VCA Liberty Animal Hospital

VCA Liberty Animal Hospital We are committed to providing the best veterinary services to our customers and their pets. Your Pets . . . Our Family! Liberty Animal Hospital

Mission Statement of Liberty Animal Hospital: "We continually strive to provide excellent customer service, state-of-the-art medicine, and compassionate patient care with the goal of preserving and enriching the human-animal bond through all stages of life." Liberty Animal Hospital is a full-service small animal hospital whose mission is to provide the highest standard of veterinary care for pets.

We provide friendly, informative, and supportive services for you and your pet, while maintaining a superior working environment for our employees. Located in the city of Mountain Brook, the veterinarians at Liberty Animal Hospital are committed to your pet's health. Founded in March of 2002 by Dr. Craig Martin, Dr. Barbara Monaghan, and Dr. Cindy Williams, they have since been joined by Dr. Libby Todd and Dr. Jason Vargas. The doctors and their staff have excelled in compassionate veterinary care in the southeast. Liberty Animal Hospital offers emergency veterinary services as well as medical, surgical, and dental veterinary care. With an in-house pharmacy and access to specialists, our facility offers a one-stop shop for your pet's health and medical care.

09/02/2025

Not all pet toys are created equal—some could be doing more harm than good. Watch now to find out which toys to keep and which ones to toss!

A day off of work means a day on for playtime! And there's always room for *one* more toy... right?!Tune in tomorrow at ...
09/01/2025

A day off of work means a day on for playtime! And there's always room for *one* more toy... right?!

Tune in tomorrow at 9am PT for toy keep-or-toss recommendations from our team at VCA Lake Jackson Animal Hospital!

08/29/2025

Feeling unsure about spaying or neutering your pet? We're here to bust some common myths and help you feel confident in making the best choice for your pet.

08/27/2025

Happy First Day of School! We love another reason for more pet pictures to fill up our camera roll!

A shiny, healthy coat is often a sign of good overall health, and it starts with proper nutrition. If your pet’s fur loo...
08/27/2025

A shiny, healthy coat is often a sign of good overall health, and it starts with proper nutrition. If your pet’s fur looks dull, dry, or they’re shedding more than usual, it could be related to their diet, allergies, or an underlying health issue.

Contact us today to schedule a checkup and help your pet look and feel their best.

We're so grateful that everyday is here at VCA Animal Hospitals! Give your dogs some extra love from all of us today!
08/26/2025

We're so grateful that everyday is here at VCA Animal Hospitals! Give your dogs some extra love from all of us today!

08/26/2025

Beans at VCA All Pets Salinas is going to show you how it's done, done, done!

08/25/2025

Adding a new 4-legged best friend to your home? Check out these 5 tips to help everyone win!

08/22/2025

If it's wrong to love these ✨ toxic ✨ traits, then we don't want to be right! The team at VCA Mainland Animal Hospital have a lot of bundles of fun on their hands!

08/20/2025

The "cone of shame" could use a re-brand because of how important it is in the healing process for your pet. Comment your new idea for "cone of ___"!

08/18/2025

Cat questions got your tongue? has your answers!

Swipe through to see our Saturday feels with our squad at VCA Durant Road Animal Hospital!!
08/16/2025

Swipe through to see our Saturday feels with our squad at VCA Durant Road Animal Hospital!!

08/15/2025

Thinking about fostering a pet? Before you start, check out these helpful tips to make the experience rewarding for you and your potential pet.

Some houseplants can be toxic to cats, even just a nibble can lead to serious health issues.Popular plants like lilies, ...
06/25/2025

Some houseplants can be toxic to cats, even just a nibble can lead to serious health issues.

Popular plants like lilies, pothos, and philodendrons can cause vomiting, lethargy, and even organ failure. Keep your curious cat safe by researching pet-safe plants and keeping harmful ones out of reach.

