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You hear it every time you bring your pet for any visit: “What heartworm prevention is your pet on?” You know that question is a very important one, since heartworm disease can be deadly for your pet. But do you know why it is so dangerous? In honor of Heartworm Awareness Month this April, we are here to break down all the details of heartworm disease and why you need to keep your pet on their prevention for it. Heartworms are large parasites that live within the heart and lungs of affected pets. Once these parasites start to multiply in the pet’s system, symptoms such as a cough, decreased appetite, weight loss, and fatigue after minimal activity can develop. These symptoms are more prevalent in dogs than cats, but are still dangerous for both as they can lead to lung disease, heart failure, and other organ damage if left untreated. In some cases, pets can even go into cardiovascular collapse due to an extreme number of worms blocking blood flow to the heart. So now that we know how dangerous heartworms can be, how are they actually transmitted? Lifespan of a Heartworm courtesy of the American Heartworm Society The answer: mosquito bites. To put it into perspective, offspring of a heartworm parasite are microscopic. Once these baby worms are born, they are implanted into the bloodstream of the affected pet. This makes them easily transmittable by way of mosquitos biting the affected animal and subsequently spreading the microscopic offspring to all the animals it bites afterwards. Once transmitted to a healthy pet, those larvae take 6 months to mature into adult heartworms. Each adult heartworm can then live in the pet’s body for up to 5-7 years in dogs and 2-3 years in cats according to the American Heartworm Society. Both the longevity of these parasites and the ease of transmission for their offspring are why keeping your pet on prevention for them is so important. Yearly testing as well as monthly heartworm preventatives will ensure that your pet never experiences this disease. If your pet needs a heartworm test and/or heartworm prevention, give any of our locations a call  to schedule an appointment with one of our trusted veterinarians! 39th Ave:  (352) 332-2292 Newberry:  (352) 472-7035 Main Street:  (352) 372-5391 Springhill:  (352) 373-7208 For more information on heartworm disease and the threat it poses to your pet, visit www.heartwormsociety.org

Osteoarthritis, or inflammation of the joints, is a common condition seen in some pets as they age. In fact, an estimated 1 in 5 dogs and 40-92% of cats will experience joint issues in their lifetime according to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Pets with osteoarthritis can experience decreased mobility as well as worsening pain and stiffness over time. While there is no known cure for arthritis in pets, there are a number of ways we can help slow down its progress and keep your four-legged friend comfortable as they get older.  Find ways to provide increased grip for your pet when walking. Arthritic pets typically struggle with walking on slippery surfaces such as hardwood or tile floors, wet sidewalks, and patches of mud. Luckily there are several ways to help relieve them from this slip, such as laying carpet runners over highly-trafficked areas in your home, walking them on as much grass as possible when going outside, and adding orthopedic beds/floor mats around the house for them to rest on if their joints start to ache as they go from room to room. Additionally, products like Toe Grips  and Help ‘Em Up harnesses  are available to provide assistance with getting arthritic pets wherever they need to go.  Maintain a healthy weight through light exercise. Overweight pets often experience a faster progression of arthritis as they age due to their joints needing to support excess weight. While excessive exercise is not recommended for pets with arthritis, some light activity such as walking, swimming, and low-impact play can help maintain muscle mass and mobility over time as well as keep them at a healthy weight. Additionally, limiting snacks and table food will help your pet maintain a balanced diet while they adjust to a lighter exercise regimen. Consider joint supplements and/or pain medication. Joint supplements that contain glucosamine and chondroitin act as mild anti-inflammatories for the joints and promote overall joint health by rebuilding cartilage and lubricating the joints. At any of our NAH locations, you can pick up MOVOFLEX Advanced Soft Chews for your pet that also contain krill oil and other special ingredients to provide increased joint lubrication. Ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids and hyaluronic acid work together to promote flexibility and support the joint structure. In addition to joint supplements, your veterinarian may also recommend pain medication or injections to help relieve your pet’s chronic arthritis symptoms. Avoid the stairs. Stairs are a no-no for arthritic pets due to the impact they have on our pets’ joints. If your home has stairs, it may be helpful to consider installing a ramp or carrying your pet up and down when stairs are unavoidable.   Get your pet started on acupuncture.  Veterinary acupuncture is a virtually painless service that involves inserting thin sterile needles into discrete and specific points on the body to help relieve the chronic pain and inflammation caused by arthritis over time. At Newberry Animal Hospital, we have a number of veterinarians at our 39th Avenue & and Newberry locations that are here to help you navigate your pet’s arthritis with an integrative approach like pet acupuncture. For more information on this service, visit www.newberryanimalhospital.com/service/acupuncture . Avoid cold weather. Low temperatures can reduce blood flow to the joints, making them stiff and increasing pain & inflammation. While we don’t typically experience cold weather here in Florida, it is still important to avoid leaving your pet outside for an extended period of time during the short cold seasons that we do get. Pet owners in colder climates (or those simply visiting one) can get their arthritic pet a sweater or jacket for outdoor excursions, as well as a warm bed and cozy blankets for them to snuggle in once they get back indoors.  While arthritis in our pets is common, we believe it does not have to define them. Whether your pet has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis or you suspect they may be just starting to experience joint pain, we are here to help create a management plan that works for both of your lifestyles. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment with one of our trusted veterinarians in Gainesville and Newberry, Florida: 39th Ave: (352) 332-2292 Newberry: (352) 472-7035 Main Street: (352) 372-5391 Springhill: (352) 373-7208

Early Detection: Many diseases (e.g., diabetes, arthritis) have no obvious symptoms until severe. Preventative Care: Exams ensure vaccines, heartworm, flea, and tick preventatives are current, preventing future illnesses. Preventive Screenings : Routine blood work can detect hidden organ issues before symptoms arise. Dental & Weight Management : Vets can catch dental diseases and manage weight to avoid obesity-related issues like diabetes or joint problems. Senior Health: Older pets need more frequent monitoring for age-related conditions. Why Pet Health Tests Are Essential At Wellness Visits Pet health tests provide valuable insights into your pet’s internal health. According to Dr. Baltzley, unlike physical exams, which focus on visible symptoms, tests at wellness visits can reveal hidden problems. For example, blood tests can detect infections, organ dysfunction, and nutritional imbalances early on. Routine testing helps veterinarians monitor chronic conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease. Early detection allows for timely treatment, which can prevent complications and improve outcomes. Additionally, pet health tests can guide dietary and lifestyle adjustments tailored to your pet’s specific needs. Regular testing is especially important for senior pets, who are more prone to health issues. Even young pets benefit from baseline tests to establish normal values for future comparisons. My dog seems healthy. Do I really need to take him to the vet? How Often Should You Schedule Pet Health Tests? The frequency of pet health tests at wellness visits depends on several factors including age, breed, and overall health status. Puppies and kittens receive specific wellness care early on, and typically require more frequent testing during their first year to monitor growth and vaccination effects. Adult pets should have blood tests at least once a year during their annual wellness exam. For senior pets , whether a dog or cat, or those with chronic illnesses, testing every 6 months or more frequently may be necessary. If your pet shows any unusual symptoms such as lethargy, weight loss, or changes in appetite, additional tests should be performed promptly. Regular communication with your Gainesville Veterinarian will help determine the best testing schedule for your pet. What is a full panel blood test for a dog? A full panel blood test for a dog is a comprehensive screening tool that evaluates multiple aspects of your pet’s health. It typically includes: Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets to assess immune function and detect infections or anemia. Blood Chemistry Panel: Checks organ function