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March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, and our veterinarian at Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach is using the opportunity to help educate pet parents on how to protect their pets from toxins and poisons.
Unfortunately, many of the things people commonly keep around our homes and even several of the foods and beverages that we enjoy are poisonous for pets and can cause organ damage, severe illness, and even death if ingested. Consider the following tips to create a safer environment in your home for your pet.

4 Tips to Prevent Pet Poisoning by Pet Proofing Your Home

1. Store All Medications and Supplements Securely

Over-the-counter and prescription medications for humans are poisonous for pets. Additionally, many nutritional substances are toxic for pets, too. Be sure to store these securely and pick up any pills you might drop on the floor.

2. Keep Household Chemicals Out of Reach

It might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning that most household cleaners, chemicals, detergents, and even toiletry items are toxic for pets. Store these in upper cabinets, out of the reach of your pet, and never leave them unattended around pets.
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3. Don't Grow Toxic Plants in Your Home or Garden

Several common houseplants and garden plants are extremely toxic and dangerous to have in or around households with pets. Check your houseplants and garden plants against this list of toxic plants from the ASPCA and choose to fill your home with non-toxic, pet-friendly greenery instead.

4. Don't Feed Your Pet Human Foods

The digestive systems and body chemistry of dogs and cats differ from our own. So, just because a certain food is safe for you to eat does not mean it’s safe for your dog or cat to eat. Some common toxic foods include chocolate, xylitol, onions, garlic, chives, shallots, alcohol, caffeine, raisins and grapes, citrus, certain nuts, and yeast dough.

What to Do If Your Pet Ingests a Poison

If you know or suspect that your pet has ingested a poisonous substance, it’s essential to take immediate action.
  • If you can, rinse out your pet's mouth using a hose or spray nozzle by spraying to the side across your pet's mouth rather than pointing the spray toward the pet's throat.
  • Make note of the substance your pet ingested and/or save the packaging.
  • Contact ASPCA Animal Poison Control for immediate assistance and instruction over the phone.
  • Contact our veterinary office and seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
To learn more about pet poisoning and how to protect your pet from ingesting toxic substances, we welcome you to contact Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach today.
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Take a moment to imagine what it would be like if you never brushed your teeth in your life. This sticky, painful state is the unfortunate reality for most dogs and cats because most pet owners simply do not realize that their pets need dental care, too. Without proper care, pets inevitably develop dental disease.

What Is Dental Disease?

Dental disease refers to general diseases associated with the teeth and gums. The term is commonly used to refer to periodontal disease (aka gum disease) which is a bacterial infection of the gums.
Gum disease has several signs and symptoms including:
  • Persistently bad breath
  • Discolored teeth
  • Red, swollen, bleeding, or painful gums
  • Receding gums
  • Excessive drooling
  • Loose or missing teeth
  • Tooth pain and sensitivity
  • Decreased appetite
  • Frequently dropping toys or food
  • Abscesses
Left unaddressed, the bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, causing a variety of systemic health problems. In pets, untreated gum disease often causes organ damage and leads to premature death.

What Causes Dental Disease in Pets?

Dental disease in pets develops via the same process as it does in humans. Poor oral hygiene allows plaque to accumulate on the surface of the teeth. This plaque then hardens into a substance called tartar or calculus. As the tartar builds up, it pushes the gums away from the surface of the teeth, creating warm, dark, moist pockets where harmful bacteria thrive. Unchecked, this bacteria multiplies out of control, leading to a bacterial infection of the gums.

How to Treat Dental Disease in Pets

Like with humans, dental disease in pets is best prevented with regular oral hygiene including a combination of at-home and professional care. Pets that have already developed dental disease, however, can be treated with regular management including professional teeth cleanings and exams, teeth brushing at home, dental-friendly treats, dental-friendly chew toys, dental diets, and more.

