Stream Valley Veterinary Hospital

04/22/2025

Happy Earth Day! As we take a moment today to celebrate our beautiful planet, let's commit to "going green" to protect the Earth for ourselves, our pets, and future generations. Are you ready to adopt one or more of the following eco-friendly practices to create a cleaner, greener home for you and your furry friend?

1) Opt for biodegradable p**p bags and litter: While pet waste is organic, it doesn’t decompose properly in non-biodegradable plastic bags. Traditional clay cat litter also fails to break down naturally and produces dust that irritates both human and feline lungs.
2) Choose eco-friendly collars, beds, and leashes made from natural fibers like cotton. These materials are durable, comfortable, and hypoallergenic!
3) Tackle environmental pests like fleas and ticks with preventatives such as Heartgard and Nexgard. These safe and effective FDA-approved monthly chews are available right here at Stream Valley Vet, complete with an instant rebate! Remember, the cost of prevention is always less than treatment.
4) Keep playtime eco-conscious: Choose toys and scratching posts crafted from natural or recycled materials that are also free of harmful substances.
5) Keep cats indoors: Research has shown that outdoor cats can negatively impact local wildlife. If your cat needs outdoor time, ensure they are supervised.
6) Remember the second 'R' in Reduce, reuse, recycle: Donating gently-used items to local shelters and rescues is huge for supporting animals in need. Don't forget--There's still time to drop off donations for Lily's donation drive with SVVH!

By incorporating these eco-friendly practices into your pet care routine, you're not only helping to preserve the environment but also ensuring a healthier, happier life for your beloved furry family members and others. Let's make Earth Day every day and lead the way to a sustainable future! 🌎💚 🌎

04/21/2025

We are thrilled to share some exciting news with our Stream Valley community: Please join us in congratulating Kristen on passing the Veterinary Technician National Exam with flying colors! We are incredibly proud of Kristen for reaching this significant milestone in the process of receiving certification as a Licensed Veterinary Technician. It's a true testament to her hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

Next for Kristen is graduating from the Veterinary Technician program at Northern Virginia Community College in just a few weeks! Then, she will apply for a license with the Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine. Of course, we are confident that she will be successful in this endeavor. Let's cheer her on with congratulatory messages in the comments below!

Once again, congratulations Kristen--your hard work has truly paid off, and we are proud to have you as a part of the Stream Valley team!

04/20/2025

04/08/2025

*SVVH Pet food and supplies donation drive now through May 1st!*

Meet Lilly, a 5th grade LCPS student who has chosen to partner with us for her community service project! She wants to do her part in ensuring our furry friends with the Loudoun County Animal Services have everything they need. ❤️ Here's a little message from Lilly:

“Hello! My name is Lilly, and I'm a 5th grade LCPS student. For my community service learning project I've chosen to help animals in need. In preparation for this project, I’ve researched all about animal starvation and how I can best support animals in need. Now I’m ready to volunteer my time with Stream Valley for gaining more experience and contribute where I can. That's why I'm hosting a food and pet supplies drive to provide donations for LCAS! From now until May 1st, we will be collecting blankets, dry and canned foods, towels, toys and more. All donations can be brought to SVVH during regular business hours, M-F 7 am - 7 pm, and Saturdays from 8 am - 3 pm. You're also invited to join me for an in-person drive at Stream Valley on Saturday, April 26th. I hope to see you there!"

Let's come together as a community to show some love to our four-legged pals in need and make Lilly's project a success! We'd also appreciate your help in spreading the word by liking and sharing this post with your friends and family. Thank you!

04/07/2025

An important note from our friends at Blue Ridge Wildlife Center...

4/8/25 update: This fox's rabies testing has now come back negative (along with multiple other tests) and brain tissue samples have again confirmed HPAI suggesting that HPAI is the primary cause of the clinical signs this fox was exhibiting.

This past Monday, we admitted an adult female Red Fox from Hamilton, Virginia and she tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).

This animal was lateral on intake and not responding to handling. She was also exhibiting tremors and nystagmus, a rhythmic, involuntary eye movement that is often seen with brain trauma or disease. Given these severe neurological signs without any indication of trauma, our top differentials were rabies, distemper, and HPAI. As all of these diseases have a very poor prognosis, humane euthanasia was elected and testing was performed for rabies and HPAI. While rabies testing is still pending, the HPAI testing came back positive.

This is the first report of an HPAI positive mammal in our state (though most other states have seen many mammalian positives, especially in dairy cows and free-roaming domestic cats). With cases on the rise at our hospital, and foxes having been found positive in multiple nearby states, this case did not come as a surprise. This positive was of course reported to the proper authorities and those that came into contact with the fox are actively monitoring for HPAI signs, which include fever, body aches, and irritated eyes in humans.

Please help us minimize the risk of this virus by keeping a respectful distance from wildlife. Most cats are infected by hunting wild prey or ingesting raw meat or milk, so please do not allow pets to free roam and do not feed raw milk or meat products. Keep yourself safe by avoiding these products as well. Please read the press release from DWR (linked in the comments) to learn more about this virus and how to stay safe.

