February is National Pet Dental Health Month! We are here to help you floss out any questions you may have when it comes to periodontal disease and how it affects your pet. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), periodontal disease is one of the most frequently diagnosed health problems in cats and dogs. This diagnosis is the reason you keep hearing your veterinarian encourage your cat or dog's dental cleaning. Signs of this condition include bad breath, stained teeth, mouth pain, receding gums, and tooth loss. Another significant result of periodontal disease is often the presence of harmful bacteria which can spread to the rest of the body causing heart, liver, and kidney issues. So how do we identify periodontal disease in pets? Let us break it down into the main 4 stages: Stage 1 : Gums are swollen and red (Gingivitis), and there is a noticeable build-up of tartar on the teeth. Stage 2 : Gums have become more swollen and are starting to recede from the bone. Bone loss can also be seen on dental x-rays. Stage 3 : More severe bone loss can be seen. Gums have receded even more. Stage 4 : The highest stage of periodontal disease. Severe tartar build-up is present and bone loss has led to tooth damage. Gums continue to recede. This stage is where a concern for oral bacteria affecting other parts of the body is at its highest. While periodontal disease is not ideal in pets, there are a number of options when it comes to treating and managing it. The majority of pets with periodontal disease will need an initial dental cleaning, which is a procedure where pets go under anesthesia in order to get their teeth cleaned both above and below the gum line. In certain scenarios, some teeth may also need to be removed during this procedure if they have sustained too much bone loss or damage. Once a pet gets their dental cleaning, it will be important to maintain their oral health through regular brushing, dental chews, and water additives. No matter what level your pet’s oral health is at, we are here to help you get their mouth in tip top shape! We have more information on pet dental health and periodontal disease , so call or schedule a consultation today.

Diabetes isn’t just a human condition—our furry family members can develop it too. Diabetes in pets can often go unnoticed in the early stages, as the signs can be subtle or mistaken for normal aging. Early detection is key to helping your pet live a longer, healthier, and happier life. What Is Diabetes in Pets? Diabetes occurs when the body can’t properly produce or respond to insulin—the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar (glucose). This leads to elevated glucose levels in the blood and urine, which can affect multiple organs if left untreated. Just like in people, pets with diabetes require proper management. This can usually be achieved with insulin, a tailored diet, and regular monitoring. Early Signs to Watch for in Dogs and Cats While some pets show very clear signs of diabetes, others may only display subtle changes. Here are some of the most common early symptoms of diabetes in both dogs and cats: 1. Increased Thirst (Polydipsia) If your pet is suddenly draining their water bowl more than usual, don’t ignore it! Excessive thirst is one of the most common and early signs of diabetes. 2. Frequent Urination (Polyuria) Drinking more water leads to more bathroom trips. You might notice more accidents in the house, increased litter box usage, or that your dog is asking to go outside more often. 3. Increased Hunger (Polyphagia) Due to an inability to process glucose properly, a diabetic pet’s body typically reacts by signaling hunger as it tries to gain energy. 4. Unexplained Weight Loss Despite eating more, a diabetic pet may still lose weight. If your pet is eating normally (or even more than usual) but still losing weight, it could be a sign that their body isn’t processing nutrients effectively, which is often a red flag for diabetes. 5. Lethargy or Weakness Is your pet sleeping more than usual or not as interested in playing? Chronic fatigue or weakness, especially in the hind legs for cats, can indicate nerve issues related to diabetes. 6. Cloudy Eyes (Dogs Only) Diabetic cataracts can cause cloudy or bluish eyes in dogs. If left untreated, they can lead to blindness. 7. Poor Coat Condition Cats especially may stop grooming themselves as their energy levels drop. A greasy or unkempt coat can be another subtle sign of something being off. What to Do If You Notice These Signs If your dog or cat is showing any of these symptoms, don’t wait ! Your pet’s veterinarian can do a simple blood test and urinalysis to confirm if diabetes is the cause. Early treatment helps avoid complications like: Cataracts and blindness Nerve damage Urinary tract infections Kidney issues Ketoacidosis (a life-threatening condition) The earlier we can catch diabetes in your pet, the easier it is to manage. If something feels off with your furry friend, trust your instincts and give us a call. You know your pet best—we’re just here to help you keep them happy and healthy. Managing Diabetes in Pets Managing diabetes in pets involves a combination of insulin therapy, diet, and regular veterinary check-ups. Here’s a closer look at each aspect: Insulin Therapy Most diabetic pets require insulin injections to help regulate their blood sugar levels. Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dosage and schedule based on your pet's specific needs. It's important to administer insulin consistently to maintain stable glucose levels. Diet A balanced diet is crucial for managing diabetes. Your veterinarian may recommend a special diet that is high in fiber and low in simple carbohydrates. This helps regulate blood sugar levels and can aid in weight management. Always consult with your vet before making any changes to your pet's diet. Regular Monitoring Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are essential for monitoring your pet's condition. Blood tests and urinalysis can help track glucose levels and ensure that the treatment plan is effective. Keeping a close eye on your pet's behavior and symptoms will also aid in managing their diabetes. Conclusion Understanding diabetes in pets is vital for their health and well-being. By recognizing the early signs and seeking prompt veterinary care, you can help your furry friend lead a happy, healthy life. Remember, you are your pet's best advocate. If you notice any changes in their behavior or health, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian. For more information or to schedule a visit, check out these links:

As the dentistry guru and resident feline fanatic at our Main Street location, Dr. Cassianne Stadler knows all about what it means to care for those who can't speak with us. Her passion for pets has played a monumental role in shaping who she is today, and it undoubtedly shines through in not only the care she provides for her patients, but in her kindness and warmth during interactions with her clients as well. Come along with Marketing Manager Olivia as she learns just what fuels Dr. Stadler's enthusiasm for pet care and stewardship in the next installment of our DVM Interview Series: Olivia : Dr. Stadler, you consistently speak on your own experiences with your pets and caring for them throughout your life. What is your earliest memory of your pets? Dr. Stadler : While it's not technically my memory, my parents love to remind me about my childhood dog, Chester, the Golden Retriever. When I was a baby, my parents said I was always so intrigued by him and one day he tried to lick my face and evoked my first real, big, belly laugh. Even since infancy, animals are the main things that have always brought me joy O: Is there something about you that most people do not know but would be surprised to hear? CS: During my time in undergrad, I went to the Bahamas to assist on shark research. I spent the summer swimming with sharks & rays and learning about juvenile lemon shark behaviors and tiger shark migratory patterns.  O: If you could go back and have five minutes with your ‘younger self’, how would you use that time, or what would you say? CS: I would tell her that unexpected things are going to happen in life, but you'll continue to grow with these changes. Just trust yourself and stay true to your values. O: How do you want the world to be different because you lived in it?  CS: I would like to set an example by leading with kindness and respect in all the interactions that I have. Everyone has their own obstacles, and showing grace to friends, family, and strangers alike can make our lives in the world a bit easier to navigate. O: When you find yourself with free time unexpectedly how do you spend it? CS: I'll happily cuddle with my cat, Penelope! I also love baking cookies and trying new restaurants. O: Thank you for your interview! We always end it with a favorite quote. What is yours? CS: Can I give 2? "Life is very short, and there's no time for fussing and fighting my friends" - John Lennon "Hey now, hey now, this is what dreams are made of" - Lizzie McGuire Want to learn more about other DVMs in our doctor group? Check out the rest of our DVM Interview Series: Dr. Gruntmeir (Springhill)   | Dr. Morris-Roberts (39th Ave)   | Dr. Lebo (39th Ave)   | Dr. Kermouche (39th Ave)   | Dr. Hall DeVries (Springhill )   | Dr. Schaedel (Main St.)