Pet Dentistry in Southern California

At Pacific Pet Hospital of Redondo Beach, our veterinarian places a strong emphasis on the importance of oral health for all dogs and cats. Unfortunately, most pets go without proper dental care and develop periodontal disease by the time they reach three years of age. This not only causes painful symptoms of the teeth and gums, but it also puts the general health of these animals’ at risk.
To learn more about professional teeth cleanings and examinations for pets or to schedule a pet dentistry appointment for your dog or cat, we welcome you to contact our office today.
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When you adopt a pet, you take full responsibility for your new furry friend’s care, and that means suddenly becoming responsible for making every single choice on behalf of your pet – from choosing how much exercise and activity is right to providing a nutritious diet and ensuring your pet receives the veterinary care they need.
Through the course of your pet’s life, you will need to make a lot of choices. Sometimes, it can be tough to know what the right choice is for your pet and how to provide them with a chance at living the healthiest, happiest, longest life possible.
Consider the following tips to start making smarter choices for your pet’s health.

5 Ways to Make Better Choices for Your Pet's Health

1. Always Choose to Invest in Prevention

Investing in preventive pet care (vaccinations and parasite preventatives) is the smartest decision you can make for your pet.

2. Feed a High-Quality Diet

Nutrition is the foundation for good health. Be sure you choose a healthy, well-balanced, high-quality diet for your pet.

3. Develop Healthy Habits

One of the best ways to make better choices for your pet’s health is to turn the right choices into habits. Go for daily walks, schedule regular veterinary examinations, brush teeth (and/or feed dental-friendly treats), and always practice positive reinforcement training.
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4. Know Your Pet and Be a Careful Observer

Pets can’t tell us when they feel sick, so it’s up to you to know your pet’s usual behavior and to pay close attention to any changes in appearance, energy, routine, appetite, personality, and behavior because these changes could indicate illness.

5. Pet Health Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

Pet isn’t the same for every pet. The food, activities, and veterinary care your pet needs depend on your pet’s species, breed, age, lifestyle, and medical history.

Professional Pet Advice at Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach

When it comes to making good decisions to promote health, wellbeing, and your pet’s ability to live their very best life, we always welcome you to talk with our veterinarian in Redondo Beach. We can discuss all of your pet care and veterinary care concerns and provide you with personalized recommendations for your pet’s unique lifestyle and health needs.
To learn more about personalized veterinary care and pet care recommendations, we welcome you to contact our office or schedule your pet’s next checkup with our veterinarian at Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach.
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A Guide to Seizures and Convulsions in Dogs

When a dog has a seizure, it can be frightening and stressful for both you and your pet. If your normally healthy, carefree pet suddenly becomes disoriented and unsteady, they might be having a seizure.

What Is a Seizure?

A seizure is characterized by abnormal electrical brain activity during which a dog loses consciousness, awareness, and control of its body. Seizures are often accompanied by uncontrollable convulsing. Their duration can last anywhere from under a minute to several minutes.

Signs of Seizures in Dogs

During seizures, dogs are not aware of their surroundings or in control of their bodies. Signs and symptoms of seizures in dogs include:
  • Confusion
  • Collapsing
  • Paddling motions with legs
  • Convulsing
  • Jerking
  • Stiffening
  • Muscle twitching
  • Tongue chewing
  • Chomping
  • Drooling
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Foaming at the mouth
  • Urinating and/or defecating
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What Causes Seizures in Dogs?

There are several things that can cause a dog to have a seizure.
  • Epilepsy (seizure disorder)
  • Ingesting a toxic substance
  • Heatstroke (hyperthermia)
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease
  • High or low blood sugar
  • Electrolyte imbalance (water or salt poisoning)
  • Anemia
  • Encephalitis
  • Head injury
  • Stroke
  • Brain cancer
If your dog has many seizures, then they are likely suffering from a seizure disorder (epilepsy).

What to Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure

Stay calm and assess your pet’s surroundings. Carefully slide them away from anything nearby that could injure them like stairs or furniture. Stay away from your dog’s mouth, as they could inadvertently bite you, and don’t worry your dog won’t choke on their tongue.
If you can, time the seizure. Since seizing dogs can overheat, turn on a fan or put cold water on your dog’s paws to cool them down if the seizure lasts longer than a couple of minutes.
If your dog’s episode lasts more than five minutes or several seizures occur in a row, seek emergency veterinary care as soon as possible. Otherwise, contact the veterinarian as soon as your dog’s seizure is over.
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Seizure Treatment and Comprehensive Veterinary Care in Goldsboro

If your dog suffers a seizure, our veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination and might also recommend some diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of your pet’s seizures.
We’ll then recommend a treatment plan, which might include prescription medication, designed to address the underlying cause. To learn more or schedule an appointment, we welcome you to contact Eastwaye Veterinary Clinic today.
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Create an Emergency Plan for Your Pets in 5 Steps

Fires, floods, earthquakes – we never know when a natural disaster could strike. While most people have some idea of a plan for themselves, many forget that they need to include their pets in their emergency preparedness plans, too.
Consider the following steps to make sure both you and your pets will be prepared, ready, and safe the next time there’s an emergency.

