VMC of Indian River County

06/11/2026

🐾🌡️ If you've been working hard to help your pet lose weight but aren't seeing results, it may be time to consider an underlying health condition. Pets with metabolic and endocrine disorders, like hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease, often struggle with weight loss.

🏥🩺 Prescription diets and management of the underlying condition can make weight loss easier. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for help. Call 772-217-4771 to talk to your veterinarian about managing your pet's weight.

06/09/2026

🦷 Did you know that your pet can suffer from dental disease too? By three years old, most cats and dogs have some degree of dental disease.

😔 Don't wait for chronic pain and inflammation to set in! Watch out for early signs like bad breath, yellow tartar buildup, and red and swollen gums.

📅 Schedule your pet's preventive care exam with regular dental evaluations at least once a year. Your furry friend will thank you!

Haven't brought your pet in for their yearly dental exam? Call us to schedule 772-217-4771

06/04/2026

😿🦠 Feline distemper (panleukopenia) caused by the feline parvovirus can be a serious threat to your cat's health. Kittens are most at risk, and transmission occurs through contact with an infected cat's urine, f***s, or nasal secretions. Learn how to protect your feline friend by calling us at 772-217-4771 today.

06/02/2026

Not all behavior issues in pets are as easy to identify as we think!

🐾 Separation anxiety can be hard to differentiate from other behaviors, making early identification crucial.

💪 Watch out for signs like vocalizing, panting in dogs, and pacing/restlessness before you leave home. If your pet is showing these signs, it's important to seek professional help for effective treatment. 🐶🐱

05/28/2026

🐜🚫 Insecticides can be hazardous to your furry friends!

🐶🐱 Many commercial insecticides contain organophosphates, which can be TOXIC to dogs if ingested. Watch out for symptoms such as excessive salivation, trembling, and seizures. To avoid exposing your dog to dangerous chemicals, consider using pet-friendly options to control pests in your garden or putting up boundary fencing to keep your furry friends safe!👀

05/26/2026

🍻🙅‍♂️ Did you know that giving your pet alcohol is NOT a good idea?

🤔 Unfortunately, many pets are attracted to the sweet smell of alcoholic beverages and may ingest them, leading to alcohol poisoning.

😿 Protect your furry friends from hypoglycemia, seizures, and other serious health issues by keeping your drinks out of their reach!🚫🐶

05/21/2026

Dog owners, it’s important to take aggressive displays seriously! Dogs that are guarding their resources or feel threatened can react quickly and cause serious harm to people and other pets. Remember, their body language is their communication, so don’t ignore it! If you see any of these signs, take action and avoid escalating the situation.

🐾 Stiff, tall posture

🐾 Raised hackles

🐾 Rigid limbs

🐾 Erect ears

🐾 Fixed stare with a hard focus

🐾 Stiff, raised tail that may be wagging

🐾 Bared teeth

🐾 Vocalization (i.e., growling and short, loud barks)

05/19/2026

🌿🐾 Did you know that some plants can be harmful to your furry friends?

😔 Plants like Elephant’s Ear, Begonia, Caladium, Dumb Cane, Philodendron, and Umbrella Tree contain needle-shaped crystals called raphides that can cause mouth and throat irritation, difficulty swallowing, and swelling in pets.

👀 Other common garden plants that can be harmful to pets include Nightshades, Datura, Poppy plants, Oleander, and Foxglove.

🚫 Keep your pets safe by being aware of potential hazards and preventing access to harmful plants.

05/16/2026

Feeling a lump and deciding to watch it for a few months is understandable, but there's a point at which watching becomes waiting too long. Lymph nodes enlarge for many reasons, some routine and some serious, and the only way to know which applies is evaluation. We walk through the diagnostic process and when to act in our newest piece from Veterinary Medical Center of Indian River County.

In an active outdoor environment like Vero Beach, pets are constantly exposed to things that can stimulate the immune system, from insect bites and minor skin infections to environmental irritants, allergens, and tick-borne disease. Because lymph nodes are part of the body’s immune defense system,...

05/14/2026

🐶🦷🍪

Did you know that dental treats for dogs are a great way to improve your pup’s oral health? Here are some reasons why:

1️⃣ Dental treats are made specifically to remove plaque buildup and clean your dog’s mouth.

2️⃣ They often contain ingredients that freshen breath and help maintain your pet's oral hygiene.

3️⃣ Dental treats come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors, making it easy to find one your furry friend loves.

4️⃣ They are generally much more appreciated by our dogs than traditional toothbrushes or wipes.

Make sure to choose dental treats that are appropriate for your dog's size and needs. As always, talk to your vet about what dental care routine is best for your furry friend. Happy chewing! 🐾🦷