Search Results for ‘parasites’

Kittens and cats are prone to a variety of parasites, both internal and external. Cat parasites are not pleasant dinner conversation, but they are something you should be aware of and discuss with your veterinarian. These invasive foes can lurk in your pet’s body without you even knowing it until your cat’s symptoms worsen.

To help protect your precious feline from exposure, the OVRS team is here to provide more information about cat parasites.

Most pet owners want to do everything possible for their dogs and cats. But veterinary care, food, medications, preventatives, grooming, supplies, and unexpected emergencies can all add up. When money is tight, deciding what to do first can feel overwhelming.

If you are worried about the cost of pet care, you are not alone. Many families have to make careful decisions about how to use their resources while still protecting their pet’s health and comfort.

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.

Has your dog ever leapt straight into a giant puddle during a walk? Or somehow found the muddiest spot in your yard right after a bath? If so, you’re not alone! Many dogs can’t resist the lure of the muck. But why do dogs love mud—and how can you clean them up after their latest adventure?

Let’s dig into the reasons behind this messy behavior (and how to handle cleanup like a pro).

If you’ve ever owned a cat, you’ve probably spent some time wondering if you should let them enjoy some solo time outside, or if they should remain safely indoors. While spending time in nature can satisfy some biological instincts of the feline species, it can also be quite dangerous for your animal. Oakland Veterinary Referral Services is here to lay out the risks, benefits, and a few safer options for giving indoor cats a taste of being outside cats to help you decide what’s best for your cat’s health and happiness. 

Hot spots are a common skin issue affecting dogs, which can leave your pup with unpleasant side effects. The Oakland Veterinary Referral Services (OVRS) team is here to help. This guide teaches you how to treat and prevent hot spots on dogs.

Oakland Veterinary Referral Services has a blood bank and provides blood transfusions to dogs and cats who have a pet emergency. We often ask dogs to be blood donors and have cat owners ask if we also need cat donors, but we always use canine blood. Can a cat receive a blood transfusion from a dog, and if so, in what circumstances? Our guide explains cat transfusions and when it is okay to use canine blood in feline patients.

Have you heard of alopecia in dogs? Probably not. If you have a dog, chances are you’ve seen hair in multiple places around the house. Shedding is a natural process for dogs—especially for certain breeds. In fact, most dogs will shed their seasonal coats twice during the year. 

But, sometimes changes in things like temperature, environment, or even nutrition can lead to a little bit more shedding. Wondering why your dog is losing hair is not something that should take up a lot of your time. If you’re concerned, it might be another issue—like alopecia—at play.

The reproductive system of a female animal is much different than that of a human woman. Learning about pregnancy in dogs and cats can help you spot when your own pet might be expecting, and how to help them through their pregnancy. 

The team at Oakland Veterinary Referral Services is here to guide you through pregnancy in dogs and cats to encourage healthy births.

Summer is perfect for outdoor parties, grilling, and sampling delicious food. However, pets can become seriously ill with pancreatitis after eating many common barbecue foods at summer parties. With some attention and effort, you can prevent pancreatitis this summer.