What's New At VCA Hollywood!

Surgical Services Are Expanding – Meet Dr. Patrick Flynn, DACVS-SA

We’re thrilled to introduce Dr. Patrick Flynn, DACVS-SA, who will be joining our team in June 11, 2025. With his arrival, our surgical service will be available six days a week, giving patients and referring DVMs greater access to advanced care.

Dr. Flynn brings a decade worth of orthopedic and soft tissue surgery experience to Broward county. He will have a strong focus on increasing access to arthroscopic and fluoroscopic procedures, complex fracture repair, oncologic surgery, and soft tissue reconstruction surgery following trauma or tumor removal.

We’re very excited to have his expertise and passion join our specialty team.

Coming Soon: Dr. Jaymie Zweig

We’re also excited to share that Jaymie Zweig, DVM will be joining our surgical service this September, following the completion of her residency at Ocean State Veterinary Specialists. We look forward to welcoming her and sharing more about her background soon!

Heard the Buzz About Hi Flo O₂?

You may have heard the term high-flow oxygen therapy floating around lately—pun intended. This advanced respiratory support system allows us to deliver warm, humidified oxygen at higher flow rates, making it easier for patients in respiratory distress to breathe without the stress of more invasive methods. It is especially beneficial for conditions like pneumonia, pulmonary contusions, or upper airway obstruction—and it’s available right here at VCA Hollywood. Think of it as an oxygen upgrade, giving our critical patients more comfort and more support, faster.

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital-  24/7/365 Emergency & Specialized Care. 

News You Can Use- HeatStroke!

Here in sunny south Florida, the summer heat isn’t just generally uncomfortable, it can also be very dangerous for your dog.

Heatstroke (hyperthermia) occurs when the body gets overheated and cannot be cooled by your pet’s normal cooling mechanisms such as panting.

We see heat stroke commonly in our furry friends this time of year. If not treated promptly, this condition can lead to severe sickness, shock, and even death.

So here’s what you need to know!

When does heatstroke occur?

We commonly see heatstroke in the summer when dogs have been outside for long periods of time, often with no access to shade or water. Other high risks for heatstroke include exercising in the summer heat of Florida or leaving pets in vehicles.

What does heatstroke look like?

Signs of heatstroke might include an excessive increase in panting, increased salivation, bright red gums and tongue or pale gums and tongue, and/or weakness and depression. Further signs of vomiting and diarrhea are signs of shock syndrome and indicate that heatstroke has progressed. If treatment is not sought, organ failure and death follow these signs.

I think my pet has heatstroke, now what?

Heatstroke is an emergency situation and your pet should be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible!

However, first, you can wet your dog’s paw pads and ears with room temperature water, cover him with a wet towel, and get him in space with a fan or AC. Do not use cold water or ice as the temperature difference can cause more severe shock.

Then, he should be brought to the nearest emergency hospital where he can be monitored and treated for life threatening complications associated with heatstroke such as bleeding disorders and shock.

In instances of heatstroke, the sooner we can intervene, the better the outcome!

Tips to safely enjoy the dog days of summer!

-       Always keep water available if you plan to exercise your furry friend or be outside for long periods of time

-       Try to avoid outside activity during the hottest hours of the day

-       Never leave your pet in a car without air conditioning. A car becomes extremely hot, extremely quickly!

Jenna Cardillo, DVM

https://vcahospitals.com/hollywood/primary/team/jenna-cardillo

News You can use: What you need to know about Kennel Cough?

What is Kennel Cough?

Known by most as Kennel Cough but also goes by Canine infectious respiratory disease complex. This is a group of multiple pathogens which together can cause respiratory disease in dogs. Infection is most commonly seen in dogs which are exposed to areas with large groups of dogs, commonly shelters, kennels, groomers, dog shows, and vet clinics. The disease is very contagious and easily spreads through these areas with lots of dogs. The most common bacteria that play a role in this complex are parainfluenza virus, canine adenovirus(CAV-2), Mycoplasma, and Bordetella. The disease can range from mild clinical signs to severe depending on the bacteria involved and the dogs immune system.

How is kennel cough spread?

