Hope Animal Clinic

15/08/2025

🐾 Fun Fact Friday 🐾

Did you know cats can mimic human behavior? 😺

Cats are great observers and often learn by watching—whether it’s other cats or you! From opening cabinets to learning how to use food puzzles, they can pick up tricks just by observing your actions.

Some even associate words like “bird” or “treat” with specific sights or sounds. And yes, if you tap a box with your hand, they might just tap it with their paw. Smart, right?

Early socialization and trust make a big difference, but one thing’s for sure—your cat is always watching... and learning! 👀🧠💡

13/08/2025

🌟 Wisdom Wednesday 🌟

I have found that when you are deeply troubled, there are things you get from the silent devoted companionship of a dog that you can get from no other source. 🐕🐾

- Doris Day

12/08/2025

🐾 Tuesday Tip: Help Your Dog Adjust to the Back-to-School Routine! 🎒

As the kids head back to school, your dog might feel confused or even anxious about the sudden change in routine. The American Kennel Club offers great advice to help your pup through the transition — from easing separation anxiety to creating new daily rituals and offering extra enrichment.

✨ Try these simple strategies:

Start leaving the house for short periods before school starts.

Give your dog a fun activity or treat when everyone leaves.

Stick to a consistent schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime.

Your dog may not understand why the house is suddenly so quiet, but with a little planning, you can help them adjust smoothly!

🐶 Read more tips here:
👉 https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/preparing-dog-back-to-school

11/08/2025

🌟 Employee Spotlight: Jo Ann 🌟

Position: Receptionist
Work Anniversary: 1 year (as of July 8th!)

Meet Jo Ann — one of the friendly faces that keeps things running smoothly and our clients smiling!

💬 What she loves about Hope:
“For me, Hope Animal Clinic is more than just a name — it really is hope. Dr. Fuller didn’t just build a business; he created a place that feels like family. It’s not just coworkers, pets, or clients... it’s all of it coming together.

The days are busy, sometimes loud, a little chaotic — but always filled with heart. And most of all, God is right at the center of it all. His presence shines through in the people here, the pets we help, and the purpose behind what we do.

I moved from Texas a little over a year ago just looking for a job — but I found so much more: family, friends, a few new pets, and most importantly, hope and grace in abundance.”

🍿 Outside of work:
Jo Ann loves spending time with her two sons, Gabe (22) and Creed (13). Whether they’re hitting the movies, cooking up something new (they’re proud foodies!), or just hanging out, that’s where her heart is. She’s also always up for an adventure — especially if it involves trying something new!

🐾 Her furry family includes:
• Pennie – her sweet senior Shih Tzu mix
• Rubie – a fun and energetic silver Lab
• LeBron James – yes, she’s a girl! An orange & white 1-year-old cat
• Kobe Bryant – a rescued, fluffy tricolor kitten who’s full of personality

🏀 Between LeBron and Kobe, she might just have the start of a basketball pet dream team!

We’re so thankful to have Jo Ann’s energy, warmth, and faith-filled heart on the team. 💙

08/08/2025

🐾 Fun Fact Friday 🐾

Ever wonder why dogs love sticking their heads out of car windows? 🚗🐶

It’s all about the sensory overload! Their powerful noses pick up a whirlwind of scents as the car moves, giving them tons of exciting information about the world around them. Add in the breeze on their face and the ever-changing scenery, and it’s basically the ultimate joyride! 🌬️👃🌎

Just remember to keep them safe — cracked windows and secured harnesses are the way to go. 💙

06/08/2025

🐾 Wellness Wednesday: Why Do Cats Hide When They’re Sick? 🐱

Have you ever noticed your cat suddenly hiding more than usual? It could be more than just a quirky habit—it might be a sign they’re not feeling well.

Cats are instinctively wired to hide illness, a behavior passed down from their wild ancestors. In the wild, staying out of sight helped them avoid predators when they were weak or vulnerable.

Here’s why your cat might retreat when they’re under the weather:

🔹 Protection – Hiding helps them feel safe when they’re not at their best.
🔹 Rest – A quiet, cozy spot lets them conserve energy to recover.
🔹 Comfort – Sick cats may avoid interaction because they feel uncomfortable or fragile.

But not all cats hide! Some may become clingy, vocal, or just seem "off." That’s why any change in behavior is worth noting.

