A male cat who keeps squatting and producing little or no urine is far more likely to be dealing with a urinary blockage than constipation, and that distinction can decide whether he survives the next day. A urethral obstruction means urine physically cannot leave the body, so potassium and toxins build in the bloodstream within [...]

An allergic reaction in a dog or cat can be a passing case of hives or a fast-moving, life-threatening emergency, and the two call for very different responses. Hives usually look like raised bumps, facial puffiness, or itchy skin, and while they are uncomfortable, most pets stay stable while you decide what to do. Anaphylaxis [...]

Cooling a heat-stroked pet lowers their body temperature, but it does not stop the injury process already set in motion, which is why veterinary care is essential even after a pet seems to feel better. The organs, particularly the kidneys and the blood's clotting system, are often affected in ways that are not visible from [...]

The immune system is built to attack foreign invaders, but sometimes it turns inward and targets the body's own cells, or fails to recognize a real threat and lets infection progress unchecked. In pets, this shows up most often as blood disorders like immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) and thrombocytopenia (ITP), feline viral diseases like FIP, [...]

A sudden, violent sneezing fit in a dog that was perfectly fine five minutes ago is almost always a sign that something has gone wrong inside the nose. The most common cause is a nasal foreign body, typically a piece of grass, a foxtail (a barbed seed head from certain grasses that burrows forward [...]

Parvovirus has not gone away. In fact, veterinary clinics across Southern Arizona are currently seeing a significant and unusual uptick in parvo cases - occurring outside the virus's typical spring and summer peak, and affecting dogs across age groups, not just puppies. The exact cause of the regional increase is not fully understood, but under-vaccination [...]

Nobody plans to spend their Saturday night in a veterinary emergency room, but when your dog suddenly cannot keep anything down or your cat is straining in the litter box with nothing to show for it, you need help fast. Along with the worry about your pet comes a very practical question: how much is [...]

How Vets Evaluate Swollen Lymph Nodes and What They Look For Lymph node enlargement in pets demands investigation, not assumption. Maybe it was discovered during routine petting, or perhaps a veterinarian found it during an exam. Either way, the next step is figuring out why those nodes are enlarged, because the cause determines everything about [...]

Fighting Pet Cancer With Knowledge and Early Action Have you noticed some new symptoms in your pet? Maybe they aren't eating as eagerly as they used to, have lost some weight, or you felt a strange lump when you were petting them. When these worries creep in, your mind naturally jumps to the worst possible [...]

Why is my dog coughing all night? It could be more than just a tickle in the throat. Kennel cough- a highly contagious respiratory infection- spreads easily through the air, shared toys, or even a quick drink from another dog’s water bowl. While many dogs experience mild illness, others develop serious complications that require urgent [...]

As winter weather starts to settle in, dog owners need to start thinking about how to keep their four-legged friends comfortable and safe on daily walks. It can be easy to dismiss the cold because your dog has fur, but the truth is that there does come a time when it’s unsafe to take your [...]

As winter weather starts to settle in, dog owners need to start thinking about how to keep their four-legged friends comfortable and safe on daily walks. It can be easy to dismiss the cold because your dog has fur, but the truth is that there does come a time when it’s unsafe to take your [...]

As winter weather starts to settle in, dog owners need to start thinking about how to keep their four-legged friends comfortable and safe on daily walks. It can be easy to dismiss the cold because your dog has fur, but the truth is that there does come a time when it’s unsafe to take your [...]

If you have a passion for helping animals and have the capacity to obtain a doctoral degree, you may be interested in becoming a doctor of veterinary medicine. Veterinarians are in the top 10 most in demand jobs for the year 2022. Veterinarians are experts in pet health; they perform checkups and surgeries, teach pet [...]

Keeping up with a dog’s health should be an owner’s top priority. While taking your pet to an animal medical center for a check-up once a year — and twice a year for older pets — is the norm, there are other things you can do to ensure your dog’s health is in tip-top shape [...]