Kennel cough is spread through respiratory secretions and from objects which have been exposed to these secretions. So that means even if your dog is never playing with another dog who has the virus, if they sit on the same table or play with the same toy they can become infected. The incubation period is 3-7 days which means your dog can be exposed but you don’t see the signs for up to one week.

What do you see?

The most common sign of kennel cough is coughing. The clinical signs vary and are usually split between uncomplicated and complicated cases. Those which are uncomplicated you commonly sick dogs which exhibit a dry cough and sometimes discharge from the eyes or nose. Some animals which fall into the complicated category exhibit moist cough with discharge and also occasionally bronchopneumonia.

 

Diagnosis

Most cases are diagnosed based on the history of being in an area with many dogs, ie kennel, dog park, dog show, etc. Clinical signs the dog is exhibiting are also an important role in diagnosis. In cases which are complicated sometimes blood work, thoracic x-rays, cytology, or PCR panels to look for viruses are used.

Treatment

Most cases which are uncomplicated are told to restrict the dogs exercise mainly then depending on the extent some are prescribed cough suppressants and occasionally antibiotics if bacteria is suspected. Those cases which may have more severe effects like bronchopneumonia may need nebulization, drugs to dilate the airways, antibiotics and restricted exercise. The prognosis when treated is good to excellent.

Prevention

Vaccination is a good way of avoiding kennel cough or decreases the likelihood. Bordetella vaccine given through the nose helps to prevent or decrease clinical signs associated with kennel cough. The vaccination is mandatory for most boarding facilities as well as many large dog shows. There is also an injection form of the vaccine as well as one put into the mouth. Kennel cough can also be prevented by avoiding areas with large groups of dogs and good sanitation in areas with lots of dogs.

Dr. Natalie Savo

https://vcahospitals.com/hollywood/primary/team/natalie-savo

News You Can Use-Leptospirosis: a life threatening disease hiding in urine!

What is leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is formally known as an anaerobic, gram-negative, spirochete bacteria, but more simplistically known as a bad micro-organism that can cause disease in essentially all mammals. Disease is not limited to our domesticated species, especially the dog, but can also be found in many different wild life species and is found throughout the world. The micro-organism particularly likes warm, moist climates and likes to live in stagnant water. As well, depending on where you are in the world, there are many different sub-types of leptospirosis that can all cause disease.

In our domestic animals, it is more commonly associated with disease in dogs than in cats. However, recent research shows that it may play a greater roll in cats than we suspected up to this point. In animals that carry leptospirosis, the pathogen is shed in the urine. In dogs, the most common route of infection is to come in contact either directly with infected urine, or vegetation, dirt, food or water contaminated with urine. The pathogen then penetrates through intact or cut skin, or directly through mucus membranes. Although it can sometimes cause chronic disease, most animals become acutely ill within 10 days.

Not only is leptospirosis a cause of illness in dogs and possibly cats, it can also infect humans! This is a zoonotic disease and special care should be taken with those animals where infection is suspected. Especially to avoid direct contact with the animal’s urine!

What should I look out for?

What does leptospirosis illness look like in your dog? Leptospirosis can affect many different body systems as it spreads through the body via the bloodstream. Depending on the degree of protection the dog has from its immune system, the severity of illness can differ. However, it is important to look out for signs including: fever, stiff muscles, weakness, vomiting, rapid dehydration, lethargy, drinking and peeing more than usual, a new cough or difficulty breathing. The disease is commonly associated with kidney disease, as the pathogen likes to live and reproduce in the kidneys.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of leptospirosis can sometimes be a difficult one, as multiple tests are needed for a definitive diagnosis. Not only does it require that we see if the host body has developed antibodies to the pathogen, it is also important that we try to find the leptospirosis organism itself within bodily organs and tissues. Interpretation of the antibody tests can become difficult in older animals and those who have previously received the vaccine. Therefore, repeated tests are often necessary. To detect to organism in bodily tissues, highly skilled laboratory workers are needed, and even then there is question about the diagnostic quality.  

Treatment

Due to the difficulty diagnosing this infection, immediate treatment is necessary when it is suspected. If infected with acute clinical signs, the disease can be life threatening. Treatment is limited to supportive care and anti-biotic medications, including hydration therapy to help support the kidneys and other affected organs. The focus is to help prevent dehydration, to provide treatment for any other clinical signs such as anti-nausea and liver support medications and to start the patient on strong, effective antibiotics (doxycycline is most commonly used).

