Veterinary Blog in Lakeland, FL

How to Brush Dog’s Teeth

How to Brush Dog’s Teeth Knowing how to brush dog’s teeth properly comes down to using a soft-bristled, dog-specific toothbrush and enzymatic dog toothpaste, then gently working in small circles along the gumline for about 30 seconds per side. At Highland Pet Hospital in Lakeland, we know that learning how to brush a dog’s teeth…

Dog Hernia Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Dog Hernia Symptoms You Should Never Ignore A dog hernia typically looks like a soft, visible bulge under the skin, often near the belly button, groin, or a previous surgical incision, and while some hernias are minor, others require prompt veterinary attention. At Highland Pet Hospital in Lakeland, we help pet owners tell the difference,…

Splenectomy in Dogs

Splenectomy in Dogs An enlarged spleen in dogs can be caused by a surprising range of things, from a simple benign growth to a much more serious tumor, and figuring out which one you’re dealing with often means the difference between watchful waiting and immediate surgery. It’s a diagnosis that tends to catch pet owners…

Dog Bloat Symptoms

Dog Bloat Symptoms The most common symptoms of bloat in a dog include a visibly swollen or distended abdomen, unproductive attempts to vomit, restlessness, and drooling, and this condition requires immediate emergency veterinary care. Highland Pet Hospital in Lakeland wants every pet owner to be able to recognize dog bloat symptoms quickly, because bloat can…

Dog Periodontal Disease Stages

Dog Periodontal Disease Stages Periodontal disease in dogs is treated based on its stage, ranging from professional cleaning and at-home care for early stages to more advanced procedures like tooth extraction for severe cases. At Highland Pet Hospital in Lakeland, we diagnose and treat periodontal disease in dogs on a regular basis, and understanding the…

Bad Breath in Dogs

Bad Breath in Dogs That unmistakable whiff when your dog gives you a big, happy greeting isn’t just a quirky side effect of being a dog. Bad breath in dogs is most often caused by a buildup of odor-causing bacteria and plaque along the teeth and gums, though it can occasionally point to something happening…

Sneakpeaks and Heartbeats: All About Canine Ultrasounds

Ultrasounds aren’t just for human healthcare; they’re also an important part of veterinary care. For dogs, they can offer a closer look at what’s happening beneath the surface. They can be used to confirm a pregnancy or to help diagnose an issue. If your veterinarian recommends an ultrasound, it’s usually to get clearer answers without…

Common Canine C-Section Indicators

Many dogs deliver their puppies naturally, but some pregnancies require veterinary assistance. A cesarean section (C-section) can be planned ahead or may be an emergency procedure that is done to protect both the mother and her puppies. Recognizing the signs early can make a huge difference in the outcome. There are a few common indicators…

February is Spay/Neuter Awareness Month

February is a special month in the veterinary world: Spay and Neuter Awareness Month. This is a reminder of the important role pet owners play in reducing overpopulation among our furry friends. As much as we love our pets, there simply are not enough homes for every animal if litters continue to grow. Responsible pet…

Annual Pet Wellness Exams: What’s Included, What to Expect, and Why Are They Important?

Even healthy-looking and acting pets benefit from regular checkups. Pet wellness exams are preventative care. It’s best not to wait until something is wrong before taking your pet to the vet. Highland Pet Hospital is a loyal partner in lifelong pet health. This article will cover what to expect from an annual wellness exam for…