by measuring levels of enzymes, electrolytes, glucose, and waste products like urea and creatinine. Thyroid Function Tests: Evaluates thyroid hormone levels to identify hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Electrolyte Panel: Assesses minerals such as sodium, potassium, and calcium, which are vital for nerve and muscle function. This test provides a broad overview of your dog’s health and can identify issues that may not be apparent through physical examination alone. It is a valuable tool for diagnosing diseases early and monitoring ongoing treatments. A woman scheduling a veterinary visit for her cat Benefits of Early Detection Through Blood Tests Early detection of health problems through blood tests can save your pet’s life. Many diseases progress silently, showing no outward signs until they are advanced. Bloodwork can uncover these issues at a stage when treatment is more effective and less invasive. For example, kidney disease is common in older pets but often goes unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Blood tests can detect elevated waste products in the blood, prompting early intervention. Similarly, diabetes can be diagnosed by measuring blood glucose levels before symptoms like excessive thirst or urination appear. Early treatment helps prevent complications such as blindness or nerve damage. Blood tests also help monitor the effectiveness of medications and adjust dosages as needed, ensuring your pet receives the best care possible. How to Prepare Your Pet for Blood Tests Preparing your pet for blood tests can make the experience smoother and less stressful. Here are some practical tips: Schedule the appointment in the morning: Many tests require fasting, so morning appointments are ideal. Follow fasting instructions: Typically, pets should not eat for 8-12 hours before the test, but water is usually allowed. Keep your pet calm: Bring a favorite toy or blanket to comfort your pet during the visit. Communicate with your vet: Inform the veterinarian about any medications or supplements your pet is taking. Monitor your pet after the test: Some pets may feel tired or sore at the blood draw site; provide a quiet space for recovery. By preparing properly, you help ensure accurate test results and a positive experience for your pet. Taking Charge of Your Pet’s Health Understanding the importance of pet health tests empowers you to take proactive steps in caring for your pet. Regular testing, combined with routine veterinary visits, creates a strong foundation for a long and healthy life. If you notice any changes in your pet’s behavior or physical condition, do not hesitate to consult your veterinarian. Remember, the best way to protect your pet is through prevention and early intervention. For more detailed information on pet bloodwork, consult your veterinarian or trusted pet health resources. By prioritizing these tests, you demonstrate your commitment to your pet’s health and happiness. Regular pet health tests are a vital part of responsible pet ownership. They provide peace of mind and help ensure your beloved companion stays healthy and active for years to come. Schedule your pet's wellness visit and bloodwork today!

Every year, thousands of pet owners use their mobile devices to search 'emergency vet near me' due to accidental pet poisoning. In fact, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) reports that their Animal Poison Control Center handles over 200,000 cases annually. Poisoning can happen quickly and without warning, making it critical for pet owners to recognize the signs and act fast. Knowing what to look for and how to respond can save your pet’s life. Common Signs of Poisoning in Pets Pets cannot tell us when they feel sick, so it’s important to watch for physical and behavioral changes in our furry friends. Poisoning symptoms and when they occur vary depending on the toxin, but many include: Vomiting and diarrhea : These are frequent early signs of poisoning. Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth : This can indicate irritation or toxin ingestion. Lethargy or weakness : A poisoned pet may seem unusually tired or uncoordinated. Seizures or tremors : Nervous system toxins can cause shaking or convulsions. Difficulty breathing : Respiratory distress is a serious symptom requiring immediate care. Pale or bluish gums : This can signal poor oxygen circulation or blood issues. Unusual behavior : Restlessness, aggression, or confusion may occur. Loss of appetite : Refusing food or water can be a warning sign. If you notice any of these signs, especially after your pet has had access to chemicals, plants, medications, or spoiled food, treat the situation as an emergency. Not sure if what your pet ate is toxic? Visit the