Sunnycrest Animal Care Center

03/13/2025

We are seeing more cases of Leptospirosis in our area and because this is often a fatal disease we now recommend Leptospirosis Vaccine as one of the Core Vaccines for dogs.

BLACKSBURG, Va. (WFXR) – Virginia Tech released a heartwarming story of a dog recovering from Leptospirosis after receiving treatment at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Rex, a 10-year-old mix…

03/12/2025

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/pets/a64133215/can-pets-get-bird-flu/

All pet owners need to take these precautions.

01/27/2025

https://www.abc6.com/the-environment-cannot-be-sterilized-state-veterinarian-on-bird-flu-found-in-rhode-island/

12/20/2024

I am writing to inform you about a critical health alert that could impact your feline friends. Since August 2024, highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1), commonly known as bird flu, has been detected in over 500 California dairies. Alarmingly, this virus has now been linked to severe, often fatal, neurologic disease in domestic cats following the consumption of contaminated raw (unpasteurized) milk.
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What’s Happening?
On December 12, 2024, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health reported H5N1 infection in two domestic cats that died after consuming retail raw milk. The affected lot had been recalled after it was found to contain high viral loads of the H5 virus. Cats can contract this virus by consuming contaminated milk or through contact with infected birds.
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Why Is This Important?
H5N1 infection in cats can lead to severe neurologic disease. Symptoms to watch for include:
• Seizures
• Acute ataxia (loss of coordination)
• Nystagmus (involuntary eye movement)
• Cortical blindness
If your cat exhibits these signs and has consumed raw milk or had contact with birds, immediate veterinary care is essential.
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Recommendations for Cat Owners
1. Avoid Raw Foods:
2. Do not feed raw (unpasteurized) milk or raw food diets to your pets. These can carry harmful pathogens, including H5N1.
2. Be Vigilant and watch for any neurologic symptoms, especially if your pet has consumed raw milk or been in contact with wild birds.
3. Influenza A testing is available through commercial veterinary diagnostic laboratories and some public health labs. Contact us for guidance.
4. Safety Measures for Handling Sick Cats: Follow CDC guidelines for safe handling of potentially infected pets. Use PPE, including N95 respirators, goggles, gloves, and gowns. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your pet or cleaning their environment.
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How We Can Help
At Sunnycrest Animal Care Center, we’re here to support you and your pets. If you have concerns or questions about your cat’s diet or notice symptoms of illness, please contact us immediately. We can provide:
• Nutritional counseling to ensure safe and balanced feeding.
• Testing and diagnostic services for H5N1 and other illnesses.
• Expert guidance on managing and preventing health risks.
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Stay Informed
This health alert highlights the importance of safe feeding practices and awareness of emerging health risks. Together, we can work to protect your pets and ensure their health and well-being.

Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment.

10/20/2024

09/30/2024

There were two recent cases in Los Angeles so it's time to bring your attention to Raccoon Roundworms and the danger to humans and your pets again ...

Important Warning! -Richard S. Glassberg, D.V.M. Wild Raccoons And Even Your Pets Could Be Passing Parasites To Your Family Those entertaining “masked bandits” in your yard and on your roof …

06/30/2024

Every day, this loving cat sweetly strokes the ear of a portrait of his late best friend, keeping their precious memories alive. ...

06/20/2024

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/what-are-health-benefits-owning-dog-2024a1000b7b?ecd=WNL_trdalrt_pos3_240619_etid6609292&uac=76506DT&impID=6609292

Ample research demonstrated that dog ownership increases physical activity, lowers blood pressure, and brings psychosocial benefits.

05/19/2024

At Dimitra's big fat Greek wedding. I want to be Greek!

05/15/2024

This lady is stealing our plants. If you know her ask her to stop. Either way feel free to share. She's taken plants multiple times even after being asked not to.

01/11/2024

Important for not only your pets but for your health too.

Posted on February 13, 2023 5 reasons to test Vitamin D levels Vitamin D is one of the most important yet overlooked nutrients in our pets’ diet. Raw diets, natural diets, grain-free diets, specialty diets, and the list continues, but none of them address a huge problem in their nutrition: Vitamin...