Opossum Pike Veterinary Clinic

01/31/2025

Winter Flea and Tick Prevention: Should You Stick With It?
Even when the temperatures drop , flea and tick prevention shouldn’t flea from your routine! Here’s why these pests can still be a problem in winter:
Ticks: They Don’t Just Bug Off in Winter
Some Ticks Stay Active – While most ticks go into diapause (a tick version of hibernation) black-legged ticks (deer ticks), which carry Lyme disease, remain active at 39°F and above. Even a single warm day can tick them back into action, searching for warm hosts and putting pets at risk.
Fleas: They Won’t Just "Flea" the Scene
Fleas Love a Cozy Home – Heated homes provide the perfect environment for fleas to stick around, hiding in carpets, bedding, furniture, and floor cracks. If your pet already has fleas, it will take significant effort to rid your home of these pests and break their life cycle.
Wildlife Welcomes Fleas – Raccoons, rodents, and strays are big carriers for these flea-loaders, carrying them right into your neighborhood and yards, where they may jump ship to more temperate habitats.
Outdoor Hideouts: Where Fleas and Ticks "Stick" Around
Microclimates Make a great Refuge – Even in cold regions, fleas find a snug spot under porches, in sheds, or beneath thick leaf litter and mulch, where warmth lingers.
Flea Pupae (Cocoons) Play the Waiting Game – Flea larvae can encase themselves in cocoons, remaining frozen in time until warmth and movement wake them up for a snack (a.k.a. your pet laying down in the leaves or against your shed or porch)
Why Prevention Is the "Pick of the Litter"
Stopping fleas and ticks before they start is less of a hassle than a full-blown infestation. So don’t let these pests tick you off—stay protected year-round!

01/30/2025

Oh Deer! Walking in a Winter Wonderland!
Winter in Maryland can be a bit un-deer-whelming with active wildlife, but one thing is certain—some species are easier to spot this time of year! While many animals hunker down in the cold, deer become much more fawn-d of daytime outings. Unlike in the warmer months, when they typically appear at dawn and dusk, winter often brings them out midday.
With the trees bare, these usually shy creatures are no longer disappearing into the forest. When you take a stroll with your pets, keep your eyes open—you might just spot a whole herd of them in open fields nearby!

01/22/2025

It’s National Squirrel Appreciation Day! At Opossum Pike Veterinary Clinic, we are passionate about rehabilitating and releasing these charismatic creatures! Squirrels play a crucial role in maintaining the health of our local ecosystems. By dispersing seeds and nuts, they contribute to the growth of new trees and plants. They help control pest populations by consuming eggs, insects, and even animal carcasses. Squirrels also serve as an essential food source for local predators, which, in turn, help regulate populations of nuisance species. Let's take a moment to celebrate these remarkable animals and their contributions to our environment!

01/20/2025

New Year’s Pet Safety Check-In!
January is the perfect time to review the safety gear you rely on to protect your pet- we’re talking leashes, collars, harnesses, and carriers. These essential items often experience a lot of wear and tear- but we forget to inspect them regularly.
We often see leashes that are held together with happy thoughts, collars and harnesses that do not provide the proper fit, and carriers with missing or loose components that could lead to a CATastrophe! These tools are designed to keep your pet safe during activities like vet visits, walks, and car rides and it’s important to assure they are kept in good condition!
If your pet experiences weight changes, make sure to adjust their collars or harnesses for a proper fit. A good rule is to ensure you can comfortably slide two fingers between the collar or harness and your pet’s body without applying excessive pressure.
Make it a habit to check your pet’s safety gear several times a year to ensure their well-being. A quick inspection now can help keep your furry friend safe and secure all year long!

01/15/2025

Wild Wednesdays: Important Update on Wildlife Rehabilitation Services
At Opossum Pike, we take great pride in serving our community by caring for and rehabilitating injured wildlife in our local area. As part of our ongoing efforts to protect our staff and allocate resources effectively, we will no longer be accepting wild birds for rehabilitation in 2025.
To assist you in finding care for orphaned or injured wild birds, we have compiled a list of nearby wildlife rehabilitators who can provide the necessary support.
If you encounter a wild animal in need of medical attention, we encourage you to contact our office, another licensed rehabilitator, or animal control for guidance on the appropriate next steps.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support of wildlife conservation!

