certified orthopedic specialist.
• Emergency Surgery - Our Animal Hospital in Sullivan County can perform immediate surgery in response to emergency situations. Your Sullivan County veterinarian can reposition twisted digestive organs, remove foreign objects or dangerous bladder obstructions (such as stones), stabilized fractured bones and seal deep lacerations with sutures.

Spay & Nueter

Here at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, we provide first-rate veterinary care, including spay and neuter surgeries.  If you reside in Ferndale, Monticello, Liberty, or anywhere else in Sullivan County, we want to be your animal hospital.  Although spay and neuter is a relatively minor procedure, it may be the most important surgery your pet will ever have.  

Why Is Spaying or Neutering So Important?

There are many reasons.  The first is to reduce the number of unwanted animals.  Many people think there will surely be enough homes for all new puppies and kittens.  That could not be further from the truth.  Lucky ones end up in animal shelters. While at these shelters, animals receive medical care, and some are even adopted into loving forever homes. However, the sad reality is that many animals who wind up in shelters never make it into a family.  Many shelters are unfortunately forced to euthanize animals if they do not get adopted.  They simply don't have enough space for all of them. 

Another reason to have your pets spayed or neutered is to preserve their health.  Females animals that have litter after litter or go through several heat cycles are at high risk for cancer.  Males that are not neutered will roam to find a mate, putting them in all kinds of danger.  Spay and neuter surgeries are virtually painless for pets and will ultimately prolong their lives.  As a responsible veterinarian practice, we encourage spaying or neutering your pet.  Our veterinary staff is highly skilled at performing these procedures.

Familiarize Yourself with Our Hospital

Throughout this website, there are various sections you can read.  They will help you become familiar with our facility and what we do at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County.   

Schedule Routine Visits with Us

If you are already a patient of ours, make sure you and your pet stop in for routine visits.  If you are not, stop in to meet us.  Either way, the more you and your fur baby get to know us, the more comfortable you will both be when coming in for necessary veterinary care.  Each of our doctors is a skilled veterinarian.  Our support staff is also quite knowledgeable about pet care. Give us a call to schedule your appointment today. 

Growth Removal

At Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, we have worked hard to ensure that every pet in the Ferndale, Monticello, and Liberty areas has access to a trained veterinarian who can provide pet care to dogs, cats, and more. Our veterinarian team is highly qualified and would be honored to serve your pet. We can perform a variety of biopsies and surgical procedures to help your pet recover.

Types of Surgeries Performed

At Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, some of the most common surgical procedures we perform include:

Biopsies: We perform a variety of biopsies ranging from the mouth to the liver. A biopsy is a procedure that is used to isolate a small piece of tissue that can be analyzed under the microscope.

Urinary Obstructions: We can also treat urinary obstructions. There are a variety of reasons why a pet might have a urinary obstruction. These reasons include swelling from a disease or simple inflammation from a urinary tract infection. Regardless of the cause, we can treat it.

Fatty Growths: Sometimes called fatty corpuscles, these growths can be aesthetically unpleasant and might even be painful. We know how to remove them safely.

Mast Cell Tumors: Also called mastocytomas, these are among the most common tumors an animal might develop. Our surgical team can handle them quickly and safely.

Hip Dysplasia:  This can seriously hamper a pet's ability to move. Fortunately, we have a lot of experience in dealing with this issue. We know how to correct hip dysplasia and improve your pet's quality of life.

Musculoskeletal Repairs: Whether your pet has suffered a broken or torn patella or ligament, we can reconstruct it with the help of our trained surgeons. Then, with physical therapy, your pet will be able to move without pain once again.

Stones: Kidney stones throughout the urinary tract can lead to a tremendous amount of pain. These stones can be surgically removed.

If your pet has surgical needs that need to be handled, then we want to be the provider to do exactly that.

Count on Us to Help You!

At Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, these are only a few of the many issues that our veterinary team can treat in Ferndale, Monticello, and Liberty. If you would like to learn more about how our veterinary team can care for dogs, cats, and more, then please give us a call today! We would love to meet you and your furry friend, so make an appointment with a member of our team! Our number is (845) 292-6711.

Dog Boarding and Cat Boarding Services at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County

When you must travel on business, enter the hospital or otherwise be separated from your beloved pet for a certain length of time, you may spend so much time worrying about his health and happiness in your absence that you can't focus on what you're trying to accomplish. Boarding your pet can relieve those worries while ensuring that your furry family member feels loved and cared for until you can return -- and boarding your pet with your veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County gives him access to all the medical care he might need. That's why the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County is happy to offer pet boarding services for Sullivan County pets.

Why Veterinary Boarding Makes Good Sense

While simply having someone check on your pet every day while you're away may sound like an easy solution, veterinary boarding makes a great deal more sense for a variety of reasons. For instance:

• It can help prevent separation anxiety. Animals don't like to feel abandoned, and your pet isn't likely to understand why you suddenly disappeared. This can lead to separation anxiety, which can make your pet miserable and possibly even destructive. We offer a social environment where plenty of human attention is always on hand.
• It can safeguard your pet against an unexpected medical event. You might have a well-meaning friend visiting your pet once or twice a day -- but what happens if a health crisis occurs at any other time? You'll rest easier knowing that your pet has ready access to a veterinarian on our team at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County if an emergency occurs.
• It can provide extra care and monitoring for a pet with special needs. Do you have an elderly pet or a pet with a chronic medical condition? These animals typically need careful monitoring and/or regular doses of medications. Our veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of  Sullivan County can make sure all his special medical needs are met during his/her boarding stay.

