Generated by All in One SEO Pro v4.9.10, this is an llms-full.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Crestway Animal Clinic Quality pet care in the San Antonio area. ## Posts ### [What Your Pet’s Mouth Is Telling You About Their Health](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/what-your-pets-mouth-is-telling-you-about-their-health/) **Published:** July 10, 2026 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** Dental disease in pets rarely shows obvious early warning signs. It develops slowly, and the changes are often subtle enough to miss in daily routines. Most owners only notice a problem once eating habits or behavior start to shift. Dogs and cats also hide pain well, especially in their mouths. They can still eat and act normally even when their teeth or gums are already in trouble. Because of this, the disease often progresses further before it gets detected. Early detection makes a big difference in preventing pain, tooth loss, and serious infections. Small changes in behavior or eating patterns often point to a deeper issue developing beneath the surface. ## Bad Breath That Keeps Getting Worse ![Smiling woman lying on the floor brushing a brown-and-white dog with a blue toothbrush in a cozy home environment.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/c92077fd-b8c8-4197-bccd-22e422fca168-1024x768.webp "c92077fd-b8c8-4197-bccd-22e422fca168 - Crestway Animal Clinic")c92077fd b8c8 4197 bccd 22e422fca168Mild pet breath is normal, especially after meals. A persistent foul odor is not, and often points to an underlying oral health issue that needs attention. Bad breath usually comes from bacteria building up on the teeth and gums. Plaque hardens into tartar over time, allowing bacteria to thrive and cause irritation, infection, and a strong odor. If brushing or basic home care does not improve the smell, it should not be ignored. Ongoing bad breath is often one of the earliest signs of dental disease and may signal a deeper problem developing inside the mouth. ## Noticeable Changes in Eating Behavior Changes in eating habits are often one of the first signs of oral discomfort. Some pets chew on only one side, while others eat more slowly than usual. Others may suddenly avoid dry food. These changes usually happen because chewing has become painful. Pets naturally adjust their eating to avoid pressure on sore teeth or inflamed gums. Food intake may stay the same, but the behavior around eating shifts. A sudden change in mealtime behavior should not be ignored. Even small differences in chewing or appetite can signal dental pain. Early attention helps prevent the condition from worsening. ## Excess Saliva or Unusual Drooling Saliva changes can signal oral health issues. Some pets drool more when the mouth feels irritated or painful. The saliva may look thicker or smell unpleasant. Drooling in cats is not typical, so any noticeable increase should raise concern. It often signals oral discomfort or an underlying dental issue. In some cases, infection or injury may also be present. Blood-tinged saliva is especially serious and should never be ignored. It can indicate gum damage or inflammation. Sudden changes in drooling need prompt veterinary attention. ## Pawing at the Mouth or Rubbing the Face Pets often manage discomfort through repetitive behaviors. Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face against objects is a common sign. These actions may seem minor, but often point to pain or irritation. Dental issues such as broken teeth or inflamed gums can trigger this behavior. Pets may also shake their heads or avoid touch near the face. These reactions usually indicate oral sensitivity. Frequent or persistent behavior should not be ignored. It often signals discomfort inside the mouth. A veterinary exam can help identify the cause and provide relief. ## Red or Swollen Gums ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/cute-dog-playing-with-little-rubber-balls_23-2148366917-1024x576.jpg "cute-dog-playing-with-little-rubber-balls_23-2148366917 - Crestway Animal Clinic")Healthy gums should look pink and firm. Redness or swelling can signal inflammation in the mouth. These changes are often early signs of gingivitis. Gingivitis happens when plaque and bacteria irritate the gums. Without treatment, it can progress into periodontal disease. The condition can lead to tooth loss and chronic pain. Bleeding gums during eating should be taken seriously. Pets may still eat normally even when the disease is developing. Early treatment can often reverse inflammation before it worsens. ## Visible Tartar Buildup on Teeth Tartar is hardened plaque that forms when bacteria and debris are not removed from teeth. It appears as yellow or brown deposits near the gumline. Once hardened, it cannot be removed by brushing. The buildup creates a rough surface that allows more bacteria to attach. Over time, it leads to infection and damage to gum tissue. The condition worsens without professional cleaning. If tartar is visible, dental disease is already present. Home care is no longer enough to reverse it. A veterinary dental cleaning is typically required to restore oral health. ## Loose or Damaged Teeth Adult pets should have firm, stable teeth. Any movement is a strong sign of advanced dental disease. It often means the supporting structures are already weakened. Broken teeth often occur in pets that chew on hard toys or objects. When a tooth fractures, the inner layers become exposed, causing pain and increasing the risk of infection. Missing teeth may point to long-term dental problems. In many cases, teeth fall out due to severe periodontal disease. These cases require immediate veterinary evaluation. ## Swelling Around the Jaw or Face Facial swelling often signals an infection that has spread beyond the tooth. It may appear as a lump under the jaw or uneven swelling on one side of the face, and can develop gradually or appear suddenly. Abscessed teeth are a common cause of this condition. When bacteria reach the tooth root, infection can spread into the surrounding tissues. The area may feel warm, firm, or painful to touch. Pets with facial swelling often show discomfort while eating or being handled. The condition requires prompt veterinary care. Delaying treatment can lead to worsening infection. ## Behavioral Shifts Without Clear Cause ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/p7-1024x683.jpg "p7.jpg - Crestway Animal Clinic")Pain does not always show up in obvious physical ways. It may appear as subtle behavior changes that are easy to miss or misread. These changes often start small but become more noticeable over time. Some pets become less playful or more withdrawn than usual. Others may show irritability when touched around the face or mouth. Cats may hide more often or reduce grooming habits. When behavior changes occur without a clear reason, oral discomfort should be considered. Dental pain is often overlooked because pets rarely show it directly. Observing behavior closely can help detect problems earlier. ## Preventing Dental Disease Early Dental disease is common but often preventable with consistent care. Regular brushing helps reduce plaque before it hardens into tartar. Dental treats and vet-approved diets can also support oral hygiene. Home care alone is not always enough for every pet. Professional dental cleaning removes buildup and allows examination of hidden areas. It also helps detect issues that are not visible at home. Prevention is more effective than treatment after the disease progresses. It reduces discomfort and lowers the risk of complications. Consistent care supports healthier teeth and better overall well-being. ## When to Seek Veterinary Care Any sign of dental discomfort should be taken seriously, even if mild. Early evaluation helps prevent more serious problems. A veterinary exam can assess severity and guide treatment. Treatment may include cleaning, medication, or dental procedures. Early intervention usually means simpler, less stressful care. Delays often allow the disease to progress further. Changes in breath, eating behavior, or facial sensitivity should prompt a check-up. Early signs should not be ignored, even if your pet seems active. Prompt care can improve outcomes significantly. ## Keeping Your Pet’s Smile Healthy Dental disease develops quietly, but its impact can be serious if left untreated. It affects your pet’s oral comfort and long-term health, often without showing obvious signs. Small changes like bad breath or facial irritation should always be taken seriously. These early signals provide the best opportunity for early treatment to prevent pain and complications. If you notice these warning signs, scheduling a veterinary consultation is the best next step. [Crestway Animal Clinic](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/) can assess your pet’s oral health and guide you through proper dental care to support a healthier, happier life. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Does My Purebred Pug Need Extra Care? 5 Crucial Reasons for Regular Vet Visits](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/does-my-purebred-pug-need-extra-care-5-crucial-reasons-for-regular-vet-visits/) **Published:** June 15, 2026 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** Loving a purebred Pug comes with a specific set of responsibilities. The very traits that make them so recognizable and endearing—their flat faces, large eyes, compact bodies, and signature curled tails—are the result of generations of selective breeding. While this breeding has solidified their charming looks and sweet temperaments, it has also hardwired them for a variety of unique health vulnerabilities. If you are asking yourself, “Does my purebred Pug really need more veterinary attention than the average dog?” the candid answer is yes. Proactive, preventative healthcare is not just a good idea for a Pug; it is an absolute necessity. Waiting for a problem to become obvious often means waiting until it has become a painful, expensive crisis. Here are five critical reasons why your purebred Pug requires regular, specialized veterinary care to live a long, comfortable, and happy life. ## 1. Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS) The most defining feature of a Pug is their brachycephalic (short-headed) skull. While their face is pushed in, the soft tissues inside their head and throat are not proportionally reduced. This means a Pug is essentially working with the same amount of tissue as a long-nosed dog, but it is crammed into a much smaller space. ### Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS) Their anatomical quirk leads to BAOS, a lifelong condition that affects how efficiently your dog can breathe. Pugs often suffer from stenotic nares (pinched, narrow nostrils) and an elongated soft palate (tissue that hangs down at the back of the throat, obstructing the airway). These issues are what cause the classic Pug snorting, snoring, and grunting. While many owners think these sounds are cute, they are actually signs that the dog is working harder than normal just to pull oxygen into their lungs. Because dogs rely on panting to regulate their body temperature, a compromised airway makes Pugs incredibly vulnerable to heatstroke, even in mildly warm weather. Regular vet visits are crucial because your veterinarian can monitor the severity of BAOS. In many cases, early surgical intervention—such as widening the nostrils or trimming the soft palate—can drastically improve your Pug’s quality of life and prevent life-threatening respiratory distress down the line. **What your vet will monitor:** - Nostril restriction and airflow efficiency. - Signs of laryngeal collapse or chronic oxygen deprivation. - Exercise tolerance and recovery time. ## 2. Severe Eye Vulnerabilities ### Corneal Ulcers A Pug’s large, expressive, prominent eyes are one of their most attractive features, but they are also one of their greatest liabilities. Because their eyes bulge outward and their eye sockets are exceptionally shallow, their corneas are highly exposed to the environment. Furthermore, their short snouts offer zero protection; if a Pug goes to sniff a rosebush, their eyes hit the thorns before their nose does. Pugs are highly susceptible to corneal ulcers, which are painful scratches or sores on the surface of the eye. Due to their anatomy, a minor scratch can rapidly deteriorate into a deep, vision-threatening infection. Additionally, many Pugs suffer from dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), a condition where they do not produce enough tears. Without adequate lubrication, the eyes become inflamed, painful, and prone to chronic infections. ### Pigmentary Keratitis Another breed-specific risk is pigmentary keratitis, where dark pigment slowly spreads across the clear part of the eye in response to chronic irritation, eventually leading to blindness. Regular veterinary exams include specialized eye staining and tear-production tests to catch these issues before irreversible damage occurs. **What your vet will monitor:** - Tear production levels to prevent severe dry eye. - Signs of entropion (eyelids rolling inward, causing lashes to scrape the eye). - Early signs of pigmentary keratitis or hidden micro-ulcers. ## 3. Skin Fold Dermatitis and Chronic Allergies ### Skin Fold Dermatitis Those adorable, deep facial wrinkles that give your Pug a perpetually concerned expression are a breeding ground for dermatological nightmares. The deep folds of skin trap moisture, dirt, food particles, and natural body oils. Without meticulous daily cleaning, this creates a perfect, dark, warm environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive. This is incredibly common in Pugs. When an infection takes hold, the skin inside the wrinkle becomes red, inflamed, intensely itchy, and often emits a foul odor. If left unchecked, this can lead to severe pyoderma (bacterial skin infection) that requires weeks of systemic antibiotics to resolve. ### Chronic Allergies Pugs frequently develop sensitivities to pollen, dust mites, and certain proteins in their food, which manifest as relentless scratching, paw licking, and full-body rashes. Over-the-counter remedies are rarely enough to soothe a truly allergic Pug. A veterinarian can prescribe medicated wipes, specialized shampoos, or targeted allergy medications (like Cytopoint or Apoquel) to break the itch cycle and keep their skin barrier healthy. **What your vet will monitor:** - The health of the skin deep within the facial and tail folds. - Signs of systemic yeast or bacterial overgrowth. - Allergy triggers and the effectiveness of management plans. ## 4. Spinal Abnormalities and Joint Disorders ### Hemivertebrae The signature tightly curled tail of a Pug is undeniably cute, but it is actually the result of a deliberate genetic spinal deformity. The bones that make up the tail are essentially fused, misshapen vertebrae. Unfortunately, this genetic trait doesn’t always isolate itself to just the tail. Many Pugs are born with hemivertebrae (wedge-shaped or malformed vertebrae) further up their spine. While some dogs live with this without issue, others experience severe spinal cord compression as they grow. This can lead to pain, a wobbly gait in the hind legs, and in severe cases, partial or total paralysis. Regular neurological and orthopedic assessments by a veterinarian are essential to track your Pug’s spinal health over time. ### Patellar Luxation This is a condition where the dog’s kneecap frequently slips out of its natural groove, causing a sudden skip in their step or chronic lameness. Catching joint instability early allows your vet to recommend joint supplements, targeted physical therapy, or, if necessary, surgical correction before severe arthritis sets in. **What your vet will monitor:** - Gait abnormalities or signs of hind-limb weakness. - Kneecap stability during physical exams. - Spinal pain or rigidity during routine palpation. ## 5. Obesity and Dental Disease ### Obesity Perhaps the most common—and entirely preventable—health crisis facing purebred Pugs is severe obesity. Pugs are famously food-motivated and will happily eat far beyond their caloric needs. When you combine an insatiable appetite with a reduced capacity for exercise (due to their compromised breathing), you have a perfect recipe for rapid weight gain. Obesity is incredibly dangerous for a Pug. Extra weight puts severe strain on their already vulnerable joints and spine. More critically, excess fat around the chest and neck exacerbates their breathing issues, turning mild BAOS into a life-threatening airway obstruction. ### Dental Disease Because their jaws are so short, a Pug’s teeth are often severely crowded, rotated, or overlapping. This crowding traps plaque and tartar rapidly, leading to periodontal disease at a much younger age than other breeds. Dental infections don’t just cause bad breath and tooth loss; the bacteria from the mouth enters the bloodstream and can cause irreversible damage to the heart, liver, and kidneys. Your vet is vital for managing both weight and oral health, offering customized diet plans and performing routine dental cleanings under safe, closely monitored anesthesia. **What your vet will monitor:** - Body Condition Score (BCS) to ensure a healthy, lean weight. - Plaque buildup, gingivitis, and hidden tooth root abscesses. - The systemic impact of diet and oral health on internal organs. ## Proactive Care is the Best Medicine Owning a purebred Pug is a deeply rewarding experience. They offer a level of companionship, humor, and loyalty that is hard to match. However, their unique physical structure demands a highly proactive approach to their healthcare. You cannot wait for a Pug to show obvious signs of distress, because by the time a Pug stops eating or stops playing, they are usually in critical condition. Regular, comprehensive veterinary exams allow you to stay ahead of the curve. By managing their breathing efficiency, protecting their delicate eyes, keeping their skin folds clean, monitoring their spine, and maintaining a strict, healthy weight, you can help your Pug avoid unnecessary pain. Your Pug gives you their whole heart, and they rely entirely on you to protect their health. Don’t wait for a crisis to start building a relationship with a trusted veterinary team. Ensure your Pug lives their longest, healthiest, and happiest life. Call Crestway Animal Clinic at 210-657-6747 today to schedule a comprehensive wellness exam tailored to your dog’s unique needs. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Tips for Managing Your Pet’s Weight Effectively](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/tips-for-managing-your-pets-weight-effectively/) **Published:** December 15, 2024 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** Let’s be honest: chubby pets are undeniably cute. Those round bellies and squishy faces are hard to resist. But while a little extra fluff might make for adorable photos, it can have a serious impact on your pet’s health. Overweight pets face a higher risk of developing conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and even certain types of cancer. Just like in people, carrying too much weight can also shorten your pet’s lifespan. We at Crestway Animal Clinic understand how much you care for and love your pets. For this reason, we’re offering helpful, kind tips to help you properly control your pet’s weight without turning your house into a permanent diet camp. Let’s take a closer look at ways to keep your pet healthy and happy. ## Know What a Healthy Weight Looks Like Knowing what a healthy weight is is the first step in controlling your pet’s weight. The number on the scale isn’t all that matters. The recommended weight range for each breed varies, and a Body Condition Score (BCS) is the most accurate method of assessing your pet. This entails determining whether your pet has a noticeable waist when viewed from above, whether you can readily feel their ribs without applying too much pressure, and whether their abdominal area has a natural tuck when viewed from the side. If you’re not sure, don’t worry; we can simply check this at a routine exam. ## Measure Meals It’s really easy to overfeed pets, especially if we just eyeball their meals. Perhaps your pet needs more than “just one scoop.” Accurately portion your pet’s food using a kitchen scale or measuring cup rather than relying on guesswork. Start by looking at the food label’s feeding recommendations, but keep in mind that these are usually estimations. Your veterinarian can assist in determining the appropriate daily caloric intake for your pet based on factors such as breed, size, age, activity level, and desired weight. Treats should make up only a small portion of your pet’s daily calories, ideally no more than 10 percent. ## Ditch the Free-Feeding Convenient as it may be, leaving a full bowl out all day encourages overeating, particularly in [cats and small dogs](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/). Instead, switch to one or two scheduled meals per day. In addition to helping with portion control, this lets you keep an eye on how much your pet eats and spot any changes in appetite that might be early warning indicators of disease. Additionally, regular feeding makes life easier for everyone by fostering consistent potty habits. ## Choose the Right Food Giving your pet a nutritious, suitable diet is essential. Certain pet feeds that are labeled as “natural” or “premium” may nonetheless be heavy in calories or deficient in vital nutrients because not all pet foods are made equal. Whether your pet is a growing puppy or kitten, an energetic adult, or a slower-moving senior, make sure the food is labeled as “complete and balanced” and suitable for their life stage. Your veterinarian may suggest a weight-management formula or even a prescription diet for pets that need to lose weight. These diets are made to help pets lose fat while keeping lean muscle mass. ## Incorporate Exercise Pets require physical activity to keep healthy, just like people do. Dogs may benefit from daily walks, outings to the dog park, or even backyard fetch sessions. Hours of vigorous exercise are not necessary; even 20 to 30 minutes a day can have a significant impact. For indoor cats, exercise may take a slightly different form. Use cardboard boxes, feather wands, or even laser toys to promote mental and physical activity. Some cats like to scale towers or solve interactive feeding puzzles that require them to exert some effort to get their food. ## Use Food Puzzles or Slow Feeders Many pets eat their food in seconds. That might seem normal, but fast eating can lead to issues like choking, gas, and unnecessary weight gain. Slow feeders or food puzzles are great tools to help your pet eat more slowly and feel full sooner. They also provide mental stimulation, which is especially helpful for pets that tend to get bored during the day. Mealtime can become both fun and beneficial with the right feeding tools. ## Watch Those Treats and Table Scraps Giving treats is one of the best parts of having a pet. But those treats can add up quickly in calories. Instead of giving multiple large treats a day, try offering tiny pieces or even using part of their regular kibble as a reward. If you want to switch it up, consider healthy alternatives like small bits of carrots, green beans, or plain cooked chicken. As tempting as it may be to share your dinner, it’s best to avoid giving your pet table scraps. Foods high in fat, sugar, or salt can be harmful and add unnecessary calories that derail their weight goals. ## Track Progress (But Be Patient) Helping your pet lose weight is a long-term effort that requires consistency. You should strive for a small, consistent decrease, often one to two percent of your pet’s body weight per week. Rapid weight loss, particularly in cats, can be harmful and may result in liver problems. Keep track of your pet’s weight, activity level, and dietary preferences. Celebrate small victories, such as getting into an old harness or having more energy for outings. These are indications that your hard work is paying off. ## Partner with Your Veterinarian You don’t have to go it alone. Your veterinarian is your best resource when it comes to managing your pet’s weight. During a wellness exam, we can evaluate your pet’s body condition, rule out underlying health issues, and work with you to develop a realistic weight management plan. Some pets gain weight due to hormonal imbalances, reduced mobility, or medications. A professional assessment ensures you’re treating the right issue, not just the symptoms. We’ll also monitor your pet’s progress over time and make adjustments as needed. ## Make It a Family Effort Consistency is key, and it takes a team to stick to a healthy routine. Ensure that everyone in your household understands what must be done. That means no sneaky table scraps under the dinner table and no “secret treats” from well-meaning family members. Post a feeding chart on the fridge if needed, so everyone knows what your pet has eaten that day. When the whole family works together, your pet’s chances of success go way up. ## Final Thoughts: A Healthy Pet Is a Happy Pet Helping your pet reach and maintain a healthy weight is one of the most loving things you can do. It may take a bit of planning, some consistency, and the occasional tough moment when you say “no” to begging eyes, but the payoff is worth it. Your pet will have more energy, fewer health issues, and potentially even more years to spend with you. Crestway Animal Clinic is dedicated to keeping pets healthy, including helping them maintain a healthy weight. Whether you need diet advice, want to talk about fitness regimens, or believe your pet is at risk for weight-related problems, we’re here to help. To schedule a visit, please call us at (210) 657-6747 or visit [www.crestway-animal-clinic.com](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com). **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [How to Prepare Your Pet for a Veterinary Visit](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-prepare-your-pet-for-a-veterinary-visit/) **Published:** January 15, 2025 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** To ensure the health and wellness of your pet, it’s necessary to bring them to the vet regularly. Unfortunately, this can be very stressful for them. However, this isn’t surprising, since every time they visit the veterinary clinic, they’re either stuck with a needle, prodded, or poked. Nevertheless, veterinary visits are essential. Here, we’re going to give you some tips on how to make your pet’s vet visits less stressful for them. ## Why Handling Exercises Are Crucial It would be ideal if your puppy had a positive encounter with a veterinarian before you brought them home. Most often, breeders will bring their puppies to vets. But regardless of whether your pet is old or young, they should learn how to accept restraint and examination, which can greatly help reduce their anxiety every time they visit the vet. You can begin by introducing them to handling exercises. If your pet feels comfortable with your touch, then try to massage them daily or each time they seem tired. Massage their tail, belly, mouth, ears, and paws, since these are the areas vets usually examine during a checkup. Most importantly, don’t forget to give them treats and praise. This way, they can associate these handling exercises with positive rewards. Later, try to become more invasive. For instance, practice gentle restraint or squeeze their paws lightly to help them prepare for the actual examination. If it seems like your pet is resistant to touching, then you can be more strategic. Keep in mind that your main objective is to create a positive emotional response. It can be helpful to give them a treat every time you touch them. At the start, you can give them a treat while touching a body part simultaneously to distract your pet. As your furry friend becomes more comfortable with it, you can touch them first before giving the treat. For instance, touch your pet’s ears, then stop and give them a treat. Afterward, touch the dog’s ears briefly, then give them a treat. Then later, touch the pet’s ears for just one second, then give them a treat. Keep doing this until you can finally examine under the ear comfortably. ## Training Can Contribute to Stress-Free Vet Visits Besides the handling exercises, there are other training practices that can be useful when visiting the vet. Start by teaching your pet how to stand on command. This is because it’s easier for the vet to examine your pet when they’re standing rather than lying down in a collapsed position and being uncooperative. Getting them into a standing position is easier when it comes with rewards and lures. While your dog is sitting down, place a treat near their nose, then gently lift it and lure them to stand up. After teaching them to stand, the next step is to train them to stay in that position. You can also train your pet to go to their bed or mat on command. Simply tell them to “Go to your place.” Although this command isn’t specifically intended for the vet, training them with this behavior helps develop positive associations between the reward and the mat. As a result, the mat becomes your pet’s safe space. So when you go to the vet, be sure to bring the mat with you. This can make them feel more comfortable while lying down or standing up. Another helpful tip is to train your dog in nose targeting. When you tell them to “Touch,” they’ll immediately direct their nose to your palm. Keep in mind that wherever your pet’s nose goes, their body and head follow. Hence, the “touch” command can be used whenever you want to position your dog more conveniently for the vet. Most importantly, this is a behavior that your dog enjoys since they receive a reward instantly. So every time your pet needs to be examined or a procedure needs to be performed, nose targeting can be an excellent way to distract them. For smaller dogs, it’s best to train them to feel comfortable on elevated surfaces. This is because vets will most likely examine smaller dogs on the examining table. You can start by placing them on a coffee table or something lower, then gradually move to taller surfaces. To develop positive associations, place tasty treats on each elevation. For your dog’s safety and stability, put a non-slip surface on the table. Keep a hand on them in case they plan to jump off the table. ## Make Your Veterinary Visit a Fun Experience Most of the time, your pet will only visit the vet for an examination or when they’re not feeling well. That’s why over time they could develop negative feelings toward the clinic. So how about making your veterinary visit a fun experience? Rather than making the vet clinic a place for prodding and poking, make it a place for petting and treats. Talk to your vet and ask if you can visit their clinic just to let your dog say hello to the staff. Be sure to contact them beforehand so you’ll know what the protocols are. During your visit, allow the staff to pet your dog while giving them delicious treats. You can stay in the lobby for a while and give your dog treats. This way, they can associate the treats with the familiar smell of the vet clinic. Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that your pet can’t predict when you’re going to the vet clinic. If they can, then your pet’s stress will start as soon as they get in the car. Before heading to the vet clinic, take your pet to other places, like the dog park. This way, it will seem like they’re just going out for fun. ## Bring the Appropriate Tools to the Vet By bringing the proper tools with you, your visit to the vet clinic will be more comfortable for everyone. Start by packing some of your pet’s favorite treats. You can distract your pet by feeding them while they’re undergoing examination with the vet. Additionally, this helps develop positive associations with the clinic experience. Another way to divert your dog’s attention is to let them play with their favorite toys. This way, their focus won’t be on the needle or other uncomfortable procedures. If you have an anxious dog, you can try giving them calming treats or pheromone treatments. These can help keep your dog more relaxed during the visit. You can also choose to [schedule appointments](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/?elementor_library=schedule-appointment) when the clinic isn’t too busy to reduce additional stress from crowded waiting areas. Lastly, if you’re still having difficulties with vet appointments, it’s recommended that you discuss this with your veterinarian. It’s essential that they can obtain a complete examination without causing your pet excessive stress. Crestway Animal Clinic can provide your pet with the best care possible. To book an appointment, you may call us at 210-657-6747. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Protect Your Pet’s Smile: Recognizing Early Dental Issues Before They Become Serious](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/protect-your-pets-smile-recognizing-early-dental-issues-before-they-become-serious/) **Published:** February 15, 2025 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** As pet owners, we cherish the joy and company of our beloved friends. However, their health, particularly their dental health, is often overlooked. If treatment is not received, pets with dental problems may become uncomfortable, have trouble eating, and develop even more serious health concerns. Recognizing the early warning signs of dental issues is crucial for your pet’s health. ## **Why Pet Dental Health Matters** According to studies, approximately 70-80% of [dogs and cats](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) over the age of three have evidence of dental illness. This makes it one of the most common medical disorders encountered in companion animals. If left untreated, small plaque buildup can swiftly progress to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and other serious consequences. Pets with untreated dental problems frequently experience chronic pain and discomfort, which makes daily tasks like eating and playing more challenging. Severe dental disease can cause abscesses, tooth loss, and jawbone damage over time. Worse, harmful bacteria from inflamed gums can enter the bloodstream and endanger vital organs like the kidneys, liver, and heart. Advanced dental issues can have a substantial financial impact in addition to the physical effects on your pet. Professional extractions, cleanings, and secondary infection therapy are frequently more costly and complicated after the condition has progressed. For this reason, routine dental care and early preventive are not only advised but also necessary. ## **Common Causes of Dental Problems in Pets** There are several contributing factors to dental problems in pets, many of which can be managed with proper care and attention. One of the most significant causes is poor oral hygiene. Without regular brushing or dental maintenance, plaque and tartar quickly build up on the teeth, leading to inflammation of the gums and the development of periodontal disease. Additionally, some breeds are more likely than others to experience oral problems. Flat-faced (brachycephalic) cat breeds like Persians and Exotic Shorthairs, as well as small dog breeds like Yorkies, Dachshunds, and Chihuahuas, sometimes have crowded or misplaced teeth that make them more prone to gum disease and plaque buildup. Diet and chewing habits also have an impact. Pets who eat soft food or do not have access to dental [chews or safe chew toys](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/choosing-a-proper-chew-toy-for-your-dog/) miss out on the natural abrasive activity that helps clean their teeth. Finally, failing to schedule frequent veterinary check-ups can allow minor issues to go unreported. Routine dental checkups allow your veterinarian to detect early signs of concern before they become painful or costly issues. ### **Early Signs of Dental Issues in Pets** By identifying dental issues early on, more significant consequences can be avoided. Here are a few signs to look out for: #### **Persistent Bad Breath (Halitosis)** While occasional bad breath is normal, persistent foul-smelling breath is often one of the first signs of dental disease. This odor is typically caused by bacteria buildup in the mouth, leading to periodontal disease or an underlying infection. #### **Excessive Drooling** An increase in drooling could indicate tooth pain or irritation. If your pet begins drooling more frequently than normal, particularly if it is accompanied by a foul odor or blood-tinged saliva, it may indicate an oral tumor or infection. #### **Difficulty Eating or Chewing** Your pet may be having dental pain if they chew on one side of their mouth, drop food, or hesitate to eat. This pain can be caused by things like loose teeth or inflamed gums, which makes eating uncomfortable. #### **Swollen or Bleeding Gums** Healthy gums should be pink and firm. If you detect redness, swelling, or bleeding in your pet’s mouth, particularly when he or she eats or chews, it could be a sign of gingivitis or severe periodontal disease. #### **Pawing at the Mouth or Face** Pets who have oral discomfort frequently try to relieve the pain by rubbing their faces against furniture or the floor or pawing at their mouths. This behavior makes it obvious that something is wrong and calls for a visit to the vet. #### **Visible Tartar or Plaque** A quick inspection of your pet’s teeth can reveal yellow or brown tartar buildup, particularly near the gum line. This hardened plaque can irritate the gums and lead to more severe dental issues if not addressed. #### **Behavioral Changes** Pets with dental pain may become withdrawn or agitated. If your normally sociable pet starts acting aggressively or becomes less social, it could be because of dental discomfort. #### **Loose or Missing Teeth** Teeth loss is not normal for adult pets. A tooth that is missing or loose indicates significant dental disease or damage. Immediate veterinary care is necessary for this situation to avoid more complications. ## **Long-Term Consequences of Ignored Dental Problems** If pet dental issues are not addressed, they can affect your pet’s general health and quality of life in ways that go beyond simply their mouth. Chronic oral pain is one of the most obvious effects, which can make it difficult for your pet to comfortably eat, play, or even sleep. More serious infections, such as abscesses or dental root infections, can develop swiftly from minor gum irritation. These infections can then travel through the bloodstream, delivering deadly bacteria to crucial organs including the heart, liver, and kidneys. This can lead to major consequences such as endocarditis or organ failure, especially in elderly or medically susceptible animals. Pets with untreated dental illness may lose significant weight, change how they act, and have less energy over time, all of which are symptoms of poor health. Finally, ignoring dental conditions causes unneeded suffering for your pet and can shorten their longevity and lower their quality of life. Prioritizing dental care is one of the most basic but effective methods to keep your pet happy and healthy for years to come. ### **Preventing Dental Issues in Pets** Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some steps you can take to maintain your pet’s dental health: - **Regular Brushing**: Regularly brush your pet’s teeth with a soft-bristled brush and pet-safe toothpaste. - **Dental Chews and Toys**: Offer dental toys and chews that help in lowering the accumulation of tartar and plaque. - **Regular Veterinary Check-ups**: Schedule annual veterinary checkups to check on your pet’s oral health. - **Professional Cleanings**: Professional dental cleanings are required to preserve oral health if tartar buildup is substantial. - **Dietary Considerations**: Feed your pet a well-balanced diet that promotes dental health, and avoid hard treats that can harm teeth. ## **When to Consult a Veterinarian** It’s critical to get in touch with your veterinarian right away if you observe any of the symptoms listed above. Preventing severe dental problems in pets requires early identification and treatment. Your veterinarian is qualified to do a comprehensive dental examination and suggest a suitable course of treatment. Your pet’s smile and general well-being are important to us. It might be time for a checkup if you’ve observed any symptoms of dental problems, including tartar accumulation, trouble eating, or foul breath. Our goal at Crestway Animal Clinic is to make dental care easy, stress-free, and an essential part of your pet’s health routine. Don’t wait until discomfort escalates into a more serious issue. Call us at **210-657-6747** or book an appointment through our [website](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/contact-us/). Together, let’s make sure your pet is content, healthy, and smiling cleanly. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Seasonal Allergies in Pets: Symptoms and Solutions](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/seasonal-allergies-in-pets-symptoms-and-solutions/) **Published:** March 15, 2025 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** Spring arrives with blooming flowers and fresh air, but for many pets, it also brings sneezing, scratching, and discomfort. Just like their human companions, dogs and cats can suffer from seasonal allergies that make them miserable during certain times of the year. If you’ve noticed your furry friend scratching more than usual, licking their paws constantly, or showing signs of skin irritation, seasonal allergies might be the culprit. The good news is that with proper understanding and treatment, you can help your pet feel comfortable again. At Crestway Animal Clinic in San Antonio, Texas, we’ve helped countless pet owners navigate the challenges of seasonal allergies. This comprehensive guide will help you recognize the symptoms and discover effective solutions to keep your pet happy and healthy year-round. ## Understanding Pet Seasonal Allergies Seasonal allergies occur when your pet’s immune system overreacts to common environmental substances. The most frequent triggers include pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, along with mold spores and dust mites that become more prevalent during certain seasons. Unlike humans who primarily experience respiratory symptoms, pets typically show allergic reactions through their skin. This difference makes it crucial for pet owners to watch for specific signs that might indicate seasonal allergies rather than other health issues. Allergies often develop gradually, and pets can become sensitized to allergens over time. A [dog or cat](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) that never had allergies before might suddenly start showing symptoms as they get older or after repeated exposure to certain triggers. ## Recognizing the Warning Signs Knowing what to look for can help you identify seasonal allergies early and seek appropriate treatment. Here are the most [common symptoms to watch for in both dogs](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/understanding-common-vaccinations-for-dogs-and-cats/) and cats: ### Skin-Related Symptoms - **Excessive scratching and biting** – Your pet may scratch, bite, or chew at their skin more frequently than normal. You might notice them focusing on specific areas like their legs, belly, or back. - **Red, inflamed, or infected skin** – Look for areas where the skin appears red, swollen, or irritated. Sometimes you’ll see small bumps, rashes, or even open sores from excessive scratching. - **Unusual shedding patterns** – While all pets shed naturally, allergies can cause increased hair loss or patchy areas where fur has been scratched away. - **Constant paw licking** – Many pets with allergies develop an obsession with licking their paws. You might notice brown staining on light-colored fur from constant licking. - **Anal gland problems** – Some pets will excessively lick or scoot their rear end when allergies cause anal gland irritation. ### Other Notable Signs - **Ear infections** – Dogs especially prone to ear problems may develop red, waxy ears or frequent ear infections during allergy season. - **Respiratory issues** – While less common than skin symptoms, some pets (particularly cats) may experience coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. - **Behavioral changes** – Constant itching and discomfort can make pets irritable, restless, or less interested in their usual activities. ## Effective Treatment Options While there’s no permanent cure for seasonal allergies, several treatments can significantly reduce your pet’s discomfort and improve their quality of life. ### Veterinary Medications **Antihistamines** provide the first line of defense against allergy symptoms. Several human antihistamines are safe for pets when used at appropriate doses: - Benadryl (diphenhydramine) - Claritin (loratadine) - Zyrtec (cetirizine) - Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine) **Important safety note:** Never [give your pet](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-give-your-pet-eye-medication/) medications containing pseudoephedrine (like Claritin-D), as even small amounts can be fatal to dogs. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new medication to ensure proper dosing based on your pet’s weight and health status. These medications work best as preventatives. If you know your pet typically suffers during specific seasons, starting treatment before symptoms appear can prevent severe reactions. **Prescription medications** may be necessary for severe cases. Your veterinarian might prescribe stronger antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs, or short-term steroids like prednisone for particularly bad flare-ups. ### Natural and At-Home Remedies - **Topical treatments** can provide immediate relief for itchy skin. Veterinarian-approved anti-itch sprays and creams offer temporary comfort and [give your pet](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-give-your-pet-eye-medication/) a break from constant scratching. Always choose products specifically designed for pets, as human products can be toxic or ineffective for animals. - **Regular bathing** helps remove allergens from your pet’s skin and coat. Use oatmeal-based shampoos designed for pets, as these help moisturize skin and reduce inflammation. Remember that pets have different pH levels than humans, so human products can actually worsen skin irritation. - **Quick cleanup routines** can make a big difference. After outdoor time, wipe your pet’s paws, legs, and coat with pet-safe, fragrance-free wipes or a damp cloth. This simple step removes pollen and other allergens before they can cause reactions. - **Omega fatty acid supplements** support healthy skin and coat while reducing inflammation. Fish oil supplements are particularly effective and can help make your pet’s coat shinier and healthier overall. - **Local honey** offers a unique approach for dogs (never give honey to cats). Since local honey contains small amounts of the same pollens causing allergies, regular consumption may help dogs build tolerance over time. While scientific evidence remains mixed, honey is a safe, tasty treat that won’t harm your dog. ### Environmental Management - **Reduce exposure** to known allergens whenever possible. During high pollen days, limit outdoor time and keep windows closed. Use air conditioning instead of opening windows to maintain comfortable temperatures. - **Maintain clean indoor environments** by vacuuming regularly, washing your pet’s bedding frequently, and using air purifiers if necessary. These steps help reduce indoor allergen levels. - **Time outdoor activities** strategically. Pollen counts are typically highest in the early morning and early evening, so planning walks and playtime during midday hours can reduce exposure. ## Professional Treatment Options For severe or persistent allergies, your veterinarian might recommend more advanced treatments: - **Allergy testing** can identify specific triggers affecting your pet. This information helps create targeted treatment plans and allows you to better manage your pet’s environment. - **Immunotherapy (allergy shots)** offers long-term relief by gradually desensitizing your pet to specific allergens. This treatment requires patience, as improvement typically takes six months to a year, but can provide significant long-term benefits. - **Prescription medications** including stronger antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs, or immunosuppressive medications may be necessary for severe cases. ## When to Seek Professional Help While many allergy symptoms can be managed at home, certain situations require veterinary attention: - Symptoms persist despite treatment - Skin becomes severely inflamed or infected - Your pet develops respiratory problems - Behavioral changes suggest significant discomfort - You’re unsure whether symptoms indicate allergies or another condition Remember that other conditions like flea allergies, food allergies, skin infections, or parasites can cause similar symptoms. A veterinary examination helps ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. ## Maintaining Long-Term Comfort Managing seasonal allergies requires ongoing attention and care. Develop a routine that includes regular grooming, environmental management, and prompt treatment when symptoms appear. Keep detailed records of when symptoms occur, what treatments work best, and any triggers you identify. This information helps you and your veterinarian develop the most [effective management](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/tips-for-managing-your-pets-weight-effectively/) strategy for your pet’s specific needs. Most importantly, stay patient and consistent with treatment. Allergy management is often a process of trial and adjustment to find what works best for your individual pet. ## Expert Care in San Antonio If your pet is struggling with seasonal allergies, professional veterinary care can make all the difference. At Crestway Animal Clinic, our experienced team has been helping San Antonio pets feel their best for over 31 years. We offer comprehensive allergy evaluation and treatment services, including medication management, environmental counseling, and advanced treatment options when needed. Our goal is to help your pet live comfortably despite seasonal challenges. Don’t let seasonal allergies diminish your pet’s quality of life. Contact Crestway Animal Clinic today at 210-657-6747 to schedule a consultation. Our caring team is ready to help your furry family member find relief and return to their happy, healthy self. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Understanding Common Vaccinations for Dogs and Cats](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/understanding-common-vaccinations-for-dogs-and-cats/) **Published:** April 15, 2025 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is one of life’s greatest joys, but it also comes with important responsibilities. One of the most crucial steps in protecting your new furry family member is ensuring they receive proper vaccinations. Just like humans, pets can contract serious diseases that may be prevented through vaccination. As a responsible pet owner, understanding which vaccines your [dog or cat](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) needs and when they need them can mean the difference between a healthy, happy pet and costly medical emergencies. At Crestway Animal Clinic in San Antonio, Texas, we’ve helped pet owners navigate vaccination decisions for over 31 years. This comprehensive guide will help you understand everything you need to know about keeping your pets protected through proper vaccination. ## Understanding Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines When discussing pet vaccinations, veterinarians classify them into two main categories: core and non-core vaccines. Understanding this distinction helps you make informed decisions about your pet’s health care needs. ### Core Vaccines: Essential Protection Core vaccines are considered absolutely essential for all dogs and cats, regardless of their lifestyle or living situation. These vaccines protect against diseases that are extremely contagious, pose serious health risks, or can be transmitted to humans. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that all puppies and kittens receive core vaccines during their early months of life. These diseases can strike at any time during your pet’s lifetime, but young animals face the highest risk of severe complications or death. ### Non-Core Vaccines: Lifestyle-Based Protection Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your pet’s specific lifestyle, geographic location, and risk of exposure to certain diseases. Your veterinarian will assess factors like whether your pet spends time outdoors, visits boarding facilities, or lives in areas where specific diseases are common. For example, if you live in an area with high tick populations, your veterinarian might strongly recommend Lyme disease vaccination for your dog. Similarly, pets that frequently stay at boarding facilities may need additional respiratory vaccines. ## Essential Core Vaccines for Dogs Understanding what each vaccine protects against helps you appreciate their importance in your dog’s health care routine. ### Rabies Vaccination Rabies stands as one of the most serious viral diseases affecting mammals. This deadly virus attacks the nervous system and spreads through the saliva of infected animals. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal, making prevention through vaccination absolutely critical. Rabies vaccination is not only essential for your pet’s health but is also required by law in most areas. This legal requirement exists because rabies can transmit from animals to humans, making it a significant public health concern. ### Distemper Protection Canine distemper is a viral disease that causes severe respiratory problems, eye inflammation, and damage to the central nervous system. While not always fatal, distemper can have devastating effects, especially on puppies under three months old and senior dogs over six years. This highly contagious disease spreads through airborne droplets from infected animals. Vaccination provides reliable protection against this serious threat to your dog’s health. ### Parvovirus Prevention Parvovirus, commonly called “parvo,” ranks among the most dangerous diseases affecting dogs. This highly transmissible virus causes severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and rapid dehydration that can quickly become life-threatening. Parvo spreads through contact with infected feces, contaminated objects, or even on people’s shoes and clothing. The virus can survive in the environment for months, making vaccination the most effective protection available. ### Canine Hepatitis Canine hepatitis is a viral disease that can affect dogs of any age. It spreads through direct contact with infected animals or indirect contact with contaminated items like food bowls, toys, or bedding. This disease can cause liver damage, eye problems, and respiratory issues. Vaccination provides excellent protection against this potentially serious condition. ## Important Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs While not required for every dog, these vaccines may be recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors: - **Bordetella bronchiseptica** – Often called “kennel cough,” this vaccine is typically required for dogs that visit boarding facilities, doggy daycare, or grooming salons. - **Canine influenza virus** – Recommended for dogs with high social exposure or those living in areas with known outbreaks. - **Leptospirosis** – Important for dogs that spend time outdoors, especially near water sources where this bacterial infection is more common. - **Lyme disease** – Crucial for dogs living in or traveling to areas with high tick populations. ## Essential Core Vaccines for Cats Cats face their own set of serious viral diseases that vaccination can prevent effectively. ### Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper) Despite its name, feline distemper is completely different from canine distemper. This highly contagious viral disease causes severe vomiting and diarrhea that can quickly lead to life-threatening dehydration. Panleukopenia spreads through direct contact with infected cats or their waste, as well as through contaminated objects. The disease poses the greatest threat to kittens, but cats of any age can be affected. ### Feline Calicivirus This respiratory virus causes upper respiratory infections in cats, leading to symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and mouth ulcers. Feline calicivirus spreads through direct contact with infected cats or contaminated objects like food dishes and litter boxes. While often not fatal, this virus can cause significant discomfort and may lead to complications, especially in young or elderly cats. ### Feline Herpesvirus Type 1 Also known as rhinotracheitis, this virus is one of the most common causes of upper respiratory infections in cats. It can affect the eyes, causing conjunctivitis, and may range from mild to severe or even fatal in some cases. The virus transmits through direct contact with infected cats and their respiratory secretions, making vaccination an important preventive measure. ## Non-Core Vaccines for Cats Your veterinarian may recommend these vaccines based on your cat’s specific risk factors: - **Bordetella** – For cats in high-stress environments or those with frequent exposure to other cats. - **Chlamydophila felis** – May be recommended for cats in multi-cat households or shelters. - **Feline immunodeficiency virus** – For cats at high risk of exposure through fighting or outdoor living. - **Feline leukemia virus** – Important for outdoor cats or those living with infected cats. ## Vaccination Schedules and Frequency Vaccination schedules vary depending on several factors, including your pet’s age, health status, and lifestyle. Puppies and kittens typically need a series of vaccines starting at 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters given every 3-4 weeks until they’re about 16 weeks old. Adult pets generally need annual or triennial boosters, depending on the specific vaccine and your pet’s risk factors. Your veterinarian will create a customized vaccination schedule that provides optimal protection for your individual pet. ## Understanding Vaccine Side Effects Most pets tolerate vaccines well, but mild side effects can occur. Normal reactions include: - Decreased activity and appetite for 24-48 hours - Mild discomfort or swelling at the injection site - Low-grade fever For intranasal vaccines, [pets may develop mild respiratory symptoms](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/seasonal-allergies-in-pets-symptoms-and-solutions/) like coughing, sneezing, or runny nose within 2-5 days of vaccination. Contact your veterinarian if side effects persist beyond two days or if your pet seems significantly uncomfortable. Severe allergic reactions are rare but require immediate veterinary attention. ## The Science Behind Vaccine Protection Vaccines work by training your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight specific diseases. They contain modified versions of viruses or bacteria that stimulate antibody production without causing illness. When your vaccinated pet encounters the actual disease, their immune system quickly recognizes the threat and produces antibodies to eliminate it before serious illness develops. This process either prevents disease entirely or significantly reduces its severity. ## Why Vaccination Matters Proper vaccination protects not only your pet but also the broader animal community. Here’s why vaccination is so important: - **Disease prevention** – Vaccines have prevented millions of animal deaths over the past century, dramatically reducing the incidence of once-common fatal diseases. - **Cost savings** – Preventing disease through vaccination costs far less than treating serious illnesses that vaccines could have prevented. - **Public health protection** – Many animal diseases can transmit to humans. Vaccinating pets helps protect human health as well. - **Community requirements** – Most boarding facilities, daycare centers, and training classes require current vaccinations to protect all animals in their care. - **Legal compliance** – Local and state laws typically require rabies vaccination for all dogs and cats. ## Making Vaccination Decisions Work closely with your veterinarian to determine which vaccines your pet needs. Factors to consider include: - Your pet’s age and health status - Lifestyle and exposure risks - Local disease prevalence - Travel plans - Boarding or daycare needs Remember that vaccination requirements may change as your pet ages or if their lifestyle changes. Regular veterinary checkups ensure your pet’s vaccination status remains appropriate for their current situation. ## Professional Vaccination Services in San Antonio Protecting your pet through proper vaccination requires professional veterinary care and expertise. At Crestway Animal Clinic, our experienced team provides comprehensive vaccination services tailored to each pet’s individual needs. We take time to discuss your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors, helping you make informed decisions about their vaccination needs. Our goal is ensuring your furry family member receives optimal protection while avoiding unnecessary vaccines. Whether you have a new puppy or kitten needing their first vaccine series or an adult pet due for boosters, we’re here to help. Contact Crestway Animal Clinic today at 210-657-6747 to schedule your pet’s vaccination appointment. Don’t wait to protect your pet from preventable diseases. Call us today and give your furry friend the gift of lifelong health through proper vaccination. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [The Complete Pet Owner's Guide to Preparing Your Pet for Surgery: Essential Steps for Success](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/the-complete-pet-owners-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-surgery-essential-steps-for-success/) **Published:** May 16, 2025 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** When your veterinarian recommends surgery for your beloved pet, it’s natural to feel anxious and uncertain about what lies ahead. Surgery can be stressful for both pets and their owners, but proper preparation can make a significant difference in ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort throughout the entire process. Understanding how to prepare your pet for surgery is crucial for minimizing risks, reducing complications, and promoting faster healing. From pre-surgical blood tests to post-operative care planning, each step plays a vital role in your pet’s successful surgery and recovery. If you’re a [pet owner](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/microchipping-your-pet-facts-every-owner-should-know/) in San Antonio, Texas, facing the prospect of pet surgery, knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help ease your concerns and ensure the best possible outcome for your furry family member. At Crestway Animal Clinic, we’ve guided countless pet owners through the surgical process over our 31 years of veterinary experience. We understand that proper preparation is essential for surgical success and want to help you feel confident and prepared for your pet’s upcoming procedure. ## Essential Pre-Surgery Preparations Proper [preparation begins days or even weeks before your pet](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-prepare-your-pet-for-a-veterinary-visit/)‘s surgery date. Understanding and following these critical steps helps ensure your pet is in optimal condition for a safe surgical experience. ### Step 1: Pre-Surgical Blood Testing Before any surgical procedure, your veterinarian will require comprehensive blood tests to evaluate your pet’s overall health and determine if they can safely undergo anesthesia. This testing is crucial because pets may appear healthy on the outside while harboring serious internal health issues that could cause dangerous complications during surgery. **Blood tests evaluate several critical factors:** **Red and white blood cell counts** help assess your pet’s immune system function and ability to fight infection during the healing process. **Platelet levels** determine your pet’s blood clotting ability, which is essential for controlling bleeding during surgery and proper wound healing afterward. **Protein levels** indicate your pet’s nutritional status and ability to heal properly, as proteins are essential for tissue repair and blood clotting. **Electrolyte balance** affects heart stability under anesthesia, making this measurement crucial for surgical safety. **Liver and kidney function** determines how well your pet can process anesthesia and medications, influencing dosage decisions and safety protocols. ### Interpreting Test Results If blood tests reveal any abnormalities, your veterinarian can take preventive measures to protect your pet during surgery. This might include administering IV fluids, adjusting medication dosages, or modifying anesthesia protocols to accommodate your pet’s specific needs. In non-emergency situations, surgery may be postponed if serious health issues are discovered. For example, if blood tests show elevated liver values, your veterinarian might recommend additional testing like ultrasound to identify underlying problems that need addressing before surgery can proceed safely. ### Step 2: Medication Management Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions about your pet’s current medications and whether they should be continued or discontinued before surgery. This guidance is crucial for preventing dangerous drug interactions with anesthesia and ensuring optimal surgical conditions. **Pre-surgical medications may include:** - Anti-anxiety medications to reduce stress - Anti-nausea drugs to prevent vomiting during anesthesia - Pain management medications to improve comfort - Antibiotics to prevent infection Follow your veterinarian’s medication instructions precisely, as deviating from these guidelines can compromise your pet’s safety during surgery. ### Step 3: Rest and Energy Conservation Just like humans, pets need adequate rest before undergoing surgery. Anesthesia and surgical procedures place significant stress on your pet’s body, requiring energy reserves for recovery and healing. **The day before surgery, ensure your pet:** - Gets plenty of rest and sleep - Avoids strenuous exercise or play - Enjoys calm, quiet activities - Spends relaxing time with family members This rest period helps your pet conserve energy that will be needed for recovery and healing after the surgical procedure. ### Step 4: Following Veterinary Instructions Your veterinarian will provide detailed instructions, either written or verbal, covering all aspects of pre-surgical preparation. These instructions are designed to ensure your pet’s safety and the success of the surgical procedure. **Common pre-surgical instructions include:** - Fasting requirements and timeline - Medication schedules and modifications - Bathing and grooming requirements - Transportation arrangements - Emergency contact information Failure to follow these instructions can result in surgery postponement or increased risk of complications, so it’s essential to understand and comply with all guidelines. ## Weeks Before Surgery: Long-Term Preparation Optimal surgical preparation often begins weeks before the actual procedure, allowing time for health optimization and necessary adjustments. ### Comprehensive Health Assessment Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination and health history review to identify any factors that might affect surgical success or recovery. **Health assessment includes:** - Review of previous surgeries and complications - Discussion of past injuries or health problems - Evaluation of current treatments and medications - Assessment of behavioral issues that might affect recovery ### Weight Management Considerations If your pet is overweight, your veterinarian may recommend a weight reduction program before surgery. Excess weight increases anesthesia risks, can complicate surgical procedures, and may slow recovery time. Weight management before surgery provides several benefits: - Reduced anesthesia risks - Improved surgical access and visibility - Enhanced mobility during recovery - Faster healing and reduced complications ### Additional Diagnostic Testing Depending on your pet’s age, health status, and the type of surgery planned, your veterinarian may recommend additional diagnostic tests such as: - X-rays to evaluate bone and organ health - Ultrasound to assess internal organs - Electrocardiogram to check heart function - Specialized blood tests for specific conditions ### Pre-Surgical Grooming and Hygiene Schedule a bath or grooming session about a week before surgery to ensure your pet is clean and ready for the procedure. This timing is important because the surgical site must remain dry during healing, preventing bathing for several days or weeks after surgery. ### Vaccination Requirements Your pet should be up-to-date on vaccinations at least two weeks before surgery. This timing allows vaccines to become fully effective, providing maximum protection against diseases your pet might encounter in the veterinary facility. Current vaccinations are particularly important because: - Pets may be exposed to other animals during their hospital stay - Stress from surgery can temporarily weaken immune system function - Proper vaccination protects against common infectious diseases ## Surgery Day Preparation The day of surgery requires careful attention to specific guidelines that ensure your pet’s safety during anesthesia and surgery. ### Fasting Requirements **Food restrictions:** Remove all food by the specified time (typically 8 PM the night before surgery) to ensure your pet has an empty stomach. This prevents vomiting during anesthesia, which could lead to dangerous aspiration. **Water guidelines:** Continue providing fresh water until you leave for the veterinary clinic on surgery day. Proper hydration is important for anesthesia safety and recovery. **Preventing food access:** Keep food items completely out of reach, especially if your pet typically scavenges or steals food. Even small amounts of food can increase surgical risks. ### Transportation Planning Consider your pet’s size, mobility limitations, and post-surgical needs when planning transportation to and from the veterinary clinic. **Transportation considerations:** - Secure carriers or restraints for safety - Comfortable bedding for the return trip - Assistance for large or mobility-impaired pets - Direct routes to minimize travel time and stress ### Arrival and Check-In Arrive at the veterinary clinic at the scheduled time, remaining calm and relaxed to avoid increasing your pet’s stress levels. Clinic staff will be busy with surgical preparations, so punctuality and patience are appreciated. **Day-of-surgery checklist:** - Provide current contact information - Bring any required medications or special items - Confirm emergency contact details - Ask about pick-up times and post-surgical instructions ## Post-Surgery Recovery Planning Preparing your [home for your pet](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/pet-safety-starts-at-home-spotting-everyday-toxins/)‘s return is crucial for supporting proper healing and preventing complications. ### Creating a Recovery Space **Prepare a quiet, comfortable area with:** - Soft, clean bedding - Appropriate-sized crate or confined space - Easy access to water and food - Protection from other pets and household activity ### Recovery Supplies **Gather necessary items before surgery:** - Prescribed medications and administration supplies - Comfortable harness (if recommended) - Protective cone or collar - Soft food appropriate for post-surgical feeding - Clean blankets and towels ### Monitoring and Care Guidelines Your veterinarian will provide detailed post-operative care instructions covering: - Activity restrictions and duration - Feeding guidelines and schedule - Medication administration - Wound care and monitoring - Signs of complications requiring immediate attention ## When to Postpone Surgery Certain conditions require surgery postponement to ensure your pet’s safety: **Symptoms requiring delay:** - Coughing or respiratory symptoms - Sneezing or nasal discharge - Diarrhea or vomiting - Fever or lethargy - Any signs of illness or infection Contact your veterinarian immediately if your [pet develops any of these symptoms](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/seasonal-allergies-in-pets-symptoms-and-solutions/) before scheduled surgery. ## The Importance of Professional Veterinary Care Successful pet surgery depends on working with experienced veterinary professionals who understand the complexities of animal anesthesia and surgical procedures. Proper preparation, combined with skilled veterinary care, provides the best possible outcome for your pet. ## Expert Surgical Care in San Antonio When your pet needs surgery, choosing an experienced veterinary clinic makes all the difference in ensuring a safe, successful procedure and smooth recovery. At Crestway Animal Clinic, our 31 years of veterinary experience have taught us that thorough preparation is the foundation of successful pet surgery. We understand that facing pet surgery can be stressful for both you and your beloved companion. Our experienced team is committed to [guiding you through every step of the preparation](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/your-complete-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-an-ultrasound-what-every-owner-should-know/) process, ensuring you feel confident and informed about your pet’s care. From pre-surgical blood testing and health assessment to post-operative recovery planning, we provide comprehensive support throughout your pet’s surgical journey. Our goal is to make the experience as stress-free as possible while delivering the highest quality surgical care. Whether your pet needs routine dental surgery or more complex procedures, our skilled veterinary team has the expertise and compassion necessary to provide exceptional care. We take pride in helping pets heal and return to their normal, happy lives as quickly and safely as possible. Ready to schedule your [pet’s surgery or have questions about surgical preparation](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-prepare-your-pet-for-a-veterinary-visit/)? Contact Crestway Animal Clinic today at 210-657-6747. Let our experienced team provide the expert surgical care your pet deserves, backed by over three decades of veterinary excellence in San Antonio. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Pet Safety Starts at Home: Spotting Everyday Toxins](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/pet-safety-starts-at-home-spotting-everyday-toxins/) **Published:** June 15, 2025 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** As pet owners, we take every precaution to ensure the safety and happiness of our furry companions. We offer them the most comfortable seat on the couch, buy them high-quality food, take them for walks, and arrange for regular veterinary checkups. However, even with the best of intentions, there could be unspoken threats within our own homes. Everyday items that appear harmless to humans might seriously endanger our pets. Everything from the food on your kitchen counter to the plants near the window might cause your [dog or cat](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) to become ill, or worse. ## The Danger in the Kitchen It’s no secret that pets love to sneak into the kitchen. With the aroma of freshly cooked meals and the occasional crumb on the floor, it’s a paradise for [dogs and curious cats](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/). However, not all foods are safe to share. Take chocolate, for instance. It’s one of the most well-known toxins for dogs, and it can also affect cats. Chocolate contains theobromine, a compound that pets can’t metabolize effectively. Darker chocolate is more harmful. Ingesting even a small amount can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, and in severe cases, seizures or death. Grapes and raisins are another big no-no. Although researchers still aren’t sure what exact compound in grapes causes toxicity, it’s been proven that these fruits can lead to kidney failure in dogs. Some dogs may be more sensitive than others, but it’s never worth the risk. Onions and garlic, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, can damage your pet’s red blood cells and cause anemia. Cats are especially sensitive, but dogs can also be affected if they eat a large enough quantity. You might think chewing gum or sugar-free snacks are safe to leave on a counter, but they often contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs. Xylitol can cause a sudden release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure, and even death. Just one piece of gum can be enough to poison a small dog. ## Cleaning Supplies Aren’t So Clean Although everyone wants to keep their homes tidy, many cleaning products contain chemicals that are [dangerous for pets](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/hidden-holiday-dangers-for-your-pets/). Bleach, ammonia, and phenols can irritate or burn the skin, eyes, and respiratory systems of pets. If your pet walks on a freshly cleaned floor and licks their paws, they could ingest these harmful substances. Even products labeled “natural” or “green” aren’t always safe. Essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, and peppermint are often used in cleaning agents and diffusers, but they can be highly toxic to [cats and dogs](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/). Inhaling or ingesting these oils can lead to drooling, vomiting, tremors, and liver damage. Cats, in particular, lack certain enzymes in their liver that would normally help process these oils, making them more vulnerable. Always read labels and store cleaning supplies safely to protect your pets. Make sure floors and surfaces are [completely dry before allowing pets](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/the-complete-pet-owners-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-surgery-essential-steps-for-success/) back into the area. ## Plants Can Be Pretty Dangerous Although many houseplants can brighten up a space, some of the most common ones can be toxic to pets. Cats are very vulnerable to lilies. Pollen, leaves, or vase water are just a few examples of contaminants that can trigger abrupt renal failure. Even though dogs are less sensitive to lilies, they could still have upset stomachs if they eat them. Other toxic plants include poinsettias, azaleas, tulips, sago palms, and philodendrons. Ingesting any part of these plants can result in symptoms ranging from mild irritation and vomiting to serious organ damage or death. Before bringing home a new plant, do a quick search to see if it’s safe for pets. There are plenty of pet-friendly options out there, like spider plants, bamboo, and African violets. ## Medication Mishaps It is easy to forget that medications intended for humans can be dangerous to animals. Even over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can have major health consequences for pets. Dogs and cats break down medications differently than humans, and even with the best intentions, giving them human medicines can be lethal. Antidepressants, cold medicines, diet pills, and sleep aids are also dangerous. Pets who accidentally ingest these medications may experience rapid heartbeats, high blood pressure, tremors, seizures, and more. Keep all medicine cabinets closed and medications stored in secure containers out of reach. If your pet is prescribed a medication by your vet, follow the dosage exactly as directed. Don’t substitute it with a similar-sounding human drug, even if it seems like the same thing. ## Garage and Yard Hazards The garage and yard can be filled with potential dangers. Antifreeze, for example, is one of the most deadly substances for pets. It has a sweet taste that animals may find appealing, but even a small amount can lead to kidney failure and death. Always clean up spills immediately and store antifreeze containers tightly closed and off the ground. Additionally, yard insecticides and fertilizers might be hazardous. Pets may walk through treated areas and later lick their paws, ingesting toxic chemicals. Certain lawn products contain organophosphates, which are particularly dangerous to animals. In the garage, paint thinners, glues, and motor oils should also be kept well out of reach. Curious noses and paws can easily get into trouble, especially if lids are left loose or items are stored low to the ground. ## Holiday and Seasonal Dangers Certain times of the year present unique risks to pets. Around the holidays, for example, tinsel, ornaments, and holiday lights can be dangerous if chewed or swallowed. Chocolate and baked goods are often more available during this time and should be kept away from curious pets. During summer, watch out for citronella candles, insect repellents, and sunscreen, which may contain harmful ingredients if ingested. In winter, beware of rock salt and de-icing agents that can irritate paws or be ingested when pets groom themselves. Fireworks and loud celebrations can also lead to stress and anxiety, which may cause pets to behave unusually and seek out items to chew or ingest. ## How to Keep Your Pet Safe The best way to protect your pet from toxic household items is awareness. Knowing which products pose a risk and taking simple precautions can go a long way. Store food, medication, and cleaning supplies out of reach. Choose pet-safe plants and keep holiday decor secure. Supervise pets in the garage or yard, and always read labels on new products you bring into the home. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian immediately. Time is critical in poisoning cases, and quick action can save your pet’s life. In addition to needing our love and care, our dogs also depend on us to protect them from potential threats. We can make their surroundings as secure and loving as possible by keeping ourselves informed and implementing a few thoughtful changes at home. Because, in the end, your home is more than just a place for your pet to reside; it is their entire world. Let’s keep it safe. ## Schedule a Wellness Check Today Your home should be a refuge, not a threat. Don’t delay if you are ever doubtful about something your pet has consumed. Crestway Animal Clinic is here to help. Schedule a health exam or toxicology consultation with our compassionate providers now. Call us at 210-657-6747 today. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Flea and Tick Prevention: Why Late Summer Matters Most](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/flea-and-tick-prevention-why-late-summer-matters-most/) **Published:** July 15, 2025 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** While summer is a time for outdoor activities, backyard gatherings, and sunny days, pet parents should also be vigilant for fleas and ticks. While some places have year-round problems with these pests, August is frequently the busiest month for flea and tick infestation. The continued heat and humidity provide the ideal conditions for these microscopic parasites to flourish. This is the perfect moment to increase your pet’s protection if you haven’t already. ## Why Fleas and Ticks Peak in August Ticks and fleas don’t take a summer break. The worst of them usually arrive around August. Tall grasses, bushes, and places with shelter provide plenty of hiding spots, and warm weather keeps them busy. Your pet is more likely to encounter fleas or ticks in late summer than at any other time if they spend time outside or even close to other animals. It’s also a time when many families travel or have guests over, which increases the chance of pets being around unfamiliar places or animals. Even a quick walk through the park can lead to an unwanted hitchhiker latching on. ## The Risks These Pests Bring In addition to being bothersome, fleas and ticks can seriously harm your health. Fleas lead to constant itching, skin infections, and even anemia in small pets. Some pets develop flea allergy dermatitis, which makes the itching even worse. Ticks are even more dangerous. Serious diseases like ehrlichiosis and Lyme disease can be spread by a single bite. The problem is that your [pet may not exhibit symptoms](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/seasonal-allergies-in-pets-symptoms-and-solutions/) immediately. If you experience discomfort or scratching, it may indicate a bite that has already caused harm or a full-blown infestation. ## Prevention Is Easier Than Treatment If you’ve ever tried to get rid of fleas in your home, you’re aware of how quickly they spread and how difficult they are to eliminate. You need to treat the environment as a whole, not just your pet. This includes your floors, furniture, bedding, and even your car. Tick bites can be just as frustrating. You have to check your pet thoroughly, remove any ticks safely, and monitor for symptoms long after the bite. That’s why prevention is always the better option. It’s easier, less stressful, and much more effective. ## How to Protect Your Pet Now At this point in the season, a strong prevention plan matters more than ever. Make sure your pet is on a consistent flea and tick prevention schedule. That could be a monthly chew, topical solution, or collar, depending on your vet’s recommendation and your pet’s needs. Maintain a well-trimmed and clean yard. Mow regularly, remove debris, and do not allow pets to roam into dense vegetation or woods. Wash pet bedding and vacuum frequently, especially in places where your pet spends most of their time. If you’re going on vacation or leaving your pet in a boarding facility, double-check that they’re up to date on all their parasite preventives. A kennel or pet sitter might be caring for several animals, and that increases the risk of exposure. ## Don’t Rely on Just One Method Flea and tick prevention works best when you use a combination of efforts. A chewable may protect your dog, but if your backyard is full of pests, there’s still a chance of exposure. Likewise, if your indoor cat picks up a flea that hitches a ride on your clothes, a flea collar alone may not be enough. Talk to your vet about layering your [pet’s protection](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/protect-your-pets-smile-recognizing-early-dental-issues-before-they-become-serious/). This might mean pairing a chew with a repellent spray during hikes or adding an outdoor yard treatment in heavy seasons like August. Your vet can help you choose what’s safe and most effective for your specific pet. ## Watch for Signs of Trouble Even with prevention, it’s a good idea to watch for fleas and ticks when you’re grooming or spending time with your pet. If your [pet has small dark spots](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/pet-safety-starts-at-home-spotting-everyday-toxins/) in its fur, these may be flea dirt. Other symptoms could include red spots, excessive scratching, or biting at their skin. Check for ticks by feeling for little lumps, particularly around the neck, between the toes, or around the ears. If you do see a tick, use tweezers to carefully remove it, making sure to remove the entire head. For a few weeks, keep an eye out for signs in your pet while keeping the tick in a container. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as weariness, stiff joints, or fever, consult your veterinarian immediately. ## It’s Not Just About Dogs Most people think of dogs when they think of fleas and ticks. But cats are also vulnerable, particularly if they live with dogs or go outside. Cats are susceptible to tick bites and flea infestations, particularly in grassy or forested areas. Make sure you use the right flea and tick product because some are designed especially for cats. Applying [dog products to cats](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) can be harmful or even fatal. ## Seasonal Care Keeps Pets Comfortable Year-Round By taking steps now in August, you’re setting your pet up for a more comfortable fall and winter. Flea eggs can survive in carpets and cracks long after summer ends. Ticks don’t necessarily die off with the cold either. Staying consistent with prevention all year helps reduce long-term risk. Consider this: preventing fleas and ticks shouldn’t be something you do only sometimes throughout the year, just as you wouldn’t miss a dosage of your pet’s heartworm medicine. ## Enjoy the Rest of the Summer with Peace of Mind Late summer should be a time to enjoy your pet, not worry about parasites. Whether you’re hiking, traveling, or just lounging in the backyard, having a prevention plan in place means one less thing to stress about. You’ll both be able to enjoy the season without the itch, discomfort, or danger that fleas and ticks can bring. If you’re not sure which flea and tick prevention is best for your pet, don’t worry. Talk to your veterinarian immediately and get expert advice on the best solutions for your [dog or cat](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/). The sooner you act, the safer your pet will be for the rest of the summer and beyond. Schedule a checkup or talk to us about flea and tick prevention today at [Crestway Animal Clinic](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/). Let’s keep your furry family members safe, happy, and itch-free this summer. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Everything You Need to Know About Microchipping Your Pet](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-microchipping-your-pet/) **Published:** August 15, 2025 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** As a pet owner, you should be responsible for your pet’s safety and wellbeing. One of the worst fears of every pet owner is when their pet runs away or goes missing. Using tags and collars on your pets is helpful, but when they become lost or removed, your pet is left vulnerable and without identification. That’s why microchipping is important. It’s an efficient solution for identifying your pet and allowing them to be reunited with you when they get lost. If you live in San Antonio, Texas, you can rely on Crestway Animal Clinic for professional microchipping services. In this blog post, we’ll share the important facts about microchipping a pet. Keep reading to discover how this simple procedure can provide peace of mind. After reading this guide, you’ll have the information needed to make informed decisions about microchipping your beloved pet. ## What Is a Microchip and How Does It Work? A microchip is a small electronic device about the size of a grain of rice. It’s implanted by a licensed veterinarian under the skin of the pet, usually between the shoulder blades. A microchip holds important information, specifically a unique identification number that can be read using a scanner. It’s important to understand that a microchip is not similar to a GPS tracker. It does not emit signals or provide real-time location data. Instead, it acts as a permanent form of identification for your beloved pet. A microchip is made from biocompatible materials that are safe to implant in a pet without causing adverse effects. Once implanted, the microchip stays in place for the pet’s lifetime and does not require any maintenance or replacement. ### How the Microchip Process Works When a lost pet is found and brought to a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or animal rescue center, staff can scan the pet to check for a microchip and retrieve the pet’s unique ID number. The number is then matched with contact details saved in a pet microchip registry. For a microchip to function properly, it depends on accurate registration. After microchipping, the pet owner must register the microchip and include their current contact information. Failure to register the microchip means it will be difficult to reunite a lost pet with its owner, even if the microchip is scanned. ## Benefits of Microchipping Your Pet ### Permanent Identification Unlike pet collars and tags, which can be removed or fall off, a microchip can’t be lost or tampered with, making it the most reliable way to link your contact details to your beloved pet. ### Helps Recover Stolen Pets Microchips are effective in tracking down stolen pets. Many pets are stolen every year by criminals who plan to sell them. If a pet has a microchip, the possibility of recovery and reunification with their owner is significantly higher. It’s much more difficult to sell an animal that has a registered microchip. ### Higher Reunion Rate Pets that are microchipped have a much higher probability of being returned to their owners. Studies show that microchipped dogs are more than twice as likely to be reunited with their families compared to those without microchips. ### Protects Your Personal Information Many pet owners are concerned about whether their personal details will fall into the wrong hands. When a pet is microchipped, the owner’s personal details are not displayed on a collar that can be seen by everyone, including strangers. The owner’s important information is kept in a protected database that can only be accessed by authorized microchip providers and animal welfare professionals. ### Peace of Mind Knowing that your pet has a microchip provides assurance that you’ve done your part as an owner to help ensure they can be returned to you if they become lost. ### Legal Support Microchips have been used to prove ownership in disputes when someone is trying to falsely claim your pet. You can verify your pet’s microchip, ensure it’s registered under your name, and confirm it has updated contact details. ## Common Myths and Misconceptions About Microchipping ### Myth 1: Microchip Companies Can Locate a Lost Pet **Truth:** A microchip is not a GPS tracker that allows you to locate and find a pet when it goes missing. Microchips only transmit information when they’re scanned by a special scanner. ### Myth 2: Microchips Are Automatically Registered After Implantation **Truth:** Simply having a pet microchipped is not enough. You must register your contact details with the microchip manufacturer. You must also update the contact information if you move to a new home or get a new phone number. ### Myth 3: Scanning a Microchip Reveals Personal Details of the Owner **Truth:** When a lost pet’s microchip is scanned, the information transmitted is only a unique ID number. A veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or animal rescue center uses the ID number to connect with the microchip company. Then the company checks the information in their secured database to contact the owner so they can be reunited with the pet. ### Myth 4: Microchips Expire **Truth:** A microchip comes in a package with an expiration date that indicates how long the package remains sterile. However, once implanted in a pet, the microchip does not expire. It stays inside the pet’s body and serves as a permanent form of identification. ### Myth 5: Indoor Pets Don’t Need a Microchip **Truth:** Indoor pets can escape and become lost. Indoor pets are often not familiar with outdoor safety risks and may not be able to find their way home. For example, if a pet dog escapes and is chased by a bigger dog, they might run away and become disoriented in unfamiliar surroundings, making it hard for them to find their way home. ### Myth 6: Microchips Can Move to Different Parts of the Pet or Fall Out **Truth:** While some microchips can migrate slightly, it’s a rare occurrence. Microchips typically stay close to the insertion area when implanted by a professional veterinarian. Choose a trustworthy animal clinic like Crestway Animal Clinic to ensure your pet’s microchip stays where it was inserted. ### Myth 7: Microchips Can Cause Pain to the Pet **Truth:** Microchips do not emit “shocks” or cause ongoing pain to the pet. Once implanted, the microchip stays dormant inside the pet’s body until it’s scanned by a scanner. The radio waves it transmits during scanning won’t cause pain to the pet. ### Myth 8: Microchipped Pets Don’t Need a Collar or Tag Identification **Truth:** While microchips provide permanent, protected identification for your pet, using a collar with identification tags offers additional protection. A lost pet with a collar and identification tags allows someone who finds it to immediately read the details and contact the owner without needing to take the pet to a clinic for scanning. If a pet isn’t wearing a collar with identification tags, a microchip becomes its only form of identification. ## Why Microchipping Your Pet Is Important Microchipping is not just for finding a pet when it goes missing. It’s a part of responsible pet ownership. Many animal shelters and animal rescue centers require microchipping before adoption. Some cities have made it a legal requirement for pet owners. Microchipping your pet means you’re protecting them and doing your part to reduce the growing number of lost pets in shelters. It’s a simple, one-time procedure that provides lifetime protection for your companion. ## The Microchipping Procedure The microchipping procedure is painless and fast. A veterinarian injects the microchip using a syringe similar to giving a pet its vaccines. Little to no pain occurs during the microchipping process. The entire procedure typically takes only a few seconds, and most pets don’t react any differently than they would to a routine vaccination. No anesthesia is required, and pets can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure. ## Maintaining Your Pet’s Microchip Information Once your pet is microchipped, remember these important steps: - Register the microchip immediately with accurate contact information - Update your information whenever you move or change phone numbers - Keep a record of your pet’s microchip number in a safe place - Verify annually that your contact information remains current in the database ## Protecting Your Pet for Life Microchipping is one of the best investments you can make in your pet’s safety. Combined with proper training, secure fencing, and visible identification tags, a microchip gives your pet the best chance of being reunited with you if they ever become lost. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your pet today with this simple, affordable procedure. ## Trust Crestway Animal Clinic If you want to microchip your pet and you live in San Antonio, Texas, Crestway Animal Clinic is your trusted veterinary partner. With more than 31 years of experience in the veterinary industry, we offer comprehensive services including dental care, medicine, surgery, and microchipping. Our experienced team understands how important your pet is to your family. We make the microchipping process quick, comfortable, and stress-free for both you and your pet. Want to know more about our clinic and the services we currently offer? Call us at (210) 657-6747 and speak with our knowledgeable staff. Choose Crestway Animal Clinic for your pet’s microchip needs and give yourself the peace of mind that comes with knowing your beloved companion has permanent identification. Contact us today and take this important step in responsible pet ownership! **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Obesity in Pets: Health Risks & How to Help Your Pet Lose Weight](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/obesity-in-pets-health-risks-how-to-help-your-pet-lose-weight/) **Published:** February 15, 2026 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** Pet obesity is one of the most common and under-recognized health issues affecting dogs and cats today. Many pet owners mistake a little extra weight for “cute” or “healthy,” but excess pounds place serious stress on the body and can dramatically shorten a pet’s lifespan. Obesity is not just a cosmetic concern. It increases the risk of chronic diseases and reduces mobility, affecting your pet’s overall quality of life. Long-term pet health depends on understanding the risks, recognizing the warning signs, and implementing effective nutrition and exercise plans. ## **Why Pet Obesity Is a Serious Health Concern** Extra weight in pets puts strain on nearly every system in the body. Obesity increases the risk of serious health problems, making exercise more difficult and creating a cycle of weight gain. It also stresses organs and joints, which can make everyday activities challenging. Beyond physical effects, obesity can affect a pet’s behavior and mood. Pets may become lethargic or lose interest in play, and discomfort can reduce overall well-being. Even modest weight loss can boost energy, mobility, and comfort. Early recognition of excess weight allows owners to act before serious health problems arise. ## **Signs Your Pet May Be Overweight** It isn’t always easy to tell when a pet is overweight, particularly with cats, who often conceal health issues. Signs can include difficulty feeling the ribs, a rounded or sagging abdomen, a poorly defined waist, or lower energy levels. Dogs may tire quickly during walks or have trouble climbing stairs, while cats might struggle to jump, groom less, or move sluggishly during play. Another indication is changes in behavior or appetite. Pets that are overweight may beg for food more often or become food-obsessed, which is sometimes a result of slower metabolism or hormonal changes related to obesity. Keeping track of these behavioral and physical signs can alert owners to the need for action before serious health issues develop. ## **Calculating Your Pet’s Ideal Weight** Determining whether a pet is overweight starts with knowing their ideal body condition. Veterinarians use a body condition score (BCS) system, which evaluates fat coverage, abdominal tuck, and overall physique. For dogs, a healthy BCS is typically between 4 and 5 on a 9-point scale. Cats have similar scoring metrics. It’s important to recognize that breed, age, and body structure influence what “ideal” weight looks like. A Labrador Retriever, for example, has a different frame than a Dachshund, and a senior pet may naturally carry less muscle mass. A vet can help establish a safe, target weight for your pet and identify factors that may be contributing to weight gain, such as thyroid issues, hormonal imbalances, or medication side effects. ## **Diet Strategies for Weight Management** Diet is the cornerstone of effective weight management in pets. Once a target weight is established, the next step is adjusting caloric intake to create a safe and sustainable deficit. Pet owners should avoid sudden, extreme calorie restriction, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies or muscle loss. Switching to a high-quality, nutrient-dense diet that is lower in calories and fat can help pets feel full while promoting weight loss. Many pet foods are specifically formulated for weight control, offering the necessary vitamins and minerals without excessive calories. Avoid free-feeding, which allows pets to graze throughout the day, and measure portions carefully using a cup or kitchen scale to ensure consistency. Treats are often overlooked contributors to obesity. Regularly feeding table scraps, commercial snacks, or high-fat treats can undo the benefits of a controlled diet. Instead, choose low-calorie alternatives such as baby carrots, green beans, or specially formulated pet treats. Treats should never exceed 10% of the daily caloric intake. Consistency is critical. Feeding pets at scheduled times and sticking to portion sizes helps regulate appetite and metabolism. Gradual changes are more sustainable than drastic reductions, and they reduce stress on both pets and owners. ## **Exercise and Physical Activity** Exercise complements diet by helping pets build muscle, support heart health, and burn calories. Dogs benefit from daily walks and interactive play, with activity adjusted to their fitness level and gradually increased over time. Cats need creative approaches to stay active. Short play sessions with toys or climbing structures, even just 10–15 minutes, can make a noticeable difference, and regular, moderate activity is more effective than occasional intense bursts. Combining mental stimulation with physical exercise benefits both dogs and cats. Puzzle feeders or scent games encourage movement and reduce boredom, helping prevent stress-related overeating. ## **Monitoring Progress** Tracking progress ensures that weight loss is safe and effective. Weigh pets regularly and keep a journal of food intake and activity. Monitoring body condition visually and physically can help identify subtle improvements or setbacks. Some owners find it helpful to take monthly photos or measurements to visually track changes over time. Regular veterinary check-ins are crucial. A vet can assess weight loss progress, adjust caloric intake, recommend specialized diets, and monitor for any health complications. Professional oversight ensures that weight loss is gradual and sustainable, reducing the risk of negative health impacts. ## **When to Consult a Veterinarian** Veterinary guidance is essential if your pet is overweight or gaining weight suddenly. Underlying conditions like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease may contribute, and a vet can run tests and create a safe weight-loss plan. Professional support is especially important for senior pets or those with limited mobility. Without guidance, weight-loss efforts can cause malnutrition or muscle loss, and a veterinarian ensures the plan is safe and tailored to your pet’s needs. ## **Long-Term Lifestyle Changes** Weight management in pets is not a short-term effort; it requires lifestyle changes that become part of daily routines. Feeding schedules, portion control, and regular exercise should be maintained consistently. Family members should coordinate feeding and play to ensure everyone follows the same plan. Celebrating milestones, even small ones, helps maintain motivation. Gradual weight loss is safer and more sustainable, and pets often show improved energy, mobility, and behavior even after losing a modest amount of weight. Incorporating these habits early can prevent obesity from recurring. ## **Preventing Obesity** Prevention is always better than intervention. Pet owners can reduce the risk of obesity by providing a balanced diet and encouraging regular physical activity from a young age. Monitoring your pet’s weight and body condition regularly helps catch early signs of weight gain. Routine veterinary visits allow for early detection of metabolic or endocrine disorders that may contribute to obesity. Preventive care, combined with healthy lifestyle habits, ensures pets remain fit and energetic throughout their lives. ## **The Benefits of a Healthy Weight** Maintaining a healthy weight boosts a pet’s energy, mobility, and overall well-being. Pets at a healthy weight are more playful and easier to groom, while also being less prone to chronic disease. Weight management reduces stress on joints and organs, helping prevent pain and extending life expectancy. Healthy pets are more responsive to training and enjoy longer walks or play sessions, while also being happier, more active, and better able to engage with their families. ## **Take Action Today** If your pet is overweight, don’t wait for health problems to develop. Crestway Animal Clinic can evaluate your pet, develop a personalized weight-loss plan, and monitor progress safely. Our team provides actionable diet recommendations, exercise strategies, and ongoing support to help your pet lose weight safely and effectively. Call Crestway Animal Clinic today at **210-657-6747** or [schedule an appointment online](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/contact-us/) to start your pet on the path to a healthier, happier life. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Your Complete Guide to Preparing Your Pet for an Ultrasound (What Every Owner Should Know)](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/your-complete-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-an-ultrasound-what-every-owner-should-know/) **Published:** March 10, 2026 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** As responsible pet owners, we want the best possible care for our furry family members. When your pet isn’t feeling well, getting an accurate diagnosis becomes the top priority. Modern veterinary medicine offers advanced diagnostic tools like ultrasounds that help veterinarians see what’s happening inside your pet’s body without invasive procedures. At Crestway Animal Clinic in San Antonio, Texas, we’ve spent over 31 years helping pets stay healthy through comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental services. One of the most valuable diagnostic tools we use is ultrasound imaging, which provides clear views of internal organs and helps us catch health problems early. Understanding how to properly prepare your pet for an ultrasound ensures the procedure goes smoothly and produces the clear images veterinarians need for accurate diagnosis. Let’s walk through everything you need to know. ## Understanding Pet Ultrasounds Ultrasound represents a crucial advancement in veterinary diagnostics. This technology allows veterinarians to examine internal organs without surgery, making it a non-invasive, painless, and safe procedure for detecting problems in organs like the liver, stomach, spleen, and kidneys. ### How Ultrasound Technology Works Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of internal organs. These sound waves bounce off different tissues and return to create a picture that helps detect health issues often invisible during physical examinations or standard X-rays. Veterinarians use ultrasound to identify abnormalities including tumors, foreign objects, and organ dysfunction in pets. The procedure is particularly useful for assessing conditions affecting the kidneys, liver, spleen, and other abdominal organs. For pregnant pets, abdominal ultrasounds can confirm pregnancy and monitor fetal growth and development throughout gestation. ## Essential Preparation Steps Proper preparation before an ultrasound ensures clear images and allows for a smooth, efficient procedure. Following these guidelines helps your veterinarian get the best possible diagnostic information. ## The Fasting Requirement In most cases, your pet needs to fast for 8-12 hours before an ultrasound appointment. This fasting period is essential because a stomach full of food can obstruct views of internal organs and affect image quality, especially when examining abdominal areas. ### Why Fasting Matters Beyond improving image clarity, fasting becomes particularly important if your pet requires sedation. An empty stomach prevents regurgitation and reduces upset stomach risks from sedation side effects. ### Important Exceptions Some situations require modified fasting protocols. Diabetic pets need adjusted fasting schedules to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Always discuss your diabetic pet’s specific needs with your veterinarian before the appointment. Water is typically allowed up until the ultrasound appointment unless your veterinarian provides different instructions. If your pet requires an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound), fasting usually isn’t necessary since this procedure doesn’t involve examining the digestive system. ### What Fasting Really Means Fasting means absolutely no food, snacks, or treats before the procedure. Even small amounts can affect the ultrasound results. An empty stomach allows veterinarians to clearly examine the digestive tract for abnormalities or problems. ## Pre-Appointment Exercise and Bathroom Breaks If your dog is scheduled for an ultrasound, taking them for a walk before the appointment offers multiple benefits. Exercise helps release pent-up energy, making your dog calmer during the procedure. A pre-appointment walk also allows your pet to empty their bladder and bowels, which can be particularly helpful if the ultrasound focuses on abdominal organs. A relaxed, comfortable pet cooperates better during the examination, creating a smoother experience for everyone involved. ### Special Considerations for Bladder Ultrasounds When the ultrasound specifically examines the bladder, your pet needs a full bladder. This helps the veterinarian clearly see organs and structures inside the abdomen. For bladder-focused ultrasounds, you’ll need to limit bathroom breaks before the appointment. If you’re concerned about your pet needing to relieve themselves before the procedure, discuss this with your veterinarian. They can provide specific guidance based on your appointment time and your pet’s individual needs. While maintaining a full bladder may be uncomfortable for your pet, following your veterinarian’s instructions ensures accurate diagnostic results. ## Managing Your Pet’s Anxiety Once you’ve handled the physical preparation, assess your pet’s anxiety levels. Stress and anxiety can significantly affect both the procedure’s efficiency and your pet’s cooperation. ### Recognizing and Reducing Stress If your pet typically becomes uncomfortable during veterinary visits, discuss anxiety management options with your veterinarian before the appointment. Remember that pets often sense our emotions, so your own anxiety can increase your pet’s stress levels. Stay calm and relaxed throughout the process. Use a gentle, soothing voice and avoid sudden movements that might startle your pet. Your confident demeanor helps reassure them that everything is okay. ### Comfort Items and Distraction Techniques Bringing familiar items from [home can significantly reduce your pet](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/pet-safety-starts-at-home-spotting-everyday-toxins/)‘s anxiety. A favorite blanket or toy provides comfort in the unfamiliar veterinary environment. While waiting for your appointment, gently pet your pet or engage in light play to distract them from their surroundings. These simple strategies can transform a stressful experience into a manageable one for both you and your pet. ## Communicating with Your Veterinarian Open communication with your veterinarian ensures your pet receives the best possible care during the ultrasound procedure. ### Questions to Ask Don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns about the upcoming ultrasound. If you don’t understand something about the preparation process, ask for clarification. Understanding why steps like fasting are necessary helps you follow instructions more effectively, even when they conflict with your pet’s regular routine. If your pet experiences significant anxiety during veterinary visits, your veterinarian can suggest management strategies or potentially prescribe anti-anxiety medication for the appointment. ### Medication Management Since your veterinarian knows your [pet’s complete](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/the-complete-pet-owners-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-surgery-essential-steps-for-success/) health history, they can provide specific guidance for the ultrasound preparation. If your pet takes regular medications or is undergoing ongoing treatments, ask whether to administer these medications before the procedure or skip doses. Some medications should continue as normal, while others might need to be temporarily adjusted. Never make these decisions independently – always follow your veterinarian’s specific instructions. ## The Benefits of Ultrasound Diagnostics Understanding why ultrasounds are valuable helps you appreciate the importance of proper preparation. ### Detecting Heart Problems Ultrasounds excel at examining heart conditions in pets. Veterinarians use cardiac ultrasounds to assess the size, shape, and movement of the heart and surrounding blood vessels. This capability is crucial for early detection of irregularities that can be managed before developing into serious problems. Ultrasound provides clear views of heart muscles and chambers without causing pain or discomfort. These detailed images can reveal conditions like congestive heart failure that might otherwise go undetected until reaching advanced stages. ### Examining Soft Tissues Ultrasound serves as an invaluable diagnostic tool for examining soft tissues that can’t be adequately assessed through physical examinations or X-rays. Veterinarians use ultrasound to examine kidneys, liver, spleen, and other abdominal organs for signs of damage or disease. Sound waves bouncing off internal structures create complete images revealing cysts, inflammation, stones, or tumors. This detailed information guides treatment decisions and helps monitor disease progression. ### Emergency Situations In urgent care situations, ultrasound can quickly detect blockages, tumors, and organ failure. This rapid diagnostic capability can literally save your pet’s life by enabling immediate, appropriate treatment. ## Comprehensive Veterinary Care At Crestway Animal Clinic, we provide full-service animal care and wellness services. Beyond ultrasound diagnostics, we offer in-house surgeries, laboratory testing, radiology, urinalysis, and comprehensive diagnostic services. Our 31 years of experience in veterinary medicine means we understand how to make diagnostic procedures as comfortable as possible for pets while obtaining the accurate information needed for proper diagnosis and treatment. We combine advanced technology with compassionate care, ensuring your pet receives thorough examinations in a supportive environment. Our comprehensive approach means you can access multiple services in one convenient location, reducing stress for both you and your pet. ## Taking the Next Step If your pet needs an ultrasound in San Antonio, Texas, Crestway Animal Clinic is ready to help. Our experienced team provides medicine, surgery, and dental services backed by decades of expertise in veterinary care. Don’t let uncertainty about the ultrasound process add to your stress. Contact us today at 210-657-6747 to discuss your [pet’s needs and get specific preparation](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/the-complete-pet-owners-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-surgery-essential-steps-for-success/) instructions tailored to your pet’s situation. Your pet’s health deserves the best possible care, and accurate diagnosis through ultrasound imaging represents an important step in maintaining their wellbeing. Let our experienced team guide you through the process and provide the compassionate, professional care your furry family member deserves. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [10 Must-Know Tips and Tricks for Giving Your Cat Eye, Ear, or Oral Medication](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/10-must-know-tips-and-tricks-for-giving-your-cat-eye-ear-or-oral-medication/) **Published:** April 15, 2026 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** Anyone who has ever shared their home with a cat knows that they are fiercely independent, incredibly agile, and completely unforgiving when they feel their boundaries have been crossed. This makes them wonderful, highly entertaining companions, but it also makes them exceptionally difficult patients. The hissing, the scratching, and the sheer athletic prowess of a cat determined to avoid a pill can turn your living room into a battlefield. It often feels like a breach of trust to force something upon them. However, giving your cat their prescribed medication is a non-negotiable part of responsible pet ownership and is vital for their health and longevity. The good news is that by understanding basic feline behavior, utilizing strategic handling techniques, and bringing a healthy dose of patience to the table, you can absolutely transform this stressful daily battle into a quick, manageable, and routine part of your caregiving. Here are ten essential tips to help you master the art of feline medication administration. ## Creating the Foundation for Success: How to Prepare Your Cat Before you even touch the medicine bottle, setting the stage is the most critical part of the process. If you skip the preparation phase, you are setting both yourself and your cat up for failure. ### 1. Master Your Own Energy and the Environment Cats are hyper-perceptive predators. If you approach them while feeling anxious, frustrated, or anticipating a fight, your cat will immediately sense that tension and go on high alert. Take a deep breath and project a calm, assertive energy. Choose a quiet, enclosed room for the procedure, such as a small bathroom. Close the door to prevent a mid-treatment escape, which only prolongs the stress. Never chase your cat to give them medication; instead, calmly carry them into your designated treatment room or wait until they are relaxed and resting comfortably before making your move. ### 2. Assemble Your Toolkit in Advance The absolute worst time to realize you left the pill bottle safety cap engaged is when you already have an angry, squirming cat securely tucked under your arm. Prepare everything out of your cat’s sight. Uncap the syringes, open the pill pockets, remove the lids from eye drops, and lay out your high-value treats on a clean surface. Having your entire toolkit ready to go ensures the actual physical restraint of your cat lasts only a few seconds, minimizing their panic and your frustration. ### 3. Perfect the “Purrito” Towel Wrap Swaddling is not just a soothing technique for human babies; it is one of the safest and most effective ways to handle a frightened feline. Wrapping your cat snugly in a medium-sized, thick bath towel creates a safe, gentle restraint that prevents them from batting the medication away with their front paws or using their back claws to launch themselves out of your arms. Place the towel flat on a table, sit your cat in the middle, and fold the sides securely over their back, leaving only their head exposed. Ensure the wrap is snug enough to hold their limbs against their body, but never so tight that it restricts their breathing. ## How to Feed Oral Medications Pills and liquid suspensions are the most common forms of medication, and they are also the ones cats are most adept at spitting out behind the couch. ### 4. The Art of Culinary Deception Whenever possible, try to avoid the physical struggle altogether by hiding the medication in your cat’s food. Soft, malleable treats designed specifically to conceal pills are incredibly helpful. Alternatively, you can use a small amount of strong-smelling wet food, tuna juice, or plain chicken baby food (ensure it contains no onion or garlic powder). Never crush a pill or empty a capsule into their food without explicitly asking your veterinarian first. Many medications are formulated to be slow-release or have an incredibly bitter taste that will cause your cat to completely boycott their food bowl once the protective coating is broken. ### 5. The Precision “Head Tilt” Method When deception fails, direct administration is required. For a right-handed person, use your left hand to form a “C” shape over the top of your cat’s head. Place your thumb and index finger gently but firmly just behind their upper canine teeth (the long fangs) on their cheekbones. Slowly tilt their nose directly up toward the ceiling. As their head tilts back, their lower jaw will naturally drop open slightly. Use your right hand to quickly drop the pill as far back onto the center of the tongue as possible. Close their mouth, return their head to a normal position, and gently stroke their throat to stimulate a swallowing reflex. ### 6. Always Follow Up with a Chaser Cats possess a uniquely structured, dry esophagus, which means pills can easily become stuck on the way down. A dry-swallowed pill that sits in the esophagus can cause severe inflammation and painful ulcers. To prevent this, always follow a pill with a “chaser.” Use a small syringe to gently squirt one or two milliliters of room-temperature water or a tasty liquid broth into the side of their mouth to ensure the medication washes all the way down into the stomach. ## How to Administer Ophthalmic (Eye) Medications The eyes are incredibly sensitive, and a cat’s natural reflex is to forcefully blink or pull away when anything approaches their face. ### 7. The Stealth Approach from Behind Cats despise having objects come straight at their eyes. Approaching from the front triggers their fight-or-flight response. When administering eye drops or ointments, position your cat facing away from you, perhaps sitting between your knees on the floor. Approach from slightly behind and above their head. Hold the medication vial in your dominant hand, and rest the heel of that same hand gently but securely on the top of your cat’s head. This anchors your hand, ensuring that if your cat suddenly jerks up, your hand moves with them, preventing the hard plastic tip of the bottle from accidentally scratching their eye. ### 8. Target the Pouch, Not the Cornea Never aim a drop directly at the center of the eye. Hitting the cornea directly is startling and uncomfortable. Instead, use the thumb of your non-dominant hand to gently pull down the lower eyelid, creating a small pink “pouch” (the conjunctival sac). Squeeze the prescribed number of drops or a small ribbon of ointment into this pouch. Once applied, let go of the eyelid; your cat will naturally blink, which will perfectly distribute the medication across the surface of the eye. ## How to Give Otic (Ear) Medications Ear infections are painful, making cats particularly head-shy when it comes time for their ear drops. ### 9. Understand the Anatomy and Massage the Base The feline ear canal is not a straight tube; it is shaped like an “L,” traveling vertically down and then horizontally toward the eardrum. Simply dropping medication into the visible part of the ear is ineffective, as the fluid will not reach the deep horizontal canal where the infection resides. After you apply the drops, gently grasp the base of the ear (the firm, cartilaginous part close to the skull) between your thumb and fingers. Massage it gently but firmly. You should hear a distinct, squelching sound, which indicates the medication is successfully coating the entire length of the canal. ### 10. Anticipate the Shake and Reward Immediately The moment you release your cat’s ear, their immediate instinct will be to violently shake their head. Step back and let them do this! Shaking actually helps to further break up debris and distribute the medication deep within the ear canal. Just be aware that some excess liquid or waxy discharge may go flying, so don’t wear your best clothes during this process. Immediately after they finish shaking, lavish them with high-value treats and praise to build a positive association with the experience. ## Consult With a Professional Managing your cat’s health at home requires teamwork, patience, and sometimes a little bit of strategic trickery. Even with the best techniques, some cats will simply not tolerate at-home medical treatments. If you find yourself in a daily wrestling match that is damaging your bond with your pet, do not feel like you have failed. The veterinary team at Crestway Animal Clinic is always ready to demonstrate these techniques in person, troubleshoot your specific challenges, or discuss alternative options like long-lasting injections or specially compounded flavored medications. You can reach them at 210-657-6747 to schedule a consultation and ensure your feline friend gets the care they need without the stress. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Should I Take My Dog to the Vet ASAP? 10 Critical Signs of an Emergency ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/should-i-take-my-dog-to-the-vet-asap-10-critical-signs-of-an-emergency/) **Published:** May 20, 2026 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** While a minor upset stomach, a brief bout of fatigue after a long walk, or a single sneeze might just require some rest and careful monitoring at home, other symptoms are giant red flags pointing toward a life-threatening crisis. Recognizing the distinct difference between a minor, passing ailment and a true medical emergency can literally mean the difference between life and death for your furry friend. When you are in doubt, it is always the safest choice to err on the side of caution and consult a veterinary professional. To help you make the most informed decision for your pet’s health and well-being, we have compiled a comprehensive guide outlining the most critical warning signs. Here are 10 undeniable signs that you need to seek emergency veterinary care immediately. ## 1. Difficulty Breathing or Respiratory Distress If your dog is struggling to breathe, this is an absolute, non-negotiable emergency. Normal panting after exercise or on a hot day is expected, but respiratory distress looks very different. Signs include exaggerated heaving of the chest, noisy breathing, wheezing, choking, or standing with their elbows bowed out and neck extended in a desperate attempt to take in more air. Difficulty breathing (dyspnea) can be caused by a wide variety of severe issues, including heart failure, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), asthma, a collapsed trachea, pneumonia, or a foreign object lodged in the throat. Because oxygen deprivation can lead to organ failure and brain damage within minutes, you must transport your dog to the nearest clinic without delay. ## 2. Unproductive Retching and a Swollen Abdomen One of the most terrifying and rapidly fatal conditions a dog can experience is Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), commonly known as “bloat.” This occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood supply to vital organs and causing shock. The classic signs of bloat include pacing, extreme restlessness, a visibly swollen or hard, drum-like abdomen, and repeated, unproductive retching or gagging (trying to vomit but nothing comes up). Large, deep-chested breeds like Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Standard Poodles are at the highest risk. Bloat is a true surgical emergency; without immediate veterinary intervention, a dog can pass away within a matter of hours. ## 3. Severe Trauma, Bleeding, or Unexplained Bruising Any form of significant physical trauma warrants an immediate veterinary evaluation, even if your dog appears perfectly fine at first glance. If your dog has been hit by a car, attacked by another animal, or has taken a fall from a significant height, they need to be examined. Adrenaline can mask the signs of severe pain and internal injuries. External arterial bleeding (bright red, spurting blood) needs immediate pressure applied while you rush to the vet. However, internal bleeding is just as dangerous and far more insidious. Check your dog’s belly and inner thighs for unexplained, widespread bruising or tiny, pin-prick red spots (petechiae), which can indicate internal bleeding or severe blood clotting disorders. ## 4. Suspected Ingestion of Toxins or Poisons Our homes and garages are filled with substances that are perfectly safe for humans but highly toxic—and potentially lethal—to dogs. If you know or even suspect that your dog has consumed a poisonous substance, do not wait for symptoms to appear. Common culprits include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, and foods or gums containing the artificial sweetener xylitol. Non-food toxins include antifreeze, rat poison (rodenticide), human medications (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen), and various toxic houseplants. Time is of the essence when dealing with toxins. Bring the packaging or the remains of the ingested item with you to the clinic so the veterinary team knows exactly what they are dealing with and can administer the appropriate antidote or treatment. ## 5. Inability to Urinate or Defecate If your dog is repeatedly posturing to go to the bathroom, straining intensely, and crying out, but producing little to no urine or stool, they need immediate help. This is particularly dangerous in male dogs, who are more prone to urethral obstructions caused by bladder stones. A complete urinary blockage is agonizingly painful and can cause the bladder to rupture or lead to fatal kidney failure as toxins rapidly build up in the bloodstream. Similarly, straining to defecate can indicate a severe intestinal blockage or a painful prostate issue. ## 6. Profound Lethargy, Collapse, or Unresponsiveness There is a distinct difference between a sleepy dog and a profoundly lethargic one. If your dog suddenly collapses, faints (syncope), cannot stand up, or is completely unresponsive to their name, your voice, or physical touch, you are facing a medical emergency. Sudden collapse can be triggered by a wide array of critical issues, including hidden internal bleeding (such as from a ruptured spleen tumor), undiagnosed heart disease, an abrupt metabolic crash, anaphylactic shock, or severe dehydration. A dog that is too weak to lift its head requires immediate diagnostic testing and supportive care. ## 7. Seizures and Neurological Abnormalities A dog experiencing a seizure is a frightening sight. Symptoms typically include sudden collapse, uncontrollable paddling of the limbs, severe muscle twitching, foaming at the mouth, chattering teeth, and a complete loss of bowel or bladder control. If your dog has never had a seizure before, or if they have a known seizure disorder but experience a seizure lasting longer than five minutes (status epilepticus) or multiple seizures in a row (cluster seizures), they need emergency intervention. Other critical neurological red flags include severe stumbling, head pressing against walls, walking in continuous circles, or sudden paralysis of the back legs. ## 8. Severe or Bloody Vomiting and Diarrhea While a single, isolated episode of vomiting or diarrhea might simply be the result of your dog eating something they shouldn’t have in the backyard, repeated episodes are a major cause for concern. If your dog cannot keep down small amounts of water, is vomiting repeatedly over a short period, or if you notice significant amounts of blood in their vomit or diarrhea, seek immediate care. Conditions like Parvovirus, Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE), or a gastrointestinal blockage caused by swallowing a toy or sock can cause rapid, life-threatening dehydration and require intravenous fluids and intense medical management. ## 9. Pale, White, Blue, or Yellow Gums Your dog’s gums are a fantastic window into their cardiovascular health and oxygenation levels. Under normal circumstances, a healthy dog’s gums should be a healthy, bubblegum pink color. If you lift your dog’s lip and notice that their gums are stark white or extremely pale, it is a primary indicator of severe blood loss, shock, or severe anemia. If the gums or tongue are blue or gray (cyanosis), it means your dog is not getting enough oxygen into their bloodstream, which is a critical emergency. Yellow-tinted gums (jaundice) point to sudden, severe liver failure or the rapid destruction of red blood cells. ## 10. Extreme Pain, Vocalization, or Aggression By their very nature, dogs are remarkably stoic animals. Their survival instincts tell them to hide signs of pain and vulnerability. Because of this, if your dog is overtly showing signs of severe pain, you can assume the pain is excruciating. Signs include continuous whining, crying out when touched, excessive panting, uncontrollable shaking, refusing to move, or holding their body in a rigid, hunched posture. In some cases, a dog in severe pain may act entirely out of character, growling, snapping, or behaving aggressively when you attempt to comfort or move them. Do not ignore overt signs of pain; get them to a professional for immediate relief and diagnosis. ## What to Do Before You Arrive at the Clinic If you observe any of the above signs, your primary goal is to remain as calm as possible so you can think clearly and act efficiently. Call your veterinary clinic or local emergency animal hospital immediately to inform them that you are on your way and to describe the symptoms. This allows the medical team to prepare for your arrival and set up necessary equipment, such as oxygen or intravenous fluids. When transporting your dog, handle them as gently as possible. If they are unable to walk, use a sturdy blanket as a makeshift stretcher to lift them safely into your vehicle. Keep the car environment quiet and climate-controlled to minimize their stress during the journey. Contact Crestway Animal Clinic immediately at 210-657-6747 or bring your pet directly to our facility located at 6636 Crestway Rd, San Antonio, TX 78239. Our dedicated and experienced veterinary professionals are ready to provide the urgent, high-quality care your furry family member needs when every single second counts. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [10 Essential Benefits of Spaying or Neutering Your Cat](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/10-essential-benefits-of-spaying-or-neutering-your-cat/) **Published:** November 15, 2025 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** Bringing a new kitten or cat into your home is an exciting milestone. Still, there is a crucial medical decision every responsible pet owner must face: whether to spay or neuter their feline friend. While it is a routine procedure, it is normal to have questions. Is it really necessary? Will it change their personality? Is it safe? The short answer is that spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are among the most responsible and beneficial choices you can make for your pet’s long-term health and happiness. It is not just about population control—though that is vital—it is about giving your companion the best chance at a long, disease-free life. If you are on the fence, consider these 10 profound benefits of spaying or neutering your cat. ### 1. Increased Life Expectancy The most compelling reason to spay or neuter your cat is simply that they live longer. According to the breakdown of data from Banfield Pet Hospital’s State of Pet Health Report, spayed female cats live 39% longer and neutered male cats live 62% longer than their unneutered counterparts. This drastic difference isn’t due to a single factor but a combination of reduced disease risk and the elimination of dangerous roaming behaviors. An intact cat is driven by strong hormonal instincts to mate, which often leads them into hazardous situations, including traffic accidents and fights with wild animals. By removing this drive, you help keep your cat safe, secure, and by your side for years to come. ### 2. Prevention of Serious Cancers Spaying and neutering act as a preventative shield against some of the most aggressive and deadly forms of cancer in felines. - **For Females:** Spaying involves the removal of the ovaries and uterus. This virtually eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers. Furthermore, if you spay your female kitten before her first heat cycle, you reduce the risk of mammary gland tumors by a staggering amount. Mammary cancer in cats is particularly aggressive, with roughly 90% of tumors being malignant and capable of spreading to other organs. - **For Males:** Neutering eliminates the testicles, which immediately removes the possibility of testicular cancer. While testicular cancer is less common in cats than in dogs, removing the risk entirely is a significant health benefit. ### 3. Elimination of Pyometra For female cats, leaving them intact exposes them to the risk of pyometra, a severe and potentially life-threatening infection of the uterus. During a heat cycle, the uterus changes to prepare for pregnancy, making it susceptible to bacteria. If a severe infection takes hold, the uterus can fill with pus and toxins that can spill into the bloodstream. Pyometra requires emergency surgery and aggressive treatment; without it, the condition is almost always fatal. Spaying your cat removes the uterus entirely, meaning your cat will never have to endure this painful and dangerous condition. ### 4. Curbing the Urge to Roam One of the most stressful aspects of owning an intact male cat (a tomcat) is his relentless desire to escape. Driven by hormones, an unneutered male can smell a female in heat from a significant distance. This drive is biological and incredibly powerful; he will do almost anything to get out of the house to find a mate. This roaming instinct puts your cat in grave danger. Cats that roam are at high risk of being hit by cars, getting lost, or encountering predators. Neutering reduces this hormonal drive, making your male cat much more content to stay in the safety of your home or yard. ### 5. Reducing Fighting and Aggression Testosterone drives aggression in male cats. Intact males are highly territorial and will fight fiercely to defend their turf or compete for a mate. These fights are not just noisy nuisances; they result in abscesses, torn ears, and serious eye injuries. More dangerously, deep bite wounds from cat fights are the primary mode of transmission for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV). These viral diseases compromise a cat’s immune system and have no cure. By neutering your cat, you significantly lower his aggression levels, reducing the likelihood of fighting and the subsequent transmission of these deadly viruses. ### 6. A Cleaner Home (No Spraying) If you have ever walked into a house where an intact male cat lives, you likely recognized the smell immediately. Unneutered males spray strong-smelling urine on vertical surfaces—walls, furniture, and curtains—to mark their territory. This is not a litter box issue; it is a communication signal to other cats. Female cats in heat may also spray to signal their availability to males. The odor of intact cat urine is pungent and notoriously difficult to remove. Neutering and spaying solve this problem before it starts. While it is best to fix your cat before they develop the habit (around 5 to 6 months of age), fixing an older cat often resolves the behavior as hormone levels subside. ### 7. No Heat Cycles If you have never experienced a female cat in heat, you are in for a noisy surprise. Female felines are “induced ovulators” and go into heat frequently during breeding season (typically spring through fall). During this time, they become incredibly vocal, yowling loudly and constantly—often all night long—to attract a mate. They may also become restless, pace the floor, and exhibit unusual affection or aggression. They will urinate more frequently and may attempt to dart out the door at every opportunity. Spaying eliminates heat cycles entirely, ensuring a quieter, calmer household and a much more relaxed cat. ### 8. Helping the Overpopulation Crisis The United States faces a staggering pet overpopulation problem. According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.2 million cats enter animal shelters nationwide every year. Tragically, roughly 530,000 of these cats are euthanized because there simply aren’t enough homes for them. Cats are prolific breeders. A single unspayed female, her mate, and all their offspring can produce thousands of kittens in just a few years. By spaying or neutering your single pet, you are directly contributing to the solution. You are ensuring that your cat will not add to the number of homeless animals suffering on the streets or waiting in shelters. ### 9. Cost-Effectiveness Some pet owners hesitate to book the surgery due to the upfront cost. However, when viewed through the lens of a cat’s lifetime, spaying and neutering are incredibly cost-effective. Consider the potential costs of *not* performing the procedure: - **Medical bills:** Treatment for pyometra can cost thousands of dollars. Treating bite wounds, abscesses, or cancer (like mammary tumors) is also expensive. - **Kitten care:** If your female cat becomes pregnant, you are responsible for the veterinary care and food for her and her litter until they can be adopted. - **Home repairs:** Replacing carpet or furniture ruined by spraying or marking is a hidden cost of owning an intact male. Compared to these potential expenses, the one-time cost of spay/neuter surgery is a bargain that pays dividends in your bank account and your peace of mind. ### 10. Better Bonding with Your Family Intact animals often have their attention divided. Their hormones drive them to look for mates, defend territory, or nurse kittens. They can be high-strung, frustrated, or aloof. Once a cat is spayed or neutered, that hormonal frustration dissipates. Their energy is no longer focused on mating instincts, which often allows their true personality to shine through. Many owners report that their cats become more affectionate, playful, and focused on their human family after the procedure. They are more likely to seek out cuddles and engage in interactive play, strengthening the bond between pet and owner. ## Frequently Asked Questions About Spaying/Neutering ### Will My Cat Gain Weight? A common myth that prevents owners from fixing their cats is the fear that the cat will become fat and lazy. It is true that spaying and neutering cause a decrease in metabolism and caloric needs. However, the surgery itself does not make the cat obese—overfeeding and lack of exercise do. Because their energy requirements drop, you simply need to adjust their food intake. By monitoring their diet and keeping them active with laser pointers, feather wands, and climbing trees, your spayed or neutered cat can stay fit, trim, and athletic throughout their life. ### When Should You Schedule the Procedure? For years, the standard advice was to wait until a cat was six to nine months old. However, veterinary medicine has evolved. Today, many veterinarians advocate for “pediatric” spay/neuter, which can be done as early as eight weeks of age, provided the kitten weighs at least two pounds. Most private practices recommend scheduling the surgery around **five to six months of age**. This timing is ideal because it is before the first heat cycle (for females) and before roaming/spraying behaviors become ingrained habits (for males). ## Get in Touch With a Trusted Veterinarian Spaying or neutering is not just a medical procedure; it is an act of love. It protects your cat from deadly diseases, saves them from the dangers of the street, and ensures they are a calm, well-adjusted member of your family. It is a one-time decision that benefits your pet for a lifetime. Give your cat the gift of a healthier, happier life. The compassionate team at **Crestway Animal Clinic** is here to answer your questions and provide top-tier care for your feline friend. Call us today at **210-657-6747** to book your appointment. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [How to give your pet eye medication](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-give-your-pet-eye-medication/) **Published:** September 19, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** ![Eye problems are, unfortunately, very common, especially in our short nosed, round faced canine friends like Pugs and Pekingese and also with some pedigreed kitties like Persians and Himalayans.](https://crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/How-to-give-your-pet-eye-medication.jpg "How to give your pet eye medication - Crestway Animal Clinic")Eye problems are, unfortunately, very common, especially in our short nosed, round faced canine friends like Pugs and Pekingese and also with some pedigreed kitties like Persians and Himalayans. Typical problems result from injuries and/or infections and may involve the globe itself as well as the eyelids and surrounding facial tissue. Infections are likely bacterial and/or viral in origin. Occasionally, a fungus can be the culprit. Dr. Kelly and the Crestway staff always urge you to call immediately if you suspect that your pet has an eye problem. Even a squint may represent something serious. Never medicate a problem with any “left-over” medications, especially those containing a steroid. We recommend a gentle cleaning of the lids with a warm soft wash cloth and, at most, a few drops of sterile artificial tears until your pet can be examined. We in San Antonio are blessed with several fine veterinary eye specialists if special diagnostics or treatments are required. Please remember that some eye problems are emergencies so we urge you to call our emergency numbers if after hours. --- **Background** If your pet has sustained an eye injury, has an eye infection or an internal medical condition that is affecting the eyes, or is recovering from eye surgery, it may be necessary for you to give one or several medications into the eye(s) to help with healing. At first the idea of one person giving eye medications to a wiggly pet may seem like a daunting task, but it is possible. Practicing the following approach should help you safely deliver the recommended eye medications into your pet’s eyes. **Getting Started** Depending on the severity of the eye problem, one or more medications may have been prescribed for your pet. The first step in handling eye (“ophthalmic,” “ocular”) medications is understanding how much of each medication to give, when to give them, and which ones (if any) should be refrigerated. This information is on the label of most eye medications and can be explained to you by a veterinary technician if it is unclear. It is common to be required to give eye medications from 1-8 times daily, equally spaced apart over time throughout the day. In some situations, continuing a schedule through the night may be important in the short term to prevent progression of an injury or infection and to potentially avoid eye surgery. In these situations, you should discuss with your veterinarian what the best schedule is before your pet leaves the hospital. It is also common to need to place an Elizabethan collar (E-collar, “lampshade”) on your pet. This simple device can be tremendously helpful in protecting the eye from your pet’s desire to rub it, especially once it starts to heal and becomes itchy. These collars provide the best protection when they are worn 24 hours a day, since it only takes a few minutes to damage delicate tissue that has taken days to heal. With medium- or long-nosed dogs, an E-collar can be kept on when administering eye medications, but with short-nosed dogs and many cats, it is easier to remove the E-collar and then replace it after giving the medication. **Troubleshooting Beforehand** If your pet is extremely energetic or has a small face or short snout, it may be more difficult for you to get medications into the eyes. At first, it may be helpful for you to have a second person available to help hold the pet still. If you are applying more than one kind of drop, or both ointment and drops, then be aware of timing and order of administration. Drops are always first, and ointments are always last; otherwise the ointment can create a barrier that prevents the drops from working. To allow absorption of each medication, it is ideal to leave 5-10 minutes between giving each medication. Allowing for extra time in your daily routine to accomplish this type of schedule is almost always necessary. In some cases, this is temporary (if the injury or disease is cured), whereas in other cases this type of treatment continues long term or permanently. You can ask your veterinarian about what is expected in terms of having to continue to give ocular medications. **Procedure for Administering Eye Medication** First, situate yourself so that you can hold your pet’s head. For [cats and small dogs,](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) this means putting them on your lap or placing them on a table. For medium and large dogs, this means kneeling down or arranging them so their hind end is between your knees or ankles while you are standing. This approach should also help keep them still. Second, lift your pet’s head so the eyes and nose are pointing as straight upward as possible, ideally towards the ceiling. For a right-handed person, this is done using the left hand. DROPS: Hold the bottle or dropper like a pencil in your right hand, and use the edge of your right palm to slide back the skin above the upper eyelid. This will lift the upper eyelid and expose the eye. Use the middle finger of your left hand, which is still elevating the chin to keep the head pointing towards the ceiling, to draw down the skin below the lower eyelid, further exposing the eye. *Without allowing the applicator tip to touch the surface of the eye*, bring the bottle/dropper close to the eye, and squeeze the bottle such that the correct number of drops of the liquid medication falls onto the eye surface. OINTMENT: Using the same approach described for drops, squeeze approximately a 1/4-inch strip of ointment from the tube, and drape this strip of ointment across the surface of the eye, again taking care not to touch the eye with the applicator tip.\* When finished, close the eyelids, and gently massage the strip of ointment over the surface of the eye. \*An extra precaution is to elevate the third eyelid. To do this, simply place gentle pressure with the tip of your left middle finger (which is helping hold the lower eyelid down) on the skin below the eyelid. This pressure on the skin of the eyelid, directed inward into the eye socket, elevates a membrane that rises across the eye: the third eyelid. The advantage of doing this is to further protect the surface of the eye from any contact with the tip of the ointment tube, in case of a sudden head movement. Some surgeries to the eye require that the lids are temporarily secured closed with sutures (stitches). Some infections or traumatic injuries cause massive swelling to the eyelids. In both these cases, sometimes only a small portion of the eye can be seen. Often, the visible portion of the eye is the corner near the snout. In giving eye medications in these situations, the approach described can still be used, but the drops or ointment are placed in the corner of the eye. Drops should run across the eye (under the eyelids) easily on their own. Normal movement of the eye will help distribute ointment. **Afterwards** If you find that it is only possible to give eye medications by first removing your pet’s E-collar, be sure to protect the eyes from rubbing against the collar when you remove or replace it. For example, if you slip the collar over their head without taking the collar completely apart, you should hold your hand over their eyes as you slide the collar back into place. This will help prevent damage to the eye(s). **Frequently Asked Questions** **Each morning my pet’s eye has dried discharge on it. Is that a problem?** A small amount (dry rice grain size or less) of black or yellow material is normal. Larger amounts are common with recovery from infection, traumatic injury, or surgery. If it is dried and caked, it should be removed to prevent a deeper infection. Hold the corner of a clean washcloth soaked with lukewarm water on the dried material to help it soften. Then gently wipe it away. **My pet had an infection in one eye, but now the other eye looks red/itchy/has discharge. What do I do?** This could be evidence that the infection has spread to the other eye. However, there are other explanations (such as allergy flare-ups) that can masquerade as a spreading infection. You should call your veterinarian or [schedule a recheck appointment](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/?elementor_library=schedule-appointment) to determine the appropriate treatment. **I simply cannot get the medication in the eye. My pet shakes away, and I’m afraid I’ll cause more harm than good. What do I do?** There are some oral medication substitutes (syrups, tablets, etc.) and some injections that can help with certain eye problems. Above all, the first rule is to do no harm: if you are concerned you may hurt your pet—or may get hurt (e.g., bitten)—then do not administer the medication, but do call your veterinarian back the same day to make an appointment and review whether there is a different technique, or a different form of medication altogether, that is preferable. --- We thank Etienne Côté, DVM, for the above article first published as a client education sheet in Dr. Côtés excellent text Clinical Veterinary Advisor, 2nd Ed. 2011. We thank Elsevier Inc. for permission to reproduce this article. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [How to Clean the Ears](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-clean-the-ears/) **Published:** July 1, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** ![](https://crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/cute-dog-consultation_23-2149314333-1024x683.jpg "cute-dog-consultation_23-2149314333 - Crestway Animal Clinic")Some cats and dogs never seem to need their ears cleaned. For those of us with pets who go outdoors, along with dogs that swim, regular ear checks are a great idea! The staff at Crestway Animal Clinic is happily available to show our pet owners techniques of ear care. --- ###### **Background** Ear infections are common in pets, and an important way to help eliminate these infections is to clean the ears. It is important to treat the ear canal correctly, ensuring the solution reaches the target location. With practice, instilling solutions into the ear canal is easy and can be done at home as needed. **Getting Started** Equipment/materials needed: - Gloves - Cotton balls or gauze - Ear-cleaning solution Your veterinarian may have prescribed a solution to place in your pet’s ear. You should wear latex (or similar) medical exam gloves to prevent you from coming in contact with potential bacteria or fungi your pet may harbor. Basic hygiene is important, and you should be sure to wash your hands immediately after each ear-cleaning session. Be prepared to bathe your pet several times to remove the majority of the smell. It also may take several launderings for clothing that comes in contact with skunk spray to smell fresh. **Troubleshooting** Ear-cleaning solutions are generally applied to maintain your pet’s ear canals and prevent infection. However, if you notice any of the following symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian immediately: - Increased fluid or pasty discharge from one or both ears - Increased redness, swelling, or heat from the ear - Increased pain - Increased shaking or scratching of the ears - Inability to instill the solution (for example, if your pet will not allow it or because you feel you are not doing it correctly) If your pet shows resentment to having this done, stop the procedure and call your veterinarian for further advice. The ear may be too painful to treat without additional medications, and it is imperative that you not hurt your pet or put yourself at risk of a nip or bite. This may also be an indication that the condition is worsening and should be checked immediately. Keep in mind that some individuals are more prone to ear disease than others. This can be due to ear shape (floppy-eared dogs are especially susceptible), environment and activity (swimming allows water in the ears and favors infection), and likely genetic predisposition as well. Therefore, ear cleaning should be done when your individual [dog or cat](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) needs it, which is different from one individual to the next. Be sure to ask your veterinarian about the best interval between ear cleanings to avoid over- or underdoing it. Excessive ear cleaning must be avoided because it causes inflammation in the ear canal, which is totally counterproductive. Never use Q-Tips or other cotton-tipped swabs to clean your pet’s ears. Too often, this results in pushing the debris back into the ear canal, which is the opposite of the intended effect. Cotton balls or gauze work well to remove debris from the ear flap and upper ear canal. **Procedure** - In calm pets, ear cleaning can be done with just one person, but with young, excited animals, or pets that dislike (or are unfamiliar with) ear cleaning, it may be necessary to have one person distracting and/or holding the pet while another person instills the solution. The whole process should take about 5 minutes. If it is too complicated or difficult, notify your veterinarian to discuss whether there are alternative strategies. - A really helpful preparatory step is to put the bottle of ear-cleaning solution under your own armpit for 10 or 15 minutes before the ear cleaning. This brings the solution to body temperature and makes it much more comfortable and pleasant for your pet. - With one hand, gently flip the ear flap straight up. This is best done by cupping the ear flap (pinna) in your hand, with the haired part of the ear against the palm of your hand and your thumb on the hairless inner surface of the ear flap. You should be able to see the inside of the ear (ear canal) this way. Some breeds of dogs have naturally erect ears, and in these dogs, the hand can simply be cupped behind the ear. - Holding the ear flap cupped in the palm of your hand means that the ear canal takes on the shape of a funnel. You can then place the lukewarm cleansing solution into the ear canal, allowing the solution to fill the canal to the brim. This means a gentle stream of the solution will need to go in for several seconds, not just a few drops. In a medium-size dog, 1 tablespoon (15 mL) typically will be necessary; a half to 1 teaspoon (2.5 to 5 mL) is expected for cats. Do not allow the bottle tip to touch the ear canal, which would contaminate the bottle and its contents. - Then lower the ear flap and massage the ear canal for 1 minute. Do this by using your thumb and forefinger to gently compress and roll the tube-shaped ear canal. You can feel it through the skin and hair at the base of the ear, directed inward and slightly toward the dog or cat’s hind end. - • Having placed the cleaning solution in the ear and done the ear massaging, now allow your pet to shake his or her head. This will loosen debris in the ear canal and propel it outward. Then use a cotton ball to clean the ear flap and upper ear canal. ![](https://crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/how-to-clean-the-ears-crestway-animal-clinic-1.jpg "How to clean your dogs ears with Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic")**Afterwards** Once you have finished cleaning the ears, discard any remaining used gauze and gloves. Replace the cap on the cleaning solution, and place it in a safe area out of reach of children and pets. **Frequently Asked Questions** **My dog/cat really doesn’t like ear cleanings. What do I do?** Often, making sure the ear-cleaning solution is at body temperature (using the armpit technique described above) is all that is needed for making the process much more comfortable and therefore acceptable to a pet. If resentment and resistance persist, contact your veterinarian, because a short course of oral medications or an injection of medication may reduce much of the inflammation and pain that cause a patient to resist ear cleaning. **How often do I need to clean the ears?** This will depend on the individual pet and any conditions being treated. Your veterinarian will direct you how often to clean your pet’s ears. It is important that you follow the directions given, because some pets require frequent ear cleanings and others much less so. **Can my pet cause more damage if he continuously shakes or scratches his head?** Yes, your pet can cause more damage to his or her own ears through scratching and headshaking. In such situations, an Elizabethan collar (E-collar) may be necessary temporarily to prevent scratching of the ears and serious self-induced trauma while ear medication takes effect. Contact your veterinarian if your pet continues to shake his/her head or scratch constantly at the ears. **The ears look redder after I clean them than before. What do I do?** This is common and expected with some liquid ear solutions and should subside quickly (typically an hour or so) afterwards. If you find that the ears are staying much redder than before, be sure to contact your veterinarian to discuss an alternative treatment (or assess whether the ear problem is itself responsible for these changes). --- We thank Etienne Côté, DVM, for the above article first published as a client education sheet in Dr. Côtés excellent text Clinical Veterinary Advisor, 2nd Ed. 2011. We thank Elsevier Inc. for permission to reproduce this article. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Taking your pets temperature](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/taking-your-pets-temperature/) **Published:** August 24, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** No one knows your pet’s normal behavior like you do. If you suspect that your cat or dog is feeling a bit “off” and no other symptoms are present, you might want to know if he or she has a fever. The old farmers method of “feel his nose” is, unfortunately, not at all reliable. Dr. Kelly doubts the accuracy of ear thermometers when used at home, especially in pets! In his excellent instructions that follow, Dr. Côtés observation that [cats may protest more than dogs](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) is very astute, to say the least! We think that any rectal temperature of 104°F could possibly be an emergency! --- **Background** The body temperature of a pet can easily be taken at home and can be crucial when monitoring a sick patient. A patient’s temperature may become elevated due to stress or a bacterial or viral infection. Rectal thermometers are the most accurate thermometers available and are easily obtainable. Ear thermometers are also available for pets; they do not, however, provide as accurate results. **Getting Started** Equipment/materials needed: - Rectal thermometer - Watch - Vaseline, K-Y jelly, or other medical lubricant **Troubleshooting** If your pet does not allow you to take his or her temperature, do not force the procedure. Obtaining a temperature from a cat can be more difficult and may take some practice. Be sure to lubricate your thermometer for easier insertion. **Procedure** - In calm pets, this can be done with just one person, but with young, excited animals, it may be necessary to have one person distracting and/or holding the pet while another person inserts the thermometer. - Digital rectal thermometers are timed and will sound when an accurate temperature has been obtained. - Mercury thermometers can be used. Be sure not to drop the thermometer. - Place a small amount of lubricant on the end of the thermometer, elevate the tail, and insert the thermometer into the rectum; leave in for approximately 1 minute - Remove thermometer, wipe off lubricant and any feces, and record the result. Clean the thermometer probe with a disinfecting solution, and then dry. Afterwards Normal temperatures of [dogs and cats](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) are generally 101°F to 102°F (38.3°C to 38.9°C), assuming comfortable ambient/room temperature and that the body temperature was not taken immediately after strenuous exercise. Any pet with a temperature over 103°F (39.4°C) should trigger a phone call to the veterinarian to determine whether an immediate visit to the veterinary hospital is needed. --- We thank Etienne Côté, DVM, for the above article first published as a client education sheet in Dr. Côtés excellent text Clinical Veterinary Advisor, 2nd Ed. 2011. We thank Elsevier Inc. for permission to reproduce this article. ![](https://crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/veterinarian-taking-care-pet-dog_23-2149198686-683x1024.jpg "veterinarian-taking-care-pet-dog_23-2149198686 - Crestway Animal Clinic") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [How to give your pet Insulin for Diabetes](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-give-your-pet-insulin-for-diabetes/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** If your pet has been diagnosed with diabetes, please don’t despair. While diabetes is truly a complicated and harmful disease, it is equally true that, in most cases, the disease can be controlled. This means your pet (and you!) can lead a satisfying and pretty much normal life. Fortunately, most diabetic [dogs and cats](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) respond favorably to treatment which will involve some other help in addition to just insulin. At Crestway Animal Clinic, we will help you gain confidence and expertise in managing your pets diabetes. --- **Background** In [dogs and cats,](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) like in people, diabetes is a lack of insulin (or inadequate effect of insulin) in the body. The treatment for diabetes, therefore, is to give insulin. One of the easiest ways to ensure successful at-home treatment of a pet that has diabetes is to become comfortable handling and delivering insulin by simple injection. Insulin injections are not painful because they are not deep (only skin deep) and the needle is very thin: 1/80th of an inch in diameter \[0.31 mm\], only slightly thicker than a human hair. Most [dogs and cats](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) don’t even feel them. The key is simply to become comfortable giving the insulin and doing it as part of a daily routine, because consistent and effective insulin administration is lifesaving. Insulin injections have to be given daily (twice a day in most cases: once in the morning and once at night), and your veterinarian will specify how much to give and whether to give it once or twice a day. Several types of insulin are available, and they differ from each other in several important ways, including how long they work. This in turn directly affects how often they must be given. Different types of insulin are formulated in one of two different concentrations. Insulin will either be “U 40 insulin,” in which 1 cc contains 40 units of insulin (1 cc = 1 mL, or milliliter), or “U 100 insulin”, in which 1 cc contains 100 units of insulin. Being aware of the concentration of insulin that is being used to treat a pet is paramount: it helps you avoid over-/underdosing and will ensure that the correct corresponding insulin syringe is also being used. Insulin is a fragile substance that can lose its activity if it is not treated well. Keeping the insulin intact is important so that the injections retain their antidiabetic effect: Always keep insulin refrigerated but never frozen. This may require using a coolpack to bring the insulin home from the veterinary clinic on hot summer days, for example, and making sure that where you store it in your refrigerator and the refrigerator’s settings do not cause freezing. Be sure to handle the insulin bottle fairly gently. Vigorous shaking can damage the insulin. **Getting Started** The only supplies needed are the insulin bottle, the insulin syringes, and a container for disposing of the used syringes. Because the needles for administering insulin are extremely thin, giving insulin should be quick and easy for both you and your pet. If, however, there is any hesitancy about placing the needle correctly into the skin, be sure to have a veterinarian or veterinary technician review it with you and demonstrate until there are no questions about how to do it. In very furry pets, it might be helpful to have a small patch of hair shaved away between the shoulder blades to allow for easier placement of the needle in the skin. A simple mistake to be avoided in pets with very thick hair coats is to not have the needle even enter the skin, meaning that the insulin is accidentally just squirted onto the skin. This is of no benefit and means the pet did not receive insulin for that dose. **Troubleshooting Beforehand** If your veterinarian has changed your pet’s insulin type, be sure the concentration of the insulin hasn’t changed (U 40 versus U 100). This is always written on the bottle. When the concentration of insulin has changed, the syringe required to draw up an accurate dose will change as well because the insulin syringes are purpose-made (graded) for a given insulin concentration. *If the concentration of the insulin has changed, all old insulin syringes must be discarded to avoid accidental over- or underdosage.* Insulin can be damaged in several ways. If any of the following occurs, the insulin bottle should be discarded immediately and replaced: - The insulin has been heated (left for 6 hours at room temperature \[or less than 6 hours if warmer\]). - The insulin reaches freezing temperatures. - The bottle has been shaken or dropped on the ground. - The insulin appears stringy or has clumps in it. - The insulin has changed color (normally it should be clear like water at first and very slightly hazy gray when suspended/gently agitated for administration). Expect to use a new syringe every time insulin is administered. This will ensure that the needle is both clean and sharp and will minimize the chance for contamination of the insulin. **Procedure for Administering Insulin Injections** Bring your pet and the supplies into a comfortable area. Use a calm tone of voice and reassuring body language, and help him/her feel relaxed. A [cat or small dog](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) may be comfortable on your lap or on a table in front of you. A larger dog will do well sitting or standing on the floor. Then, practice “tenting” the skin behind the neck between the shoulder blades. This means pulling up some skin (approximately a half inch to an inch \[1-2 cm\] elevation is usually fine) between your thumb and index finger and creating a triangular tent shape in the skin that lies behind the neck, at the topmost part of the shoulders, where the front legs are. This should be completely comfortable to your pet; if it isn’t, you should try a different area of the body, such as the shoulder or the lower back (area on the back a few inches ahead of the tail). If you are right-handed, it will be easiest to tent the skin with your left hand and holding the syringe with your right hand. Practice holding an empty syringe with your dominant hand (for example, your right hand if you are right-handed), and handle your pet with the other hand. You should be holding the syringe like a pen: first three fingers (*including thumb*) all bunched together holding the body of the syringe halfway down the length of the syringe, like holding a pencil halfway down the length of the pen when writing. Do not place your thumb on the plunger yet (a common mistake). To start, take the insulin bottle from the refrigerator, and gently roll it between two hands for 30-60 seconds, and then invert it slowly and back again several times. This serves to suspend the insulin uniformly in the solution in the bottle, because insulin gradually settles to the bottom of the bottle when it sits undisturbed for several hours. A new insulin bottle will have either a metal tab or plastic lid covering the rubberized top. Remove this prior to first use. The rubberized membrane that is exposed this way (usually gray or orange) is the point for inserting the needle into the bottle. Take a new insulin syringe, remove the syringe cap (typically orange plastic), and insert the needle into the rubberized top. Invert the bottle such that the bottom of the bottle is pointing at the ceiling. With the needle still inserted in the bottle, draw back on the syringe plunger. Visualize the clear liquid insulin entering the syringe. Should any bubbles enter the syringe, gently tap the syringe until they rise up, and then you can inject them back into the bottle. When you have drawn up the desired volume of insulin, withdraw the needle from the bottle. Some people draw back more than is necessary and then, before withdrawing the needle, push the extra amount back in the vial to be left with the exact correct dose; this is helpful for expelling air bubbles. Others prefer simply to draw up the correct dose right from the start. Any approach is acceptable as long as you are left with the correct dose in the syringe, and no air bubbles, before you withdraw it from the bottle. Now, to give the insulin, create the skin tent with your nondominant (e.g., left) hand. Hold the syringe with the insulin in it in your other hand the same way you would hold a pen or pencil. Do \*not\* place your thumb on the plunger, as this may cause you to expel the insulin before the needle is in place. Direct the needle into the empty space under the skin created by the tent (the “inside” of the tent). In the process, be sure to avoid stabbing your own fingers holding the skin tent. Because of the thinness of the needle, you will not feel it go in (nor should your pet). Therefore, advance the needle all the way in, until the hub (plastic) of the syringe is against the skin. Now you can move the thumb of your right hand (holding the syringe like a pen) to the plunger. This means that you gently shift your hold on the syringe from holding it like a pen (three fingers) to holding it like a cigarette between your index and middle fingers. With your thumb, depress the plunger to deliver the insulin. At first this takes time, but with practice, the time from lifting the skin tent to giving the insulin and being finished is typically less than 10 seconds. **Afterwards** A receptacle for used insulin syringes is helpful. Needles should be stored safely away from children and pets. Used needles can often be returned to your veterinary hospital for disposal, and you should check with your veterinarian regarding laws that govern the disposal of medical sharps in your area. It is wise to demonstrate your technique (and give an injection of saline instead of insulin as a demonstration to your veterinarian) at the time of recheck, because this helps your vet identify and fix problems with insulin administration. This demonstration, to make sure technique is working well, is one of the simplest and most effective actions to take for optimal treatment of diabetes. **Frequently Asked Questions** **I left the insulin out of the refrigerator by accident. Is it still good?** Insulin can stay at room temperature (70°F \[18°C\]) for a few hours, but it begins to lose its potency quickly. If insulin has been left out at this temperature only once for less than 6 hours, it can continue to be used. If it has been left out for longer than 6 hours cumulatively, it should be discarded and replaced. **Are there alternatives to insulin, especially oral medications?** Yes and no. Oral hypoglycemic drugs that are commonly used in diabetic people have been tried in pets and are minimally useful. Fewer than 1% of dogs show any improvement (and the rest worsen), whereas some 20% of cats may improve with oral treatment instead of insulin but generally only for a period of a few months. Then the oral medications lose their efficacy, and insulin becomes necessary anyway. Therefore, insulin remains the treatment of choice for diabetes. **Can [dogs and cats](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) go into a diabetic coma, like people?** Yes. Untreated diabetes can deteriorate to diabetic ketoacidosis, a severe state that ultimately can lead to diabetic coma if not treated promptly. The goals of treating diabetes are both to eliminate symptoms (restoring a healthy state of being) and to reduce the risk of such complications. **Do diabetic [dogs and cats](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) have circulatory problems in their legs, like people?** No, fortunately this is almost unheard of in [dogs and cats,](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) unlike in people. --- We thank Etienne Côté, DVM, for the above article first published as a client education sheet in Dr. Côtés excellent text Clinical Veterinary Advisor, 2nd Ed. 2011. We thank Elsevier Inc. for permission to reproduce this article. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Recognizing Pain in Pets: What Every Pet Owner Should Know](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/recognizing-pain-in-pets-what-every-pet-owner-should-know/) **Published:** September 22, 2025 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** Pets can’t sit us down and tell us when they’re hurting. Instead, they communicate through subtle changes in behavior, posture, and habits. Because animals often hide discomfort to appear strong, especially dogs and cats, it can be difficult for owners to recognize when something is wrong. That’s why paying close attention to small shifts in your pet’s daily life is so important. Recognizing the signs of pain allows you to act quickly, alleviate your pet’s suffering, and obtain the veterinary care they require. ## Why Pets Hide Pain ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Scent-From-Your-Pet_-1024x683.jpg "Scent From Your Pet_ - Crestway Animal Clinic")In the wild, showing weakness makes an animal vulnerable. Even our domesticated [dogs and cats](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) carry that instinct, which is why they may continue playing, eating, or wagging their tails while quietly struggling with discomfort. Some pets will mask pain until it becomes severe, so by the time you notice clear symptoms, the issue may already be advanced. Being aware of the more subtle signs helps catch problems earlier, making treatment easier and more effective. ## Behavioral Changes to Watch For One of the earliest clues that your pet is in pain often shows up in their behavior. A normally cheerful dog may seem withdrawn, uninterested in walks, or less excited about playtime. A cat that usually greets you at the door might start hiding under the bed. Even clinginess or sudden irritability can signal discomfort. If your gentle pet begins growling or hissing when touched, or if they seem unusually restless, pacing, or circling without settling down, it’s worth paying closer attention. Your pet is frequently using these mood and personality changes as a means of communicating that something is wrong. ## Physical Signs of Discomfort Along with behavior, physical changes can signal pain. Pets may limp, favor one side of their body, or hesitate before jumping on furniture or climbing stairs. Stiffness after rest, reluctance to run, or avoiding certain movements are also red flags. Watch for changes in posture, too. A [dog that sits hunched or a cat](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/understanding-common-vaccinations-for-dogs-and-cats/) that curls up tightly more often than usual could be guarding a sore spot. You might also notice trembling, shaking, or difficulty finding a comfortable resting position. Sometimes, even a subtle head tilt or repeated paw licking can point to underlying discomfort. ## Eating, Drinking, and Sleeping Patterns ![Expert surgical care ensuring your pets' health and swift recovery.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/General-Surgery.jpg "General Surgery - Crestway Animal Clinic")Pain can affect basic routines. Pets in discomfort may lose interest in food, chew more slowly, or drop kibble from their mouths if dental pain is involved. Others may drink more water if an internal issue is at play, or less if they feel unwell. Sleep is another big indicator. A dog that normally sleeps soundly through the night may pace, whine, or frequently change positions because of joint or abdominal pain. Cats may sleep even more than usual, or they may struggle to settle, constantly shifting around to find relief. ## Vocal Clues While some pets go silent when in pain, others become more vocal. Whining, whimpering, yowling, or excessive meowing can all signal distress. Even subtle sounds, like low growls, sighs, or changes in the pitch of their bark or cry, may reveal discomfort. Keep in mind that not every sound means pain, but when paired with other changes, it can help confirm that something is wrong. Cats are usually meticulous groomers, so if yours suddenly stops caring for their coat, it may be because grooming has become painful. On the other hand, excessive licking, biting, or chewing at a specific spot can point to localized pain, like arthritis, injury, or skin irritation. Dogs may also lick an area repeatedly when it hurts, even if there’s no visible wound. Over time, this can lead to bald patches or skin infections, so it’s a sign worth addressing quickly. ## Subtle Signs in Senior Pets Older pets often live with chronic pain from conditions like arthritis, dental disease, or organ problems. Because these changes develop slowly, owners sometimes mistake them for signs of aging. If your senior dog struggles to get up after lying down, hesitates before stepping into the car, or your senior cat no longer jumps onto the windowsill, it is possible that the problem is pain that may be treated. Regular wellness [visits are especially important for older pets](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-prepare-your-pet-for-a-veterinary-visit/) to catch these issues early and keep them comfortable in their golden years. ## What You Can Do at Home The first [step in helping a pet](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/the-complete-pet-owners-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-surgery-essential-steps-for-success/) in pain is observation. Take note of when the behavior occurs, how often, and what seems to trigger it. Writing down details, like limps after long walks or cries when chewing hard food, helps your veterinarian pinpoint the problem more accurately. Avoid giving human medications, as many over-the-counter drugs are toxic to pets. Instead, focus on making your pet comfortable. Provide soft bedding, keep food and water bowls easily accessible, and limit activities that may worsen the discomfort until you can see your vet. ## When to Seek Veterinary Care If you suspect your pet is in pain, [scheduling an appointment](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/?elementor_library=schedule-appointment) with your veterinarian is the safest course of action. Some signs require immediate attention, such as sudden lameness, refusal to eat for more than a day, vomiting, seizures, or visible injuries. Even more subtle signs, like changes in behavior, stiffness, or unusual grooming, deserve a professional look. At the clinic, your veterinarian will perform an exam, possibly run diagnostic tests, and recommend treatments that may include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or surgery, depending on the cause. ## Treatment and Relief Options Modern veterinary medicine offers many ways to manage pain, both short-term and chronic. Pain relief may come in the form of prescription medications, joint supplements, specialized diets, or therapies like laser treatment and acupuncture. For arthritis, [weight management](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/tips-for-managing-your-pets-weight-effectively/) and gentle exercise programs can make a significant difference. Dental procedures can resolve mouth pain and improve appetite. Your veterinarian will tailor treatment to your pet’s specific needs to improve comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life. ## Preventing Pain Before It Starts ![Class IV Companion Therapy Laser](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Class-IV-Companion-Therapy-Laser_-1024x683.jpg "Class IV Companion Therapy Laser - Crestway Animal Clinic")While not every health issue can be avoided, preventive care plays a big role in minimizing pain. Regular checkups, dental cleanings, parasite control, and vaccinations all contribute to keeping pets healthy. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on joints, while routine grooming helps catch skin or coat problems early. Staying proactive can help prevent small issues from developing into painful conditions. ## Building Awareness as an Owner Perhaps the most important step is learning to trust your instincts. You know your pet better than anyone. If you feel something is off, even if the signs are subtle, it’s worth investigating. Early detection not only eases your pet’s suffering but also often leads to more effective and less costly treatment. The bond between you and your pet is built on love and attention, and staying alert to their signals is one of the best ways to return the unconditional loyalty they give every day. ## Schedule a Checkup Today At Crestway Animal Clinic, our goal is to support both pets and their families through every stage of life. If you think your companion may be in pain, reach out to us at 210-657-6747. Together, we can find the cause, provide relief, and help your pet feel comfortable again. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Microchipping Your Pet: Facts Every Owner Should Know](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/microchipping-your-pet-facts-every-owner-should-know/) **Published:** January 18, 2026 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** One of the most devastating experiences a pet owner can face is losing a pet. Even the calmest animals are frightened by storms; doors are left open, leashes slip, and curious pets can wander farther than they should. ID badges and collars are helpful, but they are not foolproof. Microchipping provides a permanent layer of identification that will stay with your pet for the rest of its life. Veterinarians generally recommend microchips since they are small and easy to use. Despite this, many [pet owners](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/the-complete-pet-owners-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-surgery-essential-steps-for-success/) remain hesitant due to myths or ambiguity about how the process works. You can make an informed choice for your pet if you are aware of what microchipping does and does not do. ## **What a Microchip Is and What It Is Not** A microchip is a tiny electronic chip, about the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted just under your pet’s skin. Each chip carries a unique identification number that can be read using a handheld scanner. That number is linked to a database containing the owner’s contact information. A microchip is not a GPS device. It does not track your pet’s location in real time, and it does not send signals or use batteries. The chip remains inactive until it is scanned by a veterinarian, animal shelter, or animal control officer. Once scanned, the identification number allows the finder to look up the owner’s information and initiate a reunion. ## **Why Microchipping Matters** Pets can lose collars. Tags can break or fade. Even indoor pets can slip out unexpectedly. A microchip provides permanent identification that cannot be removed or lost. Microchipped pets are far more likely to be reunited with their owners if they are lost. Shelters and veterinary clinics routinely scan stray animals, making microchips one of the most effective tools for returning pets home. Microchipping is also helpful in emergencies such as natural disasters, accidents, or evacuations when pets may become separated from their families. In these situations, a microchip can make the difference between a pet being reunited and remaining unidentified. ## **How the Microchipping Process Works** The microchip is implanted using a sterile needle, similar to an injection. It is typically placed between the shoulder blades, just under the skin. The procedure takes only a few seconds and does not require anesthesia. Most pets tolerate microchipping very well. The sensation is comparable to a routine vaccination, and discomfort is minimal. Puppies and kittens are often microchipped during regular wellness visits, spay or neuter procedures, or vaccination appointments. Once the chip is implanted, it remains in place for the rest of the pet’s life. There is no maintenance required, and the chip does not need to be replaced. ## **Registration Is the Most Important Step** Implanting the microchip is only part of the process. Registering the chip with accurate, up-to-date contact information is what makes it effective. After microchipping, the [owner must register the chip number with a pet](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/the-complete-pet-owners-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-surgery-essential-steps-for-success/) recovery database. This information should include current phone numbers, email addresses, and mailing addresses. If contact information changes, the database must be updated. An unregistered microchip cannot help reunite a lost [pet with its owner](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/the-complete-pet-owners-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-surgery-essential-steps-for-success/). Keeping registration current is essential. ## **Common Myths About Microchipping** Many [pet owners](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/recognizing-pain-in-pets-what-every-pet-owner-should-know/) delay or avoid microchipping because of misinformation. One common concern is that the chip will move around the body. In reality, modern microchips are designed to stay in place, and movement is rare. Another myth is that microchips cause health problems. Microchips have been used for decades and are considered safe. Complications are extremely uncommon, and the benefits far outweigh the risks. Some [owners worry that microchipping is painful](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/recognizing-pain-in-pets-what-every-pet-owner-should-know/) or traumatic. While no procedure is entirely sensation-free, microchipping is quick and well-tolerated by most pets. There is also a misconception that microchipping replaces the need for collars or tags. Microchips work best as a backup. Visible identification helps good Samaritans contact owners immediately, while microchips provide a reliable safety net if collars are lost. ## **Microchipping Puppies and Kittens** Microchipping can be done at a young age. Many veterinarians recommend microchipping puppies and kittens during early wellness visits or at the time of spay or neuter surgery. Early microchipping ensures that pets are protected from the start, especially during the high-risk stages of training or relocation. It also simplifies identification if a [pet is ever separated from its owner](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/the-complete-pet-owners-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-surgery-essential-steps-for-success/) later in life. ## **What Happens If a Lost Pet Is Found** When a lost pet is brought to a veterinary clinic or shelter, staff typically scan for a microchip as part of standard intake. If a chip is detected, the identification number is used to access the registry and contact the owner. Reuniting [pets with owners](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/the-complete-pet-owners-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-surgery-essential-steps-for-success/) often happens quickly when microchip information is accurate. This process works regardless of where the pet is found, as scanners and registries are widely used across regions. ## **Microchips and Travel** Microchipping is often required for international pet travel and may be recommended for domestic relocation. Some countries and airlines require specific microchip standards for identification and health documentation. Even for local travel, microchipping adds security when pets are staying in new environments. ## **Why Microchipping Is a Responsible Choice** Microchipping is a simple [step that reflects responsible pet](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/the-complete-pet-owners-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-surgery-essential-steps-for-success/) ownership. It provides lifelong identification, supports animal welfare efforts, and improves the chances of reuniting lost pets with their families. For many owners, the peace of mind alone makes microchipping worthwhile. Knowing that your pet has a permanent form of identification offers reassurance during everyday life and unexpected situations. ## **Microchipping at Crestway Animal Clinic** Microchipping is a quick, routine service that can be done during a regular visit. The veterinary team can explain the process, answer questions, and ensure proper registration so your pet is protected from day one. If you are unsure whether your pet is microchipped or want to confirm that registration details are current, your veterinarian can scan the chip and help update information as needed. ## **Final Thoughts** Microchipping is a straightforward and reliable way to safeguard your pet. It does not track movement, affect your pet’s behavior, or cause ongoing discomfort. Instead, it acts as a secure form of identification, ready to assist if your pet is lost. For [pet owners,](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/recognizing-pain-in-pets-what-every-pet-owner-should-know/) microchipping is not about expecting something to go wrong. It is about being prepared if it does. Taking this small step can make a life-changing difference for your pet. Contact Crestway Animal Clinic today to [schedule microchipping](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/) or discuss your questions. By taking this step, you give your pet the best chance to return home if ever lost and ensure their safety, security, and your peace of mind for years to come. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [How to Collect a Urine Sample](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-collect-a-urine-sample/) **Published:** April 17, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** ## Crestway Animal Clinic On numerous occasions, our clients may call with concerns about their pets’ urination. We may ask owners to collect a urine sample as the first step in identifying a potential problem. We have specifically designed catch trays and containers that we can dispense to you. Obviously, if your pet is straining and cannot pass any urine at all, this may be a medical emergency and he or she should be examined ASAP! This is especially true of the male cat or dog. --- **Background** There are many important reasons for needing to examine a dog or cat’s urine sample, including detecting bladder infections, diabetes, and many other health problems. Usually the urine sample will be analyzed for concentration, red blood cells, white blood cells, bacteria, crystal content, and sugar. Additional tests, such as bacterial culture and sensitivity, can be performed as needed. The way a urine sample is collected determines how it can be used; therefore, a certain collection method may be requested by your veterinarian. The simplest method is by free catch. A free-catch sample is caught midstream while the [dog or cat](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) is urinating. This type of sample is commonly acquired at home and then brought to the veterinary hospital. Other methods include cystocentesis and catheterization. During cystocentesis, a sterile needle is introduced painlessly through the abdominal wall and into the bladder, like an amniocentesis during pregnancy, and urine is drawn out with a syringe. With catheterization, a sterile tube (catheter) is passed into the bladder through the urethra, and the urine is allowed to drip out. **Getting Started** The purpose of urine collection is to obtain a clean sample and provide it promptly to the veterinarian for testing. If possible, it is ideal to collect the sample from the first urination of the day. This urine has been stored in the bladder overnight and will contain more cells for examination. **What you will need:** - Urine storage cup - Urine collection cup - Medical examination-type latex gloves You may have been provided with a sterile cup for urine sample storage by your veterinarian. It is not necessarily that container you will use to collect the sample. Instead, it may be a lot easier to use a shallow, wide-mouthed, clean dish such as a margarine dish or an aluminum foil pie plate for collection, and then pour the sample into the cup for storage. It is also not necessary to fill the cup. With urine samples, fresher is better. It is ideal to have a sample submitted to the veterinarian within 1-2 hours of collection, although up to 24 hours may still be useful for some tests. Contact your veterinary hospital to determine when to drop off your pet’s sample. **Troubleshooting Beforehand** If you can’t bring in a sample immediately after collection, then it is best to refrigerate it. For hygienic reasons, it is best to seal the watertight collection cup inside a ziplock bag for extra protection from spillage. Important note: refrigerating a sample is acceptable, but freezing a sample is not, because freezing destroys much of the material being examined in the urine. **Procedure for Obtaining the Urnine Sample** **DOGS:** It will work best if you are alongside your dog, so a leash-walk or staying within a few feet (1 meter) of the dog is advised. It may take two people to accomplish collection of a clean sample—one person to walk the dog and one person to collect. If a dog is used to walking alone, it may just take some extra time for him/her to eliminate in front of you, and a longer walk is appropriate then. - Put on the latex gloves. - Hold the container by the edges. When the dog starts to urinate, allow a small amount of urine to flow first, and then after 2-3 seconds catch the stream of urine with your container. - Female dogs will often squat close to the ground. A shallow, wide container such as an aluminum pie plate is best for sliding under a squatting dog. For very small female dogs, the clearance is minimal, and a homemade aluminum foil tray may be most effective. Some dogs are startled by the appearance of a tray under them while they are urinating, but most are not bothered or become accustomed to it after a few attempts. The pie plate or tray is held on the ground with one hand (don’t let go of it) and the leash in the other hand while the dog completes urinating and gets up to walk away. Letting go of the plate/tray under the dog risks it being flicked up when the dog stands up, with urine spillage causing a mess and no sample. - Male dogs tend to urinate without squatting, which makes urine collection easier. However, be aware that the slightest breeze can send this stream in an unexpected direction. Additionally, some dogs use their hind legs to scratch the dirt around after urinating. Protect yourself and your sample from spilling should this occur. - With males or females, if you have used an alternative to the urine cup provided to you by your veterinary hospital for collection, transfer the sample into this cup, and seal it completely with the lid. If a cup was not provided to you, then transfer the sample into a clean, watertight container, and seal it with a lid. Deliver this sample to your veterinary hospital as soon as possible. If you are not leaving immediately, then refrigerate the sample until you leave. **CATS:** Collection of a free-catch sample from a cat at home begins with cleaning and emptying the litterbox, without refilling it. Replace the normal litter with dust-free silica “litter pearls,” which are clear plastic beads. Scatter the bottom of the pan with 1-2 cups (125-250 mL) of the beads. This provides something for the cat to push around in the box but prevents absorption of the urine. Pour whatever urine has not been absorbed into a storage container. Some cats are very particular and will not tolerate a change in litter. With these cats, it may be easiest to have the veterinarian collect a sample via cystocentesis (see above). **Afterwards** After dropping the sample off at the veterinary hospital, you can expect most results to be available in 36 hours or less; exceptions are bacterial culture and specific urinary hormone assays, which require several days. **Frequently Asked Questions** **I collected a sample, but it has hair/leaves/snow in it. Is that a problem?** In general, free-catch samples must be free from debris or contamination from the environment. It is a matter of degree, so if you are concerned about contamination of the sample, be sure to describe the nature of the contamination to the veterinary technician when you drop the sample off. **How am I supposed to keep my pet from urinating so I can try to collect a sample at home?** Attempt to collect a sample first thing in the morning. With dogs, it may be helpful to keep them inside overnight, and plan to collect urine during an on-leash walk in the morning. With cats, you can attempt to collect urine at home by changing the litter as described above. Alternatively, restrict your cat from using a litterbox, and plan to take him to the veterinary hospital in the morning for cystocentesis. Do not put a towel in the carrier or anything else your cat could consider as a substrate for urinating on. Finally, if your cat’s bladder is empty in the morning or if your cat urinates while on the way to the hospital, you may have to leave your cat at the hospital for several hours to wait for his bladder to fill again so the staff can acquire a sample there. **My pet is leaking urine all the time. What do I do?** In such circumstances, there is often very little urine stored in the bladder so a pet cannot void a normal volume of urine at one time. This makes collection at home difficult, and your speed at catching the urine can help. Still, even with the best of efforts, the volumes of urine may be so small as to be impossible to collect. In this instance, collecting a sample off the floor may be the only means of collection. This is most easily done in the veterinary hospital where syringes are available to collect samples in this way. A urine sample that is collected off the floor is imperfect, but it can still yield important information. **The urine sample is mixed with feces/stool as well. Is that a problem?** Unfortunately, yes, because urine is much cleaner than feces. Fecal contamination can interfere with results. If there is obvious mixing of urine and feces in a litterbox, for example, then you should discard that sample and begin again. **I have several cats. How do I make sure I have a sample from one cat in particular?** If the cat in question uses only one litterbox, and no other cats use that litterbox, the process described above (with plastic litter beads) can be carried out. Otherwise, the urine sample should be drawn from your cat at the veterinary hospital via cystocentesis (see above). --- We thank Etienne Côté, DVM, for the above article first published as a client education sheet in Dr. Côtés excellent text Clinical Veterinary Advisor, 2nd Ed. 2011. We thank Elsevier Inc. for permission to reproduce this article. Come by today or visit [Crestway Animal Clinic](http://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/) for more information. ![Crestway Animal Clinic](https://crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/How-to-Collect-a-Urine-Sample_-683x1024.jpg "How to Collect a Urine Sample - Crestway Animal Clinic") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Hidden Holiday Dangers for Your Pets](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/hidden-holiday-dangers-for-your-pets/) **Published:** October 15, 2025 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** The holidays are filled with joy, laughter, and celebration. Homes light up with decorations, tables overflow with food, and everyone gathers to enjoy the season. For our pets, however, this cheerful chaos can also bring unexpected dangers. Shiny ornaments, sweet treats, and new smells all seem exciting to them, and that curiosity can lead to trouble. A few extra precautions can ensure your furry family members stay safe and happy through the celebrations. ## The Hidden Dangers in Decorations Holiday decorations can turn your home into a wonderland, but to a pet, they can look like toys waiting to be played with. Tinsel, ribbons, and shiny ornaments often catch a cat’s eye, but if swallowed, they can cause blockages in the intestines, leading to a painful and serious medical emergency. The same goes for decorative strings and gift-wrap materials, which should always be kept out of reach. Glass ornaments, while beautiful, can break easily. A single playful swipe of a paw can scatter sharp shards across the floor, risking cuts to paws or mouths. Using shatter-resistant ornaments or hanging delicate ones higher on the tree can prevent injuries. Even the tree itself can be a hazard if it’s not secured properly. Curious pets can knock it over, so anchoring it well helps avoid disaster. Electrical cords and string lights are another hidden risk. Chewing on them can lead to burns or electric shock. It’s best to tape cords down or hide them behind furniture. When you leave the house, unplug decorations to remove temptation entirely. ## The Temptation of Holiday Food It’s hard to resist sharing a bite of holiday food when those big eyes are staring up at you, but many festive dishes contain ingredients that can make pets seriously ill. Chocolate, for instance, is a favorite human treat but toxic to both [dogs and cats](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/). The darker the chocolate, the more toxic it can be for pets. Grapes and raisins, often found in cookies or fruitcakes, can cause kidney failure even in small amounts. Other common ingredients, like onions, garlic, and chives that are often used in stuffing or sauces, can damage red blood cells. Cooked bones may splinter and cause choking or internal injury. Even fatty scraps from roasts can lead to pancreatitis, a painful condition that requires medical care. Alcohol and foods sweetened with xylitol are especially dangerous and should never be given to pets. If you want your pet to join the feast, stick to plain, cooked meats without seasoning, or buy treats specifically made for animals. It’s a simple way to let them be part of the celebration without risking their health. Additionally, if your pet ever eats something questionable, call a veterinarian right away. ## Festive Plants That Aren’t So Friendly Decorating with plants is a time-honored tradition, but not all greenery is pet-safe. Poinsettias are often labeled as highly toxic, though in reality, they tend to cause only mild irritation if chewed. Still, keeping them out of reach is a good idea. Holly and mistletoe are more dangerous. Their berries and leaves can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart problems when eaten. Lilies are particularly hazardous to cats. Even a small nibble or exposure to the water in a vase can cause kidney failure. If you receive a bouquet, check for lilies before bringing it inside. Live Christmas trees also pose risks. The needles can irritate the stomach if swallowed, and the water at the base may contain preservatives or bacteria that cause illness. Choosing artificial plants or pet-safe varieties can help you keep the festive look without worry. With so many realistic options available, it’s easy to decorate beautifully and safely. ## Candles, Scents, and Seasonal Ambiance Candles create a warm, cozy atmosphere, but open flames and curious pets are never a good mix. A swishing tail or an exploring nose can easily knock one over, leading to burns or fire hazards. Flameless LED candles offer the same glow without the risk and are a smart alternative for pet households. Essential oil diffusers and scented wax melts can also cause problems. Certain oils, like tea tree, peppermint, eucalyptus, and cinnamon, are toxic to pets and can cause drooling, vomiting, or breathing problems. Even fragrances that seem harmless can irritate sensitive noses. Use scents sparingly and ensure good ventilation. ## The Hazards of Wrapping and Toys The excitement of wrapping and unwrapping gifts can fill a room with paper, ribbons, and tiny objects. These are all tempting for pets, especially cats and puppies, but they can be dangerous if swallowed. Ribbons and strings can tangle in the intestines, while bits of wrapping paper may cause stomach upset. Keeping trash bins covered and cleaning up as you go prevents pets from rummaging through the leftovers. Small toys and batteries can also pose serious risks. Batteries can leak harmful chemicals or cause burns inside the digestive tract if ingested. Remind guests to store medications out of reach. Many holiday emergencies begin with pets finding something they shouldn’t have. ## Stress, Noise, and Changes in Routine Even if you’re careful about physical hazards, emotional stress can affect pets during the holidays. The noise of gatherings, fireworks, and visitors can overwhelm them. Some pets hide, while others act out or stop eating. Creating a calm, quiet space in your home gives them a safe retreat when things get noisy. Keeping their daily routine as consistent as possible also helps. Feed them at regular times, take walks as usual, and make sure they get enough attention. If your pet has a hard time with loud noises or crowds, talk to your veterinarian about possible solutions. There are safe ways to ease anxiety, from pheromone sprays to prescription medications. ## Keeping the Season Safe and Bright The holidays can be fun and safe for everyone with a little extra care. Keep an eye on your pets around decorations, avoid sharing human food, and provide a calm place when the celebrations get loud. Watch for signs of distress or illness, and act quickly if something seems off. You know your pet better than anyone, so trust your instincts when something doesn’t feel right. The best gift you can [give your pet](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-give-your-pet-eye-medication/) this season is a safe, loving environment. When they can relax and enjoy the festivities without risk, everyone’s holiday feels brighter. ## A Quick Note of Care If your pet accidentally eats something toxic, chews on an electrical cord, or starts acting unusual, seek help immediately. Quick action can prevent a small incident from turning into a serious emergency. Keep your vet’s number handy, along with contact information for the nearest emergency clinic. The holidays are meant for joy, not worry. With a little preparation and attention, you can make sure your celebrations are filled with warmth and wagging tails, and not unexpected trips to the clinic. Schedule a Holiday Wellness Check Today The holidays can be a busy and sometimes stressful time, making it easy to miss early signs that your pet isn’t feeling well. At the first sign of trouble, schedule a wellness visit at [Crestway Animal Clinic](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/) for guidance. A quick check-in can make a big difference in keeping your furry friend healthy and happy throughout the season and beyond. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [How to Collect a Fecal Sample](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/how-to-collect-a-fecal-sample/) **Published:** November 18, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** ![How to Collect a Fecal Sample](https://crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/How-to-Collect-a-Fecal-Sample_.jpg "How to Collect a Fecal Sample - Crestway Animal Clinic")Many times, Crestway clients call us with concerns about their pets’ bowel movements. Sometimes, the complaint may be diarrhea or a change in normal consistency or frequency. Sometimes, a worm-like object may be observed. Whatever the concern, if your pet is not actually sick, we may ask you to bring us a stool sample. We may be able to help without an actual office visit. Please bear in mind that dispensing a prescription medication does, by Federal and State law, require a valid doctor/patient/client relationship. --- **Background** An animal’s feces (excrement, stool) can provide important information about the function of internal organs, including pancreatic and intestinal health, the presence of intestinal parasites, and many other useful indicators. Therefore, microscopic evaluation of a sample of the feces is an important, noninvasive test that many veterinarians use for identifying the causes of certain illnesses and gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. **Getting Started** Materials needed for collecting a fecal sample include: - Latex medical-type gloves (can be purchased in a drugstore or pharmacy) - Plastic Ziplock bag or other small, plastic container that can be sealed - Plastic disposable spoon. When collecting a fecal sample, it is important to remember that with improper technique, there is a health risk to you: if the feces contain an infectious organism, *that organism can be infectious to people*. Examples of these infectious organisms include several types of GI worms, coccidia, *Giardia*, and *Toxoplasma*. Utmost hygiene is essential. Wearing medical-type latex exam gloves is appropriate for collecting a fecal sample, and whether you wear them or not, it is essential that you avoid any chance of fecal-oral transmission of germs. This means: - Wash your hands immediately after completing the collection of the sample, before touching your face, clothes, or anything else - Keep the container (ziplock bag, other) wide open when depositing the sample so as to not contaminate the edges - Avoid bending or placing tension on the plastic spoon when collecting the sample so there is no risk of spreading the sample (flicking/splashing) Properly done, fecal sample collection is simple, safe, and medically important for your pet. **Troubleshooting Beforehand** For a valid analysis, the feces should be submitted to the veterinarian within 24 hours of being passed by the pet, and preferably within 12 hours. If this is not possible, the sample should be kept in a cool area (but not frozen) out of direct sunlight. In multicat or multidog households, it can be challenging to know with certainty which pet produced which feces. For dogs, a basic first step is to allow a dog to defecate without other dogs present, either on a walk or in an enclosed area like a yard. If he/she is not accustomed to this, then waiting for the pet to become comfortable may take some extra time. When many puppies live together and diarrhea is noted, it can be difficult to determine the exact source—which puppy has the diarrhea? And is it just one of them or more than one? The simplest but most time-consuming approach is to watch the puppies until each one has defecated. If this is not possible, an alternative approach is to add a small piece of a nontoxic wax crayon in the pups’ food, with a different color for each puppy. Keep track of which color goes with which puppy, and when the crayon color is then passed in the diarrhea, the color identifies which puppy has diarrhea. It is important to note that even though only one puppy may have diarrhea, a veterinarian may recommend treating all puppies with a dewormer. Puppies often expose each other to parasites or acquire parasites together at birth or in the milk during nursing. Before beginning, it is important to note that pregnant women and any person with a compromised immune system (such as someone undergoing chemotherapy) should not be collecting fecal samples. Additionally, because of the risk of exposure to toxoplasmosis in cat fecal samples, pregnant women are warned by their physicians to have someone else in the household clean cat litterboxes once daily for the duration of their pregnancy. (Toxoplasmosis can be present in a cat’s stool even in the absence of diarrhea.) **Procedure: How to Collect the Sample** To collect a sample from a cat litterbox, scoop the feces from the litterbox with the disposable plastic spoon and seal it (with the spoon in the bag) in a ziplock bag. It will not harm the sample if some litter is included. If the stool is formed/solid, it may be possible simply to invert the plastic bag inside out, use it as a glove to pick up the feces, and invert it with the feces inside and seal. To collect a sample from a dog, walk the dog on-leash outside. Confirm that the feces sample to be collected is fresh and not old. Collect the sample with a plastic spoon or, if the feces is firm, use the inverted plastic bag approach, as described above. Only a small amount of feces (approximately 1 tablespoon) is necessary for most testing. If the sample is watery or if the pet has very little patience for leash walking, it may be necessary for one person to walk the pet and a second person to collect the sample. **Afterwards** Dispose of latex gloves and any leftover materials (e.g., plastic spoon if you did not put it in the ziplock bag) appropriately, and wash your hands immediately. The fresher the fecal sample is, the better it is for analysis. Ideally, a sample should be examined at your veterinary hospital within 4 hours of collection, but samples that are up to 24 hours old are still valuable. If immediate delivery of the sample to the veterinary hospital is not possible, store the sealed container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and deliver within 24 hours. Then dispose of the latex gloves and paper towels appropriately. **Alternatives and Their Relative Merits** Fecal analysis is the simplest test for evaluating a dog or cat’s intestinal symptoms like diarrhea. Up to three analyses may have to be performed to identify a parasite, because the parasite eggs may be shed only intermittently. If a fecal analysis is negative (no parasites or parasite eggs seen), further testing may be needed if the problem persists for weeks or longer and does not respond to initial treatment. Such tests can include abdominal ultrasound (to examine the structure of the intestines), blood tests (to evaluate general function of the liver, kidneys, blood cells, pancreas, and other organs), x-rays (to show the position and proportions of the internal organs), and intestinal biopsy, either via endoscopy or surgery. **Frequently Asked Questions** **My dog only goes outside to urinate and defecate. How can he/she have GI worms or parasites?** The eggs of worms and parasites are microscopic and cannot be seen. They are carried and passed on to pets through the stool of wildlife, and in this way, a dog takes in the worm eggs when sniffing the ground. These same eggs also are often passed from mother to puppy at birth or in the milk during nursing. **My pet is on a monthly dewormer. Why did my vet recommend a fecal analysis?** Not all infectious organisms are worms. A pet can be on a monthly dewormer and still be exposed to other parasites (like protozoa) that cause diarrhea. Additionally, there are other reasons for examining a fecal sample beyond parasites, including fecal enzymes and bacteria, that can explain a pet’s symptoms and identify the best treatment. **My pet’s diarrhea is very watery. How can I collect it?** It is best to collect it directly from the ground or floor (or litter, for cats’ litterboxes) immediately after it has been passed. Use the technique described above, keeping in mind that 1 tablespoonful is usually sufficient, and that some contamination with soil or litter is acceptable. Alternatively, your veterinarian may have to keep your pet in the hospital, typically overnight, in order to collect the sample necessary for testing --- We thank Etienne Côté, DVM, for the above article first published as a client education sheet in Dr. Côtés excellent text Clinical Veterinary Advisor, 2nd Ed. 2011. We thank Elsevier Inc. for permission to reproduce this article. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Choosing a proper chew toy for your dog](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/choosing-a-proper-chew-toy-for-your-dog/) **Published:** February 21, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** Dog toys are an essential part of your dog’s health and well-being. Selecting a toy that is suitable and one that will appease them is extremely important. Your dog’s chew toy not only benefits their dental health, but also provides entertainment or can easily become a distraction during bouts of nervousness or anxiety. At Crestway Animal Clinic, we understand that all dogs need toys. They need them from the time they are puppies, well into adulthood. All too often, people purchase whatever is convenient, or appealing to the eye. On this page, you will find a few suggestions to really make your next chew toy purchase count. Toys are essential for puppies to learn and explore, for teething, to prevent boredom and to teach a puppy how to appropriately play with humans. Toys are needed during the transition from puppyhood into adulthood, taking precaution in selecting teething appropriate toys during the teething stage. Important guidelines: - Replace toys when you notice signs of wear and tear. - Recognize your dog’s chewing habits before providing them any dog toy or treat. - Combine an assortment of toys with the right training to prevent destructive behavior. - To prevent boredom, give your dog four to five toys at a time, and then swap them out weekly. ## Questions to ask when selecting the proper toy: #### Does your dog like to chew? - Rope toys, bone-hard chew toys and dental chew toys are constructed for low- to medium-grade chewers. - Dog toys made of rubber are great for aggressive chewers because of their durability. These toys are built to last and give your dog a good chewing workout. Plus, their interesting shapes will cause them to bounce unpredictably for additional amusement. - If your dog is a moderate to heavy chewer, select extremely resilient dog toys that are long- lasting and made for durability. Make sure the toy is incapable of being rapidly chewed into bits creating a hazard to your pet. - Soft, smooth and squishy, vinyl or latex toys are great for older dogs because they are much easier on sensitive teeth and gums. Smaller dogs who are non-aggressive chewers will also benefit from them. ### Does your dog like to chase? - Select retrieving toys that fly or bounce erratically to exercise and entertain your dog without exhausting their owners. - Invest in a flying disc made exclusively for pets that is composed of soft plastic or cloth. These are easier on your dog’s sensitive mouth, teeth, and gums. This is particularly important when you have an athletic puppy that enjoys catching flying discs in mid air! - Retrieving dog toys designed with rope (or floss) are excellent for teeth and gums. ### Does your dog like to carry & cuddle? - Select soft toys composed of fleece or plush fabric. - The more frequently your dog plays with these toys, the more familiar their lingering scent attracts them to the toy and enhances their enjoyment while playing. - These toys also make wonderful companions when your dog is in the mood for quiet, cuddle time. Soft toys often squeak or make other noises capturing and keeping your dog’s attention. ### Does your dog like to be rewarded? - Select interactive toys that are perfect for busting their boredom - Balls or additional shapes designed with hollow areas can be filled with treats. They can occupy your dog for long periods of time. Most dogs will not give up until every last bit of their treat is retrieved. Pets love to work for their treats. - Interactive toys provide mental and physical stimulation. - Dog toys that disguise one or more smaller toys can challenge, in addition to rewarding your dog. Crestway Animal Clinic understands that selecting a proper chew toy is central to your dog’s well being. However, chew toys should never take the place of regular human interaction with your beloved pet. Toys are intended to enhance your dog’s happiness, especially during their most formative years. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [A Simple 10-Day Diet Switch for Your Cat or Dog](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/a-simple-10-day-diet-switch-for-your-cat-or-dog/) **Published:** November 22, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** ![witching your cat or dog's diet can be an excellent step for their health, but it’s important to do it gradually to avoid stomach upset and ensure they adjust well.](https://crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Crestway-cat-dog-care.webp "A Simple 10-Day Diet Switch for Your Cat or Dog - Crestway Animal Clinic") Switching your cat or dog’s diet can be an excellent step for their health, but it’s important to do it gradually to avoid stomach upset and ensure they adjust well. At Crestway Animal Clinic, we recommend the 10-day diet transition method, designed specifically for your furry friends. Let’s dive into how to make this change safely and effectively. ## Why a Gradual Diet Change Matters Cats and dogs have sensitive digestive systems. Abrupt changes in their diet can lead to: - Stomach upset - Vomiting - Diarrhea - Refusal to eat the new food A gradual transition helps your pet adapt to the new food while maintaining their digestive health. ### The 10-Day Diet Switch Method Here’s how to implement the 10-day transition method: 1. **Day 1-2:** Mix 25% of the new food with 75% of the old food. 1. This small amount allows your pet to begin familiarizing themselves with the new taste and texture. 2. **Day 3-4:** Increase the new food to 50%, mixing it evenly with 50% of the old food. 1. Monitor for any signs of digestive upset like loose stools or lethargy. 3. **Day 5-6:** Transition to 75% new food and 25% old food. 1. By now, your pet should be more comfortable with the new food. 4. **Day 7-10:** Serve 100% new food. 1. Congratulations! Your pet has successfully transitioned to their new diet. ### Tips for a Successful Transition - **Stay Consistent:** Follow the proportions closely to avoid upsetting your pet’s stomach. - **Observe Changes:** Watch for any signs of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite. If these occur, slow down the transition process. - **Hydration is Key:** Ensure your pet has access to fresh water throughout the transition. **Consult Your Veterinarian:** If you notice persistent issues or your pet has unique dietary needs, reach out to us at Crestway Animal Clinic for personalized guidance. ### What to Look for in Quality Pet Food When choosing a new diet, prioritize: - **High-Quality Protein:** Essential for muscle maintenance and energy. - **Complete Nutrition:** Look for food labeled as “complete and balanced” for your pet’s life stage. - **Allergen Awareness:** If your pet has sensitivities, choose a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet. ### When to Consider a Diet Change - Your veterinarian recommends it due to health conditions like allergies or weight management. - Your pet is transitioning between life stages (e.g., kitten to adult, adult to senior). - You want to provide a better-quality diet for their overall health. At Crestway Animal Clinic, we’re here to help you make the best choices for your beloved cats and dogs. For further assistance with diet transitions or any other pet health concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us. ### About Dr. Kelly: Dr. Kelly is a dedicated veterinarian at Crestway Animal Clinic with years of experience ensuring the health and happiness of cats and dogs. She believes in a holistic approach to pet care and works closely with pet owners to create tailored health plans. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ## Pages ### [Home](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/) **Published:** November 5, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** ## We provide the best care for your pet Your pets deserve the best, and that’s what we offer at Crestway Animal Clinic. [ More About Us ](/about-us/) #### Veterinary Medicine & Surgery Health care tailored for your pet. [ Learn More ](/medicine-and-surgery/) #### Pet Dental Care Oral care for total health. [ Learn More ](/dentistry/) ![side_imag.jpg](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/side_imag-qwm95j6kleacxyyebgsvvm8qwpemln7vpn68ov6nhs.jpg "side_imag.jpg") ### Welcome to Crestway Animal Clinic! Welcome to Crestway Animal Clinic where our mission is to provide professional and compassionate care to your loving animal. We have been practicing in San Antonio for over 31 years, and look forward to taking care of your pet and building a family relationship with you. We have an astonishing support staff with special interests in variety of pet care. Our family-oriented staff is committed to providing quality veterinary care while maintaining an atmosphere of respect, and support. ![witching your cat or dog's diet can be an excellent step for their health, but it’s important to do it gradually to avoid stomach upset and ensure they adjust well.