Choosing the right dog trainer can be as tricky as teaching your puppy to fetch the morning paper—without them eating it first. With so many options available, you can easily feel overwhelmed. Do you choose the trainer who has the fanciest website, nearest to your house, or the one who posts the cutest dog photos? [...]
Hey there, fellow cat lovers! Nellie here, your favorite calico cat from Santa Monica Veterinary Group. Sometimes, we indoor cats can feel a bit restless. You might notice us pacing, grooming excessively, or meowing more than usual. These behaviors can be signs that we are in stress because our environment is boring. Without enough playtime [...]
Feline inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition characterized by persistent gastrointestinal (GI) tract inflammation. This inflammation in cats can affect any part of the GI tract but is most often observed in the stomach, small intestine, and colon. IBD’s exact cause in felines remains unknown. Still, the condition is believed to be multifactorial, [...]
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a common, painful issue among dogs and cats, leading to tooth loss and systemic diseases if left untreated. By being able to recognize your furry friend’s periodontal disease signs, you can get them timely veterinary care to keep your pet happy and healthy, keeping their mouth pain-free. Our Santa [...]
Your pet brings joy, companionship, and laughter into your life, but their silly antics can sometimes set them up for veterinary emergencies, so they require diligent care to stay safe and healthy. Preventing pet emergencies can save your four-legged friend from pain and distress and can also save you from unexpected veterinary bills. Our Santa [...]
Living in Southern California means enjoying mild, pleasant weather year-round. While extreme summertime heat is less of a concern here than in other regions, longer days, disrupted schedules, travel, and other activities mean your pet care responsibilities may change. Our Santa Monica Veterinary Group team provides essential summer pet care tips to ensure a safe, [...]
Knowing the difference between an emergency, urgent, or nonurgent pet health issue can ensure your pet gets timely treatment with minimal hassle. When appropriate, urgent care services at Santa Monica Veterinary Group allow pet owners to seek care for health problems that shouldn’t wait. Here, we outline eight common pet injuries and illnesses to help [...]
Losing a pet is a heartbreaking experience. Pets are often considered family members or children, loyal companions, and sources of unconditional love. Although you know that your pet will eventually die, that does not lessen your sometimes overwhelming grief. Our Santa Monica Veterinary Group team wants you to understand that mourning is okay and that [...]
Whether a playful romp or a leisurely stroll, pets love to be outdoors. Nature and fresh air are beneficial to people and pets, but nature poses innumerable hazards. Dirt—especially in areas frequented by other pets and wildlife—can harbor parasites, bacteria, fungi, and viruses that threaten your furry pal’s health. Our Santa Monica Veterinary Group team [...]
Ear infections are relatively common and painful conditions that affect cats and dogs of all ages. If left untreated, an ear infection can lead to intense pain, causing your pet to scratch or shake their head persistently. Understanding ear infection causes, signs, and treatment options is crucial for maintaining your pet's health and catching infections [...]