Oakland Veterinary Referral Services Blog

We love our pets because of their hearts. Their never-ending capacity for love makes it a little easier to live this life. What happens, though, when love becomes an emergency? 

Understanding common heart emergencies in pets can help you ensure your pets receive the care they need, when they need it.

Cold weather can be especially tough on pets with arthritis. As temperatures drop, many dogs and cats become stiffer, slower to rise, and less interested in activity. You may notice hesitation on stairs, difficulty jumping, or a reluctance to go outside at all.

While winter can worsen joint discomfort, the season doesn’t have to mean months of pain or inactivity. With the right combination of warmth, movement, environmental support, and medical care, you can help manage winter arthritis pain in dogs and cats.

It’s tax season, and many people are gathering receipts, forms, and paperwork before the filing deadline. If you’re a pet owner, you may wonder whether any of the costs of caring for your furry family member can help at tax time. While most everyday pet expenses are not deductible, there are a few specific situations where the IRS may allow pet-related tax breaks.

During a pet emergency, it can be hard to focus on anything except the situation in front of you. If you have to visit the emergency vet, remember to bring what you need. This guide can help you with the logistics of what to bring to the emergency vet, providing quick, easy information when you need it.

Most pet parents know that annual wellness exams and preventive care are important—and they truly are. But did you know that the small choices you make every day can have an even bigger impact on your pet’s long-term health?

Simple daily habits support your pet’s immune system, mobility, digestion, dental health, and mental well-being. Over time, these routines can add up to fewer illnesses, better quality of life, and more happy years together.

A few daily habits for pet health that can make a meaningful difference for your dog or cat.

It seems like everyone has an opinion when it comes to puppies, kittens, and what they “must” have. If you’re welcoming your first pet into your home for the first time, all that advice can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to figure out what’s truly essential and what can wait.

The good news? You don’t need to buy everything at once. With a few key supplies, you’ll be set up for a smooth start and a happy home.

Here’s a practical, vet-approved list of the new puppy and kitten supplies you actually need.

The first year with a pet is an exciting time. Young pets require specific care to ensure they can grow up healthy and strong. With a little bit of attention and a lot of love, your new pet can thrive in your home. Use this month-by-month guide to help you master the first year with your pet, and set you up for many more years together. 

The best things in life are often those that can cause the most stress. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or are thinking about adopting your first furry friend, pet ownership can bring incredible joy, unconditional love, and just the right amount of chaos. Here’s what to expect about experiencing the joy and chaos of being a pet parent. 

When most people think about allergies, spring usually comes to mind. But just like humans, pets can suffer from allergies year-round—including in the winter. If your dog or cat is itchy, licking excessively, or dealing with recurring ear infections in December, winter allergies may be the culprit.

Understanding why winter allergies happen and how to manage them can help keep your pet comfortable through the colder months.

Seasonal changes affect us (and our pets) more than we might realize. Did you know that the difference in winter light can impact your pet’s behavior? If your pet is not getting enough light, he or she might start feeling (and acting) differently. This guide will help you understand how shorter winter days can affect your pet’s behavior and mood.