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Tips for Caring for a Senior Pet

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:54:51 GMT

Your guide to helping your aging Pets stay happy, healthy & comfortable

As pets grow older, their needs begin to change, sometimes subtly, sometimes dramatically. Just like humans, senior pets require extra attention, preventive care, and lifestyle adjustments to maintain their quality of life. Partnering with a trusted veterinarian clinic can make all the difference in helping your pet age gracefully.

Here’s how you can provide the best care for your senior furry friend.

Schedule Regular Veterinary Checkups

Routine visits to a veterinarian clinic become even more important as your pet ages. Senior pets are more prone to conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, diabetes, and heart disease.

Aim for checkups every 6 months
Ask about bloodwork and early disease screening
Monitor weight, dental health, and mobility

Early detection can significantly improve outcomes and comfort.

Adjust Their Diet

Older pets often need specialized nutrition to support aging bodies.

Choose senior-specific pet food formulas
Monitor calorie intake to prevent obesity
Consider supplements for joint health (with veterinary guidance)

A veterinarian clinic can recommend the best diet based on your pet’s breed, size, and medical history.

Create a Comfortable Living Space

Senior pets may struggle with mobility, vision, or joint pain.

Provide soft, orthopedic bedding
Keep essentials (food, water, litter box) easily accessible
Use ramps or pet stairs if needed
Small adjustments at home can make a big difference in their comfort.

Maintain Gentle Exercise

While your pet may not be as energetic as before, staying active is still essential.

Short, regular walks for dogs
Light play sessions for cats
Avoid overexertion

Exercise helps maintain muscle tone, joint flexibility, and mental health.

Watch for Behavioral Changes

Changes in behavior can signal underlying health issues.

Increased sleeping or restlessness
Confusion or disorientation
Appetite or bathroom habit changes

If you notice anything unusual, consult a veterinarian clinic promptly.

Don’t Overlook Dental Care

Dental disease is common in senior pets and can lead to serious health complications.

Brush teeth regularly if possible
Provide dental treats or toys
Schedule professional cleanings

Your veterinarian clinic can assess oral health and recommend treatments.

Provide Extra Love and Patience

Aging can be challenging for pets. They may become more dependent or sensitive.

Keep routines consistent
Offer reassurance and affection
Be patient with accidents or changes

Your support means everything during their golden years.

Give Your Senior Pet the Care They Deserve

Caring for a senior pet doesn’t have to be overwhelming; you just need the right support system. At Small Animal Medical Center, our experienced team understands the unique needs of aging pets and is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care.

Schedule a wellness exam today with our trusted veterinarian clinic and give your senior companion the comfort, health, and attention they deserve. We proudly serve the Brady, Brownwood, Coleman, Comanche, Cross Plains, Goldthwaite, and San Saba, TX areas.

Seasonal Tips for Maintaining Your Pet’s Health

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:24:10 GMT

A Guide from Your Trusted Veterinarian Clinic

Keeping your pet healthy isn’t just about annual checkups; it’s about adapting their care to the changing seasons. Just like humans, pets experience different health risks throughout the year. By staying proactive, you can ensure your furry companion stays happy and healthy no matter what the weather.

At a trusted veterinary hospital, we often see seasonal trends in pet health issues. Here’s how you can stay ahead of them.

Spring: Allergies & Parasite Prevention

Spring brings blooming flowers, but also allergens and parasites.

What to watch for:

Excessive scratching or licking
Red, irritated skin
Sneezing or watery eyes

Health tips:

Start flea, tick, and heartworm prevention early
Wipe your pet’s paws after outdoor walks
Schedule a wellness exam at your local veterinarian clinic

Summer: Heat Safety & Hydration

Hot weather can be dangerous, especially for pets with thick coats or short noses.

Common risks:

Heatstroke
Dehydration
Burned paw pads from hot pavement

How to protect your pet:

Always provide fresh, cool water
Walk pets during early morning or evening
Never leave pets in a parked car
Ask your veterinary hospital about safe cooling strategies

Fall: Nutrition & Routine Changes

As temperatures drop, pets may become less active and require dietary adjustments.

