Kensington Bird & Animal Hospital

10/16/2025

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at our veterinary hospital? 🐾

This , we're giving you an exclusive peek into a "day in the life" of our incredible veterinary technicians! From comforting patients before surgery to meticulously preparing medications, running lab work, and assisting with X-rays, their days are filled with dedication, skill, and compassion.

Here are some photos showcasing our amazing vet techs in action, doing what they do best!

10/15/2025

In celebration of National Veterinary Technician Week, we want to spotlight our incredible team! They are the heart and soul of our hospital, providing compassionate care, endless support, and a calming presence for our patients and their owners.

In honor of all that they do, we'd love to hear about a great memory or moment you've shared with one of our amazing vet techs and your pet. Share your story in the comments below!

10/14/2025

Meet our incredible team of Veterinary Technicians! 💠

10/13/2025

We're celebrating National Veterinary Technician Week! This week is dedicated to the compassionate, skilled, and dedicated vet techs who are essential to our team and to the health and well-being of your beloved pets.

Our vet techs are the heart of our clinic. They perform countless tasks, from monitoring anesthesia and assisting in surgery to running lab work and providing compassionate nursing care. They are the ones holding a nervous paw, offering comfort, and giving extra snuggles when your pet needs it most.

Join us in celebrating these incredible professionals! Thank a vet tech today and share your appreciation in the comments below!

10/12/2025

10/10/2025

Chocolate is a delicious treat for humans, but it can be a serious health hazard for our canine companions. Many dog owners are aware of this, but might not know why. Let's break down the science behind why chocolate is so dangerous for dogs, and with Halloween approaching, this is a vital reminder.🍫

🐾The Culprit: Theobromine
The primary reason chocolate is toxic to dogs is a compound called theobromine. This is a bitter alkaloid found in the cacao plant, which is used to make chocolate. Humans can metabolize theobromine easily, but dogs process it much more slowly. This allows the compound to build up to toxic levels in their system, affecting their heart, central nervous system, and kidneys.

🐾Symptoms of Chocolate Poisoning:
The symptoms of chocolate poisoning depend on the amount and type of chocolate ingested, as well as the dog's size. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.

Mild to Moderate Symptoms:
▪️Vomiting
▪️Diarrhea
▪️Increased thirst
▪️Panting or restlessness
▪️Elevated heart rate

Severe Symptoms:
▪️Muscle tremors or seizures
▪️Increased body temperature
▪️Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
▪️Collapse
▪️Cardiac failure

🐾A Special Halloween Warning🎃
▪️Keep chocolate and candy bowls away from curious pets
▪️Xylitol: This artificial sweetener is found in sugar-free gum and candy and is extremely toxic to dogs.
▪️Raisins: Often found in "healthy" trail mixes or chocolate-covered treats, raisins can cause kidney failure.
▪️Candy Wrappers: Ingested wrappers can cause a dangerous blockage in the digestive tract.

🐾What to Do If Your Dog Eats Candy
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation: Try to determine the type and amount of candy your dog ate, and roughly your dog's weight. This information is vital for the veterinarian.
2. Contact Pet Poison Control and/or a Veterinarian Immediately: Do not wait for symptoms to appear. The vet or a pet poison helpline will be able to tell you if the amount ingested is toxic and what the next steps should be.
3. Do Not Induce Vomiting Unless Directed: A professional will advise you on whether or not it's safe to induce vomiting, and how to do it properly.

10/08/2025

We're learning and growing for our feathered friends! 🦜📚

A huge shout-out to our dedicated team members, Dr. Sinclair, Dr. Bloom, Lead Veterinary Technician Kaitlin, and Veterinary Technician Cote, who are currently in Phoenix, Arizona, attending the annual AAV Conference (Association of Avian Veterinarians)!

This conference is a key opportunity for our staff to dive deep into advanced avian diagnostics, surgery, and care protocols. They're gathering the most cutting-edge information available so we can continue to deliver exceptional care to all your feathered patients!

We're so proud of their dedication to advancing their expertise!

10/07/2025

Guinea Pig Trivia! 🐹

Think you know everything about these adorable, squeaky creatures? Put your knowledge to the test with our quick quiz!

Question 1: What is a baby guinea pig called?
a) A pup
b) A piglet
c) A kit
d) A joey

Question 2: What is the average lifespan of a guinea pig?
a) 1-3 years
b) 5-7 years
c) 8-12 years
d) 13-15 years

Question 3: Which continent are Guinea pigs native to?
a) North America
b) Africa
c) South America
d) Australia

Question 4: What is one essential part of a guinea pig's diet that helps with their continuously growing teeth?
a) Fruits
b) Vegetables
c) Timothy Hay
d) Pellets

Answers below! 👇

Answer Key: 🗝️

a) A pup. Guinea pig babies are called pups, born with fur, teeth, and open eyes!

b) 5-7 years. With proper care, a guinea pig can live for many years, making them a long-term commitment.

c) South America. They originate from the Andes Mountains and were domesticated thousands of years ago.

c) Timothy Hay. Hay is crucial for their dental health and digestive system. It should make up the majority of their diet!

How did you do? Share your score in the comments! 👇

If you have questions about your pet, contact us!
📞860-828-7736