Audubon Animal Medical Center

Audubon Animal Medical Center We love our pets, and caring for them and so do you. We are here to help you keep your furry and feathered best friends healthy, active and happy.

LOVE YOUR DOGS, BUT WANT YOUR HARDWOOD FLOORS?Here are a few tips to create harmony between your floors and your pet.- C...
06/02/2026

LOVE YOUR DOGS, BUT WANT YOUR HARDWOOD FLOORS?

Here are a few tips to create harmony between your floors and your pet.

- CHOOSE A LESS SHINY SHEEN: a lower sheen helps to hide the dents and scratches that pets can put on your floor. Because this dog-friendly finish isn’t as shiny as a regular finish, it helps to visually hide the fine marks that animals’ claws can leave on wood floors over time.

- PURCHASE HARD FLOORING: When choosing the best hardwood floors for dogs, you should also look for hardwood flooring with a high Janka rating. The Janka Hardness Scale measures a wood’s resistance to dents, scratches and wear.

Imported exotic hardwoods like Ipe, Brazilian Cherry, Walnut and Acacia flooring dominate the top end of the table and when looking at domestic woods White Oak, Hard Maple and Hickory are all strong choices (be aware that these hardwoods all come with a higher price tag).

- CONSIDER 'DISTRESSED WOOD': Another option when seeking the best hardwood floors for dogs is distressed wood. Distressed floors have deliberate pock marks, dents and grooves to make it look 'worn. This option helps camouflage damage done by your pet's nails.

- DECORATE WITH THE LARGEST AREA RUG YOUR ROOM CAN COMFORTABLY HANDLE: Protect your floors by covering the high-traffic areas. Rugs can easily be replaced when worn or damaged.

Can Dogs Get UTIs?Yes - Dogs (and cats) get UTIs - Urinary Tract Infections.UTIs are a common illness treated by vets. I...
06/01/2026

Can Dogs Get UTIs?

Yes - Dogs (and cats) get UTIs - Urinary Tract Infections.

UTIs are a common illness treated by vets.

It is just what it sounds like: an infection inside your dog’s urinary tract.

Aside from an infection, poor urinary tract health can lead to kidney or bladders stones, which are very painful.

Signs of infection and stones are similar:

- Frequent, but ineffective urination
- Urinating blood
- Discomfort urinating
- Straining to urinate
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive thirst and constant water-drinking

UTIs can be caused by a variety of factors. The three main factors are alkaline urine, weakened immune system and 'old age' (weakening muscles make it difficult for an older dog to completely empty his bladder.)

Older female dogs and dogs with diabetes are especially prone to urinary tract problems. There are different types of bladder stones that have a tendency to form due to dietary issues and/or frequent infections.

IF YOU SEE YOUR DOG OR CAT STRAINING TO URINATE, AN IMMEDIATE TRIP TO THE VET IS IN ORDER.

BLOCKAGE OF THE URINARY TRACT BY STONES OR CRYSTALS IS A POTENTIALLY FATAL CONDITION.

It's Feel Good Friday!! June is Adopt a Cat Month.There are plenty of felines waiting for a forever home, and one of the...
05/29/2026

It's Feel Good Friday!! June is Adopt a Cat Month.

There are plenty of felines waiting for a forever home, and one of them could be the perfect addition to your family!

Looking for a new addition to your furry family? Check with us first.

Audubon and Cherokee Animal Hospitals encourage our clients seeking new kitties to consider adopting an abandoned cat or orphaned kitten from a reputable rescue program.

There are dozens of homeless cats and kittens in need of a loving, caring family.

When adopting, it is important to recognize signs of potential illness and behavior issues.

Cats should have clear, bright eyes, pink gums and smooth well-groomed coat. (Older cats do sometimes have a rough coat. It comes with the territory and doesn't specifically indicate illness)

Ensure that rescued cats and kittens are free from internal parasites and fleas.