ASPCA's Poison Control Center Database to search hundreds of plants, food items, household items, & more or call either of the below pet poison helplines (fees may apply): ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 Pet Poison Helpline: (800) 213-6680 Immediate First Aid to Stabilize Your Pet If you suspect that your pet has ingested a toxin, it's crucial to take them to a veterinarian immediately. However, there are some measures you can take at home to help keep your pet stable during the journey to the animal hospital. Here are a few steps to consider: Remove your pet from the source : Get them away from the poisonous substance to prevent further exposure. Check for breathing and responsiveness : If your pet is unconscious but breathing, keep their airway clear and monitor closely. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed : Some poisons can cause more damage if vomited. Call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline before attempting this. Rinse the mouth : If the poison is in the mouth, gently rinse with water but avoid forcing your pet to swallow. Collect information : Try to identify the poison, how much was ingested, and when. This will help veterinarians provide the right treatment. Keep your pet calm and warm : Stress and cold can worsen their condition. Avoid giving your pet any human medications or home remedies without veterinary advice. What to Expect at the Vet When you arrive at the hospital, the veterinarian will perform a physical exam and may run blood tests, X-rays, or other diagnostics to identify the toxin and assess your pet's organ function. Treatment could include: Inducing vomiting Activated charcoal to absorb toxins Intravenous fluids to flush out poisons and support organs Medications to control symptoms like seizures or vomiting Oxygen therapy if breathing is affected If you have not already contacted a pet poison hotline, your veterinarian may do so. Prompt treatment improves the chances of recovery. Following a veterinary visit, at-home supportive care plays a crucial role in the recovery of pets affected by toxins. The appropriateness of this care largely depends on the severity of symptoms, the type of toxin involved, and the overall health of the pet. For those exhibiting mild symptoms, at-home monitoring may be sufficient, while pets with severe symptoms will require immediate veterinary attention. Essential elements of at-home care include ensuring proper hydration, offering a bland diet, closely monitoring symptoms, and creating a calm, restful environment. Should symptoms worsen or if the pet displays severe signs such as lethargy or respiratory distress, it may be necessary to seek hospitalization for more intensive treatment and monitoring. Timely intervention is essential for enhancing the chances of a successful recovery. Preventing Poisoning in Pets Ensuring the safety of your pets from accidental poisoning is a crucial responsibility for any pet owner. By being aware of potential hazards within your household and taking simple, proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of poisoning incidents. Here are some practical tips for keeping your home as safe as possible: Store household chemicals, medications, and cleaning products out of reach. Avoid feeding pets human food that can be toxic, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol-containing products. (Heads up: xylitol can have many different names on an ingredient list, including "birch sugar"!) Research which plants are toxic for pets before bringing them into your home. Especially avoid lillies around cats - even the pollen and water they are in can be toxic! Supervise pets outdoors to prevent ingestion of harmful substances. Educate family members and visitors about pet safety. Resources for Poisoned Pets in Gainesville, FL If you suspect your pet has ingested something they shouldn't have, there are several local resources available for you: Local Emergency Veterinary Hospitals Community Care Veterinary Specialists - (352) 225-3501 3515 NW 98th St, Gainesville, FL, 32606 University of Florida Small Animal Hospital - (352) 392-2235 2089 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL, 32608 Pet Poison Hotlines ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center - (888) 426-4435 Available 24/7 for expert guidance on poisoning emergencies. A consultation fee may apply. Pet Poison Helpline - (800) 213-6680 Offers immediate assistance from veterinary toxicologists. A consultation fee may apply. Additional Tips Keep these numbers saved on your phone and near your pet’s feeding area. Have your regular veterinarian’s contact info handy for follow-up care. If possible, bring the packaging or sample of the suspected poison to the vet.