Things to consider:

Weight management
Seasonal shedding
Exposure to toxins like mushrooms or antifreeze

Helpful tips:

Adjust food portions if activity levels decrease
Keep outdoor areas clear of hazards
Schedule a checkup at your trusted veterinarian clinic before winter

Winter: Cold Weather Care

Winter can be tough on pets, especially smaller breeds and older animals.

Potential concerns:

Hypothermia
Dry skin and cracked paws
Joint stiffness or arthritis

Keep your pet comfortable:

Limit time outdoors in extreme cold
Provide warm bedding indoors
Talk to your veterinary hospital about joint supplements if needed

Year-Round Preventive Care Matters

No matter the season, consistent veterinary care is essential. Routine exams, vaccinations, and early detection of health issues can make a significant difference in your pet’s quality of life.

A reliable veterinarian clinic doesn’t just treat illness; it helps prevent it.

Visit Small Animal Medical Center Today

Your pet deserves professional, compassionate care every season of the year. Whether it’s preventive care, diagnostics, or treatment, the team at Small Animal Medical Center is here to help. Schedule an appointment today and give your pet the healthy, happy life they deserve. We proudly serve the Brady, Brownwood, Coleman, Comanche, Cross Plains, Goldthwaite, and San Saba, TX areas.

What You Should Do to Prepare Your Pet for Surgery

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:28:53 GMT

What You Should Do to Prepare Your Pet for Surgery

Learning that your animal requires a surgical procedure can be a source of anxiety for many owners. However, proper preparation is a critical component of a successful operation and a smooth recovery. At Small Animal Medical Center, our goal is to ensure the safety and comfort of every patient we treat. By adhering to specific pre-operative protocols, you help minimize the risks associated with anesthesia and ensure that our veterinary team can perform the necessary pet surgery under the best possible conditions.

Essential Pre-Operative Steps

To ensure your dog or cat is physically ready for their procedure, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian. While specific requirements may vary based on the type of surgery and the age of the animal, the following guidelines are generally recommended:

Restrict Food and Water: Anesthesia can cause nausea, which poses a risk of aspiration if the stomach is full. Typically, you must withhold food for at least 12 hours prior to the surgery. Consult your veterinarian regarding water consumption, as it is often permitted until the morning of the procedure.
Manage Current Medications: If your animal is currently taking medication for a chronic condition, ask your veterinarian whether you should administer the morning dose. Certain medications may need to be paused, while others must be continued.
Maintain a Calm Environment: Stress can impact an animal's physiological state. Keep your pet inside the evening before the surgery and ensure they have a quiet, comfortable place to rest. Avoid strenuous exercise or rough play.
Monitor Health Status: If you notice any changes in your animal's health leading up to the surgery, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, inform the clinic immediately. These symptoms may require the procedure to be rescheduled for the patient's safety.
Plan for Drop-Off and Pick-Up: Arrive at the clinic on time to allow for necessary pre-surgical paperwork and bloodwork. Additionally, prepare a safe and confined area in your home for your pet’s return, ensuring they can recover away from other animals and potential hazards.

Trust Small Animal Medical Center for Your Veterinary Needs

At Small Animal Medical Center, we understand that your pet is a valued member of your family. Our experienced team utilizes high-quality medical equipment and compassionate care to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients. We proudly serve residents throughout Brownwood, Comanche, Brady, Coleman, Goldthwaite, San Saba, and the surrounding areas.

If you have questions about an upcoming procedure or need to schedule a consultation regarding pet surgery, please do not hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable staff.

Keeping Your Pet Cool in the Texas Heat

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 13:32:35 GMT

Keeping Your Pet Cool in the
Texas Heat

Texas summers are no joke. When temperatures soar past 100°F and the sun beats down relentlessly, even humans struggle to stay comfortable. For our furry companions, the challenge is even greater. Dogs and cats can't regulate their body temperature the same way we do, making them vulnerable to heat-related illnesses that can be life-threatening.