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it’s normal to want to share the bounty with your four-legged friends. With almost 94 million pet dogs in the U.S., you’re not alone. That said, there are a few Thanksgiving foods and ingredients that have no business being in your pet’s food dish. If you want to [...]

What Does Pet Insurance Cover and Is It Worth It? When you adopt a pet, you may wonder whether or not investing in pet insurance is worth it. Learn more about what pet insurance does and doesn’t cover below. Why Get Pet Insurance? Insurance plans will differ as will pet owners’ individual budgets and whether [...]

Heat stroke can affect your pets in the same way it can affect you. This condition occurs when your pet’s internal body temperature reaches dangerously high levels — generally about 106 degrees Fahrenheit. If you want to learn how to spot early signs of heat stroke in pets and how to prevent it in the [...]

If your pet is sick, you may begin to hear about the possibility of going to a specialty vet. Just like humans have specialty doctors for certain illnesses and injuries, some vets have special training in areas of veterinary medicine, such as veterinary emergency care or treatment of cancer in a specific animal. Whether you [...]

5 Halloween Safety Tips to Practice if You Have Pets Halloween might be the spookiest night of the year, but there’s nothing scarier than your pet being in danger. Fortunately, it’s possible to avoid calling your local pet hospitals with a few simple tips. Here are a few tricks to help you make sure that [...]

In the first part of this series, we discussed some important points when preparing for an emergency animal hospital visit. In this part, we will discuss what pet parents can expect during the visit to the emergency veterinary hospital. When you arrive… Upon arrival, the emergency veterinary staff will ask you what happened to your [...]

If you’re a proud pet parent, one of your worst nightmares most likely includes something bad happening to your pet. Unfortunately, accidents and illnesses aren’t always avoidable and bad things can happen to the most beloved pets, but this is why emergency animal hospitals exist. Veterinarians and technician staff are always available and ready to [...]

We here at SAVS deal with interesting pet incidents all the time. While we work to nurse every pet to health that comes through our door we also try our best to make the owners feel relaxed while we deal with their emergency. We deal with a lot of different emergencies every day and we [...]

We all love our pets as if they were a part of our families. Often times, couples get pets before they have children, so their dog or cat is almost like their first born child. Why would you have a pet if you did not love them with all your heart? Veterinarians and animal hospitals [...]

You’re a dog lover. What’s not to love? They’re adorable, friendly, and loyal. Tons of people have dogs. In fact, even during the most recent recession, 92% of pet owners spent the same amount of money or more on their animals. Why More Than One? When you’re an animal lover, it’s hard to have just [...]

Countless people see the holiday season as a time of safety, joy, and togetherness — all of which include pets as part of the mix! But while you’re enjoying all of the festivities the winter holidays have to offer, your four-legged family members could be getting into trouble. If you’re wondering how to keep pets [...]

Dogs can bring boundless love and joy into your life. They are always there for you whether you want to play, go for a walk, or need a hug. The relationship between a dog and its owner is a beautiful thing, and in order to preserve this wonderful connection, you should be aware of potential [...]

Owning pets is as American as baseball, apple pie, and gorging on Halloween candy every October 31. Today, there are roughly 43.3 million households with dogs and 38.9 million households with cats, and as a pet owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure that your cats and dogs are protected and healthy at all times. [...]

If your dog has been drinking more water than usual, vomiting, unable to urinate, or is extremely bloated, beware — your furry friend may have a case of Leptospirosis. At least 10 new cases have recently been discovered in Pima County and the zoonotic disease can not only be transferred to humans, but is potentially [...]

Your dog loves treats. And you love treating your beloved furry friend! In fact, Forbes Magazine reported that 92% of pet owners spent the same or more on their pets during the most recent recession period. But instead of sticking with the traditional store-bought treats, many insightful dog lovers are making their own homemade treats. [...]