Dr. Jennifer Morris-Roberts has been a staple to our group of first-class Holistic veterinarians. With tons of acupuncture training under her belt, her expertise in both acupuncture and general veterinary wellness care can be felt in every age of pet she sees. Now, as she continues to grow here at Newberry Animal Holistic and Wellness Center, Dr. Morris-Roberts took some time to sit down with Marketing Coordinator Olivia to answer a few of her clients' most burning questions as part of our DVM Interview Series: Olivia: You have been in the veterinary industry for many years - what is your earliest memory of a pet in your life? Dr. Jennifer Morris-Roberts: I have never been without a pet. The first ones I remember are when I was three years old. We had a pug, a calico kitty and a red-eared slider turtle. To my parents' dismay, I tried to take the turtle with me wherever I went and would put it inside my purse. O: Is there something about you that most people do not know, but would be surprised to hear? JMR: I was a drummer in the high school marching band! O: If you could go back and have five minutes with your ‘younger self’, how would you use that time, or what would you say? JMR: I would sit and watch my grandmother cook and write down the recipes of her delicious foods! And I would tell myself it would be a good idea to wear sunscreen instead of baby oil. O: How do you want the world to be different because YOU lived in it? JMR: A little more kind and gentle one small interaction at a time. O: When you find yourself with a sudden amount of free time unexpectedly, how do you spend it? JMR: Reading, visiting the farmers market or practicing yoga. O: Thank you for your interview! We always end it with a favorite quote. What is yours? JMR: "Look where you want to go, not where you don't want to go." This was a mountain bike instructor's advice to me on staying on the trail. I never became a mountain biker, but that has been a great mantra for much of life!

Dr. Karen Schaedel is the newest veterinarian at our Main Street location, and has already made a mark on our practice with her warmth, kindness, and compassion. Coming to NAH with a large following from her previous hospital, Dr. Schaedel gives a masterclass on what it means to make her clients feel heard, their pets cared for, and every detail buttoned up and accounted for. In this much-anticipated DVM interview, Marketing Manager Olivia was very excited to sit down with Dr. Schaedel and learn just how she came to be the veterinarian she is today. Olivia : Dr. Schaedel, you have made quite the reputation for caring for each of your patients like they're your own. What is your earliest memory of a pet in your life? Dr. Schaedel : I actually wasn’t allowed to have pets in my early life because we traveled a lot—but that didn’t stop me from loving animals.  One of my earliest memories is when we were visiting my family in Dusseldorf, Germany.  My uncle had a terrier mix and I would always get to take him on long walks through the beautiful parks by myself—the sense of freedom and connection left me desiring my own pets one day—I have since overcompensated with 8 cats, 2 dogs, 2 miniature horses, etc. O: Is there something about you that most people do not know but would be surprised to hear? KS: Yes, as a teenager in the '80s I was a punk rocker “wannabe” with jet black hair, Doc Martins and a “sassy” attitude to go with it.   O: If you could go back and have five minutes with your ‘younger self’, how would you use that time, or what would you say? KS: Hmmm. I would have told myself to “slow down” and live in the moment—to enjoy my friends and family more and not be in such a rush to grow up.  O: How do you want the world to be different because you lived in it?  KS: I would like to think my passion for animal care leaves the world in a better place. I try to practice compassion and not pass judgement on each family’s ability to care for their pet. I realize that every family has different abilities to provide veterinary services for their pets and try to provide the best possible care in each situation. The world is a better place with happy pets and happy pet families. O: When you find yourself with free time unexpectedly how do you spend it? KS: I am an introvert, so my favorite pastime is a long walk in the woods with my two dogs. We often go to the Chacala trail at Paynes Prairie or the trails at Sweetwater Preserve. I also love a good work out at Orange Theory Fitness.  O: Thank you for your interview! We always end it with a favorite quote. What is yours? KS: “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing” - Socrates Want to learn more about other DVMs in our doctor group? Check out the rest of our DVM Interview Series: Dr. Gruntmeir (Springhill)   | Dr. Morris-Roberts (39th Ave)   | Dr. Lebo (39th Ave)   | Dr. Kermouche (39th Ave)   | Dr. Hall DeVries (Springhill)