As pet owners in the Lone Star State, we need to take extra precautions to keep our four-legged family members safe during the scorching summer months. From understanding the warning signs of overheating to creating cool zones in your home, this guide will help you protect your pets from the dangers of extreme heat.

Hydration

Always provide fresh, cool water both indoors and outdoors. Having multiple water bowls available encourages pets to drink more often. Take extra water with you when you and your pet are on the go. Signs of dehydration include excessive panting, dry gums, and lethargy. See your vet right away if you notice these.

Cool Spaces and Shade

Keep your pet indoors during the hottest hours. Use air conditioning or fans to help keep things comfortable. Create cool spots with cooling mats or damp towels on the floor. If your pet is outdoors, make sure there’s plenty of shade that moves with the sun and never rely solely on tarps or cloth covers. For dogs that enjoy water, a small kiddie pool in the shade can help.

Outdoor Safety

Check pavement temperatures before going for walks, if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws. Walk pets early in the morning or later in the evening, avoid hot surfaces, and never leave your pet in a parked car, even briefly.

Recognizing Heatstroke

Know the signs: excessive panting, drooling, red gums, weakness, vomiting, or collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cool area, apply cool (not ice-cold) water, use fans, and seek veterinary care immediately.

Contact Our Veterinarian

Protecting your pet from Texas heat requires constant vigilance and preparation. Remember that prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to heat-related illnesses. Start preparing for hot weather early, create cooling strategies for your home and yard, and never underestimate how quickly dangerous situations can develop.

If you have questions about keeping your pet safe in extreme heat or need to schedule a check-up before summer hits, contact Small Animal Medical Center. Our team is here to help ensure your pets stay healthy, comfortable, and safe throughout the Texas summer season. Your pets depend on you for their safety and comfort. With proper preparation and awareness, you can help them beat the heat and enjoy summer safely by your side.

Pet Dentistry: At-Home Care Tips

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 20:24:39 GMT

Why Pet Dentistry Matters

Your pet's oral health is more important than you might think. Just like humans, pets can suffer from gum disease, bad breath, tooth decay, and other dental issues. Poor oral hygiene doesn't just cause discomfort for your pet; it can also lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease and infections. While professional dental care from your veterinarian is essential, at-home care plays a critical role in keeping your pet’s teeth and gums healthy.

If you are trying to care for your pet's teeth at home, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. From proper brushing techniques to diet considerations, learn how to maintain your furry friend’s oral health and prevent dental problems before they start.

At-Home Care Tips for Your Pet's Dental Health

1. Get Comfortable with Brushing

Brushing your pet's teeth regularly is the foundation of good oral health. Though it might seem challenging at first, with patience and the right tools, it can become a routine that both you and your pet can manage.

How to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth

Start Slowly: Don’t expect your pet to cooperate right away. Begin by getting them comfortable with you handling their mouth.
Choose Pet-Specific Products: Always use toothpaste formulated for pets. Human toothpaste contains harmful ingredients like fluoride and xylitol that are toxic to pets. Pet toothpaste comes in flavors like chicken or peanut butter, making it more appealing.
Use the Right Brush: You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for pets, or a finger brush for better control.
Go Gently: Brush in small, circular motions, focusing on the gum line and back teeth where plaque tends to build up. Aim for 30–60 seconds per session.
Reward Your Pet: Positive reinforcement with treats or praise can help your pet associate brushing with a pleasant experience.

2. Provide Dental-Friendly Chews and Toys

Dental chews and toys are excellent tools for reducing plaque and tartar buildup. Look for products with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal, which certifies that they meet specific standards for improving pet oral health.

These products provide a mechanical cleaning action as your pet gnaws on them, helping to scrape off plaque. They’re also a great way to keep your pet entertained while simultaneously enhancing their dental hygiene.

3. Offer a Dental-Friendly Diet

What your pet eats matters. Crunchy kibble is generally better for maintaining clean teeth than soft or canned food, which tends to stick to teeth and promote plaque buildup. There are even special dental diets available that are formulated to clean as your pet chews.

Adding water additives, oral sprays, or dental powders to your pet’s daily routine can also help fight bacteria and freshen their breath. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any major changes to their diet or using new products.