As these long and hot summer days continue to fly by, many pet owners neglect to realize the importance of keeping their pets hydrated. But the fact is, proper hydration is a critical aspect of overall health for both cats and dogs. Here are some signs of dehydration in cats and dogs. Cats: Water makes [...]

According to a report from Animal Planet, it used to be quite “common for dogs to live their entire lives outside in suburban and urban yards.” Of course, today most dog owners keep their pooches inside for the majority of the day. That makes it doubly important to take your pet on outdoor adventures. And [...]

By Dr. Peter Bondy, DVM, Diplomate, ACVIM Did you know how versatile endoscopy can be for our pets? With our equipment and skill, there are many areas that we can see in dogs and cats when they are in need of an emergency veterinarian in Tucson. Furthermore, these procedures are minimally invasive with no incisions [...]

Getting a new puppy is definitely exciting, but it can be a lot of hard work to get your puppy used to its new environment. Socialization is important for any puppy to get used to being around other dogs and people, but it’s just as important for pet owners as well. If your dog isn’t [...]

Adopting a new pet is a major decision, especially if it’s your first pet. While adding a new furry friend to your family is exciting and fulfilling, it’s also a long-term commitment. If you’re considering adopting a new pet and aren’t sure if it’s the right decision for you, here are some things to think [...]

Even if your pet isn’t in ill health, you should still be bringing it to the veterinarian annually for a checkup, a dental exam and a good cleaning, and any vaccines or medicines that should be administered annually. Going to the veterinarian yearly can help make sure that you know that your pet has a [...]

Just as humans become more susceptible to arthritis as they age, so do cats and dogs. Arthritis is a degenerative disease that produces painful inflammation in the joints. Some younger pets may also be at risk of developing arthritis due to injuries or a genetic predisposition. With proper diagnosis and treatment, however, your pet can [...]

We all want our pets to be happy and healthy. Besides taking your pet in for regular check-ups with their veterinarian, there are plenty of things you can do at home to make sure that your dog or cat is living life to its fullest. Here are five easy tips for pet health that will [...]

Fleas may not be very fun to think about, but every pet owner needs to be aware of exactly what they are and the dangers these bloodsuckers pose. Though your dog or cat’s excessive itching and scratching may not necessarily be signs of a pet emergency, it is important to recognize the symptoms of fleas [...]

Losing weight is a New Year’s resolution for many Americans, but did you know that your pet might need to make this life change as well? For the sixth straight year, Nationwide reports that pet obesity is on the rise. Nationwide is the first and largest provider of pet health insurance in the U.S., and [...]

We all love our pets and want to see them live long, healthy lives. But, as with humans, illnesses like cancer can strike at any age. An early diagnosis of cancer in animals can lead to better treatment options and help save lives. Here are several common early signs of cancer in dogs that every [...]

We know that nothing is more important to you than your pet’s health, which is why it’s important to schedule regular visits and check-ups with your veterinarian, just as you would with your own doctor. What you may not realize is that some veterinary specialty centers go well beyond routine care to provide all kinds [...]

Everyday, veterinary oncology specialists around the country help thousands of pet owners make difficult decisions about pet cancer treatment options. But increasingly, many veterinarians are also using their animal cancer research experience to better understand how cancer might be treated in humans, too. The collaborative approach between cancer research, human health, and veterinary oncology services [...]

We all want what’s best for our furry friends, especially when it comes to their health. However, your veterinarian will tell you that too many pet owners routinely overlook one of the most crucial areas of pet wellness: dental health. You know how important your own teeth are, and you take measures to care for [...]

As important as it is that we stay healthy, we need to make sure our pets have the same basic care. One of the most important pet health lessons you can learn is how to tell if your dog is dehydrated and what you can do about it. Let’s get started. What Causes Dehydration? Before [...]

As a pet owner, being observant of your furry friend’s health is key. It is important to understand all of the maintenance requirements for your pet as well. For instance, you need to know that you should take your kitten or puppy in for vaccines every three to four weeks until they’re 16 weeks old. [...]