5 Steps for Creating an Emergency Preparedness Plan for Your Pet

1. Keep Your Pet's Identification Current

During emergencies, pets can get frightened, disoriented, and lost. Make sure your pet is equipped with a collar, readable ID tags, and a pet microchip. These forms of identifications will help increase the chances of being reunited with your pet if they go missing.

2. Maintain a Copy of Veterinary Records

Emergency shelters that accept pets, boarding hospitals, and other places where you might shelter with your pet will likely require a copy of your pet’s vaccine and other health records. Keep a paper copy on hand and digital copies in your phone or saved to the cloud.

3. Plan to Evacuate With Your Pets

If it’s not safe for you, then it’s not safe for your pets. If you need to evacuate, plan to take your pets with you or transport them somewhere safe before you leave.
Additionally, it’s smart to have a plan in place for your pets should a disaster strike when you’re out of town or away. Leave this plan with a trusted neighbor or friend.
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4. Find Options for Safe Places to Stay

During an emergency and the rush of evacuation, you’ll have little time to research pet-friendly places where you can stay. Keep a list of pet-friendly hotels, boarding facilities, family, and friends who will be willing to keep your pets if you need to evacuate your home.

5. Keep Extra Pet Supplies

Maintain a store of extra pet supplies including drinking water, food, medications, and a first aid kit for your pet that you can quickly pack up and take with you if you need to evacuate. Be sure to rotate the supplies out occasionally to ensure everything is fresh and safe for your pet.

Keep Your Pet Safe and Healthy With Regular Veterinary Care

Whether you need a copy of your pet’s vaccination records, recommendations for nearby emergency veterinary hospitals, or a microchip for your pet, our veterinarian at Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach can help. We welcome you to schedule an appointment for your pet today.
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How to Introduce a New Cat into Your Household

June is the height of kitten season, and it’s officially Adopt-a-Cat Month which means there will be lots of happy cats making their way into new households throughout the summer.
Whenever you choose to adopt a cat or kitten, it’s extremely important to remember that first impressions are a big deal in the world of felines. So, it’s best to do a little research and make a few preparations before introducing your new cat to the other cats in your household.

How to Introduce Your New Cat in Three Steps

1. Stay Separated at First

Set your new cat up in a single room with everything they need (food, water, and litter box). Let them adjust here for a few days, but feed both of your cats near the door so that they will be able to smell and hear each other during this time in isolation.
Once comfortable, switch your cats’ locations so that they can get further accustomed to the idea of being in the presence of another cat.

2. See Each Other for the First Time

If everything seems to be going okay – neither cat seems fearful and they aren’t growling or hissing at each other from under the door – then you can introduce them.
When you let your cats see each other for the first time, make sure they are separated by a barrier so that both cats will be completely safe.
Continue feeding them and playing with them as normal, but separated by a barrier that allows them to see each other.
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3. Meet Face to Face

If everything is going well with the barrier and the cats seem somewhat comfortable (indifferent is a good sign) together, then you can let them meet face to face with no barrier. Be sure you’re there to supervise the interaction, so they will be safe, but give them some space to explore.

Establish Your Cat's Care at Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach

Congratulations on adopting a new cat! Now that your pet is comfortable at home, we encourage you to schedule a new pet appointment with our veterinarian at Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach. We’ll examine your pet, screen for early signs of any potential health problems, and help you give your new cat or kitten a healthy start in life!
To learn more or schedule an appointment, we welcome you to contact our pet hospital today.
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How to Prepare for Flea and Tick Season

Fleas and ticks can be a problem for pets all year long in Redondo Beach, CA, but they’re especially active during the spring and summer months. So, it’s important to make sure your dog or cat is adequately protected from parasites and all the dangerous diseases they carry.