4. Be on the Lookout for Signs of Dental Issues

Your pet can’t tell you when they have a toothache or gum irritation, so it’s essential to watch for signs of dental problems. Common indicators include:

Bad breath (halitosis)
Inflamed, red, or bleeding gums
Difficulty eating or chewing
Discolored or loose teeth
Excessive drooling
Swelling around the mouth or face

If you notice these symptoms, contact your vet immediately for an assessment. The sooner dental issues are addressed, the easier they are to treat.

5. Use Dental Wipes and Rinses for Added Support

If brushing isn’t an option for your pet, dental wipes can be a helpful alternative. They’re easy to use and effective in removing surface plaque. Antibacterial dental rinses are another great option for freshening breath and promoting a cleaner mouth.

While these are not substitutes for teeth brushing, they can complement your at-home care routine and make a difference in your pet’s oral hygiene.

6. Routine Professional Dental Cleanings

Despite your best efforts at home, professional dental cleanings are essential for your pet’s oral health. Veterinarians have the tools and expertise to remove tartar and plaque from areas you can’t reach. They can also assess the overall health of your pet’s teeth and gums, identifying and treating problems early before they become more severe.

Plan for annual dental check-ups and cleanings for most pets, though some may require more frequent visits depending on their age, breed, and oral health history.

Keeping At-Home Dental Care Manageable

Making at-home dental care a consistent part of your routine is the key to success. Try scheduling brushing sessions around the same time each day, like after dinner or before bedtime, to create a habit. Start slow, and be patient with your pet as they adapt to the process. Remember that even small efforts can make a big difference. Incorporating dental-friendly treats, toys, and diets, alongside regular professional care, will help keep your pet’s mouth healthy and pain-free.

If pet dentistry is too difficult for you to handle at home, you can turn to Small Animal Medical Center for help. Located in Brownwood, TX , we provide pet dentistry services to ensure your pet has clean, healthy teeth. Our teeth brushing expertise helps prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. You can also turn to us for the helpful advice you need if you're trying to handle pet dentistry at home. Give Small Animal Medical Center a call today!

The Importance of Animal Wellness Exams

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 18:51:51 GMT

Annual Wellness Exams: Keeping Your Pet Healthy

We all cherish the unconditional love and affection that our furry friends give us. To ensure that our best friends continue to spoil us with this unconditional love and enjoy long, healthy lives, we need to make sure they receive proper healthcare services. One crucial healthcare service that every animal needs is an annual wellness exam. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of annual wellness exams for our beloved pets.

Early Detection of Health Issues

Diseases and illnesses can strike at any moment. Wellness exams provide an opportunity for your veterinarian to check for signs of health concerns and perform disease screenings. This allows them to catch illnesses and health issues early on, giving your furry friend a better prognosis for any concerns that arise.

Prevention and Vaccinations

The prevention of disease is much better than trying to cure it. During your pet’s wellness exam, your veterinary care team will recommend vaccinations that will help protect your pet from harmful health conditions and illnesses. They will also provide you with tips for preventing illnesses such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good dental hygiene.

Dental Health and Oral Care

Pet owners often overlook the importance of oral hygiene and dental health for their pets. Every wellness exam includes a review of your pet’s dental health. Your vet will recommend dental hygiene tips and provide any appropriate oral care that is needed. When dental issues are left untreated, your pet may experience pain, discomfort, difficulty eating, and systemic health problems.

Weight Management and Nutrition

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for your pet's overall health and longevity. During an annual wellness exam, veterinarians can assess your pet's body condition, discuss their diet and nutrition, and provide guidance on weight management if necessary. Obesity in pets can lead to a range of health issues, including joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease. By addressing weight concerns early on, you can help your pet maintain a healthy weight and prevent associated health complications.

Senior Pet Care

As our pets age, certain age-related health conditions can become more prevalent. An annual exam is a great way to monitor any health conditions and take preventative measures to avoid age-related conditions. It also allows any issues to be detected early on and treated before they become more widespread concerns.

Schedule Your Pet’s Wellness Exam Today!