How can I prevent it?

As mentioned previously, there are different types of leptospirosis causing disease in different parts of the world. Right now, there is a vaccine against the subtypes Canicola, Icterohemorrhagiae, Grippotyphosa, and Pomona as these are most commonly associated with disease. The vaccine is proven to be quite efficacious at helping prevent clinical disease, reduce shedding in the urine, and help prevent invasion of the kidneys. Immunity can last up to 12 months, and so annual repetition of the vaccine is necessary for continued protection. However, it is important to keep in mind that dogs may still become infected with other subtypes even when vaccinated.

Furthermore, extra care can be taken to prevent unvaccinated dogs from being exposed in marshy/muddy areas, ponds, stagnant puddles and to wildlife in general.

Dr. Liske Bruinsma
https://vcahospitals.com/hollywood/primary/team/liske-bruinsma

News You Can Use- Toad Toxicity: The frog you should never kiss!

The frog you should never kiss!

The Bufo toad (Bufo marinus) also known as marine toad, giant toad, or cane toad is commonly found in the south Florida area. These toads are brown to greyish-brown in color with black or white spots. They are often seen at dusk, dawn, and during the night. Bufo toads have glands on the back of their heads, called the parotid glands that secrete a whitish liquid. This secretion is highly toxic to dogs, cats and other animals. This toxin may also cause skin irritation in humans.

Dogs are commonly exposed by biting or licking the Bufo toad. Once exposed the toxin is rapidly absorbed through the mucous membranes (gums), eyes, open wounds, or gastrointestinal tract. The toxin reaches the bloodstream and targets the heart, blood vessels and nervous system.

   

Clinical signs you may see are brick-red mucous membranes (gums), foamy salivation, difficulty breathing, staggering and stumbling, vomiting, convulsions or seizures and irregular heartbeat. There is no antidote for Bufo toad poisoning so immediate treatment is critical.

Immediately rinse out your pet’s mouth with a soaking wet wash cloth several times to remove the toxin from the mouth. Please do not use a hose to rinse the mouth as water can accidentally be inhaled into the lungs leading to aspiration pneumonia, a potentially life –threatening condition. After rinsing your pet’s mouth, proceed to the nearest veterinary clinic or emergency clinic as the toxin acts quickly.  

In hospital treatment may consist of intravenous fluids and medications to counteract the seizure activity and cardiac abnormalities. Depending on the degree of symptoms your pet may have to be hospitalized for several days following exposure.

Possible prevention of Bufo toad poisoning includes walking your pet on a leash during times when toads are commonly seen. Bowls of pet food and water kept outside should be picked up at night as they have the potential to attract toads to the area. 

Dr. Amanda Causey
https://vcahospitals.com/hollywood/primary/team/amanda-causey

News you can use: Everything you need to know about Parvo!!

What is Parvo?

Commonly known as parvo, this disease is caused by canine parvovirus (CPV-2). Infection with parvovirus is most commonly seen in young, unvaccinated puppies. The virus is very hardy in the environment and is resistant to many common cleaners and disinfectants, under the right conditions it can persist for years. Puppies become infected through oral or nasal contact with fecal material or objects/surfaces contaminated by the virus. Parvovirus is highly contagious to other dogs, after they become infected, and often before they start showing any signs of illness, they start to shed the virus in their feces. This viral shedding continues even past the point of recovery and other dogs in the area are at serious risk. The good news…parvo is preventable!

What does Parvo do?

Once canine parvovirus enters the body through contact with fecal material containing the virus or fomites (objects, people, surfaces, etc.) contaminated by the virus, it begins to replicate and spread throughout the body. The virus has preferences for certain tissues in the body to infect, including the small intestine, the bone marrow, and lymph tissue. The virus infects and destroys cells in these tissues causing the clinical signs that we commonly see. Because the small intestine is affected we see vomiting and bloody diarrhea, along with non-specific signs of illness like lethargy, anorexia, and fever. In a puppy these signs can rapidly progress to dehydration, collapse, shock, and ultimately death. 