Also, confirm that your kitty has tested negative for feline leukemia and FIP (two of the more common diseases in stray cats.)

After choosing your precious pet, an immediate trip to your vet is in order. We offer a free wellness exam for all new puppies, kittens and adopted adult pets.

Having your new family member examined by a trusted veterinarian is the best way to get your new family member off to a great start.

Audubon: 502-361-2611 / Cherokee: 502-451-2442

What Are the Best Dogs for an Elderly Person?While owning a dog has been shown to both improve quality of life and longe...
05/28/2026

What Are the Best Dogs for an Elderly Person?

While owning a dog has been shown to both improve quality of life and longevity in many seniors, choosing the right dog for the elderly is the key to creating a long-term human-to-pet relationship that works.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A PET FOR A SENIOR:

Breed: As we age, a large dog or a very active one might not be the right choice for us, especially if the dog owner has physical limitations that could cause safety concerns. Different breeds also have different requirements for grooming, different levels of trainability, and — particularly important for residents of a shared community — different levels of noisiness. Some breeds are also more susceptible to health issues.

Age of the Dog: A senior dog often makes a great companion for a senior human — they may already be trained, and they are usually less active and demanding than a puppy. Another age-related consideration is a dog’s overall life expectancy; small dogs generally live longer than large ones.

Temperament: The temperament of a dog (and how it meshes with the owner’s temperament) is extremely individual, even taking breed into account. Any potential dog owner will want to take the opportunity to interact and play with an animal before deciding if it’s a match made in dog heaven.

Owner’s Medical Needs: Consider carefully the owners physical limitations. If there are mobility issues, will this pose a problem for a dog that needs daily walks? Is medical equipment present, which might present a playful puppy with the temptation to chew?

Care Resources: What resources are available to help care for the dog, in the event the owner is not fully able to handle the responsibility? Can you afford to pay for grooming, veterinary visits, supplies, or pet sitting when you’re traveling?

WHAT DOG BREEDS WORK WELL WITH THE ELDERLY?

1) Boston Terrier
2) Chihuahua
3) Miniature Schnauzer
4) Pomeranian
5) Miniature Poodle
6) Shih Tzu
7) Yorkshire Terrier
8) Cats (Any domestic short-hair cat will do:)
9) Dachshund
10) Well-trained Golden Retriever

Be sure to do your homework on each breed to consider breed-specific behavior and health issues......And don't forget, cats are also a good option:)

Is My Dog at Risk from Zika?Can dogs or other pets get the Zika virus from humans, or transmit it to them?According to t...
05/27/2026

Is My Dog at Risk from Zika?

Can dogs or other pets get the Zika virus from humans, or transmit it to them?

According to the CDC, “There have not been any reports of pets or other types of animals becoming sick with Zika virus.

However, more research is needed to better understand Zika virus in animals.”

While there have been no reports of the Zika virus infection in traditional pets, there has not been enough research done to conclude that it doesn’t occur.

In other countries, antibodies (indicating exposure) to Zika virus have been detected in nonhuman primates, and outbreaks in nonhuman primates have occurred.

The AVMA (American Veterinary Medicine Association) continues to monitor the spread and pervasiveness of the Zika virus in the United States. IN THE LOUISVILLE AREA, YOUR DOG IS AT A MUCH GREATER RISK FOR HEARTWORM INFECTION, than Zika virus.

Appropriate mosquito repellents and other preventive measures, will not only help protect your pet from Zika, it will greatly reduce your dog's chances of contracting heartworms.

For more information about effective mosquito repellents for your pets, call us at:

AUDUBON: 502-361-2611 OR CHEROKEE: 502-451-2442

Do Dog's Get Swimmer's Ear??Now that the long weekend is over, we will see an increase in ear-related issues among those...
05/26/2026

Do Dog's Get Swimmer's Ear??

Now that the long weekend is over, we will see an increase in ear-related issues among those dogs who spent their time in the water.