At Small Animal Medical Center, we provide professional veterinary care to the Goldthwaite, TX area. Our veterinary care team proudly offers wellness exams to help you monitor and maintain your pet’s health. Wellness exams are helpful for the early detection of illnesses, getting professional dental care, getting your pet vaccinated, and receiving advice on healthy diets, oral hygiene, and weight management. They are crucial to keeping your pet happy and healthy for years to come. Contact us today to schedule your furry friend’s annual exam!

How Heartworms Affect Cats & Dogs

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 20:40:51 GMT

How Heartworms Effect Cats & Dogs

We all want our cats and dogs to be happy and healthy while they are alive. They love us unconditionally and we love them too. Our furry friends require regular healthcare, just like us, to monitor their health and get the care they need to address any health concerns that may arise. A common health concern among our pets is heartworms. Heartworms are parasitic roundworms that cause dirofilariasis. They are transmitted through the bites of mosquitoes. So, what are the effects of contracting heartworms? The effects include:

Lung Disease
Heart Failure
Organ Damage
Tiredness
Difficulty Breathing

While you cannot always tell that heartworms are present, you can keep a lookout for the symptoms, some of which are mentioned above. Common symptoms of heartworm disease are tiredness, difficulty breathing, sickly appearance, coughing, weight loss, and decreased appetite. If you notice these symptoms, you should have your pet tested for heartworms immediately. The earlier it is detected, the more likely it can be effectively treated. However, failure to detect it promptly may result in the death of your furry friend.

Contact Our Veterinary Clinic Today!

Small Animal Medical Center is a veterinary hospital serving the Coleman, TX area. We offer comprehensive veterinarian care services that help you keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Our veterinarians can treat all kinds of illnesses such as ear infections, Distemper, skin issues, and heartworms. An important part of your pet’s health and preventing serious illness is scheduling annual wellness exams where they can be screened for illnesses. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s wellness exam!

Vaccines that All Dogs Should Get

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 14:36:21 GMT

The Core Vaccines That Your Dog Needs

Your dog’s health is of the utmost importance. They provide you with love and affection unconditionally. Your furry friend is more than just a friend, they are another family member. You want to have them in your life as long as possible. So, you do everything you can to keep them happy and healthy. That is done by keeping them fed, getting them exercise, and taking them to see their vet regularly. A real threat that everyone, including canines, deals with is disease and illness. To help our body be prepared to fight common illnesses that we are exposed to, we often get vaccinated. The same can be done for dogs. There are some vaccines that all dogs should get. According to the ASPCA, all dogs should get the following immunizations:

Canine Parvovirus: This illness is a highly contagious disease that is spread through direct or indirect contact with other dogs. It attacks the intestines and stops dogs from being able to absorb nutrients from their food.

Distemper: Distemper is a viral disease that affects many mammals including cats, dogs, coyotes, and foxes. This disease affects numerous body systems including the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts, the spinal cord, and the brain. Dogs who get distemper may experience high fever, labored breathing, loss of appetite, and vomiting.

Canine Hepatitis: This is an acute liver infection in dogs caused by Canine mastadenovirus. Symptoms of the infection include fever, loss of appetite, coughing, vomiting, and tender abdomen.

Rabies: Rabies affects the nervous system of dogs. It is almost 100% fatal when symptoms appear. This viral disease is preventable through vaccination.

These vaccines are considered core vaccines that every dog should get. There are other vaccines that your dog may need based on their unique risk factors. Your local veterinarian can discuss with you the risk factors of your furry friend and determine what other vaccines they should get.

SCHEDULE YOUR DOG'S VACCINATIONS TODAY!

At Small Animal Medical Center, we provide pet vaccines to the San Saba, TX area. Your dog is near and dear to your heart. You love them and want them to be around as long as possible. One way to help make that happen is to get them vaccinated against common diseases that they may be exposed to. Our veterinarian clinic offers all core pet vaccines and more. Contact us today to schedule your dog’s vaccination appointment!

