Windward Animal Hospital

10/06/2025

Seasonal Caution: Respiratory Risks as Temperatures Drop

As fall turns into winter, changing weather can trigger or worsen respiratory issues in cats and dogs. Below are warning signs, steps you can take at home, and when to bring your pet into Windward Animal Hospital.

Common Respiratory Problems in Cooler Weather:
• Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs): sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, coughing
• Kennel Cough: a harsh, dry or hacking cough, sometimes with gagging
• Allergic airway irritation or asthma: wheezing, difficulty breathing, especially in cats
• Flare-ups of chronic conditions: pets with heart disease, chronic bronchitis, collapsing trachea, or prior respiratory issues may worsen
• Secondary infections: a mild viral infection can lead to bacterial complications if untreated

What You Can Do at Home:
• Keep pets indoors when it’s cold, especially during sudden temperature drops.
• Use a humidifier if indoor air is dry — moist air helps soothe irritated airways.
• Avoid smoke, strong odors, dusty environments, or cleaning products that can irritate lungs.
• Maintain vaccination status (including Bordetella, influenza, core vaccines) to reduce risk of infectious respiratory disease.
• Keep bedding, carpets, and the home environment clean and dust-free.
• Monitor for signs of mild upper respiratory symptoms and track if they worsen.
• Ensure your pet stays well hydrated — hydration helps keep mucous membranes moist.

When to Bring Your Pet In:

Call or visit our clinic if your pet shows:
• Persistent or worsening cough
• Wheezing, noisy or labored breathing
• Rapid breathing or open-mouth breathing (especially in cats)
• Nasal discharge that is thick, yellow or green
• Loss of appetite, lethargy, or signs of weakness
• Blue or pale gums (emergency)
• Any sign of respiratory distress, collapse, or inability to breathe normally

At Windward Animal Hospital, we’re here to support you and your pet through seasonal transitions. If you notice anything concerning—even early signs—please reach out for evaluation. Better safe than sorry.

https://windwardanimalhospital.com

(770)569-7298

09/24/2025

Thinking About Bringing Home a Kitten? Did you just adopt a Kitten? Here’s What You Should Know...

At Windward Animal Hospital in Johns Creek, we love helping families welcome new kittens into their homes. But did you know that the first 8 weeks of life are the most critical for a kitten’s survival? Studies show that anywhere from 8% to nearly 30% of kittens in breeding settings don’t survive to weaning, and in stray populations, that number can rise to almost 50%. This is why early veterinary care is so important.

Common Risks for Young Kittens
• Fading Kitten Syndrome – sudden weakness, failure to thrive, or unexplained decline
• Hypothermia & Hypoglycemia – young kittens cannot regulate body temperature or blood sugar well
• Infections & Parasites – intestinal worms, fleas, coccidia, and viral diseases can be fatal without treatment
• Congenital Issues – cleft palate, heart defects, and other birth anomalies can cause feeding or breathing problems

What New Kitten Owners Should Do

✔ Schedule a veterinary exam right away to check for congenital issues, parasites, and overall health
✔ Start a deworming and vaccination plan to protect against common diseases
✔ Keep your kitten in a warm, safe, clean environment free of hazards
✔ Monitor weight gain and appetite closely — failure to gain is often the first red flag
✔ Ask about parasite prevention to protect your kitten (and your home)

💧 Dehydration and Diarrhea are also among the leading causes of kitten illness and loss in the first weeks. Even mild diarrhea can quickly become life-threatening in a young kitten, so prompt veterinary attention is essential. And while medical care is critical, so is proper socialization — gentle handling, play, and exposure to everyday sounds help your kitten grow into a confident, well-adjusted cat.

If you’ve just brought home a kitten — or plan to — call Windward Animal Hospital in Johns Creek today at (770) 569-7298. Our team is here to help your kitten grow strong, healthy, and ready for a long, happy life.

09/03/2025

- LET'S VISIT WHY A LIZARD WOULD STOP EATING -

At Windward Animal Hospital, we often hear from reptile owners concerned that their lizard has stopped eating. Appetite loss, or anorexia, is a common sign of stress or illness in reptiles, including leopard geckos. While it may be temporary and harmless in some cases, it can also signal a more serious health concern that requires professional attention.

