Catlett Animal Hospital

06/24/2025

Summer Dog Safety: Outdoor Playtime Tips

Worried about outdoor play in the heat? Here’s what every pet parent should know about summer dog safety before heading outside.

As temperatures rise, summer care for dogs becomes more important than ever. High heat can lead to overheating, burnt paws, and other serious health risks. Whether it’s backyard fetch or a trip to the dog park, a few smart precautions can keep playtime fun and safe.

• Plan playtime smartly. Opt for early morning (6–9 AM) or after 7 PM when the ground and air are cooler.
• Check the ground temperature. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws—stick to shaded, grassy areas or use protective booties.
• Hydrate and rest often. Make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water and access to shade between bursts of activity.
• Watch for heat stress. Signs like heavy panting, drooling, or slowing down are red flags, bring playtime to a stop and help your dog cool off.
• Tailor to your pet. Older dogs, brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, and those with health conditions are more sensitive to the heat and need lighter activity.

If you’re ever unsure whether your pet is showing signs of heat-related illness, reach out to your primary care vet, or visit our emergency clinic. We're here when you need us.

06/23/2025

We’re excited to welcome Dr. Hannah Gordon to the Catlett Animal Hospital family. Originally from Franklin, TN, Dr. Gordon grew up surrounded by animals, spending her time at local 4-H events and caring for her family’s small farm of horses, goats, and chickens.

She earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal and Dairy Sciences at Mississippi State University and stayed on to complete her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the Mississippi State College of Veterinary Medicine. Her professional interests include surgery, nutrition, and the rewarding variety that mixed animal medicine brings.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Gordon loves baking, reading, walking her dog, horseback riding, and discovering new spots around town. She’s looking forward to connecting with the Catlett community, both two- and four-legged members alike.

Help us give her a warm welcome!

Catlett Animal Hospital provides advanced animal veterinary care with expert diagnostics, surgery & preventative care. Call 540-788-6094 now!

06/17/2025

Summer Pet Safety Tips: Preventing Heatstroke in Pets

As temps climb, it’s important to stay mindful of pet heatstroke symptoms and take steps toward keeping pets cool in summer. Whether you’ve got a playful pup or a sun-loving cat, here’s how to keep them safe:

• Know the signs. Early dog overheating signs include heavy panting, drooling, glazed eyes, or stumbling. Heatstroke in cats might look like rapid breathing or lethargy.
• Hydration matters. One of the most effective pet hydration tips is offering water regularly — especially during or after play. Keep bowls clean and shaded if they’re outside.
• Make cooling fun. Wondering how to cool down a dog? Try a shallow kiddie pool, sprinkler time, or a quick dip in a pet-safe lake.
• Plan smart play. Avoid mid-day heat by choosing shaded areas and walking during cooler hours, like early morning or evening.

If your pet ever seems off in the heat or you're unsure what to do, don’t wait — call us. We’re here to help.

06/12/2025

Annual vaccines aren’t just a routine, they’re essential for protecting your dog or cat from serious, preventable diseases like parvo, distemper, and feline leukemia.

Wondering “Are pet vaccines really necessary?” or how often your pet needs them? This video helps break it all down.

Protect their health. Protect their future. Watch now to learn why annual vaccines matter.

06/10/2025

🐾 Would You Walk Barefoot?

If the pavement’s too hot for your feet, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

Press the back of your hand to the pavement for 7 seconds. If it’s uncomfortable, it’s not safe for them either.

To protect your pup in the heat:
• Walk early or late in the day
• Choose grassy or shaded routes
• Use dog booties
• Keep walks brief

Burned paw pads are no fun, and they can take time to heal.
Need advice or care? Reach out, we’re here to help.

06/05/2025

🐾 Is your pet extra itchy this spring?
Seasonal allergies in dogs and cats are more common than you might think. From licking paws to itchy skin, the signs often go unnoticed until they get worse.

Watch for common pet allergy symptoms like:
- Excessive scratching or licking
- Sneezing and watery eyes
- Red, irritated skin
- Frequent ear infections

📅 Spring is peak allergy season — this is when symptoms tend to flare up the most. Don’t wait to take action!

Worried your pet has allergies? Reach out to your vet for personalized advice and relief options tailored to your pet.

06/03/2025

Summer Car Safety for Pets: Know the Risks Before You Ride

Summer pet safety starts with simple choices, especially when it comes to car rides. Even on a mild day, your vehicle can become dangerously hot within minutes, posing a serious risk for pets.

🚗 Quick facts:
• On a 70°F day, a car’s interior can hit 100°F+ in just 30 minutes
• Pet heatstroke signs include heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, lethargy, and collapse

How to keep pets safe during summer travel:
• Never leave pets in hot cars, not even for a quick errand
• Avoid walking dogs in heat by choosing cooler times of day
• Follow key pet hydration tips, bring water and use collapsible bowls
• Use sunshades and ventilation to keep pets cool
• Check pavement temperature to protect dog paws from heat

Understanding overheating in dogs and cats can help you act fast during emergencies. If you notice any symptoms of heatstroke, move your pet to a cooler space, offer water, and contact your vet.

Plan ahead before your next outing, your pet’s comfort and safety depend on it.

05/27/2025

Fleas in Your Home? Here’s What You Really Need to Know

Most pet parents don’t realize that around 90% of fleas aren’t on your pet — they’re in your home. And once they settle in, they’re tough to evict.

Here’s what you can do to take control:

🧼 Wash all bedding (yours and your pet’s) on the highest heat setting
🧹 Vacuum all surfaces regularly — not just carpets
🧪 Contact a professional pest control specialist for persistent infestations

The best defense? Consistent monthly flea, tick, and heartworm prevention.
Because once fleas move in, it can take months to get them out.

💬 Have questions or need help choosing prevention? We’re just a message away.

05/26/2025

We are closed on 5/26 in observance of Memorial Day. Today and every day we remember the ultimate sacrifice made by brave men and women to protect and defend our country. Wishing the families affected by loss peace and comfort. 🇺🇸

We will reopen tomorrow at 8:00am. If your pet needs emergency care, please reach out to your local emergency hospital. For farm animal emergencies, please contact our on call doctor at 540-272-0057.

05/21/2025

⏰Time's running out on Nexgard Plus' introductory offer of $105 off a 12 month supply! If you have not taken advantage of the deal, call our office today to place your order!

05/20/2025

Itchy skin, tummy trouble, even serious illness—
Parasites like fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes can cause more than just discomfort.

- Fleas can lead to allergic reactions and spread tapeworms
- Ticks carry diseases like Lyme
- Mosquitoes can transmit heartworm, which affects the heart and lungs

The good news? Prevention is simple, safe, and way easier than dealing with an infection later on. Our team is here to help you choose the right protection for your pet—whether it’s a chew, a topical, or something else that fits their lifestyle.

Have questions? Just give us a call or stop by. We’re happy to help.