Dog Mom's Day is typically celebrated on the second Sunday in May, which often falls around the same time as Mother's Da...
05/11/2025

Dog Mom's Day is typically celebrated on the second Sunday in May, which often falls around the same time as Mother's Day. In 2025, that would be May 11th. It's a fun day to celebrate dog moms—people who treat their dogs like family, showering them with love, care, and affection. It's similar to Mother's Day but focuses specifically on the bond between a dog and their human.

Do you plan to celebrate your furry friend that day, or do you have any special plans for it?

05/05/2025

Dog anxiety is a serious issue that many dogs face, and it can manifest in various ways. It's important to recognize the signs of anxiety in dogs so that owners can take steps to alleviate their discomfort. Here’s an overview of dog anxiety awareness:

Common Types of Dog Anxiety:
Separation Anxiety:

This occurs when a dog gets extremely distressed when separated from their owner.
Signs: Barking, howling, drooling, destroying furniture, accidents in the house, and pacing when left alone.
Noise Anxiety:

Dogs can become anxious during loud noises like thunderstorms, fireworks, or construction.
Signs: Trembling, hiding, drooling, excessive panting, or trying to escape.
Social Anxiety:

This type of anxiety happens when dogs are uncomfortable around unfamiliar people, animals, or situations.
Signs: Growling, barking, cowering, avoiding people, or retreating when approached.
Travel Anxiety:

Some dogs feel anxious during car rides or trips, particularly if they associate travel with a bad experience.
Signs: Drooling, vomiting, excessive panting, or restless behavior.
Common Signs of Anxiety in Dogs:
Excessive barking or howling
Pacing or restlessness
Trembling or shaking
Destructive behaviors (e.g., chewing furniture)
Excessive drooling or panting
Loss of appetite or overeating
Hiding or avoiding social interaction
Trying to escape (scratching at doors or windows)
Causes of Dog Anxiety:
Genetics: Some dogs are more prone to anxiety due to their breed or individual temperament.
Lack of socialization: Dogs that haven’t been properly socialized with people, other dogs, or different environments may develop anxiety.
Traumatic experiences: Dogs that have had negative experiences (e.g., abuse, abandonment, or travel-related distress) may develop anxiety.
Changes in routine or environment: Moving homes, new family members, or a change in schedule can stress out a dog.
How to Help a Dog with Anxiety:
Behavioral Therapy:

Gradual desensitization: Exposing the dog to anxiety-inducing situations in a controlled way.
Counter-conditioning: Changing the dog’s emotional response to a trigger by pairing it with positive experiences (e.g., treats).
Create a Safe Space:

Provide a quiet, comfortable area where your dog can retreat to when feeling anxious.
Use calming products like pet-specific blankets or anxiety wraps (e.g., Thundershirt).
Routine and Predictability:

Maintaining a consistent daily routine can help reduce stress for dogs, as they feel more secure with predictability.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation:

Regular physical activity and mental enrichment (e.g., puzzle toys or obedience training) can help reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation.
Calming Aids:

Calming music, pheromone diffusers (e.g., Adaptil), or natural supplements (e.g., CBD oil or calming treats) may help.
Consult with a veterinarian before using any supplements.
Training and Professional Help:

Working with a professional dog trainer or animal behaviorist can help if anxiety is severe.
In some cases, medication prescribed by a vet may be necessary to manage anxiety.
Raising Awareness:
Education: Pet owners should be educated on the signs of anxiety and the best ways to help dogs cope.
Community Support: Sharing personal experiences and advice in pet-owner communities can help raise awareness about how common and treatable dog anxiety can be.
Advocacy: Supporting organizations that promote better treatment and understanding of animals, including those with mental health issues, can help improve the welfare of pets everywhere.
By recognizing and addressing dog anxiety early, we can make a significant difference in the lives of our pets. If you suspect your dog is suffering from anxiety, it’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or a pet behavior expert for personalized guidance.

05/01/2025

This month focuses on raising awareness about asthma and allergies in pets, particularly dogs and cats, and encourages pet owners to recognize the symptoms and seek proper treatment. Just like humans, pets can experience allergies and asthma, and these conditions can significantly affect their health and quality of life if not managed properly.

