Say No to Gravy: Rich, Fatty, Indulgent Foods Can Trigger Painful Pancreatitis in Pets
Americans love Thanksgiving because of family traditions. Some play or watch football, others volunteer. Collectively, we all love the together time of the holidays, but let’s be honest. It’s the food that seals the deal. In other words, our nationally consistent table traditions keep us coming back for more (and more) until the leftovers are […]
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Truth and Consequences: Prevailing Myths of Feline Nutrition
While there are many contributing factors to your cat’s overall wellness, what you put in their food bowl might be the most important. In other words, a balanced diet is what truly lays the foundation for a long and healthy life. Unfortunately, while feline nutrition is essential, the marketing of commercial pet foods can make […]
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Your Right to Know: Why the Cost of Veterinary Care is so Expensive
“Why is veterinary care so expensive?” is a question we’ve heard many times at West Park Animal Hospital. While it’s understandable to think we’re simply trying to make a profit off our clients, we want you to know this simply is not the case. We value each and every one of our patients and their [...]READ MORE
Halloween Candy and Pets: A Scary Combination
Halloween is just around the corner, and besides carving pumpkins and picking out the perfect costume, plenty of candy is likely on the agenda for kids and grownups alike. Chances are good that the family pet is also highly interested in these seasonal goodies, but the dangers associated with sweets far outweigh the benefits. Keeping […]
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Fall Fun For Your Pet
We love the autumn season. Cooler weather, beautiful fall foliage, apples, pumpkins and Halloween. What’s not to love? This year, why not include your pet in many of the festive fall activities you yourself love to do. It’s a matter of getting creative and thinking outside the box, and at West Park Animal Hospital, we’re […]
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Xylitol and Pets: Reminders of a Not-so-Sweet Reality
With its claims of weight loss and improved health, the low-carb craze has everyone from teenagers to grandparents giving it a go. Because “low-carb” usually equates to “low-sugar,” sugar substitutes such as aspartame, erythritol, stevia, and xylitol seem to be in practically everything these days. Meeting your health goals while still keeping your pet safe […]
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Subtle (and Not so Subtle) Signs of Animal Abuse
Animal lovers everywhere are understandably outraged by stories and photographs of abused or neglected animals. For loving pet owners, it’s inconceivable to think of harming an animal, but signs of abuse and neglect can be subtle; it could be happening right under our very noses. That’s why we want to take a moment to review […]
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Pot and Pets: Never a Good Idea
Despite past setbacks, advocates of marijuana legalization in Ohio are moving toward a new initiative that would allow adults 21 years and older to grow, transport, possess, use, sell, purchase, and share marijuana and its numerous derivatives. Like residents in other states with similar laws, questions about pet safety will undoubtedly become more prevalent in […]
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The Benefits of Growing Catnip in Your Garden
Our cats are such wonderful and amazing creatures, and many of us want to give them a special treat now and then. If you haven’t already thought of it, why not grow some catnip in your garden or your catio? Most of us have heard of the euphoric effects of catnip on cats, and may […]
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Heatstroke in Pets: Prevent, Recognize, and Intervene Immediately
The risks of heatstroke in pets are very real. Symptoms don’t always stem from over-exertion on a hot day. Instead, the prime culprit is usually plain and simple dehydration. Pets sweat a little bit through their noses and paw pads, but in an attempt to regulate internal body temperature, they pant. If access to shade […]