La Cumbre Animal Hospital

03/20/2026

According to a recent report by Veterinary Information Network (VIN), "anti-itch" drugs purchased from allegedly deceptive websites have sent several pets into veterinary clinics with serious health complications.

The website "WagLabs" purported to sell the powerful immunosuppressant cyclosporine, which typically can only be obtained through a veterinarian prescription. One pet owner reported giving the WagLabs medication to his dog; soon after, his pet became lethargic and developed extreme thirst, a ravenous appetite, and increased urination. Upon further inspection, bloodwork showed an alarming elevation of liver enzymes, indicating possible liver damage. Testimonies on the website Trustpilot, a review platform, further allege that several dogs experienced "terrible side effects" after taking the WagLabs capsules, with one going into "major organ failure" and needing to be euthanized.

Due to the extreme side effects, there is reason to doubt that the product was actually—or only—cyclosporine.

VIN News further reports that another website called Millionaire Mutt is suspected to be run by the same entity behind WagLabs. Millionaire Mutt sold "oclacitinib chewable tablets," a product mimicking another strong immunosuppressant that can only be obtained via veterinarian. The websites seem to have reached some buyers by running targeted advertisements on Facebook offering allergy relief for dogs.

The American College of Veterinary Dermatology filed a complaint against WagLabs with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration; about a month later, the supposed "cyclosporine" product has been removed from the website. The "oclacitinib chewable tablets" no longer exist on Millionaire Mutt, either.

If you are a pet owner searching for allergy relief for your dog, please do not start your pet on any medications or supplements without consulting your veterinarian first. Do not automatically trust that the products you see online will be safe for your pet to consume, and purchase medications only through verified pharmacies.

The full story can be found at VIN News Service.

03/19/2026

03/19/2026

We now have direct online booking through our website LCAH.COM. We are always looking for ways to make our clients experience better. This is one step with more to come.

10/31/2025

Happy Halloween 🎃!

08/27/2025

08/23/2025

☀ Protect Your Pet’s Paws! 🐾

With rising summer temperatures in Santa Barbara County, it’s important to remember that our pets feel the heat differently than we do. While the air may feel manageable, concrete and asphalt absorb heat quickly and can reach dangerous temperatures that burn sensitive paw pads. For example, on a 95°F day, asphalt can reach 155°F, hot enough to cause serious injury in just seconds.

A simple way to check is the “7-second rule”: press the back of your hand to the ground. If you can’t hold it there for at least 7 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

But paw safety is only part of keeping pets comfortable in the heat. Here are more ways to protect them this summer:

☀ Avoid midday walks: Exercise your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler.

☀ Provide shade and water: Always make sure your pets have access to fresh, cool drinking water and a shady place to rest.

☀ Never leave pets in cars: Even with windows cracked, temperatures inside vehicles can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.

☀ Watch for signs of heatstroke: Excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse are all signs that your pet needs immediate veterinary attention.

☀ Consider alternatives: On hot days, try indoor enrichment like puzzle feeders, training sessions, or playtime with toys instead of long outdoor walks.

08/21/2025

This is from Dr. Holmes last campaign for Mission Rabies.

08/21/2025

We are honored to be nominated. Please cast your vote for us by August 27th. You can follow this link and vote for 20 businesses you wish to support, and select us as the best clinic in the Little Creatures group! bestof.independent.com

08/18/2025

Our wonderful doctors

08/07/2025

We are thrilled to have Dr. Elizabeth Olken join our LCAH family! 💕🐾 Dr. Olken has her DVM from Colorado State University. She moved to SB with her husband and daughter to join our team in June. Give her a big, warm welcome!