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ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:

Improper husbandry is one of the most common reasons lizards stop eating.
• Temperature: Leopard geckos need a warm side of 88–92°F and a cool side around 75–80°F. Without correct temperatures, digestion slows, and appetite decreases.
• Humidity: These geckos thrive at 30–40% humidity with a humid hide (~70%) for shedding. Too much humidity can predispose them to respiratory issues.
• Lighting: While leopard geckos do not strictly require UVB if their diet is supplemented with vitamin D3, research increasingly shows that low-level UVB (2–5%) supports long-term health.

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STRESS:

Stress is another major contributor to appetite loss.
• New Environment: Newly purchased or recently relocated reptiles may stop eating temporarily.
• Handling: Some lizards tolerate frequent handling, but many—especially juveniles—refuse food when overstressed.
• Tank Mates: Leopard geckos should not be housed together; bullying or dominance often leads one to stop eating.

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SHEDDING:

Many lizards reduce food intake just before and during shedding. Irritation around the eyes and mouth makes eating uncomfortable until the process is complete.

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SEASONAL & BIOLOGICAL FACTORS:

• Brumation: Some leopard geckos enter a hibernation-like state during cooler months, naturally slowing their appetite. However, not all geckos brumate in captivity, and true anorexia should never be assumed to be brumation without a veterinary exam.
• Breeding Season: Both males and females may eat less during mating periods.

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ILLNESS OR PARASITES:

Medical conditions are a frequent cause of appetite loss.
• Impaction: Loose substrate or oversized prey can block the digestive tract, leading to anorexia and lethargy.
• Parasites: Internal parasites are common in reptiles and can cause chronic weight loss and loss of appetite.
• Infections: Mouth infections, respiratory disease, and systemic illness often make eating painful or impossible.

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DIET-RELATED CAUSES:

• Prey Size: Insects should be smaller than the space between the lizard’s eyes to ensure safe consumption.
• Food Variety: A monotonous diet sometimes causes refusal; rotating feeders such as crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms may stimulate appetite.
• Nutrition: Insects must be gut-loaded and dusted with calcium and vitamins to prevent deficiencies that can suppress appetite.

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AGING:

Older leopard geckos have slower metabolisms and may naturally eat less frequently than juveniles. While this is normal, age-related illness should also be considered.

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What to Do if Your Lizard Stops Eating

1. Verify that enclosure temperatures, humidity, and lighting are correct.
2. Look for signs of shedding, stress, or illness.
3. Offer a variety of properly sized and supplemented feeder insects.
4. Avoid unnecessary handling or cohabitation with other geckos.

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At Windward Animal Hospital, we recommend:

• Immediate veterinary care if appetite loss is accompanied by weight loss, lethargy, abnormal droppings, bloating, or labored breathing.
• Prompt evaluation within a few days if a juvenile gecko refuses food.
• Monitoring up to 7–10 days maximum in otherwise healthy adult geckos, provided they remain active, hydrated, and show no other concerning signs.

Loss of appetite in reptiles should never be ignored. While some causes are minor, others require immediate medical attention. At Windward Animal Hospital, our experienced veterinary team specializes in reptile medicine and can help determine the cause of your lizard’s anorexia, provide treatment, and guide you on proper husbandry to prevent future issues.

https://windwardanimalhospital.com

(770)569-7298

08/28/2025

Catching up on some pictures. Laurice caught a great picture of Dr Colby examining a warthog from the Zoo.

Feel free to bring your lil' warthog in for an exam. LOL.

https://windwardanimalhospital.com
(7700569-7298

08/28/2025

Discover Georgia Untamed Zoo: A Great Wild Weekend Getaway!

Hidden away in charming Hogansville, this wildlife sanctuary is not your average zoo. Wander the scenic walking trails on guided tours, pet gentle goats, feed exotic birds, and maybe even cuddle a baby animal in the nursery. With over 50 species, hands-on experiences, and a mission to educate and inspire, it’s the perfect blend of fun and conservation. Visit: https://georgiauntamedzoo.org

We proudly work with many local zoos—including amazing places like Georgia Untamed Zoo—to help support the health and well-being of the animals in their care. It’s an honor to play a small role in ensuring these creatures thrive and continue to educate and delight future generations.

Just a short drive from Atlanta, this intimate gem offers unforgettable family memories. Don’t forget to book in advance and wear comfy shoes—nature awaits!



https://windwardanimalhospital.com

08/27/2025

Why Spaying & Neutering Your Rabbit Matters

At Windward Animal Hospital, we know your bunny is family—and one of the BEST ways to keep them healthy and happy is to have them spayed or neutered.