Boarding Your Pet at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County

Rest assured that your pet will have a good time here at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County. In addition to top-quality health care from your Sullivan County veterinarian, we provide nutritious meals, clean and restful enclosures, and regular playtime and exercise opportunities. Dogs love the social atmosphere of our dog boarding area, while feline guests can relax in the quiet, peaceful environment of our cat boarding area.

Schedule a Pet Boarding Stay at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County

It's always advisable to start planning your pet's boarding stay as far in advance as possible. For one thing, we will want to make sure your pet is up to date on all vaccinations, for the sake of all our guests. Availability may also become limited during heavy travel seasons such as holidays. Call the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County at (845) 292-6711 right now so we can be ready to welcome your pet!

Excellence In Pet Dental Care At Our Sullivan County Animal Hospital

Our Ferndale veterinary clinic has been around since 1953, and we're the only AAHA accredited animal hospital in Sullivan County, proudly serving pet owners and their pets from Ferndale, Liberty, Loch Sheldrake, Swan Lake, Youngsville, Jeffersonville, Parksville, Callicoon, Roscoe, Livingston Manor, Rock Hill and Wartsborough. We've seen first-hand just how important pet dental care really is for your animal's overall health, well-being, and longevity. That's why we're proud to offer comprehensive pet dentistry in addition to a variety of other pet care services, including pet preventative care and pet surgery.

Pet Dental Care Services From Our Sullivan County Veterinarian: What We Offer

If your cat or dog exhibits any of the following signs or symptoms, you should speak with a Sullivan County veterinarian on our team right away:

-Missing, broken, loose, discolored teeth

-Foul breath

-Difficulty chewing or swallowing food (your dog or cat may frequently drop food or only chew on one side of its mouth)

-Increased drooling

-Decreased appetite

-Bleeding or swelling in the mouth or on the gums

Fortunately, our staff offers a variety of pet dental services to resolve any issues and meet your animal's oral health needs, including comprehensive examination of teeth, gums, and jaw, pet teeth cleaning, and tooth extractions, to remove infected and/or fractured teeth.

 

But Is It Really That Important? Why Pet Dental Health Truly Matters

Believe it or not, good pet dental health can actually increase your pet's lifespan! But this isn't the only reason why pet dentistry is such an important part of your regular pet care routine. Ensuring that your pet's teeth and gums remain clean will improve its quality of life and help reduce its risk of developing other diseases (since bacteria in your pet's mouth can enter the bloodstream and lead to infection). 

It's important to remember that even if your animal isn't showing any signs or symptoms of a dental health problem, you still should be taking your cat or dog in regularly to have a comprehensive pet teeth cleaning and exam. This is the best way to ensure that your pet's teeth and gums remain clean and healthy. In many cases, signs of a teeth or gum disease don't appear until long after the problem has progressed, so routine pet teeth cleanings can actually save you a lot of money in the long-run. 

Is It Time To Schedule A Pet Teeth Cleaning For Your Cat Or Dog? Call Our Animal Hospital in Sullivan County Today!

Our Sullivan County Veterinary team cares deeply about our patients, and we do what it takes to provide quality, comprehensive veterinary pet care services that focuses on both disease treatment and disease prevention. Good pet dental health is a huge part of that. If you'd like to schedule a pet teeth cleaning for your cat or dog, call our veterinarian in Sullivan County today at (845) 292-6711. 

As humans, we go to the dentist at least once a year for dental care. Pet dental care is equally as important, and the most effective way to care for your dog's dental health is with the help of a veterinarian. If you need a veterinary professional for your pet's dental care, the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County is ready to assist you. We have been providing residents of Monticello, Ferndale, and Liberty with reliable pet dental care for many years.   

The Benefits of Proper Dental Care for Dogs  

The benefits of pet dental care are numerous. Dental care will improve the health and comfort of your pet. Dental care is also essential for preventing gum disease and tooth loss, both of which can significantly reduce your pet's quality of life. Our veterinarian will thoroughly clean your pet's teeth and instruct you on how to care for your pet's dental health at home. Some dogs tolerate dental care better than others, and we will help you come up with the best approach to cleaning your pet's teeth.

No More Bad Breath  

If your dog's mouth is never cleaned, bacteria will start to form, causing bad breath, bone and gum loss with eventual tooth loss and all the pain and discomfort that come with it.  In humans, this is deemed unacceptable, though bad breath is common in pets. To prevent your dog from developing bad breath and progressive dental disease, your dog's teeth must be routinely cleaned. It is recommended you take your dog in at least two times a year for dental care. When it comes to cleaning your pet's mouth, anything is better than nothing.

Tartar Removal

Tartar can build upon a dog's teeth just as easily as it can on yours. Tartar and plaque are the product of bacteria and other microbes living in your pet's mouth. If plaque is left on your pet's teeth for too long, it can lead to bone and gum loss, infection, pain and eventual tooth loss.  The infection in the mouth will cause distant infections that can lead to heart, liver and kidney disease.  There are dog dental devices that help prevent the buildup of plaque. However, professional teeth cleaning will clear that problem up and will help prevent buildup for a while after cleaning. Brushing daily to maintain oral health is the best maintenance plan.   It is also advised you provide your dog with dental chews that help remove plaque from its teeth.  