Diagnosis

Parvovirus can be diagnosed with a quick ELISA test that most veterinarians have in hospital, used on a sample of fecal material. This test is very accurate but a false negative is possible if it is early in the disease before high viral shedding. Routine bloodwork can also help with a diagnosis as infected dogs often have very low numbers of white blood cells due to the virus destroying the bone marrow.

Treatment

Parvovirus is treated with supportive care until the dog’s immune system can fight off the virus. Aggressive treatment must be started as soon as possible if parvo is suspected. Treatment includes fluid therapy, anti-nausea medications, antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infection, and nutritional support. There are potential complications of parvovirus that may require surgical intervention.

Most deaths occur within 24-48 hours after clinical signs appear. The risk of rapid death, severe complications, and the cost of intensive hospitalization demonstrate why prevention of this disease is so important.

Prevention

Parvovirus is largely preventable with vaccination! Parvovirus vaccines should be administered to puppies at approximately 8 weeks old, 12 weeks old, and then 16 weeks old. They should get another vaccine at 1 year of age and then they can be vaccinated every 3 years. Adult dogs should be kept current on their parvo vaccinations to prevent any risk of infection.

Reducing exposure to the virus is also an important consideration. Puppies should not be taken to parks, pet stores, puppy classes, etc. before they are fully vaccinated. Prompt removal of fecal waste can help prevent the spread of parvovirus, and areas where infected puppies have been should be properly disinfected.

Contagion

Canine parvovirus is highly contagious. Sick puppies should be isolated from other dogs as soon as infection is suspected. Please alert your veterinarian to the signs that you are seeing before you bring your puppy into the waiting room so they can take precautions to protect the other patients. Puppies diagnosed with CPV are hospitalized in an isolation ward to protect them and other pets in the hospital. CPV is not contagious to humans.

Learn more about
Shilo Gardner, DVM

News you can use: Heartworm disease- What you really need to know!!

What is heartworm and what disease can it cause in our pets?

Heartworms are large worms (potentially up to one foot long) that live in the pulmonary arteries of dogs or cats (the blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to the lungs), but can also be found in the heart and lungs themselves.  Heartworms can be found in dogs, cats and ferrets as well as some wild animals such as wolves or coyotes.  Since dogs are a natural host for heartworm, adult worms living inside dogs can mate and produce offspring that can be transmitted to other dogs.  Heartworms in dogs can cause damage to not only the heart, but also the lungs and arteries.  Signs of heartworm disease in dogs can include cough, exercise intolerance and weight loss.  When large numbers of worms are present they can back up into the right side of the heart severely affect the amount of blood that can enter the heart and be pumped to the lungs, this is known as caval syndrome and can be life threatening.  Cats, however, are not a natural host and those that become infected often only have a small number of worms that often do not mature to adults.  Heartworm disease in cats is more respiratory in nature but is still a serious concern.

How is heartworm spread between pets?

In order for transmission of heartworm between animals to occur mosquitos must be present.  When a mosquito bites an infected dog and ingests blood from that animal they can pick up immature heartworms called microfilaria that are being produced by the adult heartworms.  Within the mosquito the microfilaria will mature to a stage that can then be transmitted to a new dog or cat when this mosquito bites them.  It takes 6 months for the heartworms to mature within the tissues and the blood of the newly infected animal, but once mature they can live for a significant period of time.

What is the risk of your pet acquiring heartworm disease and how can you prevent it?

At this time it is difficult to determine what factors may increase the risk of heartworm transmission in a given area.  However, we do know that heartworm disease has been diagnosed in all 50 states and infection rates can vary.  The American Heartworm Society recommends ensuring your pet has a heartworm preventative for all 12 months of the year.  A variety of heartworm preventatives exist for both dogs and cats.  All heartworm preventatives target only the immature heartworms, not the adults.  It is important that both outdoor and indoor pets are given a heartworm preventative as mosquitos can easily enter the home. Prevention is extremely important in cats as the disease can be difficult to diagnose and the treatment currently used in dogs cannot be used in cats.  All heartworm preventatives target only the immature heartworms.  Your veterinarian can recommend and prescribe the product that is best for your pet to help protect them from heartworm disease all year long. 