Vaccination is essential for maintaining the health of your pets. It not only protects them from various diseases but also contributes to the overall well-being of the community. This guide will provide detailed insights into the types of vaccines available, their significance, and how to ensure your pets remain protected. What Are Core Vaccines and Why Are They Important? Core vaccines protect pets from diseases that are widespread, highly contagious, or pose a serious risk to their health. These vaccines are recommended for all dogs and cats, regardless of their lifestyle, because the diseases they prevent can be fatal or cause severe illness. Core Vaccines for Dogs Rabies : Protects against the rabies virus, which affects the nervous system and is fatal. Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread to humans. Vaccination is required by law in many areas. DHP/P : This vaccine protects against several serious diseases, including canine distemper , a highly contagious virus affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems; canine parvovirus , a severe and often fatal intestinal infection particularly dangerous for puppies; and infectious canine hepatitis , caused by adenovirus, which impacts the liver and other organs. Leptospirosis : Due to its prevalence in Florida, the leptospirosis vaccine is considered a core vaccine. This vaccine protects against a bacterial infection that can be caught from contaminated water or wildlife. It is recommended for dogs in rural areas or those exposed to standing water. Core Vaccines for Cats Rabies : Like dogs, cats need protection from rabies due to its fatal nature and risk to humans. FVRCP : This vaccine provides comprehensive protection against several serious feline diseases, including Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper) , which is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease that severely impacts the immune system and intestines; as well as Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis and Calicivirus , both of which are responsible for upper respiratory infections and are prevalent among cats globally. Non-Core Vaccines and When They Are Needed Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle, environment, and risk factors. Not every pet needs these vaccines, but they can be important for pets exposed to certain conditions or areas. Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs Bordetella (Kennel Cough) : This vaccine protects against Bordetella bronchiseptica, a bacterium that causes kennel cough, which is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs. It is especially recommended for dogs that spend time in boarding facilities, dog parks, grooming salons, or daycare, where they are at a higher risk of exposure to the pathogen. Lyme Disease : This vaccine helps protect dogs against Lyme disease, which is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through tick bites. It is particularly recommended for dogs living in or traveling to regions where ticks carrying Lyme disease are prevalent, as these areas pose a significant risk for tick exposure and subsequent infection. Canine Influenza : This vaccine protects against canine influenza virus, which can lead to severe respiratory illness in dogs. It is recommended for dogs in high-risk environments, such as boarding facilities, dog shows, or any situation where they may come into close contact with other dogs, as these settings can facilitate the spread of the virus. Non-Core Vaccines for Cats Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) : Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a serious infection in cats, leading to immune suppression, anemia, and increased cancer risk. The Feline Veterinary Medical Association recommends vaccinating all kittens for FeLV, and then on an as-needed basis for adult cats according to their risk and exposure to ensure their health and longevity. This vaccine is recommended for cats that go outdoors or live with other cats that may be infected. Why Vaccinate Your Pet? Vaccination protects your pet from diseases that can cause severe illness, long-term health problems, or death. It also helps prevent the spread of contagious diseases to other animals and humans. Vaccines stimulate your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight infections quickly. Benefits of Vaccination Prevents serious illness : Many vaccine-preventable diseases have no cure and can be fatal. Protects the community : Vaccinated pets reduce the risk of outbreaks in animal populations in our area. Saves money : Treating diseases is often more expensive than preventing them with vaccines. Supports public health : Vaccines like rabies protect both pets and people. Understanding Vaccine Reactions Most pets tolerate vaccines very well. Mild reactions such as soreness at the injection site, slight fever, or tiredness may occur but usually resolve quickly. Serious reactions are extremely rare. What to Watch For Swelling or lumps at the injection site lasting more than a few days Persistent vomiting or diarrhea Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face Collapse or seizures (very rare) If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately. Puppy and Kitten Vaccine Packages to Support Your Pet’s Health We understand that puppies and kittens need