5 Tips to Prepare for Flea and Tick Season

1. Get a Safe and Effective Parasite Preventative

Flea and tick preventatives come in oral tablets, topical ointments, and collars. They’re formulated specifically for the species and size of pets and should not be mixed and matched because they can be toxic to the wrong species. If you have both dogs and cats (or small children) in your household, ask our veterinarian for a recommendation that will be safe and effective for your whole family.

2. Put Prevention on the Calendar

Most flea and tick preventatives need to be administered or applied every one to three months, depending on the formulation. Take a close look at your preventative’s instructions and mark your pet’s next application on the calendar to ensure he or
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3. Clean Up Your Yard

Fleas and ticks thrive in brushy areas and also tend to congregate around bird feeders and birdbaths. Make sure your yard and other areas where your pet frequents (like an outdoor pet house) are clear of debris. It’s also smart to eliminate any standing water where mosquitoes can breed.

4. Avoid Flea and Tick Habitats

Instead of walking your dog through brushy trails or heavily wooded areas, hit the beach or stick to the sidewalks where they will be less likely to pick up parasites. If you do take a splash in the ocean, be sure to rinse all the saltwater and sand from your dog’s coat to avoid skin irritation.

5. Check Your Pet

After coming back from a romp in the grass or a hike in the woods, check your pet over for ticks. Don’t forget to check their ears, nose, tails, and between their toes.

Don't Forget to Protect Your Pets From Heartworm Disease, Too!

Flea and tick season is also mosquito season. If you have yet to safeguard your pet from heartworm disease, we strongly encourage you to schedule an appointment at Pacific Animal Hospital for a heartworm screening and the administration of an effective parasite preventative. To learn more or make an appointment for your cat or dog, contact our Redondo Beach veterinarian today.
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5 Easter Treats to Keep Away From Your Pets

Easter is just around the corner, which means the bunny and a bunch of special springtime treats are, too! While we wish your whole family (fur babies included) a “hoppy” Easter holiday, we also want to wish you a safe celebration. Easter egg hunts and baskets are pretty tame for human revelers, but they do pose some threats to our pets. For a safe, cheerful Easter, keep your pets away from the following Easter treats.

1. Chocolate and Sweets

Chocolate and the sugar alcohol xylitol (commonly found in sugar-free candy) are both highly toxic for pets. If your children will be hunting for eggs filled with these ingredients, make sure your pets are kept in a safe place until all of the sweets are off the floor and out of their reach.

2. Easter Grass

Shiny, brightly colored Easter grass is a favorite filling and decoration for Easter baskets. The plastic variety, however, is quite dangerous for pets. They’ll be attracted to the stuff (because it’s fun, of course) but it can do some serious damage if a pet accidentally ingests it. Instead, fill your baskets with a non-toxic paper variety of artificial grass.
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3. Plastic Eggs

Plastic eggs rattle and roll just like your pet’s other toys. However, they are not pet-safe and can easily break into sharp splinters that could perforate your pet’s esophagus or intestines if ingested.

4. Raisins, Grapes, and Nuts

Raisins, grapes, and certain kinds of nuts are all toxic for pets. Keep them away from the fruit salad, snack bowls, cinnamon rolls, and hot cross buns.

5. Spring Flowers and Bulbs

At Easter, spring flowers are just beginning to bloom. So, it’s only natural to want to fill your house with their bright colors and lovely fragrances. However, most spring flowers and their pollen, leaves, stems, and bulbs are toxic for pets. This includes lilies, daffodils, hyacinth, tulips, and more. Before you bring a new plant or bouquet into your home, check the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants to make sure it’s safe.
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Try These Pet-Friendly Easter Activities

Instead of letting your pet miss out on all the fun, you can involve them in their very own pet-friendly activities for Easter day. Ask the Easter bunny to leave a basket filled with pet treats, toys, and chews for your cat or dog. You can also have the bunny hide some extra-smelly “eggs” around the house for your pets to find (just be sure you hide pet-safe treats in places they can easily reach). For more Easter ideas for pets or to schedule a spring-time examination, vaccine update, and parasite preventative appointment for your pet, contact Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach today.
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Let's Celebrate National Pet Dental Month!