Why Should I Vaccinate My Pet?

localedge@digitalproductsuite.com — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 19:47:52 GMT

The Importance of Vaccinating Your Pet

Vaccinations for pets are just like vaccinations for humans. They prevent many illnesses and can help to avoid costly treatments for diseases that can be prevented. Pet vaccinations can help to prevent diseases that can be passed between animals and humans and humans to animals. They play an essential role in keeping your pet healthy, and there are a few core vaccines that you should consider giving your pet including:

Canine Distemper : Affects the respiratory and nervous system, and is often fatal.
Infectious Hepatitis : This can lead to acute or chronic liver inflammation.
Parvovirus : Causes severe diarrhea and dehydration as well as life-threatening sepsis in unprotected puppies
Rabies : Causes progressive neurological problems and death, and is transmitted when an infected animal bites, and can be transmitted to humans.

Vaccination is the most reliable method of prevention and gives few risks. When your dog or cat is vaccinated, its immune system produces special substances called antibodies that work against viruses or bacteria that cause disease. It is very important for all pet owners to remember that vaccines are preventative and not curative. Since the protection provided by vaccines gradually declines after an animal is vaccinated, booster vaccines are necessary for the immune system to produce enough protective antibodies to protect against disease-causing viruses or bacteria.

The majority of pets experience no adverse effects following vaccination. A small number of animals will become feverish and may become sensitive to touch where the vaccine was administered. The mild reactions to the vaccines are worth the life-threatening risks that some diseases may bring.

Contact Our Veterinary Hospital Today!

At Small Animal Medical Center, our main goal is to ensure the health and safety of your pet. We believe that vaccinating your pet is the first step in giving them a healthy and fulfilled life. Our team at our veterinary hospital serving Brownwood, TX, and the surrounding area will discuss with you your pet’s vaccination needs and be sure to administer the vaccines according to the recommended schedule. Please do not hesitate to give us a call or stop by our office to talk about vaccinations for your pet. Our knowledgeable and experienced team is more than willing to give you the answers you are looking for. We look forward to meeting with you and your pet!

Five Steps to a Great Dog Boarding Experience

localedge@digitalproductsuite.com — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 14:25:15 GMT

Know what to do before and after you take your dog in for pet boarding.

Pet boarding can often be bittersweet for pet owners. After all, as much as you might be looking forward to that trip to an amusement park or that networking conference, traveling means you’ll be parted from your wonderful dog. However, if it’s bittersweet for you, imagine what it’s like for your dog. You, at least, understand where you’re going, why you’re leaving, and when you’ll be back. Your dog doesn’t know any of this. They just see their routine changing drastically.

Luckily, your friends here at Small Animal Medical Center are here to make your pet boarding experience as easy as possible - for you and your dog! We’ve assembled this list of five tips that can help you enjoy a successful pet boarding experience before and after your dog goes to the kennel. Check them out!

1. Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date

While this won’t necessarily do much for your dog’s state of mind, making sure they have the proper vaccinations is vital for their health and your peace of mind. Most kennels and vets that offer boarding services will only accept dogs who are fully vaccinated to begin with. For best results, take care of any pet vaccinations at least two weeks before your dog goes in for boarding. (We can help with that!)

2. Try to keep things as normal as possible before you leave

The less reason your dog has to suspect that something out of the ordinary is about to happen, the happier he or she will be. On the day of your trip, try to pack things up quietly and calmly - if you’re feeling anxious, your dog will pick up on it and be anxious too. You should also keep them to their normal feeding schedule and resist the temptation to give them extra treats.

3. Bring toys and blankets to the pet boarding facility

Dogs love familiarity and routine, so make their home-away-from-home at the kennel as familiar as possible. A favorite chew toy, blanket, or pet bed will do a lot to help this strange new environment feel like home! You should also supply the pet boarding facility with your pet’s favorite food and other necessities, especially if your dog is on a prescription diet.

4. Say goodbye quickly!

When you drop your dog off at the boarding facility, your goal should be to keep your pet as calm and happy as possible. If you’re upset, your dog will be too. So keep calm, make your goodbyes quick, and then head right back to the car. If you need to cry or feel sad leaving your dog at the kennel - and we understand if you do - your dog will be much happier if you do that where he or she can’t see or hear you.