Are you familiar with how to greet a new dog that you do not know? Let’s delve into some ways that you should address a four-legged furry friend that you don’t know. Request Permission Unlike humans, dogs are not able to tell you if they would love to lick your fingers or simply be left [...]

This spring, many people are filling their homes with houseplants in an effort to create that warm weather feeling inside their home while it is still too cold for relaxing outdoors. Grocery stores and hardware stores are helping people bring on that lush indoor jungle feeling by offering many varieties of greenery. From the quick [...]

When it comes to pet ownership, every situation is a little bit different. But if you’re a first-time cat owner or considering becoming one, there are a few things you absolutely need to know. Here are three essential pet tips for all of you first-time cat owners out there. Litter Box Prep and Maintenance Is [...]

Although we always hope that our pets will be completely happy and healthy for their entire lives, realistically that’s not usually the case. Regular vet visits and sometimes emergency pet hospital visits are a necessity of being a pet owner. Before an emergency happens, it’s important to have a good pet hospital chosen to ensure [...]

You may be aware that recreational marijuana was legalized in Arizona this year. The new law will likely increase the quantity and type of marijuana found in local Tucson households, making it easier for pets to accidentally ingest it. Our doctors at Southern Arizona Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center (SAVS) are prepared to help. Following [...]

Feeding your dog with the right amount of food is one sure-fire way to keep your furry friend healthy. To feed your dog with the right amount of dog food, consider its body weight, activity level, age, and type of food. Your dog’s body weight is one of the most important and accurate factors to [...]

As a pet parent, it takes more to care for your pet besides feeding them. Given the joy your pet brings to your family, you should make sure that you’re prioritizing your pet’s health and wellbeing. This means not waiting until your cat or dog is visibly ill to seek veterinary services. It also means [...]

While we may delight in the stunning spring scenery, it’s not all cozy for our furry friends with pet allergies. The extra pollen produced by the flowers and trees may cause pet allergies that irritate your four-legged friend. Just like humans, pets can suffer from spring season allergies that are triggered by common allergens such [...]

When you bring a new pet into an environment where another pet has already staked a claim, it can feel like you’re flirting with disaster. The truth is that learning how to introduce a cat to a dog isn’t too tough if you have the right strategy in place. Here are three effective strategies to [...]

As a dog owner, you’re responsible for keeping your dog healthy and happy, and that includes on how you maintain your dog’s weight. Ensure your dog is at optimal weight and can run around this summer without a struggle. With the following tips and the number to emergency vet services in case of an emergency, [...]

When you’re a pet parent, your four-legged friend is one of the most important things in your world. That means it’s important to learn everything you can about how to care for them and the things that might cause them harm. Since April is Heartworm Awareness Month, we’re going to give you a quick rundown [...]

About 214,000 cases of pet poisoning are reported in the United States. Given that many of these poisoning cases are caused by everyday household items, it’s important for pet parents to learn about pet poison control. It’s estimated that 38,900,000 American households own cats. If you’re one of these pet owners, you should be well [...]

Pet health is vital for a happy and vibrant pet. So, with a new year upon us, how can you resolve to keep your pet happy and healthy? We have great tips that are sure to bring the barks, purrs, and love that will last all year long! Create A Schedule For Regular Doctor’s Visits [...]

Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love with the people you love. But what about our furry friends? Your four-legged companions also deserve a treat to celebrate this special time of year. But what kinds of Valentine’s Day gifts are safe to give your pet? Here are just a few ideas to help you determine [...]

January 2 is National Pet Travel Safety Day, but making sure that you’re traveling safely with your pet is always important. Whether you’re one of the 38.9 million people who own a cat or the even larger number of people who own dogs, below are some tips to help you travel safely with your pet. [...]

If you’re looking for a gift for your dog for this holiday season, you should consider health wellness gifts. By giving health wellness gifts to the dog or dogs you love, you can help the pups in your life stay happy and healthy all year long. Below are some great gift ideas to help that [...]