This virus is still considered low risk to humans and there is no need to be concerned as long as you are staying up to date on the outbreak through reliable sources and taking proper precautions around wildlife and susceptible domestics.

04/06/2025

Heartworm prevention IS worth it!

Don't believe this Tall Tale! The numbers don't lie.

03/27/2025

‼️Important Update for Our Daycare Clients! ‼️

Please be advised that our kennel is currently experiencing a slight wave of sniffles and coughing among the pups at Doggie Daycare (*all are vaccinated*). Pollen can mix with low-grade bacteria in the air and creates an infection, which is similar to a sinus infection. Kids and dogs, even dogs that are well-vaccinated, can come into contact with this infection while spending considerable time outdoors, making it very important to stay alert.

Our canine companions can remain infectious for about 10-14 days. Although they might recover quickly, we kindly ask that you keep them home from any daycare for at least 3-5 days to help minimize the spread of the infection. Our top priority is ensuring a safe and healthy environment for your pups to play and socialize.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we navigate this seasonal hiccup. If your dog is experiencing any symptoms or you have additional questions/concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us at (703) 723-1017. Thank you!

03/26/2025

DID YOU KNOW? Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) is one of the most common skin conditions that affects our beloved cats and dogs. It occurs when an animal develops an allergy to flea saliva after being bitten. Even a single flea bite can trigger a serious allergic reaction, leading to severe itching, irritation and discomfort.

Signs of FAD to Watch For:

🐾Excessive scratching or licking
🐾 Hair loss, especially around the tail, lower back and belly
🐾 Red, inflamed or scabby skin
🐾 Hot spots (painful, infected areas)
🐾 Sores or scabs from constant scratching

How to Prevent FAD:

🐾Use monthly flea preventatives like Nexgard, Revolution, or Seresto collars
🐾Keep your home clean—vacuum regularly and treat your house for fleas
🐾Wash bedding, toys, and blankets regularly
🐾Bathe and groom your pet often to check for fleas

Treatment Options:

🐾Flea control is the first step in treatment—consistency is key!
🐾Medications like antihistamines or steroids may be needed to control the allergy symptoms and inflammation
🐾If skin infections are present, your vet may prescribe antibiotics or medicated shampoos

Ongoing Maintenance:

🐾Stay on top of year-round flea prevention to avoid future flare-ups
🐾Regular vet check-ups to monitor skin health and manage the condition

FAD can be tough, but with the right care, your pet can live comfortably with minimal itching! 💕 If you suspect your pet has FAD, please give us a call at (703) 723-1017 to schedule an appointment. Learn more about our preventative care offerings at www.streamvalleyvet.com!

03/21/2025

Now that spring is officially underway, pesky allergens have made their return! Is your pet scratching more than usual? They could have atopic dermatitis, a hereditary condition where pets react to environmental allergens. Animals with this condition have skin with a defective outer layer (epidermis), leading to an inflammatory response upon contact with triggers like pollen and dust mites. Allergies commonly develop somewhere between 6 months of age to 3 years of age, but it's even possible for them to develop in pets who are 14 years old!

Unfortunately, there is no specific test for atopy; diagnosis relies on observing itchiness, physical exams, and ruling out other conditions. Lifelong treatment is necessary for managing symptoms and preventing secondary infections, but effective treatments exist to ensure a good quality of life for affected pets.

If your pet shows signs like licking, chewing, scratching, scooting, chronic skin and ear infections, or other unusual skin issues, it might be time to consult with a veterinarian. Early diagnosis and treatment makes a world of a difference in their comfort and health. Call us at (703) 723-1017 to schedule an appointment!

03/17/2025

🐾🍀 Happy St. Patrick's Day to all our friends, both two-legged and four!🍀🐾

Let's celebrate our fur friends from the Emerald Isle! Here's some of the amazing Irish dog and cat breeds that are as lucky as they are lovable:

Irish Wolfhound - The gentle giant of the dog world! These majestic dogs are known for their size and sweet, affectionate nature and embody the heart of Ireland.

Irish Terrier - A small breed with a big personality, the Irish Terrier is known for being loyal and brave - just like the Irish spirit!

Irish Setter – With their gorgeous red coats and boundless energy, these friendly and playful dogs are sure to bring joy to your St. Patrick’s Day festivities!

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier – This delightful breed is known for its silky coat and sweet, friendly nature. Perfect for a day full of cuddles and fun!

Manx Cat – Originating from the Isle of Man, just off the coast of Ireland, these adorable tailless kitties are full of personality and grace.

Glen of Imaal Terrier – A lesser-known gem, these terriers are loyal, sturdy, and full of s***k. They’ll add a little extra luck to your day!

Kerry Blue Terrier – With their beautiful blue-gray coats and loving demeanor, these dogs are as charming as they are clever. A true Irish treasure!