One word synonymous with Dr. Nikki Lebo is 'compassion'. Whether it be welcoming a new puppy to the hospital or helping the family of a senior cat navigate their kitty's old age, Dr. Lebo always knows just what to say to make all of her clients feel comfortable and welcome in her exam room. Her gentle nature has long been a trait all of Newberry Animal Hospital has admired her for, which is why Marketing Coordinator Olivia was very excited to sit down with her and learn more about just where that empathy came from as part of the next installment of our DVM Interview Series: Olivia : "Dr. Lebo, it is clear you have had a love for animals from an early age. What is your earliest memory of a pet in your life?" Dr. Lebo : My earliest memory is of my childhood basset hound named Agatha who was a part of our family before I was born and up until elementary school. She was an extremely patient girl who was very tolerant of her human sister wanting to play veterinarian with her every day. I always wanted to tag along to her vet visits and develop a lasting love for caring for animals. O : Is there something about you that most people do not know, but would be surprised to hear? NL : While I am a homebody at heart, I also find traveling to new places to be both exciting and rewarding. I have visited 15 countries with a combination of mission trips and vacations. O : If you could go back and have five minutes with your ‘younger self’, how would you use that time, or what would you say? NL : My younger self was very worried and stressed about the future and making my dreams come true. If I could have 5 minutes with her, I would emphasize to relax more and enjoy the ride, but also to never give up on those dreams as they would be worth all of the hard work needed to achieve her goals. O : How do you want the world to be different because YOU lived in it? NL : I hope that through my interactions with others, they can feel loved, heard, and appreciated. This includes not only my family and friends but also owners of animals I am taking care of and even strangers on the street. I want to foster an environment of kindness and compassion to those who cross my path in life. O : When you find yourself with a sudden amount of free time unexpectedly, how do you spend it? NL : I love a long walk in nature with my dog while listening to an audiobook or chatting with a friend. I also try to channel my not-very-artistic side by completing a paint by numbers piece or cross-stitching. O : Thank you for your interview! We always end it with a favorite quote. What is yours? NL : “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” - Joshua 1:9 Want to learn more about other DVMs in our doctor group? Check out the rest of our DVM Interview Series: Dr. Gruntmeir (Springhill)   | Dr. Morris-Roberts (39th Ave)   | Dr. Schaedel (Main St.)   | Dr. Kermouche (39th Ave)   | Dr. Hall DeVries (Springhill)

Dr. Kimberly Hall deVries is one of our most beloved cat experts here at Newberry Animal Hospital! Her detailed care and warm compassion for her patients have become her signature at our Springhill location. As Dr. Hall celebrates almost 2 years with NAH, she has taken some time to sit down with Marketing Manager Olivia to reflect on her journey so far as a veterinarian: Olivia : "Dr. Hall - you've had quite an experienced tenure in the veterinary industry so far. What is your earliest memory of a pet in your life?" Dr. Hall deVries : There's never been a time we didn't have pets. The first ones I remember are a sheltie named Nina and a Siamese named Munin - from her habit of jumping on shoulders. O : Is there something about you that most people do not know, but would be surprised to hear? KHD : I've owned a motorcycle and have played bagpipes! O : If you could go back and have five minutes with your ‘younger self’, how would you use that time, or what would you say? KHD : Don't be afraid to push yourself forward with new things. There will always be people better than you at a given task, but your concern is only to better your own ability. O : How do you want the world to be different because YOU lived in it? KHD : I believe I've made my patients' and clients' lives better and I hope I've lived lightly on the Earth. O : When you find yourself with a sudden amount of free time unexpectedly, how do you spend it? KHD : Hopefully reading or baking! O : Thank you for your interview! We always end it with a favorite quote. What is yours? KHD : "Where ever you go - there you are" Want to learn more about other DVMs in our doctor group? Check out the rest of our DVM Interview Series: Dr. Gruntmeir (Springhill) | Dr. Morris-Roberts (39th Ave) | Dr. Lebo (39th Ave) Dr. Kermouche (39th Ave) | Dr. Schaedel (Main St)