👉 If your cat starts hiding more than usual or acting differently, don’t wait—give us a call. Catching illness early makes all the difference

05/08/2025

🐾 Tuesday Tip: Keep Kitty’s Litter Box Purr-fect! 🐾

Is your cat suddenly skipping the box? Nearly 1 in 10 cats develop litter-box problems — but with a few simple tweaks, you can help her get back on track! Here's how 🧼:

✅ Scoop Daily & Deep Clean Weekly
Keep the box fresh—scoop daily and fully wash the box weekly using mild soap or baking soda

✅ Provide Plenty of Boxes
Follow the “n + 1” rule: one box per cat plus one extra

✅ Choose Easy, Inviting Boxes
Go for large, low-sided boxes—ditch liners, lids, and top-entry styles—so your cat can get in and out comfortably

✅ Use Unscented, Medium‑Texture Litter
Most kitties prefer a 1–2″ layer of clumping, unscented litter

✅ Pick a Calm, Accessible Location
Place boxes in quiet areas with easy escape routes and no nearby food bowls

✅ Act Fast on Accidents
Clean mishaps with an enzymatic cleaner and discourage future ones—think lights or foil on the problem spot

⚠️ Rule Out Medical & Stress-Related Causes
If issues persist, consult your vet. Health problems (like UTIs or cystitis) or stress—new pets, rearranged furniture—can be the culprit

For more information visit:

Litter box problems for cats can be diverse and complex. Behavioral treatments for the specific cause of your cat’s litter box issues can be very effective. Learn more about the causes behind common litter box problems.

04/08/2025

🐾 Employee Spotlight: Meet Kensley! 🐾

Position: Receptionist
Time at Hope: 8 months

Kensley is one of the friendly faces you'll see when you visit Hope! She says her favorite part of working at Hope is “the clients. I’ve created such a bond with some of these people - they can turn any bad day into a good one!”

She also shares one of her favorite verses:
Psalm 36:6 - “Your righteousness is like the highest mountain, your justice like the great deep. You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.”

When she’s not at the front desk, Kensley loves treasure hunting at thrift stores, planning her upcoming wedding in August, and spending time with her husband, Tyler, and their fur babies.

Her pets include:
🐶 Nugget – long-haired mini dachshund
🐶 Winnie – mini dachshund
🐱 Pookie – snow Bengal mix
🐱 Ronald – “regular ole cat” 😄

We’re so thankful to have Kensley on our team! 💙

03/08/2025

DON'T FORGET!

Our next Basic Dog Obedience Class kicks off Tuesday, August 5th at 6:30 PM!

Limited spots available—call 205-427-0723 today to reserve your spot!

01/08/2025

Curbside Update at Hope Animal Clinic!

We want to let our clients know that we will start phasing out our curbside service by September 2nd. All clients will now be asked to check in at the front desk in our lobby upon arrival.

This change does NOT affect our online waitlist. You’re still welcome to add your name online as usual — we just ask that you come inside to let us know when you’ve arrived. Also, our drive-thru is still available for dropping off or picking up your pet along with getting your pet's medication!

Prefer to wait in your car? No problem! Just let our team know when you check in, and we’ll give you a call when we are ready for you to bring your pet in to be seen.

As always, if you need help getting your pet inside, just let us know. We’re always happy to come out and lend a hand.

We appreciate your understanding and continued support as we work to provide the best care possible for your pets.

01/08/2025

🐾 Fun Fact Friday 🐾

Did you know cats are basically built like liquid? 😸 It’s all thanks to their flexible collarbones! Unlike humans, a cat’s clavicles (collarbones) aren’t attached to other bones — they’re connected by muscle. This unique feature gives them the incredible ability to squeeze through any space their head can fit through, making them expert escape artists and stealthy prowlers.

So the next time your kitty slips through a gap that seems impossibly small, you’ll know why!

Learn more cool cat anatomy facts from the experts at Purina:
👉 https://www.purina.com/articles/cat/facts/cat-anatomy

01/08/2025

🐾 Monthly Reminder! 🗓️

It’s August already — have you given your pet their monthly preventatives yet? 🐶🐱

Fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other pesky parasites don't take summer vacations — and neither should prevention! ☀️🦟

Whether it’s a chewable, topical, or injection, staying on schedule keeps your furry friend healthy and happy all month long. 💪❤️

Need a refill or have questions? Give us a call or stop by — we’re here to help!