How do you test for heartworm?

Testing should be performed annually for dogs even if they are on a monthly heartworm preventative to ensure that the medication is working correctly.  All dogs, except for puppies under 7 months of age, should be tested before they are started on a heartworm preventative or if they have been off a heartworm preventative for any length of time.  The timing of testing is different with cats because diagnosis of heartworm in cats is more difficult.  The test in dogs is a simple blood test that can sometimes be run right in the clinic.  In cats testing also includes diagnostic imaging because they typically have such low numbers of worms present when they are infected.  It takes a minimum of 6 months for an animal to have a positive test after they have been infected with heartworm. 

How is heartworm disease treated?

Your veterinarian will come up with a specific treatment plan for your pet once the diagnosis of heartworm disease has been confirmed.  It is important to note that the larger the worm burden is the more severe disease can be and the more difficult it may be to treat.  Treatment is different for cats and dogs, but can involve multiple medications and take several weeks to complete.  6 months after the treatment regimen is completed a repeat heartworm test will be performed to confirm the success of treatment. 

For more information on heartworm disease and how to prevent it in your pet please seek the advice of your veterinarian or access the American Heartworm Society website. 

Never Forget! your pets monthly heartworm medication again. VCA HomeDelivery will safe you money and deliver your pet's monthly medication to your door, the day you need it. All you have to do is call 'Fido' to the door and give him his mail. For more information about home delivery for your pet visit store.vcahollywood.com

Learn more about 

Rebecca Mycock, DVM

News you can use: Home Dental Care for your pet!!!!!

An important part of your pet’s overall health is good oral hygiene.  Just like in humans, preventing dental disease requires regular cleaning to remove any buildup of plaque and tartar on your pet’s teeth.  There are a variety of things you can do at home to help keep your pet’s mouth clean.  All the methods that will be discussed here are targeted at minimizing the buildup of bacterial film, of plaque, and preventing the plaque from mineralizing into tartar. 

  

Home Oral Hygiene:

Brushing: Of the home oral hygiene methods, brushing is by the most effective way to keep your pet’s mouth clean.  Ideally brushing should be done daily, but brushing several times per week will still be effective.  A soft bristle tooth brush and pet specific toothpaste are the only materials you will need.  Human toothpaste is not made to be swallowed and can upset your pet’s stomach if used.  Most pets will allow you to brush their tooth, but a gradual approach is best to get them used to it.  It is often best to start by holding up their lips for short periods of time for the first few days and then proceeding to massaging their gums with your finger or a piece of gauze for another few days before introducing the toothbrush.  Some pets prefer finger brushes or dental wipes, so it is important to be patient and find what works best for your pet.  Lastly, try to make it fun for your pet and make sure to offer the lots of love and reward during the process. 

Oral Rinses and Gels: Another home oral hygiene method you can try is chlorhexidine oral rinses or gels that are squirted into the mouth or applied to the outside of the teeth. These are designed to be safe for pets but can have a bitter taste that some pets will object to. 

Diets and Treats: There are a variety of diets and treats on the market that formulated to help decrease dental disease.  Some help to remove plaque through mechanical action based on the shape of the kibble, while others have ingredients to help prevent tartar buildup.  For dogs, rawhides or various chew toys can be beneficial.  However, bones and antlers should be avoided as they can lead to broken teeth. 

Choosing products that are beneficial for oral hygiene can be difficult as there are so many options out there.  The Veterinary Oral Health Council Seal of Acceptance can be found on various products that have been found to meet the VOHC standard for preventing plaque and tartar buildup on pet’s teeth.  A complete list of the products with this seal can be found on their website (www.VOHC.org). 

Veterinarian’s Role: As important as home oral hygiene is, it is also important to recognize if at any point your pet needs dental care to be provided by your veterinarian.  Some of the most common signs of dental disease can include: obvious bad breath, loss of teeth, discoloured or stained teeth, pain associated with their mouth, as well as appetite or weight loss.  Your veterinarian can perform a full physical exam, including an oral exam to assess what dental care your pet may need.  This typically includes a full oral hygiene procedure and full mouth dental radiographs done under general anesthesia to ensure patient safety as well as to fully clean the teeth, both above and below the gumline.  Regular veterinary visits can help to determine the need for professional dental cleanings and allow you and your veterinarian to come up with a home oral hygiene plan that is best suited for your pet in order to help prevent future dental disease.   