01/14/2025

With frosty winter weather, our older pets are feeling the cold, but it’s not nipping at their noses- it’s going for their joints!
Chilly weather can make arthritis symptoms worse for pets by increasing joint stiffness, pain sensitivity, and the risk of falling on slippery surfaces, while also reducing their activity levels- particularly for dogs and cats with existing arthritis. This happens because cold temperatures can thicken joint fluid and irritate sensitive joints.
To help manage arthritis in cold weather:
• Provide warm thick bedding to keep pets cozy and supported
• Use pet clothing like sweaters for outdoor walks.
• Opt for shorter walks and engage in gentle indoor exercises to maintain mobility.
• Use non-slip mats or rugs to prevent falls.
• Schedule a vet check up to assess their condition or begin joint supplements or medication to alleviate their discomfort

01/12/2025

With winter storms here, many pet owners are wondering: "How cold is too cold for my pet to be outside?" While there's no exact temperature threshold, as a general rule, pets should not be left outdoors when temperatures drop below 32°F. If you're feeling cold in your coat, chances are your pet is cold too.
Pets' cold tolerance varies based on factors like coat, body fat, activity level, and health. Be mindful of your pet's limits in cold weather and adjust their routine as needed. Shorten walks during extreme cold to protect both you and your pet. (Remember to wipe paws to remove salt and chemicals!) Arthritic, elderly, or short-haired pets may feel the cold more quickly and struggle with snow and ice, increasing the risk of slips and falls. Pets with underlying health conditions or very young and old animals may also have difficulty regulating body temperature. Long-haired and “artic” breeds of dogs are more cold-tolerant but still vulnerable in freezing conditions. If you're unsure of your pet's temperature tolerance, please consult one of our veterinarians!

01/09/2025

Wildlife Wednesdays: Welcome to our new friends at Gentle Friends Farm Animal and Wildlife Sanctuary!!!
Opossum Pike has proudly been caring for injured wildlife for many years, and we are thrilled to welcome Gentle Friends to our community of wildlife caregivers! At Opossum Pike, we specialize in rescuing injured mammals, reptiles, and of course, our namesake- opossums! Gentle Friends, now operating farms in Mount Airy, is also equipped to care for these same animals, along with birds and orphaned wildlife of all species. However, please note that neither facility is able to accept Maryland rabies vector species, such as bats, foxes, raccoons, or skunks. If you'd like to bring wildlife to Gentle Friends, please contact them at 240-394-7017 to speak with someone at the farm, who will provide guidance on the next steps.

Possums are our only native marsupial, and youngsters are at a great risk of dying if their mother is struck by a vehicle. Please stop and check pouches when possible. Their lives depend on it!

01/06/2025

We hope you're all staying safe, warm, and enjoying the snow with your furry family members! We’d love to see some pictures of your pets making the most of the snow day!

01/03/2025

As we enter the new year, many of us are focusing on personal resolutions, but don't forget to include your pet in those plans! Our pets can benefit from many of the same goals we set for ourselves, and having a furry companion to share in those commitments can help keep you motivated. Below are some pet-friendly New Year’s resolutions—we’d love to hear yours!

Get Active!
Both cats and dogs can benefit from more regular exercise, and we could all use a little extra physical activity! Consider committing to more frequent walks with your dog or interactive playtime with your cat. Not only will you all improve physically, but you'll also strengthen your emotional bond. If you're unsure about your pet's ideal weight or exercise routine, consult with our veterinarians for guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Focus on a Healthier Diet
There are plenty of nutritious treats and food options available for both you and your pet. For healthier alternatives, try offering raw fruits like apples or bananas, or vegetables such as carrots or green beans. If you're interested in specialized diets to meet your pet’s specific needs, feel free to reach out to us for more information on prescription diets.

