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Ovariohysterectomy vs. Ovariectomy

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  Ovariohysterectomy vs. Ovariectomy: Understanding the Difference and Why Ovariectomy May Be a Better Option For years, the standard spay procedure for female dogs and cats in the U.S. has been the ovariohysterectomy (OHE) —a surgery that removes both the ovaries and the uterus. However, many veterinary clinics, including ours, are now offering an alternative: ovariectomy (OVE) , which removes only the ovaries while leaving the uterus intact. Both procedures effectively prevent pregnancy and eliminate heat cycles, but OVE offers some key advantages that pet owners should consider. Let's break down the differences, risks, and benefits of each surgery to help you make an informed decision for your pet. What is an Ovariohysterectomy (OHE)? Ovariohysterectomy, commonly known as a traditional spay , involves the removal of both the ovaries and the uterus. This has been the standard procedure in the U.S. for decades. Benefits of OHE: ✅ Prevents pregnancy and eliminates heat cycles ✅ Re...
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  The Importance of Proper Nutrition for Pets: What’s in Your Pet’s Food Matters As pet owners, we all want the best for our furry friends, and that includes providing them with the best food to support their health and happiness. But with so many options available—ranging from premium kibble to homemade meals and boutique diets—it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. While the pet food industry has expanded, so have concerns about the long-term effects of certain diets, especially in relation to health conditions like heart disease, liver problems, and other serious issues that can arise from improperly balanced diets. The Link Between Boutique Diets and Health Issues Recent studies and reports have raised alarms about the potential risks associated with some boutique diets, particularly those that focus on novel ingredients, grain-free formulas, or boutique brands. Many of these diets have been linked to an increased risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart c...
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Understanding Urinary Bladder Stones in Pets and Cystotomy Surgery

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  Understanding Urinary Bladder Stones in Pets and Cystotomy Surgery Urinary bladder stones, also known as uroliths, are a common medical issue in pets. These mineralized formations in the bladder can cause discomfort, urinary blockages, and other serious complications if left untreated. This blog explores the causes, symptoms, and treatment of bladder stones, with a focus on cystotomy surgery—a highly effective solution for removing these stones. What Are Urinary Bladder Stones? Bladder stones are hard, rock-like formations that develop from minerals naturally found in your pet's urine. When the concentration of these minerals becomes too high, they crystallize and can form stones of varying sizes. Causes of Bladder Stones Several factors contribute to the formation of bladder stones in pets, including: Dietary Imbalance: Diets high in certain minerals like calcium or magnesium can increase the risk. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Infections can alter urine pH, encouraging sto...
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Understanding Pyometra

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  Understanding Pyometra: A Vet's Guide to Prevention and Treatment As a veterinarian, one of the most urgent conditions I encounter in female dogs is pyometra. This potentially life-threatening disease affects the uterus and can develop rapidly, often leading to serious complications. The good news is that with early intervention and responsible pet care, pyometra is largely preventable. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through what pyometra is, how it’s treated, and how spaying your dog early in life can safeguard her health. What is Pyometra? Pyometra is an infection of the uterus that occurs most often in middle-aged to older, unspayed female dogs. It happens when the uterus becomes filled with pus due to a bacterial infection, usually after a heat cycle (estrus). The condition can be classified into two types: Open Pyometra : The cervix remains open, allowing pus to drain out. While it may seem like a more manageable form because of the drainage, it’s still very serious. Close...
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Anal Sacculectomy Surgery

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Relieving Your Pet’s Discomfort: Introducing Anal Sacculectomy Surgery  At Kind Veterinary Care, Noah's Ark Veterinary Office and Southwick Veterinary Hospital  we understand how distressing it can be to see your furry friend uncomfortable due to recurring anal gland issues. Whether it's chronic infections, abscesses, or other complications, we’re excited to introduce a permanent solution: anal sacculectomy surgery . This cutting-edge procedure offers a new lease on life for pets suffering from persistent anal sac problems. Here’s everything you need to know about this surgery, why it might be right for your pet, and how we ensure the best outcomes with our skilled team. What Is Anal Sacculectomy Surgery? The anal sacs (also known as anal glands) are two small glands located near your pet's rectum. While these glands are a natural part of your pet’s anatomy, they can sometimes cause significant issues, such as: Chronic infections Abscesses Impaction or difficulty expressin...
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The Shift to Modern Veterinary Medicine

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  The Shift to Modern Veterinary Medicine: What It Means for Your Pet As veterinary medicine evolves, so does the way we care for your beloved pets. At our practices (Kind Veterinary Care, Noah's Ark Veterinary Clinic and Southwick Veterinary Hospital) in St. Louis, we’re proud to embrace modern approaches to pet healthcare, ensuring your furry companions receive the best possible care tailored to their individual needs. What Is "Modern Veterinary Medicine"? Modern veterinary medicine goes beyond treating illnesses; it focuses on prevention, early detection, and comprehensive care. While traditional methods primarily address symptoms, today’s practices emphasize proactive solutions to keep your pets healthier and happier for longer. Key elements of modern veterinary medicine include: Advanced Diagnostics : From digital X-rays to bloodwork panels, cutting-edge tools help us detect potential issues before they become serious problems. Personalized Wellness Plans : Tailored ...
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Senior Pet Care

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  Senior Pet Care: Supporting Healthy Aging for Cats and Dogs As pets age, they need extra care to stay healthy and comfortable. Here’s a guide on senior pet care with a focus on preventative screenings and tips to enhance their quality of life. 1. Preventative Screenings Routine check-ups are essential for senior pets. We recommend yearly blood pressure checks and x-ray screenings. Blood pressure monitoring helps detect conditions like kidney disease and hypertension early on, which can be common in older pets. X-rays provide valuable insights into bone health, arthritis, and potential heart issues, allowing for proactive care. 2. Nutrition and Weight Management Senior pets benefit from specially formulated diets that support aging joints, promote healthy weight, and reduce kidney strain. Discuss dietary changes with your vet to ensure your pet’s food meets their changing needs. 3. Comfort and Mobility Support Joint pain and arthritis often emerge as pets get older. Consider addin...
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