Key Points About Pet Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month:
1. Pet Asthma:
What is Pet Asthma?: Asthma in pets, especially in cats, is a condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing. Dogs can also develop asthma, though it is less common.
Symptoms of Asthma: In cats, asthma is often marked by coughing, wheezing, rapid or labored breathing, and open-mouth breathing. In dogs, asthma may present as coughing, excessive panting, and respiratory distress.
Causes of Asthma: Asthma in pets can be triggered by environmental allergens like dust, smoke, mold, pollen, or even strong scents from cleaning products. Genetics, obesity, or respiratory infections can also contribute to the condition.

2. Pet Allergies:
Common Allergens for Pets: Pets can be allergic to a variety of things, including certain foods, pollen, dust mites, flea bites, mold, and environmental irritants like smoke and fragrances. Food allergies are also common in pets, with some animals reacting to specific ingredients such as beef, chicken, or dairy.
Symptoms of Allergies: Common symptoms of allergies in pets include itching, red or inflamed skin, ear infections, watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, and gastrointestinal upset (vomiting or diarrhea). For pets with environmental allergies, symptoms may worsen during specific seasons.
Diagnosis and Treatment: Allergies and asthma can be diagnosed by a veterinarian through physical exams, tests, and allergy screenings. Treatment may include medication such as antihistamines, steroids, bronchodilators (for asthma), dietary changes (for food allergies), and allergy shots or immunotherapy.

3. Management and Prevention:
Asthma Management: Managing asthma in pets often requires reducing exposure to allergens, using prescribed medications, and sometimes administering inhalers or nebulized treatments. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as air purifiers or humidifiers can help alleviate symptoms.
Managing Allergies: Managing allergies may involve identifying and removing allergens from the pet's environment (e.g., hypoallergenic foods, flea control, minimizing exposure to pollen), along with using medications to control symptoms.
Prevention: While some allergic reactions can’t be prevented, minimizing your pet's exposure to known allergens, maintaining a clean living environment, and providing regular veterinary check-ups can help in the early detection and treatment of asthma and allergies.

4. Signs to Look For:
Coughing or Wheezing
Increased Breathing Effort or Rapid Breathing
Excessive Scratching or Licking
Red, Inflamed, or Irritated Skin
Sneezing or Nasal Discharge
Vomiting or Diarrhea (especially with food allergies)

Conclusion:
Pet owners are encouraged to recognize potential symptoms of asthma and allergies and take proactive steps to ensure their pets are comfortable and healthy. Working closely with a veterinarian to diagnose and manage these conditions can lead to a better quality of life for pets dealing with asthma or allergies.

If your pet is showing signs of respiratory issues or allergies, it's important to consult a veterinarian for advice and treatment options.

04/26/2025

April 26th is indeed recognized as Hairball Awareness Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the health implications of hairballs in pets, especially cats. Hairballs are common in cats because they groom themselves by licking their fur, ingesting loose hair that can accumulate in their stomachs. While hairballs are usually harmless, they can cause discomfort and even lead to more serious issues if not managed properly.

This day is a good opportunity for pet owners to learn more about preventing and managing hairballs in their furry friends. Some helpful tips include:

Regular brushing to remove loose hair
Providing hairball-specific foods or supplements
Ensuring your pet stays hydrated
Monitoring your cat for signs of excessive hairballs, such as vomiting or difficulty passing them
Have a pet that suffers from hairballs? Or are you just curious about the day?

04/18/2025

April 18th is recognized as Pet Owners Day! It's a day to celebrate and appreciate the bond between pet owners and their furry, scaly, or feathered companions. Pet owners often take this day to reflect on the joy and love their pets bring into their lives, as well as to show extra care and appreciation for their pets.

Many people use Pet Owners Day as an opportunity to:

Spoil their pets with extra treats, toys, or special outings.
Share cute photos or stories of their pets on social media.
Educate themselves about proper pet care.
Support local pet-related charities and businesses.

Do you have a pet? If so, what kind, and how do you usually celebrate with them?