National Pet Dental Month has arrived. We like to celebrate by spreading awareness about the importance of dental care for cats and dogs. Although many pet parents aren’t aware, dogs and cats need dental care, just like us. In fact, it’s estimated that 70% of all cats and 80% of all dogs develop periodontal disease by age 3. Periodontal disease is not only detrimental to oral health, causing oral discomfort and pain, but it also causes organ damage, leads to systemic illnesses, and can shorten a pet’s lifespan.
Thankfully, your pet’s health can be safeguarded because periodontal disease in pets can be easily prevented with regular dental care.

Top 5 Ways to Keep Your Pet's Teeth Healthy

1. Professional Pet Dental Appointments

Just like you visit the dentist regularly for a cleaning and checkup, pets should have professional dental care, too. With scaling and polishing to remove plaque and tartar buildup, these exams are similar to human dental appointments, but they do occur with pets fully sedated for their safety and comfort.

2. Teeth Brushing

The best way to maintain your pet’s oral health between professional cleanings is by brushing their teeth regularly. Look for a toothbrush or finger brush (kind of like a soft thimble with scrubbers) that’s designed for your species and size of pet. Then be sure to use toothpaste that’s formulated and flavored to be safe and effective for use on cats and dogs.

3. Dental Wipes

If your cat or dog simply won’t tolerate brushing, you can try dental wipes. They aren’t quite as effective as brushing, but they will help remove some of the plaque and food particles from your pet’s teeth.
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4. Dental-Friendly Treats and Kibble

There are lots of dental-friendly treats and foods available that can help promote good oral health in your pets at meal and treat time. Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval and be sure to choose treats and kibble varieties that are the right size for your pet.

5. Dental-Friendly Chew Toys

Satisfy your pet’s urge to chew with toys designed to break up plaque and tartar and promote dental health. Be sure to choose toys that are the right size for your pet.

Save On Your Pet's Pet Dentistry Appointment During Pet Dental Health Month

During Pet Dental Health Month, we’re offering $100 off of pet dental appointments. Appointments are filling up fast, so be sure to book your pet’s next dental cleaning and exam at Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach as soon as you can.

It's National Walk Your Pet Month – Celebrate with a Healthier Pet!

It’s January, and it’s cold outside, but it’s also National Walk Your Pet Month. All of us at Pacific Animal Hospital invite you to celebrate by grabbing your pet’s harness and leash (cats are welcome, too!) and heading outside for some exercise in the brisk winter weather.

History of Walk Your Dog Month

A 2018 survey from the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention found that 56% of dogs and 60% of cats in the United States were either overweight or obese. Unfortunately, extra weight makes a big difference in a pet’s health. Being overweight puts pets at risk of health conditions such as:
  • Arthritis
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Diabetes
  • Kidney and liver disease
  • Respiratory problems
  • Gastrointestinal problems
  • Cancer
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Being overweight not only diminishes your pet’s quality of life but can also significantly reduce their life expectancy.
National Walk Your Pet Month was started to raise awareness about pet obesity and to encourage exercise during the season when most would rather stay inside.
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More Reasons to Walk in Winter

In addition to helping pets maintain a healthy weight, walking also promotes good digestive health in pets.
Additionally, winter walks help channel your pet’s energy into a positive activity. If your pets seem to have more behavioral problems in the winter (or any time of year) it could indicate a lack of stimulation and exercise.
Last but not least, going on walks with your pets provides an opportunity for you to bond. Your pet will enjoy spending time with you and sharing the simple activity of taking a tour around the neighborhood.

Top Tips for Taking Pets on Winter Walks

1. Keep it Short and Frequent

If you don’t enjoy the cooler weather, we recommend going for shorter, more frequent walks. You and your pet will still get the same amount of exercise, but you’ll stay warmer.

2. Stay Dry

With wet fur and a cool winter breeze, a pet can quickly become too cold on a walk. Whether you’ve just given your pet a bath or you’re walking along the beach, keep a towel handy to make sure your pet’s fur is dried thoroughly before or during a walk.

Don't Forget to Schedule Your Pet's Annual Wellness Exam with Our Redondo Beach Veterinarian

In addition to getting plenty of exercise, pets need regular wellness and preventative veterinary care to stay healthy. If you haven’t done so yet, don’t forget to schedule your pet’s annual veterinary appointment for vaccine boosters, a physical examination, and parasite prevention. Contact Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach today!
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