5. Don’t be alarmed if your dog acts odd after coming home

Taking your dog to a kennel is a big change in their daily routine, and your dog might take a few days to regain his or her equilibrium once you get home. Eating and drinking more, sleeping more, and even some digestive issues are all perfectly normal. Give your dog lots of love, and he or she will likely be just fine in a few days. If unusual behavior lasts longer than that, call your vet.

Reach out to us today

We hope these tips help you on your next pet-boarding journey! And remember, if you’re from Brownwood , Comanche , Brady , San Saba , Coleman , Goldthwaite , TX; or the surrounding areas, we would be happy to take care of your precious pup when you’re out of town. Call today to schedule your dog’s next stay with us!

So You’ve Decided To Get A Puppy; Now What?

localedge@digitalproductsuite.com — Fri, 14 May 2021 17:54:18 GMT

What To Expect & How To Prepare Yourself (And Your Household)

Before you go all in, please know that raising and housetraining a puppy is no easy task. It will take some time and patience, but it’s definitely worth it in the end. In fact, there are many similarities between raising a puppy and raising a child, including multiple feedings per day and multiple potty trips outside. Sometimes, your new puppy may wake you in the middle of the night because they feel the urge, and that’s if you’re lucky. Other times, you’ll just wake up to a nice “surprise” to clean.

Puppies Need Lots of Attention

Additionally, puppies need a good deal of socialization and exercise for their physical and mental well-being. Therefore, if you’re already juggling a busy professional and personal life and won’t have much spare time to spend with the new puppy, you may want to reconsider your decisions.

You’ll also want to spend some time researching what breed and size of dog best meets your lifestyle preferences. For example, if you plan to take your dog on jogs with you, don’t get one whose personality seems more sedentary. If you or someone else in your household have allergies to pet dander, be sure you choose a breed with hypo-allergenic fur.

Puppy Proofing Is A Must

Your home will also need to be modified to accommodate your new furry friend. Since your puppy will need plenty of room to play, make sure there’s enough space and fragile objects are put in places where there won’t be a potential problem. Also be warned that puppies like to chew things, especially those that are teething, Therefore, you’ll want a plentiful supply of chew toys, so those get chewed up instead of your shoes.

Contact us For More Information!

Finally, and most importantly, you’ll want to find a good veterinarian you can trust to vaccinate your new puppy and provide all the care it needs. For those in the Brownwood, TX area, that vet can be found at Small Animal Hospital. We are a veterinary hospital and veterinarian clinic that provides pet boarding, pet vaccinations, and all the pet supplies needed for that new addition to the family. Call us today to schedule an appointment!

When Should You Spay or Neuter Your Pet?

localedge@digitalproductsuite.com — Wed, 24 Feb 2021 17:36:09 GMT

What is the Timeline for Spaying or Neutering Your Pet?

It is now common practice to spay or neuter your pet for a variety of medical reasons and health benefits. Veterinary hospitals and clinics can perform the routine surgery and have your pet home in a matter of hours. Many pet owners wonder when is the best time to have the surgery done on their cat or dog? While it can range per breed or species, there are common age ranges for both animals:

Dogs

Most small-to-medium dog breeds should be spayed or neutered within 6-9 months of age, with some as soon as 8 weeks old. However, larger dog breeds could be spayed or neutered between 9-15 months of age depending on their growth cycle. Your veterinarian can help pinpoint an exact timeline that is best for your pet.

Cats

The ideal age-range for felines to be spayed or neutered begins as early as 8 weeks old, up until about 5 months of age—or until the female’s first heat cycle. The “Fix Felines by Five” initiative has been supported by the AAHA and the statistics indicate spaying a cat by this age greatly reduces their risks for mammary cancers.

What are the Benefits?