April is National Heartworm Awareness Month: • Why April?April is when mosquitoes that carry heartworm disease start to ...
04/01/2025

April is National Heartworm Awareness Month:
• Why April?
April is when mosquitoes that carry heartworm disease start to appear in many regions.

• What is heartworm?
Heartworm is a serious, potentially fatal disease caused by a roundworm that lives in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of pets.

• How is heartworm transmitted?
Mosquitoes pick up heartworm larvae from the bloodstream of an infected animal and transmit them to the next animal they bite.

Symptoms include:
• Coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Decreased ability to exercise
• Weakness
• Nosebleeds
• Collapse

Prevention
• The best way to protect pets is through regular heartworm prevention medication. These are typically prescribed by a veterinarian and come in various forms, such as pills, topical treatments, or injectable options.

• Testing: Pets should be tested for heartworms annually. A blood test will determine if your pet is infected. It's crucial to start prevention early to avoid complications.

Heartworm prevention is important year-round, but the risk is higher in warmer months. You can have your pet tested by a veterinarian and then make sure they get their preventive treatments.

March 23 is Cuddly Kitten Day, a day to celebrate the bond between people and cats, and to show love and attention to ki...
03/21/2025

March 23 is Cuddly Kitten Day, a day to celebrate the bond between people and cats, and to show love and attention to kittens:
Celebrate your furry friend
Show your cat extra love and attention on this day. Kittens enjoy curling up with their owners at night, and sleeping in bed with your pet can be a great way to bond.
Consider adopting a kitten
If you're looking for a new pet, you can visit an animal shelter to see if they have a kitten that's a good fit for your family. You can also consider adopting an older pet, as many adult animals still have lots of energy and playfulness.
Help pets in need
While celebrating your own pets, you can also think about how you can help pets that are still looking for their forever homes.
Kitten proof your home
If you have a kitten, you can make your home safer for them by:
Keeping small objects, strings, and hair ties out of reach
Keeping electrical cords out of reach, or taping them down
Keeping all lids closed, especially toilet bowls
Securing cabinets with a childproof lock
Locking window screens
Checking the ASPCA poison plant list before bringing plants inside

03/03/2025

If pets had thumbs, things would get pretty interesting! They might become a lot more independent—imagine your cat opening its own food can or your dog grabbing the TV remote. They’d likely find ways to get into trouble too, like opening cabinets or unlocking doors.

Some pets might even develop their own quirky habits. Birds could be able to manipulate toys or puzzle feeders more effectively. Smaller pets like hamsters or guinea pigs might start rearranging their habitats or even escape their cages more easily!

Do you think your pet would enjoy having thumbs, or would they just use it for mischief?

February 20th is National Love Your Pet Day, a special occasion dedicated to showing extra appreciation and care for our...
02/20/2025

February 20th is National Love Your Pet Day, a special occasion dedicated to showing extra appreciation and care for our furry friends. While it’s a day to celebrate the bond we share with our pets, it’s also an excellent opportunity for veterinary awareness—to focus on your pet's health and well-being.

Here are some key points for veterinary awareness on Love Your Pet Day:

1. Annual Vet Check-Ups
Regular vet check-ups are essential to monitor your pet's health. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations, flea and tick preventatives, and any necessary health screenings. Early detection of issues can help prevent more serious conditions down the line.
2. Proper Nutrition
A healthy diet is crucial for your pet's longevity and quality of life. Ensure you are feeding your pet the appropriate food based on their age, breed, and health status. Consult your vet to discuss the best dietary options and avoid overfeeding or underfeeding. Obesity is a growing problem in pets and can lead to other health complications like diabetes and joint problems.
3. Dental Care
Dental health is often overlooked, but it’s just as important as other aspects of pet care. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and even organ damage. Schedule a dental check-up with your vet and consider brushing your pet's teeth regularly or using dental chews to help keep their teeth clean.
4. Parasite Prevention
Parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms can cause serious health issues for pets. Regularly administer parasite preventatives and discuss a routine with your vet. For example, some pets may require specific medications to prevent heartworm or other infections.
5. Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Pets, especially dogs, need regular exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Exercise helps prevent obesity, anxiety, and behavioral problems. Take your dog on daily walks, play interactive games, and provide enrichment activities to keep their minds sharp.
6. Preventive Care and Vaccinations
Preventive care is one of the best ways to ensure your pet stays healthy. Ensure that your pet is up to date on vaccinations like rabies, distemper, and parvovirus (for dogs), or feline distemper (for cats). Preventive treatments can also include flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, depending on where you live.
7. Grooming
Regular grooming is important not just for appearance but for your pet’s overall health. Regular brushing helps reduce shedding, prevents matting, and promotes a healthy coat. For pets with long or thick fur, grooming can also help prevent painful tangles. Your vet or groomer can provide advice on the proper grooming techniques for your pet's breed.
8. Understanding Behavioral Issues
If you notice behavioral changes in your pet, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition or emotional distress. Conditions like arthritis, thyroid imbalances, or anxiety may cause your pet to act differently. If your pet seems lethargic, aggressive, or more anxious than usual, consult your vet to rule out any health issues.
9. Spay/Neuter Awareness
Spaying or neutering your pet has many benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers and preventing unwanted litters. Talk to your vet about the right age for spaying or neutering, and ask any questions you may have about the procedure.
10. End of Life Care
While it’s never easy to think about, end-of-life care is an important part of responsible pet ownership. Consider discussing your pet’s aging process, comfort, and palliative care options with your veterinarian. They can help you make informed decisions as your pet gets older, ensuring they remain as comfortable as possible.
11. Emergency Preparedness
Emergency preparedness is another crucial aspect of pet care. Know where the nearest animal emergency hospital is located, and have a first aid kit for pets. Familiarize yourself with common signs of pet emergencies, such as difficulty breathing, choking, or vomiting, and be prepared to act quickly.
12. Quality Time and Bonding
Finally, spend quality time with your pet. Love Your Pet Day isn’t just about giving your pet treats or gifts—it’s about strengthening the bond you share with them. Whether it's a cozy cuddle, playtime, or a fun walk, showing your love and affection in meaningful ways will improve your pet's happiness and health.
Love Your Pet Day is a reminder to cherish your pet, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to review their health and well-being. Make sure you are meeting their physical, emotional, and medical needs with the help of your veterinarian. Your pet’s health is a lifelong commitment, and taking these proactive steps will ensure they live a happy, healthy life by your side.

Doggie Date Night is a holiday celebrated on February 3rd that gives you a chance to spend quality time with your dog. I...
02/03/2025

Doggie Date Night is a holiday celebrated on February 3rd that gives you a chance to spend quality time with your dog. It's a day to show your dog how much you care and strengthen your bond. Here are some ideas for a memorable Doggie Date Night:
Movie night: Cuddle up with your dog in front of a movie while you have popcorn and they have a chew toy
Pet-friendly pampering: Get a mani-pedi with your dog
Yoga: Learn downward-facing dog from your dog
Game night: Play games with your dog to get some laughs
Bubble bath: Give your dog a bubble bath full of toys
Doggy dinner: Cook a special meal for you and your dog
Adventure walk: Take a walk led by your dog's sense of smell
Dog-friendly shopping: Go shopping at a store that welcomes dogs, like a pet shop or hardware chain
Doggy play date: Invite other dogs over for a playdate
Dog park: Go to the dog park and let your dog run around off-leash
Dog bakery: Visit a dog bakery
When taking your dog on a date, you can prepare by bringing extra water, a water bowl, p**p bags, a leash, and treats. You can also freeze a KONG the night before and bring it as a chew treat.

Address

3810 River Run Drive
Birmingham, AL
35243

Opening Hours

Monday 7am - 6pm
Tuesday 7am - 6pm
Wednesday 7am - 6pm
Thursday 7am - 6pm
Friday 7am - 6pm
Saturday 7am - 12pm
Sunday 2pm - 6pm

Telephone

+12059700411

Website

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