One of the most devastating parasitic diseases affecting dogs and cats begins with a single mosquito bite. According to the American Heartworm Society (AHS), more than a million U.S. pets are suffering from heartworm disease—a potentially deadly infection that wreaks havoc on an affected pet’s cardiovascular system. Fortunately, with increased awareness, year-round prevention, and routine [...]
A new kitten can bring you great joy and laughter with their feisty antics, but like other pets, kittens require special care in their formative years. Kittens are vulnerable to various diseases, so owners must understand what vaccines they need and when. Our South Shores Pet Clinic team explains the vaccines every kitten requires to [...]
Ah, Valentine’s Day, when love is in the air, bouquets of roses abound, and yes, sweets and chocolates are everywhere. Chocolate is a favorite treat for people but can be deadly for our pets. South Shores Pet Clinic’s team wants pet owners to understand the dangers of chocolate for pets, so we delve into the [...]
When bringing home a new puppy, you may have checked off everything on your supply list, from a cozy bed to chew toys. While you’ve got all the essential supplies covered, you may wonder what type of veterinary care, especially vaccinations, your new four-legged friend will need. The answer isn’t cut-and-dried, as pet vaccination protocols [...]
Large meals were meant for sharing, right? If you are considering sharing with your pet, however, this may cause more harm than good. During the holiday season, many pet owners want to shower their pets with extra love, attention, and of course, treats. But, careful attention to the types and the amount of food you [...]
There’s something uniquely special about the bond between a senior pet and their owner. The ease and the intuitive understanding that develops with each passing year create a deep connection that we wish could last forever. However, watching your pet age can be bittersweet, as their once effortless movements become stiff and sometimes arthritic, their [...]
Our nation’s obesity epidemic has extended beyond people to include pets. Excess weight can lead to serious health problems, reduce your pet’s life expectancy, and significantly diminish their quality of life (QOL). Whether your pet is visibly overweight, currently at a healthy weight, or you’re not sure, we can help. Our South Shores Pet Clinic [...]
Your cat has the sweet life—an overflowing food bowl, a sunny spot on the couch, and all the chin rubs they want. So, when your feline friend acts out in unusual ways, you may wonder what they have to complain about. Oftentimes, the culprit behind feline behavioral problems is stress, as cats are highly sensitive [...]
Every organ in your pet’s body performs vital life functions, and the kidneys are no exception. While these workhorses can continue to perform their duties until they’ve sustained a great deal of damage, protecting and preserving kidney function helps your pet live a longer, healthier life. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common cause for [...]
Here in sunny California, we’re accustomed to a hearty dose of vitamin C. But, our pets don’t always share the thrill we get from basking in the summer sun—perhaps because they realize that the warm weather can lead to serious heat-related injuries, including dehydration, paw pad burns, heat exhaustion, and life-threatening heatstroke. Every summer, the [...]