Protecting Pets From Cancer Through Preventive Care What is the biggest fear every pet owner shares? The sudden and unexpected news of a serious illness. Cancer is unfortunately one of the leading causes of illness in our pets, and receiving a diagnosis can feel devastating. But while cancer can be scary, prevention and early detection [...]
Non-Anesthetic Dental Cleanings: Cosmetic Fix or Hidden Danger? Many pet owners face a dilemma when their dog or cat needs dental care. You want clean teeth and fresh breath, but the thought of anesthesia creates worry. That concern is completely understandable, but here's what matters most: non-anesthetic dental cleanings pose far greater risks to your [...]
Understanding Hair Loss in Pets: Common Causes and Treatments Hair loss in dogs and cats can stem from many conditions- parasites, allergies, infections, or even stress. Each has distinct signs and requires targeted care. Veterinary diagnosis ensures your pet receives the right treatment and relief. At Santa Monica Veterinary Group, our comprehensive approach to dermatology [...]
Supporting Senior Dogs With Compassion and Care When your dog begins to slow down, it’s easy to assume that age is the only reason. But conditions like arthritis, dental disease, or heart issues are often the real culprits behind stiffness, fatigue, and personality changes. Recognizing these problems early allows for effective treatment and gives your [...]
How to Keep Kennel Cough Out of Your Dog’s Life Kennel cough spreads quickly wherever dogs gather- from grooming salons to dog parks and boarding kennels. Even mild cases cause discomfort and long recovery times. Routine vaccination and avoiding contact with coughing dogs are your best defenses. At Santa Monica Veterinary Group, our compassionate, family-owned [...]
Helping Cats Live Well with Kidney Disease Feline kidney disease often creeps in quietly. Extra trips to the water bowl, unexplained vomiting, or gradual weight loss can all be early indicators. Left unchecked, the condition can progress and affect every part of a cat’s health- digestive, cardiovascular, and even neurological. With prompt diagnostics and thoughtful [...]
The Genetic Side of Pet Health Some pets carry their breed traits like a badge of honor. The playful wiggle of a retriever, the short, stout frame of a bulldog, or the striking eyes of a Persian cat are all examples. Unfortunately, those same traits may also come with higher risks for health problems such [...]
Eye Health Matters: Common Problems Pets Face Pet owners are often caught off guard when their pet develops a red, irritated, or swollen eye without warning. Eye problems can appear suddenly due to injuries, infections, or pressure changes, leaving families unsure of the severity. At Santa Monica Veterinary Group in Santa Monica, CA, our veterinarians [...]
Why Ultrasound Matters in Modern Pet Care Pets can’t tell us when something feels wrong, so subtle changes in behavior or appetite often leave families guessing. Maybe your dog suddenly stops eating, or your cat begins hiding and losing weight without explanation. Instead of waiting and worrying, ultrasound gives veterinarians a safe, real-time way to [...]
A Pet Owner’s Guide to Parasite Prevention in Santa Monica You lift the couch cushion to look for your cat’s favorite toy and notice tiny specks that jump when the light hits. A tick falls off your dog and onto your pillow. Your new puppy or kitten has diarrhea- complete with squirming worms. The consequences [...]