VCA HomeDelivery delivers all of your pets food, treats and medications right to your door. Let us do the heavy lifting for you. For more information about home delivery for your pet visit store.vcahollywood.com

Learn more about 
Rebecca Mycock, DVM

News you can use: Everything you need to know about Lepto!

What is Lepto?

Leptospirosis is a disease that is caused by the bacteria Leptospira. There are many different strains of this bacteria that can cause disease in dogs. It is most commonly seen in warm climates where it rains regularly, aka Florida, but is found worldwide. Lepto is spread through the urine of infected animals so nearly every dog is at risk. Rodents are the primary reservoir of this bacteria, so if your dog comes into contact with water, soil, grass, basically anything that is contaminated with the urine of rodents or other wildlife they could be infected. The good news…lepto is preventable!

What does Lepto do?

Once the Leptospira bacteria get into the body through contact with the urine of infected animals they enter the bloodstream and invade tissues and organs, commonly settling in the kidneys. This causes acute kidney injury in dogs. Signs of acute kidney injury include lethargy, vomiting, anorexia, abdominal pain, and either urinating too much, or not enough. Lepto can also affect the liver and cause acute liver disease. Additional signs you may see include muscle pain, stiffness, diarrhea, fever, edema, and inflammation of the eyes.

Diagnosis

Since the signs of leptospirosis are non-specific your veterinarian may recommend several diagnostic tests to start with, including routine bloodwork, urinalysis, radiographs, and ultrasound. If their suspicion for lepto remains high after routine diagnostics they can send out urine and blood to look for bacterial DNA and antibodies.

Treatment

Leptospirosis is treatable with antibiotics and supportive care. Supportive care can include fluid therapy, anti-nausea medications, liver support, and GI protectants. Depending upon the severity of kidney failure, more intensive measures like dialysis may be needed. With early initiation of treatment, the chances of recovery are good but there is still a risk of permanent kidney and liver damage. The risk of permanent damage even with treatment is just one of the reasons why prevention of this disease is key.

Prevention

Leptospirosis is largely preventable with vaccination! The currently available Leptospira vaccines cover multiple serovars and have been shown to provide good clinical protection and reduce bacterial shedding in the urine. Puppies should be vaccinated for lepto starting at 12 weeks old followed by a booster 2 weeks later, and then annually after that. Adult dogs that have never been vaccinated also need the initial vaccine and a 2 week booster. It’s never too late to start vaccinating and protecting your dog!

Reducing exposure to potential sources of Leptospira bacteria is also an important consideration. Preventing your dog from drinking from or swimming in lakes, rivers, ponds, or any standing water, and avoiding contact with wildlife and rodents is always a good idea.

Human Risk

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, which means that it can be spread from animals to humans. Human leptospirosis most often results from direct contact when swimming recreationally; however, transmission from an infected pet is possible. When lepto is suspected, basic precautions to avoid contact with the dog’s blood and urine are taken. Owners of dogs diagnosed with leptospirosis should contact their physician.

Learn more about

Shilo Gardner, DVM

Food Allergies: When Good Foods Go Bad !!!!!

Food Allergies: When Good Foods Go Bad 

Many of us know people with food allergies, but did you know that pets can have food allergies too? In honor of Food Allergy Awareness Week, we want to make you more aware of food allergies in pets.

While it’s difficult to determine the prevalence of food allergies in dogs and cats, food allergies may occur in about 10% of dogs and cats with allergies. While you may think this is not very common, consider that in 2007, about 3.9% of children were found to have food allergies.1 

Pets can develop dermatologic as well as gastrointestinal signs with food allergies. Common dermatology problems include itching throughout the year, skin infections and ear infections. If your pet has these clinical signs, it is recommended that they be evaluated by your veterinarian to determine if a diet trial would be helpful. To determine which diet would be the best, a complete dietary history including current and previous diets, treats, table food and supplements, is necessary.