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Crestway-cat-dog-care.webp "A Simple 10-Day Diet Switch for Your Cat or Dog - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") ### Serving the community for 30+ years! [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) ### Our Services Your pet’s health and well-being are our top priority. [ ![Your pet is very important to you and is a part of your family.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/serv2.jpg "General Medicine - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") #### General Medicine Your pet is very important to you and is a part of your family. ](/medicine-and-surgery/) [ ![Expert surgical care ensuring your pets' health and swift recovery.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/General-Surgery-768x591.jpg "General Surgery - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") #### General Surgery Expert surgical care ensuring your pets’ health and swift recovery. ](/medicine-and-surgery/) [ ![Comprehensive dental care to maintain your pets' oral health.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/serv4.jpg "Dentistry - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") #### Dentistry Comprehensive dental care to maintain your pets’ oral health. ](/dentistry/) ![Eye problems are, unfortunately, very common, especially in our short nosed, round faced canine friends like Pugs and Pekingese and also with some pedigreed kitties like Persians and Himalayans.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/How-to-give-your-pet-eye-medication.jpg "How to give your pet eye medication - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") ### Do Pets Have Allergies? At Crestway Animal Clinic, we have developed a trusting relationship with our clients and have the experience to provide quality pet care. We offer a wide array of services to care for your pet. All services are available by appointment. Please call us at (210) 657-6747 or visit our Contact Us page for more information. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) ### What Customer's Say Your pet’s health and well-being are our top priority. ![Gloria French profile picture](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjWQpjmRgOtLYBwqOzAlFSYcnGsf7VZ7lj4V4qi-eelLHiMqgho=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo-ba3) [Gloria French](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/103569901046981294108/reviews)17:47 22 Oct 24 A great place to take you sick or injured pet ![M J Lucas profile picture](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjUcumAWjXt8fE6F7piZ_MOD_Gmx3HlWgAU17grYKEFQumvkPby8=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo-ba5) [M J Lucas](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/101822005087733120597/reviews)03:09 13 Oct 24 The vet and assistant were very helpful and caring. I was able to get a same day appointment. ![alejandro olvera profile picture](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjXumxc-k2y_IptvY2hllCU-ulXtY1MDJXRuUKXipEBQBR8fhuoy=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo-ba3) [alejandro olvera](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/116426073801148427917/reviews)03:45 24 Aug 24 This animal clinic is a great place if you have time and money to spend. Great mom and pop clinic for the most part. A bit on the pricey side, but totally worth it if you can afford it and want comprehensive health care for your pet. The only downside really is that we usually don’t get a call for future appointments or notifications when my pets need vaccines or other routine care. The parking here is real tight (city style). ![Samantha Whited profile picture](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjXFYzZYZQSZ_bDd04YPIP3HDOSKwygUxb8Y5TBHoD4CowLMgzsh=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo) [Samantha Whited](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/102303849869658728027/reviews)22:10 18 Jul 24 Crestway Animal Clinc. Where to start. You guys are amazing. You go above and beyond. You have made me and my family feel safe. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for taking care of our fur baby. ### Latest News Your pet’s health and well-being are our top priority. ![Veterinarian in teal scrubs offering a treat to a seated beagle wearing a pink collar in a bright clinic.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/280c11ce-e6ad-4525-bcbd-5787d26673c7-1024x768.webp "280c11ce-e6ad-4525-bcbd-5787d26673c7 - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") What Your Pet’s Mouth Is Telling You About Their Health Dental disease in pets rarely shows obvious early warning signs. It develops slowly, and the changes are often subtle enough \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/what-your-pets-mouth-is-telling-you-about-their-health/) ![Veterinarian in teal scrubs offering a treat to a seated beagle wearing a pink collar in a bright clinic.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/280c11ce-e6ad-4525-bcbd-5787d26673c7-1024x768.webp "280c11ce-e6ad-4525-bcbd-5787d26673c7 - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") Does My Purebred Pug Need Extra Care? 5 Crucial Reasons for Regular Vet Visits Loving a purebred Pug comes with a specific set of responsibilities. The very traits that make them so recognizable and \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/does-my-purebred-pug-need-extra-care-5-crucial-reasons-for-regular-vet-visits/) ![Person in an orange shirt gently holds a brown-and-white dog and a tabby cat on a couch at home, showing affection.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/VetVisit.jpg "VetVisit - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") Should I Take My Dog to the Vet ASAP? 10 Critical Signs of an Emergency While a minor upset stomach, a brief bout of fatigue after a long walk, or a single sneeze might just \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/should-i-take-my-dog-to-the-vet-asap-10-critical-signs-of-an-emergency/) #### 5% OFF military discount! Contact us to make an appointment. \*You must show a military ID to claim this discount. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) --- ### [Payments](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/payments/) **Published:** February 23, 2026 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** # Payments ### Payment options that work for you and your pet’s needs. We accept cash, debit cards, most major credit cards, Care Credit, and now offer flexible payment plans through Cherry. Whether it’s a routine visit or an unexpected illness, we’re here to make veterinary care more accessible. Our goal is to help you focus on what matters most—your pet’s health and comfort. ### Available Payment Options ### Cash ### Debit Card ### Most Credit Cards ### Cherry ### Care Credit [ Online Pharmacy Access ](https://crestwayanimalclinic.ourvet.com/pet/) - [Medicine and Surgery](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/medicine-and-surgery/) - [Dentistry](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/dentistry/) Hamburger Toggle Menu Clinic Hours Monday - Thursday **8:00AM to 5:00PM** #### 5% OFF military discount! Contact us to make an appointment. \*You must show a military ID to claim this discount. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) --- ### [Medicine and Surgery](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/medicine-and-surgery/) **Published:** November 11, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** # Medicine and Surgery Your pet is very important to you and is a part of your family. Keeping your pet healthy is a big responsibility and we can help. We welcome you to visit our location. Crestway Animal Clinic offers the following services for you and your pets: ### General Medicine - Preventative Medicine Education - Vaccinations - Diagnostic Medicine - Radiology - Dermatology - Laboratory Testing - Ultrasound Examinations(Partners) - Referral ### General Surgery - Spays - Neuters - Biopsies - Gastrointestinal - Wound repair ### Pain Management ### Allergy Injections ### Microchipping ### Behavioral Counseling ### Nutritional Counseling ### Cremational Services [ Online Pharmacy Access ](https://crestwayanimalclinic.ourvet.com/pet/) - [Medicine and Surgery](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/medicine-and-surgery/) - [Dentistry](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/dentistry/) Hamburger Toggle Menu Clinic Hours Monday - Thursday **8:00AM to 5:00PM** #### 5% OFF military discount! Contact us to make an appointment. \*You must show a military ID to claim this discount. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) --- ### [Contact Us](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/contact-us/) **Published:** November 7, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** # Contact Us ### Our Contact Info Our schedule is by appointment only. To set up an appointment, please call 210-657-6747 and we will be glad to get you on the calendar. Crestway Animal Clinic accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, CareCredit, and 3% cash discount. [](tel:2106576747) Phone 210-657-6747 Clinic Address 6636 Crestway Rd, San Antonio, TX 78239 Clinic Hours Monday - Thursday **8:00 AM - 5:00 PM** --- ### [Policies](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/policies/) **Published:** March 3, 2026 **Author:** AgileAdmin **Content:** # Policies ### Crestway Animal Clinic Privacy Policy No mobile opt-in data or numbers will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes. All the above categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties. ### Crestway Animal Clinic SMS Terms of Use 1\. You will receive messages for upcoming appointments, scheduled services, and general customer care. 2\. You can cancel the SMS service at any time. Just text “STOP” to the message. After you send the SMS message “STOP” to us, we will send you an SMS message to confirm that you have been unsubscribed. After this, you will no longer receive SMS messages from us. To resubscribe and opt back in to receive texts from this number, text “START”. 3\. If you are experiencing issues with the messaging program, you can reply with the keyword HELP for more assistance or how to unsubscribe. 4\. Carriers are not liable for any delayed or undelivered messages. 5\. As always, message and data rates may apply for any messages sent to you from us and to us from you. Message frequency varies, and if you have any questions about your text plan or data plan, it is best to contact your wireless provider. 6\. If you have any questions regarding privacy, please read our privacy policy: No mobile opt-in data or numbers will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes. All the above categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties. - [Medicine and Surgery](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/medicine-and-surgery/) - [Dentistry](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/dentistry/) Hamburger Toggle Menu Clinic Hours Monday - Thursday **8:00AM to 5:00PM** #### 5% OFF military discount! Contact us to make an appointment. \*You must show a military ID to claim this discount. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) --- ### [Staff Bios](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/staff-bios/) **Published:** November 7, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** # Staff Bios ## Crestway Animal Hospital - Staff Bios ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/C913F240-683C-4FD9-8A48-F6986C8AF5A1.jpg) ## Dr. Kelly ### Doctor Dr. Kelly is from Shreveport, Louisiana. She earned her undergraduate degree in 2011 and her veterinary degree at Louisiana State University in 2017. She and her husband met in college, and she moved here to Texas to start a life together after graduating veterinary school. Dr. Kelly and her husband have three young children that make their world go ‘round, two dogs (Banjo and Elouise) and two cats (Gatsby and Voodoo). Finding a clinic to call home where Dr. Kelly could practice high-quality medicine, build trusting relationships with clients and patients, and be able to genuinely be present for her family has been her dream for years. This all became a reality in purchasing Crestway Animal Clinic in 2022. Dr. Kelly’s special interests include surgery, fear/anxiety behavior, and allergic dermatitis. Dr. Kelly and her family are active members of Windcrest United Methodist Church and live right here in the Windcrest community. She looks forward to serving this community for many years to come. ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_8690.jpg) ## Catherine ### Office Manager My name is Catherine and I work in the office here at Crestway Animal Clinic. I was born and raised here in San Antonio, Texas. I have two children that are currently serving in the military and one attending college here in San Antonio. My husband and I currently have four dogs that have us completely trained. I love helping people and their pets. God has placed me here at this clinic for a very long time and it has been a blessing for sure. ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/FullSizeRender.jpg) ## Summer ### Veterinary Technician My name is Summer and I was born here in San Antonio. I moved around a lot with my Dad in the Air Force until 2009 when I came back home. I started working as a receptionist in veterinary medicine in 2017 and worked my way up to a Veterinary Assistant where I met Dr. Kelly. I am a new mom to my beautiful daughter as of April 2024 and live with my partner and our 5 lovely cats. I’m very grateful to have started working with my mentor here at Crestway Animal Clinic at the beginning of 2023 and hope to have many more years here. ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/60FFCEE8-9DBA-41CE-9F66-E46318CF76B5.jpg) ## Christian ### Veterinary Technician Hello🙋🏼‍♂️ My name is Christian. I have been a pet lover my whole life, and have been in the Veterinary field for 10+ years now. I was born and raised in San Antonio the majority of my life, but lived in California for a few years as well. When I’m not at work, I’m either on the softball field, gaming at home, or spending time with family. P.S…You may or may not hear me singing in the back of the clinic. #### 5% OFF military discount! Contact us to make an appointment. \*You must show a military ID to claim this discount. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) --- ### [About Us](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/about-us/) **Published:** November 6, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** # About Us ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_6357-1-768x512.jpg "Crestway Animal Hospital - Staff - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") ### Welcome to Crestway Animal Clinic! Welcome to Crestway Animal Clinic where our mission is to provide professional and compassionate care to your loving animal. We have been practicing in San Antonio for over 31 years, and look forward to taking care of your pet and building a family relationship with you. We have an astonishing support staff with special interests in variety of pet care. Our family-oriented staff is committed to providing quality veterinary care while maintaining an atmosphere of respect, and support. We offer a complete range of veterinary services, including vaccinations, medical, surgical, and dental services, hospitalization, and pet grooming. [ ](/medicine-and-surgery/) ### [ General Medicine ](/medicine-and-surgery/) Your pet is very important to you and is a part of your family. [ ](/medicine-and-surgery/) ### [ General Surgery ](/medicine-and-surgery/) Expert surgical care ensuring your pets' health and swift recovery. [ ](/dentistry/) ### [ Dentistry ](/dentistry/) Comprehensive dental care to maintain your pets' oral health. #### 5% OFF military discount! Contact us to make an appointment. \*You must show a military ID to claim this discount. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) ### Our Gallery [ ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_0895.jpg) [ ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/gallery-9.webp) [ ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/gallery-8.webp) [ ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/gallery-7.webp) [ ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/gallery-6.webp) [ ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/FullSizeR.jpg) [ ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_7219.jpg) [ ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_0214.jpg) [ ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_3276.jpg) ### What Customer's Say Your pet’s health and well-being are our top priority. ![Gloria French profile picture](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjWQpjmRgOtLYBwqOzAlFSYcnGsf7VZ7lj4V4qi-eelLHiMqgho=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo-ba3) [Gloria French](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/103569901046981294108/reviews)17:47 22 Oct 24 A great place to take you sick or injured pet ![M J Lucas profile picture](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjUcumAWjXt8fE6F7piZ_MOD_Gmx3HlWgAU17grYKEFQumvkPby8=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo-ba5) [M J Lucas](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/101822005087733120597/reviews)03:09 13 Oct 24 The vet and assistant were very helpful and caring. I was able to get a same day appointment. ![alejandro olvera profile picture](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjXumxc-k2y_IptvY2hllCU-ulXtY1MDJXRuUKXipEBQBR8fhuoy=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo-ba3) [alejandro olvera](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/116426073801148427917/reviews)03:45 24 Aug 24 This animal clinic is a great place if you have time and money to spend. Great mom and pop clinic for the most part. A bit on the pricey side, but totally worth it if you can afford it and want comprehensive health care for your pet. The only downside really is that we usually don’t get a call for future appointments or notifications when my pets need vaccines or other routine care. The parking here is real tight (city style). ![Samantha Whited profile picture](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjXFYzZYZQSZ_bDd04YPIP3HDOSKwygUxb8Y5TBHoD4CowLMgzsh=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo) [Samantha Whited](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/102303849869658728027/reviews)22:10 18 Jul 24 Crestway Animal Clinc. Where to start. You guys are amazing. You go above and beyond. You have made me and my family feel safe. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for taking care of our fur baby. --- ### [Services](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/services/) **Published:** November 11, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** # Services ## Crestway Animal Clinic Services At Crestway Animal Clinic, we have developed a trusting relationship with our clients and have the experience to provide quality pet care. We offer a wide array of services to care for your pet. All services are available by appointment. Please call us at (210) 657-6747 or visit our [Contact Us](/Contact-Us/ "Contact Dr. Edward Nichols at Crestway Animal Clinic in San Antonio Texas") page for more information. Crestway Animal Clinic is a full-service animal facility and wellness clinic. We provide in-house surgeries, laboratory testing, radiology, urinalysis, and diagnostics. We are a family friendly facility that will help you provide quality care to your pet and we will show them the love and compassion that they receive everyday from you. Our facility is equipped with the necessary equipment and staff to keep your pet alive and well. We encourarge preventative care whenever possible to ensure a healthy and long life for your special companion. We offer physical examinations, vaccinations, heartworm, and parasite prevention education, and nutritional counseling services. Crestway Animal Clinic offers the following services for your pets: ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/General-Medicine_.jpg "General-Medicine_ - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic")### General Medicine Your pet is very important to you and is a part of your family. [ Learn More ](/medicine-and-surgery/) ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/General-Surgery_.jpg "General-Surgery_ - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic")### General Surgery Expert surgical care ensuring your pets' health and swift recovery. [ Learn More ](/medicine-and-surgery/) ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/dog-dentistry_.jpg "dog-dentistry_ - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic")### Dentistry Comprehensive dental care to maintain your pets' oral health. [ Learn More ](/dentistry/) #### 5% OFF military discount! Contact us to make an appointment. \*You must show a military ID to claim this discount. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) --- ### [Testimonials](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/testimonials/) **Published:** November 11, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** # Testimonials ## Google Reviews [ Click Here To View All Google Reviews ](https://www.google.com/search?q=crestway+animal+clinic&rlz=1C1VDKB_enPH1084PH1085&oq=Crestway+Animal+Clinic&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqDAgAECMYJxiABBiKBTIMCAAQIxgnGIAEGIoFMg0IARAuGK8BGMcBGIAEMgYIAhBFGDsyBwgDEAAYgAQyCAgEEAAYFhgeMgYIBRBFGDwyBggGEEUYPDIGCAcQRRg80gEHNjU4ajBqNKgCALACAQ&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#lrd=0x865cf32bf58b7e27:0x2e7944307bb1e2f8,1,,,,) ``` Posted on Gloria French Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A great place to take you sick or injured pet Posted on M J Lucas Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The vet and assistant were very helpful and caring. I was able to get a same day appointment. Posted on alejandro olvera Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This animal clinic is a great place if you have time and money to spend. Great mom and pop clinic for the most part. A bit on the pricey side, but totally worth it if you can afford it and want comprehensive health care for your pet. The only downside really is that we usually don’t get a call for future appointments or notifications when my pets need vaccines or other routine care. The parking here is real tight (city style). Posted on Samantha Whited Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Crestway Animal Clinc. Where to start. You guys are amazing. You go above and beyond. You have made me and my family feel safe. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for taking care of our fur baby. Posted on Judy Knable Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very nice people. Doggy is always happy there Posted on Marian Eure Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. They have taken care of 3 of our dogs with love and compassion. Posted on Samantha Ford Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The best vet office I've ever been too. Love the staff and atmosphere here! They treat you and your pets like family. ❤️ Posted on Kit Brockman Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Update 10/2023 - still a wonderful clinic with the same great staff, just with the new veterinarian after Dr. Nichols retired. I absolutely love this clinic and veterinarian! I have taken all three of my kitties here and my dog and they have all been wonderful experiences. Truly makes me appreciate such a caring and compassionate veterinarian and staff! My littlest cat needed a full dental cleaning and some extractions and I was worried it was going to cost me $1,000 just from what I had researched online for other vets and it was hardly even a quarter of that! The procedure also went so smoothly I had her back less than two hours later and she was hardly phased by her "alien abduction". The only downside I would say is they're so popular that they're usually pretty booked up, so call in advance for appointments. Oh, and the parking lot is a little small, but that isn't really any fault of their own! Load more ``` #### 5% OFF military discount! Contact us to make an appointment. \*You must show a military ID to claim this discount. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) --- ### [Blog](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/blog/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** # Blog ![Veterinarian in teal scrubs offering a treat to a seated beagle wearing a pink collar in a bright clinic.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/280c11ce-e6ad-4525-bcbd-5787d26673c7-1024x768.webp "280c11ce-e6ad-4525-bcbd-5787d26673c7 - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") What Your Pet’s Mouth Is Telling You About Their Health Dental disease in pets rarely shows obvious early warning signs. It develops slowly, and the changes are often subtle enough \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/what-your-pets-mouth-is-telling-you-about-their-health/) ![Veterinarian in teal scrubs offering a treat to a seated beagle wearing a pink collar in a bright clinic.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/280c11ce-e6ad-4525-bcbd-5787d26673c7-1024x768.webp "280c11ce-e6ad-4525-bcbd-5787d26673c7 - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") Does My Purebred Pug Need Extra Care? 5 Crucial Reasons for Regular Vet Visits Loving a purebred Pug comes with a specific set of responsibilities. The very traits that make them so recognizable and \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/does-my-purebred-pug-need-extra-care-5-crucial-reasons-for-regular-vet-visits/) ![Person in an orange shirt gently holds a brown-and-white dog and a tabby cat on a couch at home, showing affection.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/VetVisit.jpg "VetVisit - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") Should I Take My Dog to the Vet ASAP? 10 Critical Signs of an Emergency While a minor upset stomach, a brief bout of fatigue after a long walk, or a single sneeze might just \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/should-i-take-my-dog-to-the-vet-asap-10-critical-signs-of-an-emergency/) ![Gray cat nap-peacefully, resting in a person's arms with paws tucked in](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/CatVisit.jpg "CatVisit - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") 10 Must-Know Tips and Tricks for Giving Your Cat Eye, Ear, or Oral Medication Anyone who has ever shared their home with a cat knows that they are fiercely independent, incredibly agile, and completely \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/10-must-know-tips-and-tricks-for-giving-your-cat-eye-ear-or-oral-medication/) ![Small dog lying on a veterinary table while a vet uses an ultrasound probe on its abdomen.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/petultrasound.jpg "petultrasound - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") Your Complete Guide to Preparing Your Pet for an Ultrasound (What Every Owner Should Know) As responsible pet owners, we want the best possible care for our furry family members. When your pet isn’t feeling \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/your-complete-guide-to-preparing-your-pet-for-an-ultrasound-what-every-owner-should-know/) ![Cat with a blue measuring tape around its body beside a bowl of kibble, suggesting weight management or pet dieting.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/petweight.jpg "petweight - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") Obesity in Pets: Health Risks & How to Help Your Pet Lose Weight Pet obesity is one of the most common and under-recognized health issues affecting dogs and cats today. Many pet owners \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/obesity-in-pets-health-risks-how-to-help-your-pet-lose-weight/) ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/p4-1024x683.jpg "p4.jpg - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") Microchipping Your Pet: Facts Every Owner Should Know One of the most devastating experiences a pet owner can face is losing a pet. Even the calmest animals are \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/microchipping-your-pet-facts-every-owner-should-know/) ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/p2-1024x683.jpg "p2.jpg - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") 10 Essential Benefits of Spaying or Neutering Your Cat Bringing a new kitten or cat into your home is an exciting milestone. Still, there is a crucial medical decision \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/10-essential-benefits-of-spaying-or-neutering-your-cat/) ![Expert surgical care ensuring your pets' health and swift recovery.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/General-Surgery.jpg "General Surgery - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") Hidden Holiday Dangers for Your Pets The holidays are filled with joy, laughter, and celebration. Homes light up with decorations, tables overflow with food, and everyone \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/hidden-holiday-dangers-for-your-pets/) ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/p2-1024x683.jpg "p2.jpg - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") Recognizing Pain in Pets: What Every Pet Owner Should Know Pets can’t sit us down and tell us when they’re hurting. Instead, they communicate through subtle changes in behavior, posture, \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/recognizing-pain-in-pets-what-every-pet-owner-should-know/) ![A veterinarian in a white coat examines a friendly beagle, holding its chin and smiling in a clinic.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/7b31e1bd-a463-4e25-a8e8-8a9aa2874774-1024x768.webp "7b31e1bd-a463-4e25-a8e8-8a9aa2874774 - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") Everything You Need to Know About Microchipping Your Pet As a pet owner, you should be responsible for your pet’s safety and wellbeing. One of the worst fears of \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-microchipping-your-pet/) ![Dog lying on the sunny lawn as a small orange-and-white cat stands near colorful flower beds in a lush garden.](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/17c9043a-c8f7-44ff-912f-a2d3e5204078-1024x768.webp "17c9043a-c8f7-44ff-912f-a2d3e5204078 - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") Flea and Tick Prevention: Why Late Summer Matters Most While summer is a time for outdoor activities, backyard gatherings, and sunny days, pet parents should also be vigilant for \[..\] [ Read More ](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/flea-and-tick-prevention-why-late-summer-matters-most/) Page1[Page2](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/blog/?e-page-c420a57=2)[Page3](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/blog/?e-page-c420a57=3) #### 5% OFF military discount! Contact us to make an appointment. \*You must show a military ID to claim this discount. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) --- ### [Staff](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/staff/) **Published:** November 7, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** # Staff ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_6357-1.jpg "Crestway Animal Hospital - Staff - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") ## Crestway Animal Hospital - Staff Come visit the friendly staff at Crestway Animal Clinic. We are made up of professional individuals who love pets and want to help your pet live a long, healthy life. You can feel comfortable that our team of pet lovers can create a warm and welcoming experience for you and your pet comparion. We look forward to make you part of our family. [ View Staff Bios ](/staff-bios/) #### 5% OFF military discount! Contact us to make an appointment. \*You must show a military ID to claim this discount. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) --- ### [Dentistry](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/dentistry/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** sitemanager **Content:** # Dentistry At Crestway Animal Clinic, we offer professional animal dentistry. Proper dental care is just as important to your pet as it is to you. ### Crestway Animal Clinic can provide the following pet dental services: ### Prophylaxis Cleaning – Polishing ![](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/veterinarian-doctor-brushes-teeth-dog-with-special-brush-closeup-dental-treatment-animals_627378-9146.jpg "veterinarian-doctor-brushes-teeth-dog-with-special-brush-closeup-dental-treatment-animals_627378-9146 - Crestway Animal Clinic - Crestway Animal Clinic") - [Medicine and Surgery](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/medicine-and-surgery/) - [Dentistry](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/dentistry/) Hamburger Toggle Menu Clinic Hours Monday - Thursday **8:00AM to 5:00PM** #### 5% OFF military discount! Contact us to make an appointment. \*You must show a military ID to claim this discount. [ Call To Schedule ](tel:2106576747) --- ## Categories ### [Uncategorized](https://www.crestway-animal-clinic.com/category/uncategorized/) ---