Veterinarian in Sullivan County

If you need reliable pet dental care in Ferndale, Monticello, Liberty, or elsewhere in Sullivan County, the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County is ready to assist you. Poor dental hygiene can lead to infection, pain, gum and bone disease and eventual tooth loss.  Persistent neglect of pet dental care can cause long term health problems with the kidney, liver and heart.   For more information on pet dental care or to schedule an appointment, call us at (845) 292-6711.

Cats and kittens, like people, require routine dental care to keep their teeth clean and mouth healthy. If you live in Ferndale, Monticello, Liberty, or another area of Sullivan County, contact Animal Hospital of Sullivan County to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian for pet dental care.

Why Cat Dental Care Is Important

If you do not take time to care for your pet's teeth, it can suffer from broken portions, inflammation of the gums, pain, and potential tooth loss. Also, when a pet has trouble with their oral hygiene, it could cause other medical conditions in the body. A pet with poor dental care also suffers from bad breath and has difficulty eating.

How To Care For Your Cat's Teeth

Make it a priority to try brushing your cat or kitten's teeth whenever it is possible. Most cats do not care for the procedure, so it may be a bit tricky at first. The first step is to obtain toothpaste in a flavor your cat enjoys. Put a dab of pet toothpaste on your finger and if your cat licks it off, it may allow for brushing of its teeth.

Brush your pet's teeth with a pet toothbrush after meals to remove food remnants, which can adhere to the teeth and cause plaque to occur. During a tooth-brushing session, check that none of your cat's teeth are broken and that the gums are not inflamed. If your cat does not care for brushing, you can use pet dental wipes to remove debris from the teeth instead. Tartar control treats also help keep your cat’s teeth clean.

What Happens During A Dentistry Visit

One of our veterinarians will provide a complete examination of your pet's health during a visit to our animal hospital. After this assessment is performed, we will tend to your cat's teeth. A dental cleaning can be conducted in the comfort of our office. If your pet has a broken tooth or if one needs to be removed, our vet may have you make another appointment for your pet to take care of the problem without time restrictions. We will also teach you how to properly care for your pet's dental needs at home if you need some tips.

Dental Care for Your Feline Friend

If your cat or kitten is ready for a dental visit with our veterinarians, contact Animal Hospital of Sullivan County to schedule an appointment. We provide veterinary care to pets in the Ferndale, Monticello, Liberty, and surrounding Sullivan County communities. Call us today at (845) 292-6711 to learn more about our dental care services.

In your busy life as a concerned pet owner, you've probably got items such as vaccinations, wellness checks, de-worming, and pest prevention on your "to-do" list. But how much do you know about fighting dental disease in your pet? Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions on the subject at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County in Ferndale NY.

What Are the Most Common Types of Pet Dental Disease?

"Pet dental disease" is a wide-ranging term for a variety of conditions that can damage your pet's dental health and overall health. Some of the most common problems include periodontal disease (an inflammation of the gum tissues), bacterial infections in the teeth or jawbone, and oral cancer.

How Does Periodontal Disease Damage Gums?

When plaque hardens into tartar around your pet's teeth, bacteria use that tartar as a food source. The body responds to the bacteria with an inflammatory immune reaction which causes the gum tissue surrounding the tooth to deteriorate. Your pet can suffer from severe oral pain and tooth loss as a result. The inflammation and  infection in the mouth can travel to distant locations and deteriorate kidney and liver function and cause heart valve infections that can be life threatening.

Can a Damaged Tooth Lead to Dental Disease?

A cracked or broken tooth provides an entrance for bacteria, leading to dental disease. The bacteria can infiltrate the pulp chamber and possibly invade the jawbone as well, creating painful abscesses.

How Does Oral Cancer Affect Pets?

Oral cancer is a fast-moving killer, but one that doesn't always show obvious symptoms until late in its development. The disease can destroy oral tissue and possibly spread to other parts of the body as well. Regular exams by a veterinarian can pick up on these problems early and in turn give us more treatment options. 

How Does Your Veterinarian Treat Dental Diseases in Pets?

Our veterinarian at the  Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, Dr. Bodolosky, can provide a variety of different treatment methods for helping your pet overcome dental diseases. Antibiotics can tame an acute bacterial infection but the underlying problem needs to be addressed for a long term solution. Severely damaged or infected teeth can be extracted, removing risks to other parts of the mouth and body and easing your pet's chewing discomfort. Oral cancer can also be treated through surgery and/or other treatments. 

What Preventative Steps Can Help Prevent Dental Disease?

Regular pet dental exams and cleanings at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County can make all the difference in keeping your pet's mouth and body disease-free. We can X-ray the teeth and jaw, look for early signs of cancer, and remove even tough tartar under anesthesia to discourage bacteria. We can also teach you how to look after your pet's dental health between checkups.

Call the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County for Your Pet's Dental Care

Let the Animal Hospital of SullivanCounty answer all your pet dental disease questions and provide much-needed dental care. Call (845) 292-6711 today for a consultation and exam!

Periodontal disease is a real problem in both pets and humans, and if left unchecked a significant amount of pain and bacteria can spread decreasing both enjoyment and lifespan. Do not put off dental care for your pet, especially if they are aging or showing signs of need. The Animal Hospital of Sullivan County offers pet dental services, including periodontal disease treatment, to Sullivan County, Ferndale, and the surrounding areas with quality veterinary care.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a disease of the bone, gums and mouth around the actual teeth. It is cause by a bacterial infection and often it is unnoticed at first. Like in humans, pet periodontal disease can cause a severe amount of pain and even tooth loss. In addition, this bacteria can travel to the heart and other organs causing more health issues.