One common myth is that grains are the most common pet food allergens. In fact, proteins are much more common allergens. When your veterinarian recommends a diet trial, options include home-cooked diets, novel protein diets and hydrolyzed diets. If you decide to use a commercial diet rather than home cooking, we recommend prescription diets as research suggests that some over the counter diets may contain ingredients that are not listed on their label.

The goal is to feed a protein and carbohydrate that your pet has not eaten before. While your pet cannot have any of their previous treats, there are treat options. I like to think of diet trials as an opportunity to find a new food or treat that your pet will like. He might even like the new treats better than the old treats. Don’t forget that chewable flea and heartworm preventatives are flavored so we recommend talking to your veterinarian about non-flavored options.

We recommend that the diet is fed for at least 8-12 weeks before evaluating your pet’s response to it. In one study,2 about 94% of dogs improved by 8 weeks on the diet trial. So even if your pet does not improve within the first few weeks, it’s worth it to continue the diet trial. You may think that sounds like a long time to wait to see a reduction in itching, but we have medications that we can use to keep your pet comfortable during the diet trial. Blood and saliva food allergy tests are available, but they have not been found to be reliable.

If your pet is on a diet trial, it’s important to follow it closely and remember, no cheating allowed! You might think one treat can’t be bad, but even a small amount of a food that your pet is allergic to can cause more itching and infections, which are the things we want to avoid.

Our goal during Food Allergy Awareness Week is to get more itchy pets the treatment they need.

We hope you enjoyed our first dermatology blog post by VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital’s dermatologist, Melanie Hnot. Check back soon for more dermatology information!

1. Branum, Amy and Lukacs, Susan. “Food Allergy Among U.S. Children: Trends in Prevalence and Hospitalizations.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Oct. 2008.
2. Rosser, EJ. Diagnosis of food allergy in dogs. J Am Vet Assoc 1993; 203: 259-262.

Past and Present, Dr. Jon Dee ACVS Foundation Award Winner 2016 and Dr. Jessica Duhon

Past and Present, Dr. Jon Dee ACVS Foundation Award Winner 2016 and Dr. Jessica Duhon

Dr. Jon Dee, a 1966 Auburn Veterinary School graduate and a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, received the ACVS’sFoundation Legends Award October 6 2016 in Seattle. Dr. Dee practices veterinary surgery at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital. In his words, he “fixes broken puppy dogs.” In addition he has done research on orthopedic injuries of sporting dogs, contributed to journals and coauthored surgery books, and taught interns at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital and as adjunct professor at both The Ohio State and the University of Florida Veterinary Schools. Dr. Dees’s other accolades include 1986s AVMA’s Practitioner Research Award and 1991’s AAHA Practitioner of the Year Award, Southeast Region.

 

Dr. Jessica Duhon, a 2014 Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, is continuing in the family tradition like her grandfather Dr. Fredericksen and her second uncle Dr. Dee. Her grandfather Dr. I.C. Fredericksen and Dr. Jon Dee’s father, Dr. C.E. Dee started Hollywood Animal Hospital in 1947. Dr. Duhon went to University of Georgia for her undergraduate studies and initially was pre-nursing, but she knew her passion was with animal medicine. She went to Ross and completed her final year at Auburn University like her uncle. Dr. Duhon came to VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital for her internship and has continued on as a staff associate veterinarian.

I sat down with the two veterinarians in their office at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital and chatted.

We spoke about the state of veterinary medicine. Dr. Dee was concerned about student debt. Dr. Duhon agreed and knew students at Ross who weren’t even able to graduate but were saddled with large debt. But we all agreed that you decide what you want, and none of us thought we were going into veterinary medicine for the money. 

Dr. Dee admitted that he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do when he was in college as an undergraduate in Auburn. His father told him to do whatever you want, but be the best at it that you can be. He decided on veterinary medicine when he decided there was nothing else he would like to do.

I asked Dr. Dee why his children did not go into veterinary medicine, and he didn’t know. The passion has to be within you and his niece, Dr. Duhon, seemed to have inherited the gene. Dr. Dee said that he would definitely choose veterinary medicine if he went back to his youth and had a choice to do it all over again. I am sure Dr. Duhon will feel the same way after she has been practicing for 50 years.

December Newsletter-http://www.browardcountyvma.com/