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Ticks are a year-round threat to pet health in the Sunshine State with an increase in activity during spring and summer due to newly hatched nymphs looking for their first blood meals. Nymphs can be much harder because they are so small.

There are numerous tick species seen in Florida, including:

• American dog tick
• Lone star tick
• Gulf coast tick
• Black-legged tick

The brown dog tick has the potential to infest areas rather quickly. If your dog or cat visits places frequented by lots of other animals (like dog parks, kennels, backyard with frequent wildlife, etc.), they may be at higher risk of picking up one or more ticks.

As a pet owner, you’ve likely heard about the importance of spaying and neutering for dogs and cats. These surgeries prevent unwanted litters and help to reduce pet overpopulation. But did you know that there are even more benefits to expect from spaying and neutering pets? Discover some of the health benefits associated with spaying and neutering surgery for cats and dogs:

No one likes dog breath, and tuna breath isn’t so great either. Dental disease is a real problem for our pets. South Seminole Animal Hospital wants to be sure that you understand dental care for dogs and cats so that you can enjoy them, breath and all. 

So many dogs suffer from separation anxiety. You are their whole world, and when you leave, it falls apart—even if just for ten minutes. This is not only stressful for the dog, but also you, the owner. Learn how to manage separation anxiety in dogs from your pet experts at South Seminole Animal Hospital. 

The holiday season is a time for indulgence, but while we may enjoy the feast, our furry friends may not be so lucky. At South Seminole Animal Hospital, we often see a spike in pancreatitis cases during this time. While the holidays are full of delicious treats, it’s important to know which festive foods can harm your dog’s health.

When you have a dog with an upset stomach, it can be unpleasant for both you and your pet. Vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite in pets can have many potential causes. It’s not necessarily easy to tell all the time what the underlying issue is, but South Seminole Animal Hospital thinks it is important for pet owners to understand some common causes of tummy trouble and know when to worry and when to wait it out. 

The endocrine system is responsible for the production of important hormones that stimulate specific responses all over the body. These hormones help the body function effectively. Any slight deviation can affect the delicate balance of hormone production. Perhaps the most recognizable disease affecting the endocrine system is diabetes mellitus. However, hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease in dogs are among the most common health conditions facing canines today. 

Environmental allergies in cats and dogs may spike seasonally, but symptoms can also persist year-round. Mold, dust mites, and pollen are common allergens that trigger incessant scratching, licking, ear infections, and, let’s face it, overall misery. How do pet owners help their allergic pets cope with atopy, or atopic dermatitis? It’s not always easy or straightforward, but there are specific strategies to treat and soothe the skin, reduce triggers, and increase comfort. 

Going to the bathroom without incident is something many cat owners take for granted. Their cats simply enter their boxes, conduct important business, and hop out afterwards. While their cats may have strong opinions about the litter quality and scooping schedule, their bathroom habits are relatively uneventful. Unfortunately, not all cats experience such relief and satisfaction. Urinary issues in cats are fairly common, and the warning signs of UTIs in cats are worth recognizing and treating. 

Many health scares can be entirely prevented with routine check-ups. Pet wellness exams also promote day-to-day wellness that improves quality and quantity of life. If you want your pet to enjoy the happiest and healthiest life possible, wellness exams are essential.