multiple vaccines and wellness services in a short time. To help ease the cost and ensure your young pet gets the best start, we offer puppy and kitten wellness packages . These packages include all core vaccines, wellness exams, parasite prevention, and more at a bundled price. Learn more about what is included in all of our wellness packages by visiting our packages page . Keeping Your Pet’s Vaccines Up to Date Vaccination is not a one-time event. Your pet needs booster shots throughout their life to maintain protection. Your veterinarian will recommend a vaccination schedule based on your pet’s age, health, and lifestyle. Tips for Staying on Track Keep a vaccination record (Or bookmark our Vello portal on your phone, where you always have access to your pet's records!) Schedule regular wellness exams - once per year for adult pets, twice per year for senior pets Discuss any lifestyle changes with your vet that may require additional vaccination At Newberry Animal Hospital, we understand that each pet is unique and deserves personalized care to keep them happy, healthy, and comfortable. Our dedicated team is here to customize vaccine schedules that cater specifically to your furry companion's health requirements. Ready to book your pet's next vaccine update? Request an appointment at any of our 4 locations below:

If you’ve ever watched your cat walk up to their food bowl, sniff it, and walk away, you know how worrying that moment can feel. For some cats, this simple hesitation is a sign of a deeply painful condition called feline stomatitis - an intense inflammation that can make eating, grooming, and even yawning hurt. The good news is that with the right care, many cats make a remarkable recovery. Feline stomatitis is a long-term, very painful inflammation inside a cat’s mouth. It happens when a cat’s immune system overreacts to normal plaque and bacteria, causing severe redness, swelling, and ulcers. This inflammation can affect the gums, the lining of the mouth, and the very back of the mouth. Although we don’t know the exact cause, veterinarians believe stomatitis is an immune-related condition. Instead of ignoring the bacteria that normally live in the mouth, the immune system goes into “attack mode,” damaging the tissues and causing ongoing irritation. Factors that may contribute include dental plaque, certain viral infections, a cat’s genetics, and how their immune system functions. What to Watch For Cats with stomatitis are often in significant pain, even if they try to hide it. You may notice: Very bad breath Drooling (sometimes thick or blood-tinged) Difficulty chewing or dropping food Eating less or losing weight Pawing at the mouth Acting irritable, withdrawn, or less social A messy or unkempt coat because grooming hurts In more severe cases, some cats will stop eating completely. However, many cats will continue to eat even with severe pain until late in the disease. How Feline Stomatitis Is Diagnosed Because the mouth is so painful, your veterinarian may need to perform an oral exam under sedation or anesthesia. Diagnosis often includes: A full oral examination Dental X-rays to check the roots and jaw bone Testing for viral diseases (FIV/FeLV) Sometimes a biopsy to rule out other conditions The key finding is intense inflammation that extends into the back of the mouth. Treatment Options Stomatitis can be challenging to treat, and most cats need a combination of therapies. The main goal is to reduce inflammation and help your cat eat, groom, and live comfortably again. Dental Extractions For many cats, removing most or all of the teeth is the most effective treatment. While this sounds drastic, it greatly reduces the amount of plaque and bacteria that trigger the immune response. About 60–80% of cats improve significantly after extractions Some cats experience complete relief Others may still need some ongoing medical support Most cats eat better, feel better, and live happier lives after they heal from surgery. Medical Management Medications may also be used, especially before or after surgery, or when surgery isn’t an option right away. This may include: Pain medications Anti-inflammatory or immune-modulating medications Antibiotics if there’s a secondary infection Medication alone usually isn’t enough for long-term control, and long-term use can come with side effects. Supportive Care at Home Your veterinarian may also recommend: Soft or prescription diets Regular monitoring of appetite and weight Reducing stress in the home Routine follow-up visits What to Expect Long-Term Every cat responds differently to stomatitis treatment. Many experience dramatic improvement after extractions and enjoy a much better quality of life, while others may need occasional or ongoing medical support. There is no guaranteed prevention, but starting your cat early on home dental care is good for every kitty. What’s most important is early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and regular follow-up care. With the right plan in place, most cats with stomatitis can return to comfortable, happy lives! If you notice signs of stomatitis in your cat or if they seem uncomfortable while eating, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinary team. We’re here to guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care to help keep your cat feeling their best.