Prioritize Dental Health
Just like people, pets need consistent dental care to maintain good overall health. Establishing a regular brushing and flossing routine is essential for both humans and animals. We offer toothpaste, toothbrushes, and dental treats to help ensure your pet’s dental health remains in top shape throughout the year.

Financial Planning for Pet Care
Effective financial planning can help ease the burden of unexpected pet care costs. We can provide estimates for vaccines, preventative care, and elective surgeries, making it easier for you to prepare for your pet's health needs and reduce the stress of budgeting for the year ahead.

Let’s make this year one of health, happiness, and care for both you and your pet!

01/02/2025

Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year!

12/27/2024

We're counting down to the New Year and there are only a few days left to go! We want to remind everyone that celebrations can often include fireworks, which can be distressing for pets. To help keep your pet comfortable, consider placing them in an interior room, providing long-lasting treats or toys, and play white noise or music to help mask the sounds. If your dog typically requires medication for anxiety during events like the 4th of July, please remember they may also need similar support on New Year’s Eve. Our Holiday Hours will be 7am-12pm on New Years Eve and we will be closed New Years Day. Happy Holidays!

12/24/2024

Happy Pawlidays!! Meowy Christmas! Happy Hanukkat!
Wishing everyone a Wonderful Holiday Season! We would love to see pictures of your pets getting in on the holiday festivities! Please share the joy!
As a reminder our clinic does close at noon on Dec 24th and we will be closed on the 25th as well. Thank you!

12/20/2024

Celebrating Our Local Wildlife: Our community is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, from chickadees and chipmunks to turtles, raccoons, foxes, hawks, and more! This holiday season, consider giving back to our wild neighbors by creating wildlife ornaments to share with them. Birdseed ornaments are simple to make— as easy as spreading peanut butter on a pinecone, tossing in some birdseed and hanging on a tree! Other treats that can be hung outdoors include dried unsweetened fruit, apples, oranges, unsalted nuts, suet, and popcorn. By combining these natural treats in creative ways, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the various local species that visit!

12/15/2024

As winter weather sets in, please be mindful that roads and sidewalks are often treated with salt and chemicals that can be harmful to dogs' paws. These substances can cause irritation, cracking, discomfort, and excessive licking. Additionally, keep an eye out for antifreeze spills, which dogs find appealing but are highly toxic. Antifreeze can leak from car radiators or be spilled during refills, so it's important to stay alert when walking near driveways or through parking lots. Even small amounts of antifreeze can be fatal to dogs. To protect your pet, wipe their paws after walks or wash them with soap and water if you suspect exposure to antifreeze. You may also consider using paw balm or booties for added protection.

12/12/2024

Wildlife Wednesdays: Snapping turtles
Snapping turtles are omnivores and will eat almost anything including vegetation, small birds, frogs, other turtles, insects, and fish. Due to their indiscriminating taste and their slow, muddy strolls along river bottoms, Snappers are at risk of sampling bait on lost hooks, as well as getting entangled in weighted fishing lines. This snapper got the worst of both worlds and needed medical intervention to remove the offending hooks in his mouth and wrapped around his leg before he could be successfully released back into the wild!

12/10/2024

Today marks the International Day of Veterinary Medicine!

In 1762, French veterinary surgeon Claude Bourgelat, (considered the founder of modern veterinary medicine), started the world’s first veterinary school. Britain followed suit over 20 years later, opening its first school in 1790. The U.S. established its first public veterinary college at Iowa State University nearly a century later. By 1898, practitioners from seven U.S. states had come together to form the United States Veterinary Medical Association, which eventually became the AVMA- the American Veterinary Medicine Association.

Today, we celebrate and thank veterinarians and animal health professionals for their unwavering dedication—not only to the well-being of our pets and companions but also to the health and safety of our livestock. Their vital work also protects the human population by preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases.

Thank you and Way to go!!!

12/09/2024

Don't forget to arrange boarding for your pet this Holiday season! Opossum Pike offers customized boarding options to meet all your pet's needs. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot soon!