There are many medical and behavioral benefits to spaying or neutering your pet:

Females

Increases life span – Spaying helps to prevent uterine infections and tumors which are cancerous in 50% of dogs and 90% of cats. Performing this surgery before the female’s first heat cycle provides the best protection.
Females will not go into heat – Females in heat tend to howl and urinate more frequently. This happens for about 3-5 days every three weeks during the breeding season. Once spayed, the heat cycle stops.
Prevents forms of cancer – Mammary cancers are common and typically terminal in female cats & dogs. Having your pet spayed drastically cuts their chances of these cancers from organizing.

Males

Prevents forms of cancer – Just like their female counterparts, having your male cat or dog neutered will help prevent testicular cancers and prostate problems later in life.
Neutered males are better behaved – Male dogs who are neutered are shown to mount other dogs and inanimate objects less, have fewer urges to spray or mark their territory, and if done early enough have shown to curb some aggression issues.
Male dogs are less likely to roam away from home – An unneutered male is programmed to find a mate at all costs—including roaming away from home which can cause a multitude of issues. Neutered pets do not have those desires and tend to stay close to home.

In addition to the benefits outlined above, spaying or neutering your animal at an early age can help control the pet population. The ASPCA states, that millions of healthy dogs and cats are euthanized every year—having a veterinarian clinic or hospital perform this routine surgery can drastically cut down on those alarming numbers.

Contact Our Brownwood, TX Location to Learn More

Whether you are ready to schedule an appointment to get your pet spayed or neutered or want further information, Small Animal Medical Center is here for you. We have been servicing the Brady & Brownwood, TX region since 1991 with a commitment to excellent service and superior animal care.

We offer a variety of veterinary services , pet supplies & vaccinations, and pet boarding. If you are in the need of animal care for your pet, do not hesitate to contact us today!

Why You Should Take Your Pet for a Regular Checkup

localedge@digitalproductsuite.com — Fri, 07 Aug 2020 20:44:40 GMT

why annual pet exams are important

You already know that it's important to go to the doctor once a year for your annual checkup; did you know the same is true of your pet? An annual wellness exam from an experienced veterinarian is vital for your pet's continued health and physical well-being. While you should never hesitate to bring your dog or pet to the vet if you suspect a problem, wellness exams should be scheduled regularly to ensure that everything is going well. The frequency of your visits will depend on your pet's age: generally, for puppies and kittens, visits should be scheduled every few weeks to make sure vaccines are administered on schedule. Once vaccinations are complete, visits once a year are the general expectation. Your vet will let you know what they recommend.

What to expect during your pet's veterinary exam?

Annual Exam

During your pet's annual exam, the vet will check its fur, skin, throat, ears, nose, and eyes for any abnormalities. They will also check your pet's posture and feel their glands and abdomen for any lumps, swelling, or pain. This is the time to bring up any concerns you might have or unusual behaviors you might have noticed, so your vet can investigate further.

Potential Problems

One of the major bonuses of annual checkups is the potential to catch potential problems before they escalate into something serious or irreversible. This can encompass vision problems, cancer, or other conditions that might be difficult to detect if you spend every day with your pet and don't notice gradual changes.

Vaccinations

Your vet will keep track of any necessary preventative medications that your pet needs. Vaccinations are necessary to protect your pet from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other conditions. These preventative measures are essential to helping your pet live a long and happy life.

Dental Health

You don't always think about your pet's teeth, but it's just as important to keep their teeth clean as it is to regularly brush your own. Unfortunately, dental and periodontal problems are common in animal teeth. During your appointment, your vet will check your dog or cat's teeth and gums to make sure they are in good oral health.

Contact Our Veterinary Clinic for more information

If you have a furry friend, the best way to keep them healthy is to schedule an annual veterinary examination. Small Animal Medical Center is proud to provide quality care to pets across Brownwood , Comanche , Brady , San Saba , Coleman , Goldthwaite , TX and the surrounding communities. Whether you're actively noticing an issue with your animal or not, wellness exams are just as important to pets, as they are to people. No matter your pet's needs, our veterinarian hospital will ensure that they are comfortable and calm throughout the entire visit. If you're looking to update your pet's vaccinations or schedule a wellness exam, please feel free to contact our veterinary hospital in Brownwood, TX. We look forward to meeting you and your pet!