Most of us drag our children, and ourselves, into the physician’s office once per year for a checkup. We get weighed (perhaps not the best part of the visit), poked and prodded a bit, our doctor may order a few age appropriate tests, and we’re on our way.

Regular pet wellness exams are just as important for our four-legged family members as they are for us. An annual physical exam is, by far, one of the best investments you can make in your pet’s future. By tending to your pet’s health and wellness now, you are helping to ensure that he or she is healthy, happy, and by your side for years to come. Continue…

Taking your cat to the vet’s office may be low on your list of enjoyable activities. First there is the struggle to get kitty into his or her carrier, and then the car ride to the vet with a yowling cat, followed by the ordeal of the actual office visit. It’s no wonder that, although cats are the most popular pet in the U.S., they are more likely to miss out on regular wellness exams than dogs.

Besides choosing a top-notch veterinary practice (ahem), one of the biggest factors is helping your cat overcome his or her fear of the vet is crate training. By crate training your cat ahead of time, you can greatly reduce the level of anxiety that is normally associated with a trip to the vet. Continue…

Feline Leukemia infection (or FELV), is caused by the Feline Leukemia Virus. The virus is transmitted from one cat to another. Transmission is through saliva, and this usually involves bite wounds. Continue…

Happy March!
With March comes warmer weather, peeks of green (we hope!), and GUINEA PIGS!

It’s Adopt a Guinea Pig Month, and The Androscoggin Animal Hospital  loves to see these little friends, and welcome more to our hospital! Continue…

February 24, 2015 is WORLD SPAY DAY

A day to spay or neuter your pet, a day to recommend spaying and neutering for all pets, and a day to think about the benefits that spaying and neutering provide to people and animals around the world. Continue…

The Itchy Dog

It is one of the most common health problems that we see at The Androscoggin Animal Hospital; the dog that won’t stop itching. They may be licking, biting their skin and feet, or scratching. They may have ear infections or rashes on their skin. It looks uncomfortable, it keeps us up at night, and it can be stinky!

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Canine Kennel Cough (or, why does my dog sound like a goose?)

Most people who have a dog in their family have heard the term ‘kennel cough’.  Despite this fact, very few people know what this term actually means, unless their dog has had it.  Kennel cough is the common name for canine infectious tracheobronchitis or Bordatella, and it is a highly contagious respiratory infection among dogs. Continue…

Cancer In Dogs and Cats

Unfortunately our dogs and cats get many of the same types of cancer that humans get.   Continue…

Halloween, the most frightful time of the year!

You have to admit that year after year, Halloween never really gets old. Scary movies and haunted walks in the woods make some thrill seekers count down the days until it’s arrival. While some of us appreciate the opportunity to enjoy the season without being totally terrified, and still being provided with chocolate everywhere you go. Jack-o-lanterns pose a threat for curious kittens and electrical cords are dangerous all year long. Continue…

Oh Hey, Let’s Talk Pupae! by front desk specialist Jen

Have you ever had a dream that fleas were wearing armor? Me too!

They’re hopping around with armor and shields, swords, and tiny helmets and tridents. In that dream you can hear them laughing along with little sounds of “Pew! Pew! Pew!” as they throw their weapons and get ready for their own attack on your beloved pet.  It’s actually not a dream it’s a nightmare.

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