Although the bacteria that causes this disease can spread unnoticed, the symptoms of the disease include bad breath and loss of teeth. The problem is that once these symptoms are noticed, the disease can already have had time to advance, which is why regular dental checkups are so important for your pet.

How Do We Treat Pet Dental Issues Like Periodontal Disease?

The best treatment for periodontal disease is preventative care. If your pets receive this care regularly or if the disease is caught very early, the prognoses is much better, and they can be saved from a great deal of pain. Regular veterinary dental appointments for cleaning and checkups are not only going to make your pet's breath smell better, but they also can insure that they are not suffering from a silent painful disease.

If your pet does have periodontal disease we will determine the progression through examination under anesthesia and then come up with a plan that works for you and your pet that will halt the progression of the spread of bacteria in the mouth. Removal of teeth may be recommended, depending on the stage.

Contact Us for More Information About Pet Dental Treatments

Schedule your pet’s next appointment at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County to get their teeth checked out and to make sure their whole system is in tip top shape. We serve pet patients of Ferndale, Sullivan County, and the surrounding areas. You can reach us at (845) 292-6711!

Pets are like family and caring for them should be a top priority. Since your pet cannot care for or brush their own teeth, it is your responsibility as a pet owner to care for their teeth to prevent periodontal disease and to make sure their teeth are healthy and clean.  Animal Hospital of Sullivan County serves the Ferndale, Monticello, Liberty, and Sullivan County areas to help make sure that cats, dogs, and other pets have teeth that are clean and healthy. 

How to Prevent Periodontal Disease?

The first step to prevent dental disease is to help make sure that your pets have clean teeth. This means making sure that they are eating the right foods like dry food or harder food that helps to remove dirt and build-up from the teeth. You may also want to get teeth treats that help to clean the surface of the teeth and remove any tartar build-up that might be on the teeth.

If you are trying to take care of teeth at home you can also brush your pet’s teeth every few days to help make sure that there is no build-up and that the teeth stay clean and free of grime that might cause disease or decay. If you are doing these things at home you can help prevent some measure of periodontal disease and you can help keep your pet’s teeth clean.

Your Pet’s Teeth and the Vet

If you are doing all the things mentioned above at home, you also need to take your pet to the vet to help make sure that their teeth are getting the proper attention. You should be getting your pet's teeth cleaned at the vet at least once a year to help make sure that they are clean. You also need to make sure that if you notice that there is anything wrong with your pets’ teeth that you do take them to the vet as soon as possible so that they can get their teeth taken care of.

Schedule an Appointment Today!

Your veterinary professional or veterinarian is going to be able to take care of things like gum swelling and gum bleeding, they can also remove teeth that are damaged and that need to be repaired. They can help to treat infection in the teeth and gums as well to make sure that your pet is not going to have to deal with the pain that is associated with periodontal disease. Your pet’s teeth are important not only for the health of their mouth but also for heart health and for preventing disease and infection that can make your pet feel sickly. You can call Animal Hospital of Sullivan County at (845) 292-6711 to schedule an appointment today!

Nutrition Facts for Dogs and Cats Through Every Life Stage

To keep their pet in excellent health, pet owners must skip past the bright packaging and bold claims to find the nutrition information on their pet’s favorite foods. Dogs and cats both require the perfect vitamins of carbohydrates, fat, protein and micronutrients to remain in great health. Here at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, we aim to help pet owners find the best combination of food for their furry friends. We assist with dietary changes as cats and dogs move through their early months to well into old age.

Nutritional Needs of Dogs and Cats

Dogs and cats have wildly different nutritional needs when it comes to remaining in top condition. The macro and micronutrient levels of vet-approved pet foods are designed with the species’ needs in mind. Cats, for example, need food that has a high percentage of protein and little to no fiber. Dogs, on the other hand, require fiber in their food to maximize the efficiency of their gastric system.

Health Concerns Caused by Poor Nutrition

Cats and dogs can develop serious health problems from a lack of adequate dietary intake each day. Vets may diagnose vitamin deficiencies, nerve disorders or degenerative diseases in pets that are not placed on the proper food for their breed, size and activity levels. The amount of food given to each pet also matters as high feed allotments can lead to obesity and related medical conditions.  

How Your Ferndale, NY Vet Can Help

Veterinary professionals are skilled in helping pet owners find the best diet for their furry friends. Vets utilize key nutrition information to find foods formulated with the right combination of ingredients. Your vet may suggest different ways to help your pet eat more or less to boost nutrition in smart ways. You can utilize the tips from your veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County to maximize the health of your pets.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County

If you are ready to improve your pet’s nutrition, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian in Ferndale, NY by calling (845) 292-6711. At the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, we strive to keep your pet in excellent health through every life stage. We will work hard to ensure your pet always receives the preventative and restorative health services required for a truly healthy life. Your pet’s health and happiness will always remain our top priority.

Diabetes in Dogs and Cats Treated by Our Veterinary Clinic in Ferndale

It often comes as a surprise, but pets like dogs and cats can get diabetes. This disease requires careful management to ensure a long life for the animal and to preserve his or her health. Here is an overview of the diagnosis and treatment of pet diabetes:

Discovering the Diabetes

A diagnosis of diabetes usually doesn't start with a blood test. Though an overall wellness checkup may include such a test, it is more common for owners to notice the symptoms and then bring the pet in for a special appointment. As with many other conditions, treatment will be more successful when the owner is quick to do this. That means that it's not a good idea to wait for a regularly-scheduled checkup even if your pet typically has an annual exam.

