Newtown Veterinary Specialists

08/13/2025

We are here if you need us, we just hope that you don't need us!

08/11/2025

Patient Spotlight
Meet Marty, the sheriff in town! This guy is almost 15, and he has seen plenty of doctors in his time. From thyroid issues, to a ruptured CCL (A ruptured cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), analogous to the ACL in humans, is a common injury in dogs, often causing hind limb lameness), and even GOLLP (Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis and Polyneuropathy, is a neurological disease affecting older dogs, characterized by laryngeal paralysis and polyneuropathy. It leads to breathing difficulties due to laryngeal paralysis and hind-end weakness and muscle wasting from polyneuropathy. While there's no cure, various treatments can manage symptoms and improve quality of life). No matter what this fellow is experiencing, he is the happiest man all the time. It is a pleasure to help him, and his fantastic parents. We enjoy all of our time with him, and his appreciation for his treatments.

08/08/2025

Meet Cosmo! He is a long-haired Frenchie, and at 18 weeks old, it was easy to keep him busy while the doctor spoke with his parents. He loved all the tennis balls, and was very patient with us through his insane photo shoot!
He came in to see the cardiology department for a heart murmur that was detected by his primary doctor. Our cardiology team saw him, performed an echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart), and Dr Rucinski determined that he has a restrictive paramembranous ventricular septal defect.

Ventricular septal defect (VSD) - A VSD is an abnormal communication (hole) in the muscular wall (septum) that separates the bottom heart chambers (ventricles). This is a congenital (born with) defect that allows blood from the left ventricle to shunt into the right ventricle, and then out into the lungs. Almost all animals with small (resistive, restrictive) defects remain completely normal and have a normal life span. However, large (non-restrictive/resistive) defects can cause an overload to the heart and lungs resulting congestive heart failure (CHF), exercise intolerance, polycythemia (increase in red blood cells), or sudden death. If clinical signs develop, medications to treat the CHF and/or polycythemia may be warranted, as well as therapeutic phlebotomy (bloodletting). Depending on the size and location of the defect, surgical occlusion may be an option.

We are happy to report that Cosmo is not showing any clinical signs and there are no significant changes to his heart at this time. We will be monitoring this cutie closely for any changes. Two thumbs up for this little man, and we look forward to seeing him again!

08/06/2025

Meet the new mascot for our Cardiology team - Pulmonary Hypertension! We call him PH for short.
In dogs, pulmonary hypertension means the blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries (those carrying blood from the heart to the lungs) is abnormally high. This can be due to narrowed or blocked arteries, or an increased volume of blood being pumped through them.
Signs of Pulmonary Hypertension
Signs of PH can be subtle at first, but often involve breathing difficulties and reduced exercise tolerance:
Exercise Intolerance: Dogs may tire easily during walks or play.
Labored Breathing: Difficulty breathing, especially during exertion.
Coughing: Especially during or after exercise.
Fainting: Especially after exercise.
Rapid Breathing: Even at rest.
Blue/Purple Gums: Indicates low oxygen levels.
Weight Loss: Can be a sign of advanced disease.
Heart Murmur: May be detected during a physical exam.

08/04/2025

07/30/2025

Patient Spotlight

Meet Coleen!
This little baby is 15 years young, and is a patient of Dr. Greenberg (Ophthalmology) and Dr. Delucia (Internal Medicine). She was rescued through Buster's Friends in Houston, TX in 2011. She has lived in Texas and California, but now resides in Connecticut with her family.That includes her sister Lexie, who is also a rescue. She loves to travel, and float around in the swimming pool. She recently spent the day with us and was a fantastic patient! It’s always a pleasure to see her and her mom.

07/28/2025

As the kids head back to class, don’t forget your pets might be feeling the change too!

New schedules, quieter houses, and less activity can lead to boredom, separation anxiety, or even unexpected health changes. This is a great time to schedule wellness exams, check vaccines and preventatives, review nutrition and exercise routines, and address any behavior concerns. 🚌

A little extra care helps your pets adjust smoothly to the fall routine—and keeps them happy and healthy all season long!

07/24/2025

Eloise and Griffin want to talk about how pool days, beach trips, and lake adventures can be tons of fun — but don’t forget, water safety is important for pets too!
🌊Always supervise: Even strong swimmers can get tired or disoriented.
🌊Life jackets help: Use a properly fitted pet life vest, especially for boating or open water.
🌊Watch for hazards: Currents, waves, and slippery pool edges can be dangerous.
🌊Rinse after swimming: Chlorine, salt, and algae can irritate skin and paws.
🌊Fresh water only: Prevent your pet from drinking pool or lake water.
Safe swimming means more fun in the sun! ☀️🐾

07/23/2025

We’re currently hiring for:
🐾 Emergency & ICU Technicians
🐾 Internal Medicine Technicians
Are you an experienced veterinary technician with a passion for high-quality care and teamwork? Come be part of a fast-paced, supportive environment where your skills and compassion truly matter. With advanced equipment and ongoing learning opportunities, NVS is a place to thrive.
Explore open roles and apply here 👉 www.newtownvets.com/site/veterinary-careers-fairfield-county

Know someone perfect for the job? Tag them or share this post!

07/21/2025

Health Spotlight: Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dachshunds
Dachshunds are beloved for their long backs and short legs—but that unique shape also makes them highly susceptible to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This spinal condition occurs when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae bulge or rupture, putting pressure on the spinal cord. IVDD can cause pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis if not treated promptly.
Signs to watch for: Sudden reluctance to jump or climb stairs, yelping when touched, a hunched back, or weakness in the hind legs. Immediate veterinary attention is critical to prevent worsening damage.
💡 Tip: Use ramps instead of stairs and avoid letting your Dachshund jump off furniture to help protect their spine.