It's been a busy year, but one of our staff members, Marina, was able to sit down with Dr. Fletcher and ask her some great questions as we celebrated Dr. Fletcher's 2 year work anniversary with NAH. Dr. Fletcher, you’ve been practicing for over 20 years. What is your earliest memory of a pet in your life? Dogs, birds, cats; that was my normal household. My parents had this beautiful Collie. If he was told to guard the children, we knew we could not leave the area. If we tried to move he would very gently push or sit on us. He trained us to obey him. And no one could come close to us; he had a job to protect. Is there something about you that most people do not know, but would be surprised to hear? Most people don't know that I love drawing and painting. My drawings are abstracts so the distorted faces are thought to be on purpose. Also, yoga and meditation are a part of my morning routine. I love sunrises and sunsets the world is at peace. If you could go back and have five minutes with your ‘younger self’, how would you use that time, or what would you say? I would tell myself to be patient. Love AND hug your family since they won’t always be there, I miss them. How do you want the world to be different because YOU lived in it? The world should be happier since we are only temporary occupants. Look at the beauty around us, even the wind can caress your skin if you let it. When you find yourself with a sudden amount of free time unexpectedly, how do you spend it? There are so many things I can do in my free time like garden, read, dance, sing, teach the dog new tricks, and sleep. Thank you for your interview! We always end it with a favorite quote. What is yours? Before you speak, THINK … T - is it True ? H - is it Helpful ? I - is it Inspiring ? N - is it Necessary ? K - is it Kind ? It's no wonder that some of her clients call her a pet whisperer! Special thanks to Marina for her time, and to Dr. Fletcher for sharing her thoughts and pearls of wisdom!

Meet Peanut! She is a 12 year old dog that presented to a local specialty emergency hospital after the owners noticed that she was walking funny and breathing differently. This facility did an evaluation and took x-rays of her hips followed by a diagnosis of arthritis, and given anti-inflammatory medicine for pain and sent home. After no improvement over the weekend, the owner took Peanut to their family vet, and after additional X-rays, she was diagnosed with a diaphragmatic hernia. After receiving a higher-then-anticipated estimate from the emergency hospital, the family vet reached out to us. Very quickly, NAH confirmed the diagnosis, and provided an estimate that was substantially lower, so the owner approved and she and our surgeon agreed upon a plan to fix Peanut. On the day of surgery, and after going in, they found her injuries to be even more extensive than originally anticipated. Our surgeon found a portion of her liver, stomach and spleen had been traumatically displaced into the left side of her chest cavity. Ultimately, the surgery was a success with Peanut’s diaphragm repaired!

Dr. Nikki Lebo (39th Ave Location) graduated with a B.S. in Animal Science before fulfilling her lifelong dream of obtaining a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Florida. She also obtained a certificate in business management and has professional interests in dentistry, dermatology, and surgery. Dr. Lebo believes strongly in caring for both pets and the people who call them family. She loves spending time outdoors with her husband, George, and their spunky rescue puppy, Ginger, as well as reading, Gator football, and any activities involving water. She is passionate about serving the city of Gainesville and is invested deeply in her church and the local community. Dr. Alejandra Price (Main Street Location) graduated with her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Louisiana State University after having graduated with a B.S. in Chemistry from LSU and a Master’s Degree from the Ohio State University. Her professional interests include surgery, dentistry, dermatology, and volunteering in shelter medicine. She enjoys traveling (particularly road trips!), hiking, reading, and spending time with her partner and three cats. Dr. Melissa White (Main Street Location) was born and raised in the Central Florida area and graduated with a B.S. in Biology from the University of Central Florida before going on to earn her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Florida. Her professional interests include preventative care, clinical pathology, and surgery. She enjoys participating in outdoor activities such as biking, swimming, and boating, but also loves spending time at home with her significant other and their dogs, cats, goats, horse, and chickens. For more information about the other veterinarians on our staff, please click on the logo below for a quick link to our staff doctor page!

