Windward Animal Hospital

05/07/2026

Even the smallest patients need precise, gentle care, and we’re proud to be here for every species that comes through our doors. Wishing this little climber a smooth healing journey and a quick return to full health.

https://windwardanimalhospital.com

(770)569-7298

04/27/2026

Not sure if your pet’s sneezing is from seasonal allergies or an upper respiratory infection? The signs can look very similar—but treatment is completely different.

We break it down clearly in our latest article so you know what to watch for and when it’s time to see a vet.

Check it out here: https://windwardanimalhospital.com/upper-respiratory-infections-vs-allergies/

04/14/2026

This adorable guinea pig came in for their post-op visit at our clinic in Johns Creek, Georgia. Everything is healing exactly how we want to see it.

After surgery, these little guys need close monitoring. During a recheck, we:

☑️ Check the incision site for proper healing
☑️ Make sure there’s no infection or swelling
☑️ Monitor weight and appetite (critical for guinea pigs)
☑️ Adjust medications if needed

Guinea pigs are great at hiding discomfort, so post-op visits are essential to catch anything early and keep recovery on track.
If your pet has recently had surgery, don’t skip that recheck—it can make all the difference in a smooth recovery.

Call us to schedule an appointment (770)569-7298

https://windwardanimalhospital.com

04/07/2026

Not your average boarder!

We’re currently caring for a bearded dragon at Windward Animal Hospital, and reptiles like this require very specific care while their owners are away.

From proper heat and UVB lighting to diet, hydration, and stress management, boarding a bearded dragon isn’t as simple as a quick check-in. These little guys need consistency and the right environment to stay healthy.

That’s where medical boarding makes a difference. Our team ensures every detail is handled correctly—and if anything seems off, there’s immediate veterinary oversight.

Whether it’s dogs, cats, or exotic pets, we’re equipped to provide safe, knowledgeable care while you’re away.

https://windwardanimalhospital.com

(770)569-7298

03/26/2026

What Your Pet Rat Can’t Tell You (But You Need to Know)

Rats are incredibly smart, affectionate little pets—but they are also very good at hiding illness. By the time symptoms become obvious, they can already be quite sick. Knowing what to look for early can make all the difference.

Here are the most important warning signs to watch for:
• Red discharge around the eyes or nose
This can look like blood, but it is actually called porphyrin. A small amount can be normal, but an increase is often a sign of stress or illness, especially respiratory disease.
• Sneezing, wheezing, or noisy breathing
Respiratory disease is one of the most common health issues in pet rats. Clicking, rattling, or labored breathing should never be ignored.
• Lethargy or behavior changes
If your normally active, curious rat becomes quiet, withdrawn, or less interactive, this is often one of the first signs something is wrong.
• Weight loss or decreased appetite
Even small changes matter. Rats have fast metabolisms, and a drop in appetite can quickly become serious.
• Hunched posture or puffed-up fur
A rat sitting hunched or fluffed up is often trying to cope with discomfort or illness.
• Eye or skin changes
Cloudy eyes, swelling, hair loss, scabs, or excessive scratching can indicate infection, parasites, or other underlying problems.
• Head tilt, weakness, or balance issues
These may point to ear infections, neurological problems, or other serious conditions and should be evaluated promptly.
• Lumps or bumps
These are very common in rats, especially as they age, and should always be checked. Mammary tumors are the most common type. Rats have mammary tissue from their neck down to their groin, so these can appear almost anywhere. They are often movable under the skin and can grow quickly. Many are benign but can become large and uncomfortable if left untreated.

The most important takeaway is this: rats often do not show obvious illness until it is advanced. Any change in behavior, breathing, appetite, or appearance is worth having checked sooner rather than later.

If you are ever unsure, it is always best to call us. Early intervention can make a significant difference and help keep your pet comfortable and healthy.

Thanks!

Windward Animal Hospital
https://windwardanimalhospital.com

03/11/2026

Most vet clinics treat dogs and cats. And of course we love them too — they’re family.

But at Windward Animal Hospital, our patient list gets a little more… interesting.

Birds. Reptiles. Rabbits. Exotic pets.
If it has fur, feathers, or scales, we’re happy to see it.

Dr. Colby has even treated animals like sloths and kangaroos, so it’s safe to say there’s not much the average pet owner could bring through our doors that would surprise us. If you’re licensed to have it, chances are we can help care for it.

