Diabetes

Diabetes is the inability of the pancreas to regulate blood sugar. The body intakes food, which is then converted to glucose/sugar in the bloodstream. Glucose is the body’s energy source but cannot enter the body’s cells without the help of insulin. Insulin is produced by the pancreas in response to food intake. Insulin acts as a bouncer-it lets the glucose into the cells. When the pancreas does not make insulin, or the body does not respond to the insulin then all of the sugar/glucose stays in the bloodstream.

Diabetes is not only common in humans but also dogs and cats. It is estimated 1 in 300 dogs is affected while cats are 1 in 100. In early stages of this disease, signs include increase thirst and urination, increase hunger, and weight loss. As the disease progresses the body is starved of energy resulting in organ dysfunction and extreme illness. Pets become weak, stop eating, and can vomit.

Diabetes is detected by high blood sugar/glucose on blood work and high glucose in the urine system. Neighborhood Vet provides early diabetes screening and maintenance checks. We can help keep your pet’s glucose regulated through medications and therapeutic diets.

Thyroid Disorders

Our thyroid gland and thyroid hormones are vital for metabolic and organ health. The hormones regulate how the body converts food into energy. When the thyroid gland is overactive, hyperthyroid, the excess hormones causes increase metabolism, weight loss, excessive hunger, anxious behavior, and GI issues. Low thyroid activity, hypothyroidism, causes weight gain, low energy, fur loss, and skin changes.

Dogs are more likely to suffer from Hypothyroidism and cats are prone to Hyperthyroidism. Both are more common in middle-aged to senior patients. Neighborhood Vet offers thyroid testing and medications to help keep your pet’s metabolic system working well.

Intestinal Disorders

The intestinal system is one of the largest and most complex systems of the body. The intestinal system must work properly in order for food to become the nutrients which keep the body running. The intestinal tract and biome are also key in immune health and organ function.

Pets are at risk for many GI disorders in relation to age, genetics, damage from illnesses and parasites, and nutrition. Chronic conditions include inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, food allergies, cancers, and pancreas disorders. Common signs are appetite changes, weight changes, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and blood in stool.

Our Neighborhood Vet team is here to help keep your pet’s digestive system healthy and to provide guidance when issues occur. We offer lab screenings, nutritional consults, supplements, medications, and therapeutic diets for management of intestinal disorders.

Kidney Disease

Kidneys work hard every second to regulate the body’s hydration and rid the body of toxins. Kidney’s are the body’s filtration system. The ability of the kidneys to work properly can change with age, infection, genetics, and other illnesses that change water intake.

Dogs and especially cats are at risk for kidney disorders and disease. Signs kidneys are not functioning properly are increased thirst, increased urination, weight loss, change in appetite, and vomiting.

Neighborhood Vet offers the latest in kidney blood tests and urine tests to detect early disease. We offer treatments such as therapeutic diets, medications, and out-patient fluids. We offer solutions to help promote kidney health.

Heart Conditions

The heart is the workhorse of the body. This muscular organ constantly pumps in order to transport oxygen and energy to other organ systems and the body. Just like an engine in a car, the heart needs maintenance and routine check-ups.

Dogs and cats suffer from heart diseases and issues based on genetics, diseases, parasites, nutrition, age and obesity. Common conditions in pets are heartworm disease, heart murmurs, valve disease, and heart enlargement. Signs of heart issues may go undetected until severe. Once the heart is severely compromised, signs include coughing, increased respiratory effort, tiredness, weight loss, and weakness. Signs of a heart emergency include sudden collapse, labored breathing, tongue and mouth are blue, stroke, and unconsciousness.

Routine check-ups at Neighborhood Vet can help determine if your pet has a heart condition such as a murmur or heartworm disease. We will provide guidance if X-rays or referral to a cardiologist is needed.

Neurologic Disorders

Our nervous system including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves are the electrical system that runs the body. Any misfires or electrical disturbance in this complex system can cause sudden changes in our pets.

Common neurologic disorders in dogs and cats include seizures, spinal disc disease, vestibular disease, cognitive dysfunction and nerve weakness. Outside factors including toxins, medications, and trauma can alter the neuro system. Other reasons for neuro disorders are age, genetics, body type and weight, and cancer. Emergency neuro events include seizures that will not stop, extreme pain, collapse, loss of feeling and movement in legs, unconsciousness, and known toxin exposure or trauma.

Neighborhood Vet can help support stable and non-emergency neurologic cases. We offer lab work and medication for chronic conditions. We can provide guidance and referral to a neurologist for complex cases.