Dr. Deb's Top Ten Tips To Remember

1.  Exam - Always schedule an annual exam at ACH for your pet.  This is how we make sure they live long, healthy lives!

2.  Dentistry - Dogs and cats need regular dental care.  Problems are often found on the physical exam that need to be addressed.  (**Note:  Dr. Deb does not support or encourage non-anesthetic dentistry.  It is considered below the standard of care in the state of CA)

3. Travel -  Because most of us live in the desert, we tend to forget that there are parasites and other concerns to be considered when we travel with our pets outside of the desert.  We want to make sure your pets are protected!  This is something that can and should be discussed during the physical exam so we can make the appropriate recommendations for you.  Sometimes this includes flea preventatives, heartworm tests and preventatives, etc. 

4.  Parasites - It is a MYTH that we do not have parasites in the desert!  We routinely find fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites, etc. in our patients.  We hear all of the time, "we don't have fleas in the desert!" and it's not true!

5.  Obesity - Obesity is an epidemic in people, and it's an epidemic with our pets.  We can talk about your pet's weight during the physical exam.

6.  Foxtails - Foxtails are those nasty little grass awns that plague us here in the desert!  We often find them in the ears of pets on routine physical exam.  Don't let your pet suffer with these painful little objects!!

7. Weather -  Changes in the weather bring about changes in recommendations for the health and safety of your pets.  It's important to know what you should and should not be doing through the various seasons.

8.  Toxicity - There are a lot of toxins that can be dangerous and fatal to your pets.  Be sure to ask us about any concerns you may have.

9.  Holidays - The holidays bring about their own challenges for our pet's health, including overeating the wrong foods and exposure to toxins and dangerous items like tinsel off the Christmas tree!

10.  Wildlife - Wildlife are part of life here in the desert, and they can be fatal to our pets.  Be aware and take precautions to ensure that your pets are kept safe from predators.


As always, we recommend you discuss any issue with us so that we can make recommendations and help with any problems or concerns you might have.  We encourage good communication with the staff at Animal Care Hospital in order to keep everyone safe, healthy and happy!