The symptoms to look for start with noticeably-increased water drinking and urination. This is a hallmark sign in humans as well. Other things to be on the lookout for include increased incidences of infection, unexplained weight loss (sometimes even with increased appetite), and cloudy eyes.

If you see these symptoms in your pet, it's time to bring the animal to Animal Hospital of Sullivan County to have the diagnosis confirmed. Confirmation typically requires a simple blood test. You may be asked to withhold food (including treats) from your pet for a set time before the appointment. This is to allow a "fasting blood glucose" test to be done. Fasting tests help eliminate the influence of recent meals on blood glucose levels.

Since diabetes typically affects older pets, other tests may be done to rule out other conditions that affect dogs and cats in this age range. Urine tests and other types of blood tests are some of these.

Testing and Treatment

Our veterinarian in Ferndale will prescribe a variety of treatments after tests confirm the levels of blood glucose involved. Typically, these include starting and maintaining an exercise program and special diet. Insulin is likely to be prescribed as well, especially for dogs.

Since the dog's owner controls what food the animal gets – making it so that the pet needs no willpower in order to stick to them - diets work far better for pets than they do for humans. Exercise, however, will require the human to be a bit motivated, especially if the pet is a dog. On the plus side, you'll both get healthy walks and feel better!

As in humans, insulin must be given to pets as an injection. This is because digestion destroys it. Our animal hospital in Ferndale, NY will teach pet owners and caregivers how to give the shots. Insulin needles are very short and thin, so they'll be tolerated better than the ones typically used for other treatments.

Contact Our Local Veterinarian in Ferndale for More Information Today!

If your dog or cat has been showing any of the signs of diabetes, give us a call at (845) 292-6711. We'll schedule an appointment to test for these conditions and any others that may present the symptoms you're seeing. Soon, we'll have an effective treatment plan for your pet.

Obesity among dogs and cats is an extremely serious issue. Studies have shown that more than half of the cats and dogs in the United States are overweight or obese. Although a little extra weight may add a touch of cuteness to your pet, this extra weight can also be dangerous for their health. It’s important to recognize the signs of obesity in your pet and seek veterinary care in Sullivan County for help in managing your pet’s weight. Here are some potential health risks cats and dogs face when they are overweight. 

Dogs and cats that are obese tend to have shorter lives and are more susceptible for disease

Breathing and Heart Problems

The excess weight may cause high blood pressure and heart disease as well as breathing problems. Dogs that are overweight are prone to laryngeal paralysis and a collapsing trachea. When airway issues such as these go untreated by the veterinarian in Ferndale, it may result in fatal respiratory failure.

Arthritis

One of the most common problems with obesity in pets is the risk of arthritis, especially in older pets. Arthritis causes the cartilage in the joint to deteriorate and the excess weight will put extra pressure on their joints, which causes the bones to rub together more intensely. This can intensify their pain. The veterinarian in Monticello can recommend pain medications, but weight loss can significantly help to reduce some of the pain.

Infections and Skin Diseases

Obese cats and dogs typically have extra skin folds, which may lead to bacterial infection. The irritation will cause your pet to scratch, lick and bite at the affected area, which causes the infection to worsen as well as body odor and hair loss. Overweight cats struggle with grooming themselves, which results in their fur and skin looking unhealthy. With proper veterinary care from the animal hospital, the infection can usually be treated; however, unless they lose weight, the infections will continue.

Reduced Quality of Life

Unfortunately, obesity may reduce their life span by as much as two years. Pets that carry extra pounds are unable to do the things they enjoy, including going for walks and playing. It’s difficult for overweight pets to get up, breathe and play without tiring easily.

Call Animal Hospital of Sullivan County Today!

One of the most important types of care you can do for your pet is to help them maintain a healthy weight. If your pet is overweight, it’s important that you take them to the animal hospital in Liberty for an evaluation as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will be able to recommend a healthy diet plan to help them get back down to a healthy weight.

To learn more information about the risk of obesity in pets, contact your veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County to schedule an appointment.

Fleas and ticks are a painful reality with dogs and cats, and they need some help from their humans to stay free of these parasites. Fleas and ticks cause irritation and can spread disease. They can also bring these parasites into the house and the pests can then get on people. Prevention is the key, however, as fleas and ticks are easier to prevent than to get rid of at times. The Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, serving Ferndale, Monticello, and Liberty, is here to help you control these pests that torment your animals with the best of veterinary care.

Treatment Options

There are several ways to protect your dog or cat from fleas and ticks with proper pet care. We have pills, and chewable type medications, that you can give your pet  monthly. These will cause your dog or cat to put off the smell that repels ticks and fleas.  We have very effective topical products in our office that have the latest science backing them.  There are also flea and tick collars, which repel the pests as well. These collars do not have the speed of kill that veterinary products have and can lose effectiveness if they get wet.   Another option is a spray that can be used, much like what humans use. Consulting with your veterinarian, you will be able to formulate the best plan for your dogs or cats.