The holidays are a special and magical time for us, but we should consider the stress our pets endure during these times. There are a few things to keep in mind as the holidays approach that can help minimize holiday pet stress. Here are some tips that will be sure to make the holidays as [...]

Some people may fear keeping both pet dogs and pet cats in their household. However, you can take the lead role when introducing a dog and cat so that they can live peacefully. If you ever wonder “how do I introduce a dog to my cats?”, the following steps will guide you to make the [...]

With the upcoming holiday season right around the corner, pet owners of all kinds are getting quite excited about their friends, loved ones, and other family members gathering. Whether you are introducing new people to new animals, or if you have the same group getting together again, Thanksgiving pet safety is something that is crucial [...]

Barbecue safety for dogs At Vets Now, we see a rise in injuries and poisonings during the spring and summer, and over the holiday period in general, particularly when the weather is warm and sunny. Some of these cases are associated with barbecues so we’ve drawn up a list of tips to keep your dogs [...]

It is probably more like a human emergency room than you may think. To state the obvious, you can expect to pay more and to have longer wait times. Here’s what you can expect when taking your pet to the ER, or, more specifically, to Southern Arizona Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center. What Should You [...]

Dogs have been referred to as man’s best friend for what seems like forever. It’s been proven that dogs help soothe mental distress and can be excellent aids for owners living with physical or psychological disabilities. And according to a study by researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine, exposure to pets like dogs may lessen the [...]

There’s no greater joy than spending time outdoors with your dog in the warm sunshine playing with some of the 90 million dogs living in the United States. However, the summer heat can be dangerous to your pet if you don’t taTo prevent an emergency trip to a veterinary specialty center, here are four tips [...]

With the summer in full swing, there is a whole new set of health concerns that pet owners need to take into account. Long hot days may mean your pet ends up getting exhausted. Spells of humidity may lead your pet to feeling ill. Whatever the case may be, here are a few tips to [...]

Who makes a better pet: the dog, considered to be man’s best friend? Or, the cat who has more of a reputation for being an aloof roommate? Despite those perceptions, our pets’ personalities are more based on how we as humans actually interact with them rather than how they actually are. Whether you’re a dog [...]

As a responsible pet owner, you most likely have your veterinarian’s contact number on speed dial as a precaution if your pet needs emergency care. However, pets, just like people, may need urgent care besides the regular care catered for in the scheduled visits to an animal veterinarian. Even with the most careful pet owner, [...]

According to Live Science, “pet owners are happier and healthier.” A report by the Human-Animal Bond Research Initiative (HABRI) Foundation suggests that pets save billions in human health care costs by lowering blood pressure levels, boosting moods, and helping man’s best friend combat depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). With that in mind, it [...]

You can strengthen the bond you have with your pet by simply paying attention to its body language. And if you’re one of the approximately 38,900,000 households that have a cat, it’s important for you to learn a little body language. Cat lingo can be a bit tricky to figure out, but you can prevent [...]

Proper dog dental care is essential for your canine pet. Approximately 80% of dogs have signs of dental disease by the time they turn three years old. Your dog may not like having his teeth brushed, but you can make the experience a bit more pleasant for both of you. Here are some fantastic tips [...]

It may not seem like a cause for alarm if your dog is itching. That’s what dogs do, after all! Right? Well… What many pet owners do not realize is that there are allergies in pets. If you are one of the 68% of pet-owning households in the U.S., here is what you need to [...]

When you own pets, there are lots of things to juggle. Knowing when, why, and how to groom your dog are just a few of them. We understand — it can be quite a challenge to know all the ins and outs of the dog grooming process! That’s why we’ve put together this simple list [...]

As winter progresses and we approach March, that means it’s a good time to spend some time preparing you and your pets for National Poison Prevention Week 2020. National Poison Prevention Week takes place from March 15-21. Here are some quick and simple tips for making sure that you are ready to do the most [...]

