VCA Colonial Animal Hospital

08/30/2025

Love this! Thank you Cornell Companions ❤️

Hard week at school and work? Need some pup therapy? Cornell Companions is on the Cornell Ag Quad - East on Friday, September 5 form 12:30pm - 1:30pm. Stop by!

08/30/2025

✨ Welcome, Dr. Lauren Gardiner! ✨

We are so happy that Dr. Lauren Gardiner has joined our General Practice team at VCA Colonial Animal Hospital!

Dr. Gardiner grew up outside of Philadelphia, where her love for animals began with caring for and riding horses. She went on to attend Wellesley College, earning a double major in Biology and Spanish, before completing her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at Cornell University in 2020.

Since then, she has been caring for pets in the Finger Lakes community, with professional interests in preventive care and internal medicine.

Outside of the hospital, Dr. Gardiner enjoys life in Ithaca with her husband, young daughter, and their fabulous dog —you’ll often find them exploring the beautiful outdoors together.

Please join us in giving Dr. Gardiner a warm welcome to the VCA Colonial family—we’re thrilled to have her here and she is looking forward to meeting you and your pets!

08/26/2025

🐾 It’s National Dog Day!

Today is National Dog Day —a day to celebrate the unconditional love dogs bring into our lives, while also shining a light on the many dogs still waiting in shelters for a second chance.

✨ Fun fact: Studies show that owning a dog can help lower stress and even improve heart health!

Join us in celebrating by giving your pup some extra belly rubs today—and consider supporting your local shelter or rescue. Every dog deserves a loving home.




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08/21/2025

Why We Ask for Your Pet’s P**p

It may seem a little unpleasant, but stool samples are a very important tool to keep your pets (and your family) healthy.

Routine f***l exams let us check for hidden intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and microscopic pests like Giardia.

The tricky part? You usually can’t see them—parasites shed eggs that are only visible under a microscope. Even healthy-looking pets can carry them.

Pets can get parasites from soil, other animals, fleas, or even from mom when they’re young.
Some parasites can even spread to people (especially kids).

A simple f***l test means we can detect and treat problems early, keeping your furry friend happy and healthy from the inside out!

When was the last time you had your pets stool sample checked?

So don’t be shy—scoop some p**p and bring it with you to your pet’s next visit!

**p **pcheckedlately

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08/21/2025

Towel Drive for Our Patients

Hello!

Do you have any gently used bath towels or hand towels you’re ready to part with? We’d be happy to give them a second life here at VCA Colonial Animal Hospital!

If you’re buying new towels for yourself, we would happily accept your gently used towels for our patients.

Just towels, please—we are all set on blankets and bedding at this time.
Thank You!





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08/17/2025

One of the joys of having a cat is just how unpredictable they can be 😹

Let us know in the comments what you expected owning a cat would be like and what were you surprised about!


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08/10/2025

Happy National Spoil Your Dog Day!

Today is the perfect excuse to pamper your pup a little extra — because they deserve it!

Whether you treat them to their favorite snack, a new toy, a cozy spa session, or a new adventure, what they’ll love most is your love and time.

Bonus tip from your pet care pros: Special love doesn’t always mean splurging! Safe homemade treats, extra belly rubs, leisurely walks, or teaching a fun trick can make this day unforgettable.

And cat lovers, mark August 8 for International Cat Day and October 29 for National Cat Day—perfect chances to spoil your purr-fect pals!



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08/09/2025

Happy International Cat Day!

Today, we’re celebrating our fabulous feline friends — from the tiniest kittens to the wisest seniors.

We’d love to see YOUR cats! Share a photo in the comments and tell us a little about what makes them so special. Whether they’re master nappers, toy chasers, sunbeam loungers, or snack connoisseurs, every cat has their own unique charm.

Let’s fill this post with whiskers, purrs, and feline fabulousness!

08/09/2025

We’re sharing some helpful tips on how to care for your pet’s arthritis, including senior-proofing your home Do you have a senior pet? We would love to hear about them and pictures are always welcome.

08/04/2025

Do you know the signs of Lyme disease in pets? Learn how to prevent, spot, and treat it early.

08/01/2025

Get smart about your daily strolls with these top walking tips with your pets.

07/30/2025

Is your dog munching on grass? Don’t worry—it’s often perfectly normal. 🌿 Still unsure? Your VCA care team is just a call away!

07/28/2025

If your pet looks like they’re biting at invisible flies, it could be more than quirky behavior. Learn what fly biting might mean and what to look out for.

07/25/2025

Ever wonder how microchips work? 🐾 Watch to learn why this tiny device can make a huge difference in keeping your pet safe and sound.

07/23/2025

Why do dogs wag their tails? Watch to discover some common reasons your pup might be feeling excited—or trying to tell you something!

07/18/2025

Five signs your pet might have allergies—here’s what to watch for. Noticed something unusual? Don’t hesitate to call your local VCA Animal Hospital for expert care.

07/16/2025

From brushing to bathing, these grooming tips will help keep your pet cool and comfortable this summer.

07/15/2025

Did you know your pet can get sunburned too? Just like humans, pets need protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Keep them safe by providing shade, plenty of fresh water, and pet-safe sunscreen for sensitive areas like noses and ears. Hear expert tips on keeping pets cool, comfortable, and sunburn-free!

07/14/2025

Ticks are more common during the summer months—especially on dogs. Watch to learn where to check your dogs for ticks to keep them safe and comfortable all season long.

07/11/2025

Finish out the rest of the summer prepared. From now through July 15, enjoy 50% off an Emergency Care exam* at select VCA Animal Hospitals. Keep peace of mind by claiming your coupon today: https://bit.ly/4mWwpWS

07/10/2025

Celebrating these little ones with big personalities today - Happy National Kitten Day!