Prevention

Medication helps repel fleas and ticks, but no matter what you do, some are bound to make their way to your dogs or cats.  Examine your pets regularly, especially if they have been in a wooded area, for pests that may have attached themselves. Also, check out the petl if you notice them scratching more than usual.  It is a good idea to wash your pet's bedding occasionally during the summer months when fleas and ticks are most active. Pay attention to where ticks are likely to be, and be extra careful in those areas with your pet. If you like walking around in the woods with your dogs, you will likely encounter a few ticks.

Use Real Products

It is a good idea to buy your flea and tick prevention medication from a veterinarian. This way you are assured you are getting the genuine article as some have sold fakes, or outdated goods, to people. Your veterinarian can help you determine the best route for your individual pet to keep your pet healthy and happy.

Call Us

Call the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County today for all your veterinary needs, and to help you battle fleas and ticks that torment your pets. We believe pet care should be a team effort. We serve the areas around Ferndale, Monticello, and Liberty in Sullivan County. We can help you as you help your pets battle pests like fleas and ticks. You can call us at (845) 292-6711 to schedule an appointment today!

Pet Allergies Treatment at Animal Hospital of Sullivan County in Ferndale, NY

Animals, just like people, are prone to allergies of all types. Knowing the signs of an allergic reaction can help you get the necessary treatment for your pet promptly. At the first indication that your pet is dealing with an allergic reaction, give the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County in Ferndale a call to make an appointment with our veterinarian for an evaluation. Here are some common allergy symptoms to be aware of so that you know when to contact our animal hospital for veterinary care.

Common Cold Symptoms

A pet that suffers from environmental allergies tend to have symptoms similar to the common cold. Some dogs and cats are allergic to common items that may be present around the home such as dust, pollen, trees, or other plants. If your pet tends to cough, wheeze, sneeze, or have a discharge from the eyes, make a notation whether the symptoms subside upon reentering your home. Keep tabs on your pet's behavior for a few days and make a call to our Sullivan County veterinarian if you believe an environmental trigger is causing your pet distress.

Stomach Troubles

Your pet can have an allergic reaction to certain foods. Many pets with digestive allergies will have gastrointestinal problems after they eat something they cannot tolerate. This could be confused with a digestive issue, however. Our Ferndale veterinarian may be able to determine whether your pet is just having an upset stomach or if your pet is having an allergic reaction to the certain food that he or she may have eaten. Not only does food allergies cause vomiting and diarrhea, but can also cause a skin reaction to occur.

Skin Difficulties

When a pet is allergic to a chemical, such as those included in shampoos, flea dips, or other grooming supplies, the pet may suffer from a skin ailment. Some pets are also allergic to flea bites, which could cause difficulties with the skin. Skin allergies are often noticed when a pet spends a lot of time scratching or biting at his or her body because of the itchiness and discomfort that occurs within the skin. Switching the grooming supplies you use on your pet to another brand can alleviate the itchiness. Check your pet for the presence of fleas so that appropriate treatment can be administered to your pet.

If you think your dog or cat has an allergy, contact the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County in Ferndale for pet treatment from our veterinarian. Call our animal hospital at (845) 292-6711 to make an appointment for veterinary care for your pet's condition today.

Keeping Pets Safe for the Holidays

While you want your pets to enjoy the holiday season as much as you do, you may have to visit the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County if something goes wrong, whether you live in Ferndale, Monticello, or Liberty. The best way to avoid having to see a veterinarian for a seasonally related emergency is to be aware of the dangers and pitfalls of the season so that you can keep your pets safe.

The Dangers of Baking

Though you may enjoy making baked goodies for friends and family, they can be very harmful to your pets. If your sweet treats include chocolate, be sure to store them in a place where your pets can't get to them. Even a small amount of bakers chocolate in their system can be lethal. It can cause vomiting, tremors, an accelerated heart rate, and seizures. Even something as simple as uncooked dough can have serious consequences for your pet.

The Dangers of Vermin

If you have rats or mice in your home you may be tempted to use poison to kill them. However, this poison could also be ingested by your pet. The safest way to deal with a rat or mouse problem is to purchase traps and place them where they are needed in your house. Make sure to place these somewhere where your pet cannot easily become caught in them.

There are other safe ways to handle this problem as well. Natural repellents will help you eliminate vermin without taking the risk of making your pet sick in the process. There are even ways to keep vermin out of your home by using onions, garlic, and peppermint. Cleaning your house with baking soda is another way to eliminate vermin without putting your pets in danger.

Ultrasonic emitters placed around your home can also make it an undesirable place for mice and rats. Though you and your pets won't be able to hear the sound emitted, rodents will. If you are able to identify where mice or rats are entering your home, you can create a barrier to try and keep them out. Securing your baseboards goes a long way in keeping these pests away from you and your pets.

Contact Animal Hospital of Sullivan County

In the event harm does come to your pet this holiday season, make sure you contact the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County. We serve pet owners in Ferndale, Liberty, and Monticello. For more information on seasonal dangers or to schedule an appointment, call us at (845) 292-6711.

Spring Flea and Tick Prevention

As you probably already know, the great spring weather creates an explosion in the flea and tick population. To help keep your pet safe from contracting tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, it is important to start the season with a strong prevention plan.

There are many great preventatives on the market including both topical and oral medications. Also, even indoor cats should have some sort of flea and tick measures in place to keep problems from developing. Our veterinarians will help you choose a product that works best for your pet.

‘Tis the Season for Spaying and Neutering

The dog and cat population around Liberty, Ferndale, and Monticello seems to grow every year. Sadly, this leads to many unwanted pets that cannot find homes in our community. Help do your part by ensuring that your pet is spayed or neutered.