You got a puppy! How exciting! There may be nothing as joyful, curious, and lovable as a baby dog. Cleaning up after them, however, is a little less fun. If this is your first, and you don’t know how to train your puppy, read on for a helpful guide to dog behavior training that will [...]

Even experienced dog owners find themselves asking questions such as: “Can dogs get colds?” While we all wish that our beloved pets were immune from petty illnesses such as colds, that’s just not the case. Whether you’re established with access to specialty veterinarian services or not, it’s important to know what you should do when [...]

Cats are special creatures that capture our hearts. We love them so much that we can even spend hours on the Internet enjoying memes about them. They rely on us to help them live all nine lives to the fullest. During the month of February, we set aside some special time to honor these feline [...]

As the winter months are upon us, pet owners must prepare their animals for frigid temperatures, snow, ice, and salt. Animal hospitals and vets may be able to offer you some advice, but even if you’re an experienced pet owner, you may find yourself stumped when it comes to protecting dog paws in winter. If [...]

Pets need to stay healthy, too! Of the up to 48 million U.S. households that own dogs and nearly 39 million that own cats, relatively few pet owners realize what a tremendous impact a little bit of extra weight can have on their furry friends’ health. These effects can go especially unnoticed in winter months, [...]

Many people just assume that gifting someone a new puppy is sure to make them happy. While a puppy is certainly a nice gift to receive, there are many considerations that you should keep in mind before committing to this kind of gift. When you consider the added costs of housing, food, and exceptional cases [...]

According to studies reported by Forbes Magazine, 92% of pet owners spent a considerable amount on their pets during the most recent recession period. Showing affection and expressing gratitude to our loved ones, including pets, creates an unforgettable bonding experience. Sharing your Thanksgiving food with your dog is a great place to start. Sometimes the [...]

As a dog owner, it can be concerning when you notice anything out of the ordinary with your pet. Lipoma in dogs, while uncommon, can lead to complicated issues if not treated properly. If you discover a lump on your dog, then it’s important to know how to respond. Try to figure out what may [...]

As a pet owner, you have so many responsibilities. No matter what kind of cats or dogs you have, you have to beware of fleas, which can lay over 2,000 eggs in a single lifetime, make sure your pet is getting enough exercise, and keep them well-fed and healthy. Clearly you should be buying plenty [...]

Getting a new pet can be a magical experience for your whole family. But before you can begin your life with your new furry friend, it’s important to take a very important medical step: getting your new pet spayed or neutered. Read on to learn about the top 9 benefits of investing in either of [...]

As a pet owner, you have to constantly tend to your furry friend in order to ensure they are as happy and healthy as possible. You have to focus on proper training methods, beware of fleas (which can lay over 2,000 eggs in their lifetime), and make sure you’re tending to any kind of sickness [...]

Unfortunately, our pets are not immune to heat-related stress. That’s why it’s so important to practice summer pet safety, especially at night when it might seem like everything is fine. Even though your pet might go in for a checkup twice a year, as recommended by your vet, it’s up to you to practice good [...]

While you do your best to keep your dog safe, there’s no telling what kind of trouble they’ll run into if they’re off on their own. Even under supervision things can get dicey! That’s why it’s so important to be prepared for an emergency vet visit. In this blog, we’ll talk about what to do [...]

Kids and pets living in harmony is a beautiful sight to see. With so many adorable videos of children and their pets floating around on social media, it’s hard not to want a furry companion for your own kids. But that kind of harmony doesn’t just happen. So if you’re introducing a pet to your [...]

Summer is here, which means there are more opportunities than ever to get outside with your four-legged friends. But your pets may not be able to handle heat the same way you do. They are covered in fur, after all. So if you’re wondering how to protect your pet from the heat, here are a [...]