So whether your pet barks, meows, chirps, hops, slithers, or climbs, they’re welcome here.

Because every pet deserves great veterinary care — no matter the shape, size, or species.

📍 Windward Animal Hospital
11895 Jones Bridge Rd
Johns Creek, GA 30005

🌐 https://windwardanimalhospital.com

03/04/2026

We often hear a statement repeated in exam rooms and phone calls that we’d like to clear up right away. It’s a very common belief among pet owners, but it’s also one of the biggest misconceptions in veterinary medicine. Today we want to address it directly and explain why it isn’t true.

If you share our posts then your friends & family will see it on their feed.

March 4, 2026 by Windward Animal Hospital Staff Do Indoor Pets Really Need Vaccines? The Truth Every Pet Owner Should Know Many loving pet owners believe that if their dog or cat lives indoors, vaccines aren’t necessary. It’s an understandable assumption. If your pet never goes outside, how coul...

02/23/2026

Windward Animal Hospital frequently hosts a special Low-Cost Rabbit Spay & Neuter Clinic Day where multiple spays and neuters are performed back-to-back at an extremely discounted rate.

To participate:

- Visit our Low-Cost Rabbit Spay & Neuter Program page and download the two required consent forms: https://windwardanimalhospital.com/rabbit-spay-neuter/

- Sign up online for the next available date in March (3 Dates to choose from): https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4CADAB2FA7FBC43-lowcost #/

Please Note: This program trades one-on-one attention for reduced fees. If you’d rather have a personalized appointment, see below.

Call us if you have any questions:

📞 (770) 569-7298

02/19/2026

If your chosen add-on family member has feathers, this is a great article to read. Thanks. Please like & share so your friends can read it too.

https://windwardanimalhospital.com/bird-illness/

01/28/2026

🌱 SAFE PLANTS & GREENS YOU CAN GROW FOR COMMON PETS 🌿

At Windward Animal Hospital in Johns Creek, we commonly have conversations with our patients about healthy snacks or treats for their pets. A lot of our clients and a few staff members love gardening and it hit me... Make a post to encourage people to grow their own greens and edible plants for their pets. It can be a great way to add enrichment and nutritional variety, as long as the plants are safe, properly identified, and grown without chemicals.

Below is a veterinarian-guided overview by species:

Bearded Dragons & Turtles
These species benefit from a variety of leafy greens and edible plants. Safe options include collard, mustard, turnip, and dandelion greens, as well as hibiscus leaves and flowers, nasturtium, squash blossoms, and properly prepared cactus pads. Fruit should be offered sparingly due to sugar content, and plants higher in oxalates or goitrogens should be rotated rather than fed daily.

Rabbits & Guinea Pigs
Hay should always be the foundation of the diet. Fresh greens can be offered daily in appropriate portions. Safe options include romaine lettuce, red and green leaf lettuce, dandelion greens, cilantro, basil, mint, and parsley (in moderation). Guinea pigs require consistent vitamin C intake, and iceberg lettuce and sugary foods should be avoided.

Rats, Mice & Hedgehogs
These pets are omnivores, and plant foods should be considered supplemental only. Safe plant options include dandelion greens, squash, green beans, limited amounts of kale, and small portions of basil or cilantro. Plants should never replace appropriate protein sources.

Parrots, Birds & Chickens
Many birds benefit from fresh plant variety alongside a balanced pellet or feed-based diet. Safe plants include collard greens, dandelion greens, kale in moderation, herbs such as basil, cilantro, and parsley, as well as hibiscus and calendula flowers. Avocado is toxic to birds and should never be fed.

Dogs
While dogs are not herbivores, certain vegetables and fruits can be safely offered as treats or enrichment. Common options include carrots, green beans, cucumbers, blueberries, and apples with seeds removed. Onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and avocado are unsafe and should always be avoided.

Ferrets
Ferrets are obligate carnivores and do not require plant matter. Very small amounts of pumpkin may be used short-term for digestive support only, but plants should never replace animal-based nutrition.

Important reminders for all species:
Only feed plants that are positively identified as safe, grow without pesticides or herbicides, avoid roadside or treated lawn plants, and wash all plant material thoroughly before feeding. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods.

As an exotic species and reptile vet clinic, Windward Animal Hospital is always happy to help guide safe nutrition choices for reptiles, birds, small mammals, and dogs.



windwardanimalhospital.com

(770)569-7298