Irish Water Spaniel – Energetic, intelligent, and covered in curly, water-resistant fur, these dogs love the great outdoors and are perfect companions for active families.

Whether you're celebrating with your own Irish pup or just admiring these beautiful breeds, let’s raise a glass to these Irish companions who bring so much joy to our lives! Sláinte! 🍻🐾💚

03/11/2025

Spring has sprung in our area, bringing with it allergies and pesky pests! At Stream Valley, we're committed to helping you keep your pets safe and healthy all season long. As you venture out to the great outdoors, remember these spring pet safety tips:

1. Pest Patrol: Ensure your pet is protected from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, heartworms and more with our recommended preventatives: NexGard PLUS, Revolution, Frontline, and Seresto.

2. Garden Safety: Watch out for toxic plants like lilies, azaleas, and daffodils. Keep fertilizers and pesticides out of reach.

3. Allergy Awareness: Pets can suffer from seasonal allergies, too! Keep an eye out for red, inflamed skin, excessive scratching, watery eyes, licking, or sneezing.

Let's make this spring safe and fun for you and your beloved companions! Should you notice any signs of discomfort or excessive itching, give us a call at (703) 723-1017 to bring your pet in for a visit. We're here to start them on a plan to achieve relief. Watch this space for more valuable information in the days to come!

03/07/2025

Spring is in the air~ our four-legged friends at Doggie Daycare are soaking up every moment! There's nothing quite like watching these playful pups frolic and play they day away. Check out these adorable photos of the playful pups having some fun in the sun! Who else is ready for more sunshine and warm days ahead?

Your furry friend can join us for days of play, too! We have limited space now available for them to socialize, learn, and play. Call now at (703) 723-1017 for more information on reserving your pup's spot! Visit our website for more photos at https://www.streamvalleyvet.com/daycare. 😁

03/06/2025

It's that time of year again...Daylight Saving Time begins this Sunday, March 9th! While we might grumble about losing an hour of sleep, let's not forget about how our family companions are affected too. Pets don't understand the concept of clocks changing, and this shift can sometimes throw off their schedules.

You might notice your dog eagerly waking up an hour early or your cat expecting playtime sooner than usual. To help them adjust, try gradually shifting their daily routine over the next few days. With a bit of patience and consistency, they'll be back to their usual routines in no time. For pets who may need extra assistance, please give us a call at (703) 723-1017!

03/06/2025

Happy dogs, Safe Helpers

03/05/2025

UPDATE: Wiley is still available for adoption at LCAS in Leesburg, VA! As of this morning, we have not had any potential adopters come to the shelter to meet him. We appreciate all the interest in Wiley and thank you for liking/sharing to help him find his home!

Are you interested in meeting Wiley? Stop by the shelter and ask about Wiley today. We are open 11am-6pm for adoptions. Learn more about our adoption process and the shelter on our website: https://www.loudoun.gov/534/Available-Pets

There has been lots of excitement about the incoming dogs from commercial breeders. But we would like to turn your attention for a moment to a dog who has been waiting in our kennels and now really needs out. Wiley is struggling in the shelter and we need our community to help him – likes, shares, word of mouth, networking—whatever it takes to find Wiley an adopter ASAP.

Wiley arrived here at the shelter as a stray and over the past few weeks we have learned a lot about this adorable, goofy dog. Wiley is a fun, affectionate, high-energy guy who loves fetch, tug, treats, and snuggles. He’s the kind of dog who makes you laugh—we tried to teach him “roll over” and he just flopped over for belly rubs.

Wiley is young and high energy. If there are children in the home, teens would be best to handle his exuberance. While he does well on walks with other dogs, Wiley has minimal experience with other dogs, and can be pretty unruly, so we think we would be most successful in a home where he can be the only dog or a home that can give him a true decompression period and thoughtful, managed introduction.

Unfortunately, no matter how hard we try here, the shelter is not a home, and for a young, high energy dog like Wiley, the kennel causes immense stress. Wiley needs a home – can you give this affectionate and fun dog a chance? Are you his person? Stop by the shelter and ask about Wiley today. We are open 11am-6pm for adoptions. Learn more about our adoption process and the shelter on our website: https://www.loudoun.gov/534/Available-Pets

02/28/2025

To conclude National Pet Dental Health Month, we’ve produced a new video for a behind the scenes look into a professional dental cleaning at Stream Valley Vet! Watch Benji through the entire process with the help of our Dental Technician Kristen and Veterinary Assistant Dayton.

Why is dental care crucial? Oral health is directly linked to your pet's overall well-being, helping prevent serious health issues down the road. Plus, who doesn't love a fresh, happy smile?

Don't forget to like and share with your fellow pet lovers! Let’s keep those tails wagging and smiles shining!

Watch Benji through the entire process of his professional dental cleaning with the help of our Dental Technician Kristen and Veterinary Assistant Dayton! We...