If you’re thinking about adding your first dog to the family, make sure you include your list of considerations to training your dog. While many people argue the effectiveness of one method over another, one thing is certain: behavior training your dog is essential to a peaceful and safe life for everyone. Here are three [...]

Monsoons are seasonal reversing wind accompanied by corresponding changes in precipitation and can be used to describe atmospheric circulation, precipitation, and temperature changes. These storms can come and go with relatively little damage but can also destroy farmlands, cause severe economic loss, and even harm pets. In Arizona, where monsoons are much more prevalent than [...]

In the U.S., roughly 54.4 million households own dogs and 38.9 million households own cats. Pets are a lot of fun and can lead to strong emotional bonds that will last a lifetime. Unfortunately, of the 8 million animals that end up in shelters each year, only between 15% and 20% of dogs and less [...]

Bringing home a new dog can be an exciting time for everyone in your family. Well, almost everyone. If you’re already a cat owner, your felines might not take too kindly to their new friend right away. You might be wondering “How do I go about introducing cats and dogs?” Preventing an all-out feud is [...]

We understand the importance of vaccinating our pets against disease, but it’s important to be aware of diseases that can be transmitted to humans as well. Here are seven of the diseases you can catch from your pets, along with protective measures you can take against them. Toxoplasmosis As the Center for Disease Control (CDC) [...]

Being a pet owner is a big responsibility, whether you’ve grown up with pets your whole life or are a first-time pet owner. You want to make sure you’re doing right by your pet and are keeping him or her well-nourished, getting enough exercise, and pest-free. One great thing to do is to make sure [...]

One of the main concerns that every pet owner has is keeping their pet safe from disease. Nobody wants to see their pet in pain, especially if you don’t know what’s wrong. One of the more common diseases that can affect your dog is Lyme disease. While it’s common, it can be difficult to diagnose [...]

Many pet owners wanting the very best for their pets often look to get them microchipped. When done properly, this can make sure your pet makes it home safe if they ever manage to get out. However, not everyone goes about microchipping their pet the right way, and this can leave those microchips useless and [...]

It’s no secret that the world of health insurance can be incredibly difficult to navigate. Knowing what your health insurance plan covers, how much it will cost, and what will happen if you run into a health emergency is incredibly important. It’s likely that you’ve put a lot of thought and care into you and [...]

Every pet owner wants to make sure their furry friend stays happy and healthy for as long as possible. They probably take their pet to a veterinarian regularly because of this. However, do you know the best way to care for your pet between animal hospital visits? Did you know that one of the biggest [...]

Lipomas are subcutaneous (under the skin) masses or tumors that develop commonly in older dogs. They’re usually soft, with limited mobility under the skin. The overlying skin is usually not affected by the lipomas. Over time, they grow larger and larger, impeding movement of the legs or lower chest for the dog. They can also [...]

What’s that strange lump growing on your dog’s belly? If you’re getting increasingly concerned about the growing mass on your beloved dog’s body, then it’s time to learn about lipomas. These masses can be distressing to pet owners and pets alike, especially when you don’t know what’s wrong. So what are lipomas, and is your [...]

During winter, plenty of people catch a somewhat regular cold or flu; winter weather tends to compromise the human immune system, so it makes sense that many people would fall ill during the winter. But what about your pets? Can your dog get a cold or flu the same way humans do? Read on to [...]

It’s no secret that dogs need to have space and time to run and play. They’re naturally energetic animals, especially when they’re younger. Dogs love exercise and an extremely active puppy is guaranteed to keep its humans busy. But, just how much exercise does a dog need every day? The answer depends on how old [...]

The holidays are almost here, and it’s time to start shopping for gifts for every member of your family. And for the millions of households with pets, that might include purchasing gifts for your cat or dog. If you want a pet-safe Christmas this year, here are some gift-giving tips and holiday essentials you may [...]

Southern Arizona Veterinary Speciality is proud to announce that Dr. Mary Kay Klein has been honored with the Theilen Tribute Award. To read our press release aboutthe award and honoree, please visit the link below. Read the full Dr. Mary K Klein 2018 Award Press Release here.

