Respiratory infections are among the most common illnesses that plague cats. When adopting a cat from an overcrowded shelter or taking in a stray, pay attention to whether they are sneezing or have nasal and eye discharge. These are signs that commonly indicate a respiratory infection, which can spread like wildfire among stray and shelter [...]

In cooler climates, cold winters with heavy frost lower the risk of parasite infestations, but parasites are adapted to survive no matter what, so the risk is never completely eliminated. Here in southern California, we enjoy relatively mild weather, so parasites—including fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms—remain a constant threat, regardless of season. Emerald Animal [...]

Every Thanksgiving menu tells a story—often a story passed down through generations that features time honored traditions and secret family recipes. Unfortunately, these classic Thanksgiving menus often feature ingredients that are toxic or harmful to pets. The Emerald Animal Hospital team wants to ensure this year’s food-filled festivities don’t leave a bad taste in your [...]

Over half the pets in the United States are overweight or obese, but many pet owners are unaware of this concerning problem. Carrying excess weight negatively impacts your pet’s quality of life (QOL) and increases their risk for several health problems. Our Emerald Animal Hospital team wants to help by explaining some truths about pet [...]

When you’re feeling lost or turned around, a familiar signpost can help you find your bearings. The same can be said about reading your pet’s blood work. Without any previous knowledge, your pet’s test results are nothing more than acronyms and numbers on a page—but with some basic information, you can recognize specific values and [...]

Your pet has been due for their dental cleaning for some time, but you’ve been putting it off because you’re worried about anesthesia. However, your furry pal’s breath is so rancid, you are avoiding their kisses, and you know their inflamed gums must be painful. But, the day of their dental cleaning has arrived, and [...]

Question: Can my pet get sunburned? Answer: Yes! Your pet can be sunburned on any exposed skin, including their nose, ears, muzzle, eyelids, and belly. And, like people, burned pets can develop skin cancer. Pets with light-colored coats who have fair skin under their fur, pets with thin coats, and hairless breeds are also at [...]

As a pet owner, you likely want your furry pal to tag along wherever you go, from a trip through a drive-thru to a cross-country adventure. However, taking pets on a major traveling expedition can be stressful. Some pets may take to jet-setting without a hitch, but all pets will benefit from careful planning when [...]

Your pet is a family member, and when they are sick, you want to ensure they receive the best care, but veterinary care can be costly. Because of their financial situation, pet owners must often make heart-wrenching treatment decisions that are distressing for everyone, including our Emerald Animal Hospital care team. Fortunately, pet health insurance [...]

Puppies! There may be nothing in the world that can match their combination of cuteness, innocence, and evil genius. And while we could easily label their undesirable behaviors as acts of “stubbornness” or “defiance,” many puppy behavior problems stem from their owner’s poor communication, inconsistency, or impatience. Before you blame your puppy, take a look [...]