✨ Health Benefits:
• Prevents life-threatening cancers (up to 80% of unspayed females develop uterine cancer!)
• Reduces hormone-related illnesses
• Helps rabbits live longer, healthier lives

✨ Behavior Benefits:
• Calmer, less territorial pets
• Easier litter training
• Better bonding with other rabbits.

✨ Responsible Care:
• Stops accidental litters (bunnies multiply FAST!)

Choosing to spay or neuter means giving your rabbit the very best life possible.

📞 Call Windward Animal Hospital today to schedule your rabbit’s appointment or learn more about our low cost rabbit spay & neuter day.

(770)569-7298

07/29/2025

What’s Typically Covered at a Bird’s First Vet Visit:

• Weight Check – To establish a healthy baseline.
• Beak, Nail, and Feather Evaluation – Looking for deformities, damage, or signs of nutritional issues.
• Crop & Abdomen Palpation – Feeling for abnormalities or impactions.
• Wing, Leg, and Feet Exam – Checking strength, mobility, and joint health.
• Droppings Review – Observing f***s color/consistency for early illness clues.
• Respiratory & Heart Check – Listening for abnormal sounds or breathing patterns.
• Nutritional Review – Discussing your bird’s current diet and making recommendations.
• Behavior Assessment – Is your bird alert, social, vocal? Behavior is a health clue.
• Parasite Check – Checking for mites, lice, or other external parasites.
• Lab Work (Optional but Often Recommended) – Bloodwork or f***l testing to screen for hidden illness.

Call us to schedule your NEW PET appointment.

https://windwardanimalhospital.com
11895 Jones Bridge Rd, Johns Creek GA 30005
(770)569-7298

07/29/2025

When a duck waddles through the doors of Windward Animal Hospital, we don’t miss a beat—or a quack. Whether it’s feathers, fur, or scales, we’re equipped to handle a wide variety of species with compassion and expertise.

From exotic birds to everyday pets, your animal is in great hands with Dr. Colby and our experienced team.

📍 Serving Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Cu***ng & Suwanee
📞 Call to schedule: (770) 569-7298
🌐 windwardanimalhospital.com

’reQuackedUpToBe

07/28/2025

Now Hiring: Part-Time/Full Time Receptionist

📍 Johns Creek Location | 💰 Great Pay | 🕒 Half-Day Saturdays Required

We’re on the hunt for a reliable, friendly part-time receptionist to join our team! Ideal candidates will have experience in any medical or healthcare setting, especially with scheduling appointments.

🟢 HALF-DAY SATURDAYS are a must
🟢 Flexible hours during the week
🟢 Great opportunity for stay-at-home moms, dependable high schoolers with work experience, or anyone re-entering the workforce after a gap….

We’re a small business — and we NEED HELP! If you’re dependable, organized, and great with people, we’d love to hear from you.

EMAIL RESUME: [email protected]

No Phone Calls Please!

07/26/2025

Now Hiring: Part-Time/Full Time Receptionist
📍 Johns Creek Location | 💰 Great Pay | 🕒 Half-Day Saturdays Required

We’re on the hunt for a reliable, friendly part-time receptionist to join our team! Ideal candidates will have experience in any medical or healthcare setting, especially with scheduling appointments.

🟢 HALF-DAY SATURDAYS are a must
🟢 Flexible hours during the week
🟢 Great opportunity for stay-at-home moms, dependable high schoolers with work experience, or anyone re-entering the workforce after a gap

We’re a small business — and we NEED HELP! If you’re dependable, organized, and great with people, we’d love to hear from you.

EMAIL RESUME: [email protected]

No Phone Calls Please!

Send a message to learn more

07/10/2025

Meet Dr. Stewart Colby, the heart and soul of Windward Animal Hospital!

With decades of dedication to both traditional and exotic veterinary medicine, Dr. Colby leads by example—balancing expert care with genuine compassion. From rabbits to reptiles, cockatoos to sloths, he’s seen (and treated) it all.

Whether he’s mentoring our team, helping a nervous pet feel safe, or tackling the toughest cases with calm confidence, Dr. Colby sets the tone for everything we do.

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

07/10/2025

Looking to work in a positive, professional, and animal-loving environment where your experience is truly valued? We’re hiring a Skilled Vet Tech to join our team—and we’re offering higher-than-average pay for the right candidate!

If you’re dependable, compassionate, and ready to make a difference in the lives of pets (and their people), we’d love to speak with you.

Send your resume to: [email protected]