It’s no secret that pets are often considered just as much a part of the family as any other family member. However, even if you consider man’s best friend a part of the family, they shouldn’t be welcomed at the holiday dinner table. It can be tempting to give your furry friend a table scrap [...]

Whatever the reason for your travels or however long you’ll be away from home, it can be tough to take a trip when you have pets. Finding a pet sitter to take care of your pet can be difficult, and when you do, it could be incredibly expensive. If you don’t want to leave your [...]

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s time to start preparing a feast for the whole family. But, can your furry family member join in the meal, too? 38,900,000 households own cats, and 43,346,000 households own dogs, meaning there are plenty of families who will have a pet in the home during Thanksgiving dinner. While [...]

Just like humans, your pets can have allergies, too. Now that it’s Fall, the weather change will stir up environmental allergens and irritants that can affect you and your pets. Some common clinical signs of dog allergies and cat allergies include: Nasal and eye discharge Sneezing Coughing Pruritus (itching/scratching, licking/chewing at body parts) Fur [...]

If you’re thinking about getting someone a pet for a gift, think again. Here are just some reasons why that is a bad idea. You don’t know what you’re giving When you give someone a pet as a gift, you really have no idea what you’re giving them. It’s hard to get background on a [...]

Separation anxiety in dogs is a stressful and usually destructive behavior associated with being separated from their owners/parents. Even if the actions only last for a few minutes, they still qualify as separation anxiety. In short, your dog is experiencing anxiety because you’re not around. While their behavior can be scary and destructive, there are [...]

Approximately 46,300,000 households in the United States own dogs, and 38,900,000 households own cats. Every pet should make frequent trips to a vet for routine checkups, but sometimes, veterinary surgical procedures must be performed to keep your pet in good health. If your pet is scheduled to undergo a minor veterinary surgery, rest assured — [...]

Your older dog will need some extra special love and care in its later years of life. Though this age is different for each breed and type of dog, here are some basic care tips you can follow to ensure your dog has a healthy, happy life in his old age. Dietary changes are a [...]

As much as we don’t want to think about it, medical emergencies can happen to our pets. As a pet owner, it can sometimes be hard to tell when there is a sign of a medical attention. Here are some warning signs that your pet is experiencing a true veterinary emergency. “Bloat” Signs If your [...]

Most people know to bring in their new kitten to the veterinarian for vaccinations and regular check-ups until they’re around 16 weeks old. However, many people don’t know when their cat’s weight becomes a problem, especially in those awkward developmental stages. Obesity is diagnosed if a cat is 10-15% heavier than the breed standard. Technically, [...]

All kinds of people love getting outside during the summer, but for pets, that’s not always ideal. When it comes to caring for your pets in the hot summer months, there are a few tips you should know about. Understand the Effects of Heat on Your Pets For pets, scorching summer days can be extremely [...]

You never know when an emergency might happen to your pet. Whether it’s an injury from an unexpected fight, a food allergy emergency, or they’re lost in your neighborhood, it’s important to be prepared. Make sure you carry a first aid kit for them at all times so you can ensure safety for your pet. [...]

If you and your pets live in Arizona, knowing basic rattlesnake bite safety could end up saving your pet’s life. As a pet owner, a rattlesnake bite is frightening and can be one of the most dangerous situations you will face with your pet. Not only do you need to act fast to save your [...]

Walking your dog can be a great source of exercise for both them and yourself, as well as a great bonding opportunity with your four-legged friend. If you have a relatively young dog that hasn’t experienced too many walks yet, though, then they most likely still have sensitive pads on their paws. Walking on certain [...]

As a human, you’re probably used to getting your blood taken. Your doctor may ask you to get blood work done every few years or so just to check in and see how everything is going within your body. Similar to how we get blood work done, an annual blood test is very important our [...]