According to the ASPCA, an estimated 30% of pet owners leave their pets behind during natural disasters. Many cite a lack of preparation or uncertainty about where to take them. We are here to help change that. When preparing for hurricane season, it’s easy to focus on stocking up on water, flashlights, and sandbags. However, don’t forget about your four-legged family members! Pets depend on us for their safety. Just like the rest of your household, they need a plan when severe weather strikes. Here are our top tips for how to prepare your pet for hurricane season so you’re not caught off-guard when the storms hit: 1. Create a Pet Emergency Kit Your pet’s emergency kit should be ready to grab at a moment’s notice. Each kit should include: At least a 3-5 days’ supply of food and water Portable food and water bowls Medications (with dosage and instructions) A collar or harness with your pet’s ID tag attached A leash and/or pet carrier (depending on the size of your pet) Litter and a litter box (for cats) Waste bags or puppy pads Copies of your pet’s medical records and current vaccination info A first aid kit with pet-safe products (for a list, visit AAHA) A recent photo of your pet (in case you get separated) Comfort items like a blanket or toy 2. Include Your Pet in Your Evacuation Plan Never leave your pet behind during an evacuation. Before the storm hits, research local emergency shelters and hotels that are pet-friendly. Not all are! If your evacuation plan includes staying with family or friends, confirm that your pet is welcome. Alternatively, make arrangements for a neighbor, friend, or relative to care for or evacuate your pet if you’re unable to do so. If you need to evacuate, it’s wise to crate or leash your pets to ensure they stay safe during transportation. 3. Microchip and ID Your Pet If your pet gets lost during a storm, a microchip and up-to-date ID tags are the best way to reunite you. When prepping for a hurricane, ensure your contact information is current on your pet’s microchip registration. Need a reminder of what company your pet’s microchip is registered with? Enter their microchip number into the AAHA Microchip Look-up Tool or have us scan your pet’s chip at their next visit! 4. Keep Vaccines and Records Current Most pet-friendly emergency shelters or boarding facilities require current vaccines and medical documentation. Be sure to update your pet’s vaccines well before the storm hits. Don’t forget to request a copy of their records to keep in your emergency kit! 5. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute Storm paths can shift quickly, and supply chains often get strained. Stocking up early on pet food, litter, and medications can make a huge difference when the first storm of the season arrives. Additionally, keep your pet’s crate or carrier nearby and accessible in case a quick evacuation is needed. If your pet is not currently comfortable with their crate or carrier, now is a great time to start crate-training. A familiar crate can feel like a safe place during a scary event like hurricanes! 6. Remember We’re Here to Help! As soon as hurricanes become threats, we do our best to provide you with the most up-to-date information on how it affects our area and the pet owners that reside here. If you need help putting together your pet’s emergency kit, updating your pet’s vaccines, scanning your pet’s microchip, or any other pet-related hurricane prep, we’re just a call away. Let’s work together to keep your entire family—pets included—safe this hurricane season. For more information on general emergency preparedness during hurricane season, visit Ready.gov. Need to update your pet's vaccines or wellness services? Schedule an appointment with us:

Summer is a beautiful time of year, but also the start of environmental allergy season for a lot of pets. Allergies can be triggered by things like pollen, grasses, mold spores, dust mites, and even certain foods. Let’s take a look at some of the most common signs of seasonal allergies and why even a little itching could warrant a trip to the vet. 1. Itchiness. It's not just in humans. If your pet is consistently scratching or biting at themselves more than usual, it may be a sign that they are struggling with seasonal allergies. Some pets may even itch certain areas to the point of being raw, red, and inflamed - which creates a concern for secondary skin infection. If these areas become infected, your pet may show signs of lethargy and loss of appetite and need to be seen immediately. 2. Increased Shedding and Hair Loss. Environmental allergies tend to dry out the skin, so you may also see an increase in your pet's shedding as well as a few patches of hair loss. It is also not uncommon to see an increase in dandruff as well due to the flakiness of dry skin. 3. Constant Paw Licking. Paws are what come in contact with the outside earth and pollen the most, so it is no surprise that your pet's paws can become one of the itchiest areas when allergy season rolls around. You may also see your pet rubbing their face and ears more often as well. 4. Ear Infections. While skin infections are most commonly associated with environmental allergies, ear infections are a close second. Typical signs of an ear infection are red, waxy ears and increased head shaking. Ear Infections are exceptionally common in dogs with floppier or wrinklier ears - such as the Bassett Hound, Cocker Spaniel, or Chinese Shar-pei. These infections can take awhile to treat in pets, so it is important to get yours seen at the earliest onset. 5. Scooting or Licking Anal Area. Allergies push histamines out through all of your pet's extremities, so it is possible your dog or cat may feel some discomfort in their anal area. Scooting is also a sign of an anal gland issue in dogs though, so it is best to have them seen in general if you see them exhibiting this behavior. 6. Respiratory Signs such as sneezing, coughing, or wheezing. While these signs are more common in cats, it is important to monitor any pet's breathing if you feel they may be dealing with seasonal allergies. A little bit of sneezing is okay, but if your pet seems to be having trouble breathing, this is an urgent problem that need to be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Treatment Options There are a number of treatment options for seasonal allergies in pets. Some pets only need a medicated shampoo to help wash away pollen and soothe irritated skin, while others may benefit from antihistamines or prescription allergy medications such as Apoquel. Because every pet responds differently to allergens, treatment plans are often tailored to their specific symptoms and lifestyle. In some cases, pets with chronic or severe allergies may benefit from allergy testing and long-term management options like immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots. These treatments can help reduce sensitivity to allergens over time and improve your pet’s overall comfort and quality of life. Learn more about allergy testing and treatment options. If you think your pet is struggling with seasonal allergies, give us a call to schedule an appointment and get your pet on the road to relief! 39th Ave: (352) 332-2292 Newberry: (352) 472-7035 Main Street: (352) 372-5391 Holistic: (352) 332-9991

Everyone has heard about national doughnut or taco day, but have you heard that February 23 is National Dog Biscuit Day AND International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day?? Is it biscuit? Or bisquit? We found both... It only makes sense that our four legged friends would get their own national day for their special treats. Yum. What kind of biscuits do most dogs like? Crunchy peanut butter cookies or soft pumpkin treats? No matter what your dogs preference, there are plenty of great places here in Gainesville and the surrounding areas to purchase great doggy biscuits. Earth Pets Natural Pet Market (located next door to our Holistic and Wellness Center) has some great options. They even have frosted cut-out cookies in their bakery section. If you don't want to purchase biscuits at the grocery store, you can always make some tasty treats at home. Have you considered thinly slicing sweet potatoes and baking them for a couple hours at 250 degrees? You get a crunchy, nutritional treat you can share with your dog. A lot of dogs like cut up pieces of apple, baby carrots or even frozen green beans. If you're not sure what size of a biscuit is okay for your dog to eat, just contact your local veterinarian in Gainesville, Florida. Or, feel free to contact any Newberry Animal Hospital location. Dogs around the world are enjoying this day by getting an extra biscuit or two, so make sure you include your dog. Or check out our https://www.newberryanimalhospital.com/pets-are-life page to find a place where he can go WITH you to pick out his own treat. Cheers to National Biscuit Day!

So, last month, we saw that Dish Network offered a free 2 week trial of DogTV. DOGTV, founded in 2009, is a television network that provides entertainment for dogs. It was created to provide mental stimulation for your dog while you’re away. The channel, based in San Francisco California, was designed by Dog behavior specialists, television production experts, and doctors. The network uses years of research to provide content that can improve your dog's sense of hearing, vision, and overall behavior. The channel runs 24/7 and features 3-6 minute long segments that help dogs be less stressed and happier by watching. This channel is being offered for $4.95 per month. So, in the spirit of the tagline from the National Inquirer, Inquiring minds want to know. Would you pay to subscribe to a channel so that your dog was not bored at home??

Next week, our Newberry location will have appointments available to see Dr. Camille Gangulee. Dr. Gangulee graduated from University of Florida with a B.S. in Biology, and worked as a veterinary technician for 2 years before returning to UF to earn her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. Her professional interests include surgery, dentistry, preventative medicine, and community involvement. She enjoys trying out new foods, traveling, and experiencing other cultures. But she can also stay home binge watching TV shows with her loving husband and their two dogs, Comet & Jack. Please join us in welcoming her!