After a long day of swimming, just like humans, dogs can also suffer from swimmer’s ear.

Swimmer’s ear is another term to describe inflammation in the outer ear canal (otitis externa) which is the part of the ear canal extending from the ear drum to the outside of the ear.

The condition develops when water contaminated with bacteria is trapped in the ear canal for a long period of time. If the body’s immune system, its natural defense system, does not attack and kill the bacteria, then they will invade and cause inflammation.

The trapped water combined with the warm, dark environment of the ear canal is the perfect brewing pot for bacteria.

Swimmer's ear can be mild or severe, and it may require professional medical intervention to cure.

They will display clinical signs consistent with swimmer’s ear such as head shaking, pawing at the head/ears, rubbing ears on objects, and twitching of the ears.

Sometimes they may whine or be restless due to pain.

Some breeds and dogs are more prone to swimmer's ear. Usually they have some underlying condition that causes them to develop ear infections after swimming. The most common reason for this is an underlying allergy (environmental allergy/atopy and food allergy).

NOT ALL EAR INFECTIONS ARE CREATED EQUAL

A version of 'swimmer's ear' can also occur after bathing your dog, when water makes its way into the ear canal.

The best way to know if your dog has swimmer’s ear (bacteria-contaminated water causing inflammation) versus an ear infection due to some other cause (such as allergies) is to monitor for trends.

- Does your dog have ear infections at times when not swimming?

- Does your dog have an increased itch level compared to normal dogs?

- Has your dog suffered from bacterial skin infections too?

If you answered yes, then your dog is not suffering from swimmer’s ear, but has another underlying cause of ear infections.

If you are not sure, chat with your veterinarian to see if they can help to identify trends.

CALL US AT AUDUBON: 502-361-2611 / CHEROKEE: 502-451--2442.

On Memorial Day, we don't forget the animals who died in service.To our brave men and women, and their animal companions...
05/25/2026

On Memorial Day, we don't forget the animals who died in service.

To our brave men and women, and their animal companions who keep this country free, thank-you from the staff of Audubon and Cherokee Animal Hospitals.

It's Feel Good Friday! - Everybody in the Pool. (Or the lake)Memorial weekend is here - the official start of swim seaso...
05/22/2026

It's Feel Good Friday! - Everybody in the Pool. (Or the lake)

Memorial weekend is here - the official start of swim season in Kentucky.

If you own a 'water dog' like we do, weekends and evenings in the Summer are spent swimming with your dog, hanging out by the lake and.......managing water safety for your pooch.

If you are new to water dogs, here is a checklist of items that will make your outings easier and safer.

Dog swimming checklist:

- Complete vax and protection against the BIG THREE - Ticks, Fleas and Mosquitoes

- Leash and collar with identification

- Crates for transport (we use crates to transport all four of our dogs. It's safer and it keeps your vehicle much cleaner.)

- Canine life preserver of other flotation device designed for canines

- Towels to dry off dog, ear wipes or ear cleaner to dry ear canals.

- Plenty of fresh, clean drinking water and a bowl for serving

- First aid kit including quick stop, tweezers for removing ticks, contact information for nearby emergency veterinary service

- Sunscreen for dogs with close cropped fur, light colored nose or sensitivities to the sun

- Food, treats and other training tools

- Umbrella or another source of shade if needed

- P**p bags and something to keep them in until you can find a garbage can.

REMEMBER, NOT ALL DOGS HAVE AN AFFINITY FOR THE WATER, AND SOME DOGS ARE NOT GOOD SWIMMERS.

NEVER FORCE ANY DOG INTO WATER AGAINST HIS WILL.

Does my Pet Really Need an Annual Exam?Veterinarians recommend REGULAR WELLNESS EXAMS for the same reason your physician...
05/21/2026

Does my Pet Really Need an Annual Exam?