September is 'Senior Wellness Month'. Newberry Animal Hospital is offering 10% off of all senior bloodwork (both dog and cat) and 10% off all abdominal ultrasounds. We recommend bi-annual exams on all pets over the age of 10 to help catch problems  before they become issues.  According to Jacqueline Brister (Veterinary Partner), ' An abdominal ultrasound (US) is a diagnostic tool for looking at the organs and structures inside your pet’s belly. It can see the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, reproductive organs, stomach, pancreas, intestinal tract, adrenal glands, and lymph nodes. An x-ray is a still photograph, but an ultrasound is like a video.' This type of testing involves the use of high frequency sound waves to create live images, which is one way that helps our doctors see what is going on inside your pet . Symptoms that may trigger the need for an US: belly pain diarrhea or throwing up feeling of an unknown mass internal injuries unusual labwork results Other reasons that our doctors may use ultrasound for your pet: Ultrasounds can also be used to help guide a needle biopsy where tissue is needed to identify a medical issue, where the tissue is ultimately sent out to a pathologist. Luckily for us, Newberry Animal Hospital Group has our own in-house pathologist, Dr. Rick Alleman. What is an ultrasound procedure? Ultrasounds are typically done with the pet lying on a table, but normally quick and painless. 'The veterinarian holds a transducer or probe against the belly skin. As the transducer is moved over the skin, it sends sound waves to the structures inside, which are then translated to black and white real-time images on a screen. Hair does not conduct sound waves well, so the pet’s belly is usually shaved beforehand. Alcohol or ultrasound gel may be used to provide better conduction.', (credit-Veterinary Partner)

According to an article by Kate Furthy in the Washington Post, veterinarians across the country are often seeing cases where a canine diet that is grain-free (high in legumes) may be linked to a type of heart disease that was originally, and primarily known, as only a genetic disorder. This link has triggered a joint investigation between the USFDA and Veterinarians. They have discovered the relationship between boutique, grain-free diets and a type of heart disease called canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The symptoms can present as a cough, but move to a stage where the dog may stop eating, and has trouble breathing. ‘Canine DCM weakens the dog’s heart, preventing it from pumping enough blood, according to Dr. Adin, a Veterinarian in N.C. assisting in the investigation. The FDA issued a cautionary statement on July 12, 2019, that DCM was typically caused by a genetic predisposition in large breed dogs such as Great Danes and Newfoundlands...but more recent cases have included breeds like: Retrievers, Whippets, Shih Tzu, Bulldogs, Mini-Schnauzers, and mixed breeds.’ More specifically, this condition is linked to TAURINE deficiency. Taurine is an essential amino acid, and is an important nutrient in many dog foods, often found in organ meat, lungs, liver, etc which are all great for dogs to eat. The data from this investigation to date has indicated that in dogs that are genetically predisposed to DCM, the condition, if left unchecked, can be irreversible. In dogs that are not genetically predisposed, proper treatment (adding taurine to the diet) can reverse the disorder if caught early enough. For more information about this topic, please ask our doctors. Successful K9 Splash Bash Event!! Congratulations goes out to the winner of the raffle proceeds: Faithful Friends Pet Rescue & Rehoming Officially founded in February of 2018, Faithful Friends was born out of a desired from a group of animal rescue veterans committed to transparency and community support. • completed 675 adoptions in 2019, on pace for 1000 adoptions in just our second year. •Over 75% of our dogs and 100% of cats in our program live in foster homes with families, learning to be pets. The small number in our kennels are usually, new moms and dogs needing a little extra medical care. • Executive Director Andrea specializes in abandoned puppies, and mama dogs who find themselves in a shelter.

Dr. Nicole Doray and Christian Beister at UF are conducting research to assess the correlation between an owner’s perception of feline anxiety and the likelihood of bringing their cat to a veterinary hospital. We offered to help connect them to cat owners to complete a survey as a part of the research process. If you would like to participate in a brief survey, there is a link at the bottom on this blog. According to Christian, 'by completing the following survey, you can help to evaluate some of the common behavioral issues in veterinary medicine and, potentially, improve future experiences with a veterinarian for pets. Your time is valuable, and we cannot thank you enough for your contribution to this important research!' For any questions about this research or the survey, please contact Christian directly (information below): https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bQpQXMy7UZV1llj Christian Beisker BS Animal Sciences University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine- DVM Candidate c/o 2024 Head of Lab, Animalia Lab- UF Department of Psychology Email: cbeisker@ufl.edu Nicole R. Dorey, Ph.D. C.A.A.B. Ndorey@ufl.edu