While your pet might feel a little groggy for a couple of days after the procedure, the result is well worth it. Our team will walk you through the process so that you have an idea of what to expect, both during your pet’s surgery and after you return home.

Spring Wellness Exams

Now is the perfect time of the year for your feline friend or canine companion’s annual check-up with our veterinarians. If your pet is due for vaccinations, teeth cleaning, or just needs their nails trimmed, we can help make it happen.

An important part of pet care is ensuring that your cat or dog gets the health attention they need, which is why these annual check-ups are so important. If you have not brought your cat or dog in to see us for a while, now is the best time to schedule an appointment.

Your Trusted Veterinary Center in Sullivan County

We want to help you and your pet have the best year ever. That is why we look forward to seeing both of you at our office for a routine veterinary exam. Are you ready to ensure your cat or dog is healthy this spring? Contact our team at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County today at (845) 292-6711 to schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians.

Animal Hospital of Sullivan County Treating Heat Strokes in Pets 

Every summer, our Sullivan County veterinarian sees cases of pets suffering symptoms of heat stroke. This condition is severe and often life threatening, but fortunately, it is easy to avoid heat stroke in pets when you know how to prevent it. Get our vet's top tips on dealing with heat stroke in pets. 

What is Heat Stroke? 

A heat stroke develops when your dog is unable to cool down its body temperature, and overheats. The chief way dogs cool their bodies is through panting; dogs are also able to release some heat through the pads of their feet. 

If your dog enters heat stroke, it can grow unconscious and die. Thus, it's important that you know the causes of heatstroke and its warning signs. 

The main cause of heat stroke is overheating by being in a hot environment, typically a hot car. If you leave your pet outside on a hot day with no access to fresh water or shade, they could also develop a heat stroke. The best way to avoid a heat stroke is by keeping your pet in a shady environment or leaving them at home when the weather is hot. 

Warning Signs of Heat Stroke 

Its chief symptom, excessive panting, may be something your pet does whenever he or she is hot. Look for these other clues to tell if your pet may be having a heat stroke: 

• Drooling 
• Temperature of 106 (your dog's normal temperature is 102.5)
• Red gums 
• Rapid heart rate
• Vomiting blood 
• Wobbly movement 
• Unconsciousness

If you spot any of these signs, it's critical to seek care right away, since your pets' organs may begin to fail. 

Overweight dogs, puppies, and old dogs are more susceptible to heat stroke. Dogs with very thick coats of fur are more susceptible than dogs with thin coats of fur. Dogs that have other medical conditions, such as an overactive thyroid or compromised lungs, are also more susceptible to heat stroke. The short nosed breeds like bulldogs and pugs are at an increased risk as well.

How Our Ferndale Veterinarian Treats Heat Stroke 

When you bring your dog to us, we will check their temperature to find out whether your dog is experiencing heat stroke. We'll try to bring your dog's temperature down quickly while treating them for shock or unconsciousness. During the stabilization process, we will administer IV fluids as well. Dogs become very dehydrated when in heat stroke, so it is important that we replenish their fluids.   We will get lab work to make sure there is no evidence of organ damage and to serve as a baseline and to direct treatment.

We'll also treat any secondary conditions that are occurring as a result of heat stroke. For example, if your dog has started to elevate blood pressure, we will lower their blood pressure and work to normalize their wellness. 

We will keep monitoring your dog at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County until we feel confident that your pet has made a full recovery. 

Get Pet Care in Ferndale

Do you need pet care in Sullivan County, for heat stroke or anything else? Our Ferndale veterinarian is here for you. Reserve your appointment by calling us at (845) 292-6711.

Pet Ultrasound Services at Animal Hospital of Sullivan County

Your pet may be behaving strangely, refusing food and experiencing discomfort. Our veterinarians at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County in Ferndale, New York, offer non-intrusive diagnostics for your pet and pet ultrasound to uncover the reason for your pet’s distress and discomfort. Pet ultrasound is a unique technology that allows vets and their owners to get details on common illnesses and injuries without an incision.  Learn more about pet ultrasounds and how a session may benefit your pet.

Common Reasons for a Pet Ultrasound

Pet ultrasounds can be used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions in a pet. A dog ultrasound may be used to diagnose pregnancy. However, cardiac ultrasounds and abdominal ultrasounds for pets can be used to monitor the state of tumors and cysts, evaluate heart conditions and identify abdominal organ changes.

Pet ultrasounds give detailed information on the health of soft tissue structures, including muscle, organs, and blood vessels. A pet may have injured themselves when swallowing a foreign object or have pregnancy difficulties. An ultrasound for a cat or dog will provide necessary details for an accurate diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes. Pets and pet owners benefit from this painless procedure.

Most pets are quite comfortable during the ultrasound process. A light sedation may be recommended for pets showing signs of anxiety or distress. Most pets do very well without sedation. The safe diagnostic tool offers high-quality imaging of the internal structures of an affected area. Speak with our veterinarian at Animal Hospital of Sullivan in Ferndale, New York for more details on prepping a pet for an ultrasound appointment.

What to Expect from a Pet Ultrasound Session

What should pet owners know about having their pet receive a pet ultrasound? The majority of pets lay comfortably on their side while being scanned. Anxious or stressed pets may receive a mild sedative. A pet ultrasound does not generally require the use of anesthesia. This real time process allows for immediate reviewing of results.