Veterinarians recommend REGULAR WELLNESS EXAMS for the same reason your physician and dentist recommend them – if you can detect a problem in its early stages, it's more likely to be treated and resolved with less expense, less difficulty and better success.

During an annual veterinary examination, almost every part of your dog or cat gets checked out, and that can have huge benefits. In addition, you can 'bundle' your health check with annual vaccinations, teeth-cleaning, etc.

Your pet's annual exam is a chance for your vet to look for problems before they become serious, give you advice on overcoming behavioral issues you may struggle with and generally guide you on the path to keeping your pet healthy and happy for as long as possible.

Your vet takes these appointments seriously. You should, too.

SIDE BENEFITS OF ANNUAL WELLNESS EXAMS:

- Catch parasite and pest infections such as fleas, ticks and worms which may also affect the health of you and your family.

- Provide an opportunity for socialization for your pet - safe and supervised exposure to strangers and other animals is needed to ensure your pet grows up happy and well-adjusted.

- Get to know your neighborhood vet. If your pet ever gets lost in the neighborhood, it's good to have ties to your local vet.

WATCH OUT FOR HOT SPOTS!Summer is coming, which means dogs are shedding their winter coats.All of that dead hair can bui...
05/20/2026

WATCH OUT FOR HOT SPOTS!

Summer is coming, which means dogs are shedding their winter coats.

All of that dead hair can build up in your dog's coat, and when combined with Spring allergies, it's the perfect recipe for hot spots.

Hot spots are tricky because they can go from a small irritation to a serious infection in just a few days or even hours.

WHAT ARE HOT SPOTS ON DOGS AND HOW DO YOU DETECT THEM?

Hot spots are an irritating and painful skin condition that affects countless dogs every year.

A hot spot (also known as pyotramatic or moist dermatitis) is a condition which involves an area of skin which has become inflamed and infected. The affected skin often appears as a moist, oozing, reddened area that is painful and very itchy to the dog.

Hair loss may also be seen. Continued licking and chewing at the area by the dog worsens the condition dramatically.

WHAT CAUSES HOT SPOTS AND HOW CAN THEY BE PREVENTED?

Anything that causes itchiness of the skin can lead to the development of hot spots on dogs. Some common triggers are allergies to things in the environment such as grasses, trees, weeds, dust mites, etc, food allergies, fleas, mites, insect bites and skin wounds.

A bacterial infection of the skin (typically caused by staph) develops by taking advantage of the damaged inflamed skin. The infection is often deep in the dog's skin and, in addition to the moist oozing appearance, an odor is often present.

It is difficult to completely prevent a hot spot in dogs prone to skin allergies. Thick-haired dogs are particularly susceptible in early Summer, due to the build-up of dead hair.

Keeping your pet well-groomed will help keep the skin clean and dry.

QUICK TREATMENT IS THE KEY TO ELIMINATING A NASTY HOT SPOT.

The goal of treatment is to clear the bacterial infection, relieve the itching and pain, and identify and remove the underlying triggers if possible.

The hair in and around the dog's hot spot is usually clipped to allow initial cleaning of the area and the application of topical medications. Topical treatment with sprays, creams or ointments to kill bacteria and help with pain and inflammation are often used.

Depending on the severity of the infection, oral antibiotics may be prescribed.

Often a short course of corticosteroids (i.e. prednisone) is given to relieve the itching and pain due to the inflammation.

Antihistamines may also be used to help with itchiness.

WHEN IT COMES TO HOT SPOTS, YOUR BEST DEFENSE IS A STRONG OFFENSE.

If you see a red, inflamed and/or irritated area on your pets skin - Call 502-361-2611 or 502-451-2442 (Cherokee)

Address

1311 Durrett Lane
Louisville, KY
40213

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 7pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 6pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 6pm
Thursday 8:30am - 6pm
Friday 8:30am - 6pm
Saturday 8:30am - 4pm

Telephone

+15023612611

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