For high-quality imaging, it is important to shave the fur of the area where an ultrasound probe will make contact with the skin of a pet. Our vets need the probe to make full contact. A pregnancy diagnosis may be an exception. In most cases, shaving off fur permits the taking of quality images by the pet ultrasound machine and veterinarian.

Pet Ultrasound at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County

The Animal Hospital of Sullivan County has served pets and owners in Liberty, Loch Sheldrake, Swan Lake, Youngsville, Jeffersonville, Parksville, Callicoon, Roscoe, Livingston Manor, Rock Hill and Wurtsborough for over 60 years. Non-intrusive diagnostics for your pet, including cardiac and abdominal ultrasound for pets, are available at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, an accredited member of AAHA. Our veterinary team is dedicated to offering state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care to beloved pets and their owners. Contact the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County at (845) 292-6711 to schedule your pet ultrasound appointment today.

Animal Hospital of Sullivan County: Our Local Vet in Ferndale, New York, NY

Just as monitoring blood pressure is important in humans, it is also crucial in pets. The dangers associated with abnormal blood pressure can affect cats and dogs as well as people, so knowing the risks that come from high and low blood pressure is crucial if you want your pet to live a long healthy life.

If you want to make sure your pets blood pressure is currently healthy and remains so, you need a good vet in Sullivan County NY.  The Animal Hospital of Sullivan County can meet your needs, with expert advice on all aspects of pet care, including hypertension (another name for high blood pressure).   Come to or call the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County in Ferndale, NY to learn more.

High Blood Pressure in Dogs and High Blood Pressure in Cats

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a serious condition. Essentially it means the heart is working harder to pump the same amount of blood through the arteries and veins because they are narrower than they should be. High blood pressure in dogs, just like high blood pressure in cats and can cause a range of medical conditions. It’s important to learn more about the causes of high blood pressure in dogs and cats so you can address your pet’s needs today.

Hypertension in Dogs and Cats

All animals are susceptible to hypertension, and your pets are no exception. Unfortunately, this is a very dangerous condition indeed. Hypertension in dogs and cats can lead to heart disease, kidney damage, stroke and degradation of the retina.

Typically, hypertension in dogs and cats is a result of a disease. This includes Cushing's disease or hyperadrenocorticism in dogs, and hyperthyroidism and kidney disease in cats. Untreated hypertension in cats could result in kidney disease.

Low Blood Pressure in Dogs and Cats

Low blood pressure in dogs and cats, also known as hypotension, is a serious problem too. It can be caused by allergic reactions, dehydration, anemia, poor diet, trauma, thyroid conditions and more. Low blood pressure in dogs and cats results in less-than-optimal blood flow, reduced oxygen to the body and weakened organs. Like hypertension, it must be addressed immediately.

Make an Appointment to learn more about High Blood Pressure Risks in Dogs and Cats

The Animal Hospital of Sullivan is the veterinarian in Ferndale who can answer all your questions about high blood pressure risks in dogs and cats. For 25 years, we have been accredited members of the AAHA and have served the areas of Liberty, Loch Sheldrake, Swan Lake, Youngsville, Jeffersonville, Parksville, Callicoon, Roscoe, Livingston Manor, Rock Hill and Wurtsborough.

Our clients and pets are valued members of our family, and we want you to be with us for a long time, which is why we put education at the forefront of our services. If you want to learn more about high blood pressure risks in dogs and cats, give us a call at (845) 292-6711.

Pet Microchipping at Animal Hospital of Sullivan County

At the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, our Ferndale veterinarian is happy to offer microchipping procedures as one of our many services. This quick procedure involves placing a tiny microchip underneath the surface of your pet's skin. This chip is embedded and programmed with a unique ID number, which can be linked to your personal contact information (name, address, phone number, e-mail address, etc.). If your pet goes missing and is found without a collar or other identifying information, a microchip scanner can be used to retrieve your contact information and reunite you with your pet.

Benefits of Having Your Pet Microchipped

Having your pet microchipped drastically increases your chances of being reunited with your pet in the event that he or she goes missing. In fact, the reunion rate for dogs without microchips is just 22%, compared with more than 52% among microchipped dogs. Even higher reunion rates have been reported with cats who have been microchipped. Unlike a collar and tags, which can easily come off your pet when he or she goes missing, a microchip is embedded underneath your pet's skin and thus will not become lost. Having your pet microchipped is a quick and easy process at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, and doing so can give you added peace of mind.

What to Expect From the Microchipping Procedure

When you bring your pet in for a microchipping procedure with our vet, the entire process will take just a few moments. We use a special tool to insert and embed the tiny chip underneath your pet's skin. The chip is typically placed in between a pet's shoulder blades. During the placement, your pet may feel a quick stinging sensation (similar to when he or she receives a vaccine), but the embedding of the chip should not hurt. Side effects are typically not an issue with microchipping at all, though some pets with sensitive skin may experience a small amount of swelling around the site that should subside within a day or so.

After you have your pet microchipped, it is important that you follow through with the registration of the chip. The registration process is essentially what "activates" your pet's chip and puts all of your contact information into the system. You can register your chip by contacting the microchip company directly; be sure to also update your registration with them any time your contact information changes.

Schedule an Appointment With Our Ferndale Veterinarian

Ready to book your cat or dog microchipping appointment with our Ferndale veterinarian? If so, give the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County a call today; you can reach our office by calling (845) 292-6711.