The best choice & value for your furry friend.
Whether it’s a sore paw or ear infection, our vet-led clinics are here to help. With our knowledgeable and welcoming staff and state-of-the-art facilities, you and your pet are always in good hands.
Below is a list of the medical services we offer.
Services vary by location.
A complete medical assessment begins with a thorough physical examination. Additional tests may be performed as necessary on your pet’s blood and urine to assess the proper functioning of your pet’s internal organs (such as kidneys, liver, pancreas, thyroid and adrenal glands). Depending on your pet’s condition, we may recommend further diagnostic tests such as radiography (X-rays), endoscopy (internal scoping), ultrasound or surgery.
A heart problem can affect your pet at any age although it is more often found in older pets.
Heart failure occurs when the heart no longer has the ability to circulate blood effectively. If your pet is suffering from congestive heart failure you may notice a number of symptoms such as difficulty breathing, frequent coughing and fatigue. Some causes of heart failure include: congenital heart disease (animals born with a heart problem), valvular heart disease (abnormalities of the valves of the heart), heartworm disease, and arrhythmia (rhythm disturbances).
Many heart problems can be identified on physical examination.
Additional tests are usually required to accurately identify the cause of heart disease and may include EKGs (electrocardiograms), radiographs (X-rays), and ultrasound. Heart disease is a serious life threatening condition but early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can extend your pet’s life.
Unfortunately, animals are also susceptible to cancer.
They can develop cancer (abnormal cell growth) of the blood, the bone, the skin, the liver, etc. Spaying and neutering dogs and cats at an early age can prevent some forms of cancer. Recent advancements in cancer treatment can extend the lives of some pets dramatically. It may involve a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. An accurate diagnosis is necessary before we may begin any form of treatment.
Dermatology refers to the study of the skin.
Skin disease is a frequently observed problem in dogs and cats. Diagnosing a skin problem in your pet may simply require an examination by a veterinarian; however, most skin diseases or problems require additional steps to accurately obtain a diagnosis. Additional diagnostic procedures may include blood work, urinalysis, skin scraping, biopsies, etc.
The cause of skin problems range from hormonal disorders to the common flea. You should book an appointment for your animal if you notice any excessive itchy behavior, loss of hair, and / or the presence of scabs or scale on the skin.
Endocrinology is the study of hormones, and there are several common endocrine disorders found in dogs and cats.
Hypothyroidism is often diagnosed in dogs. Hypothyroidism indicates that the animal has low levels of circulating thyroid hormone. The opposite is true for cats. They are frequently diagnosed with high levels of circulating thyroid hormones. Both diseases are detrimental to your pet if untreated.
Additional endocrine problems include Diabetes Mellitus, Cushing’s Disease and Addison’s Disease.
There are many signs observable in pets with endocrine disease. These signs include (but are not limited to) the following: abnormal energy levels, abnormal behavior, abnormal drinking, urinating and eating behavior, excessive panting, skin disorders, and weight gain or loss.
Fleas and ticks are common ectoparasites of dogs, cats, and other mammals. Fleas and ticks are transmitted from animal to animal, as well as by the environment. Many pets are exposed to fleas and ticks outside in yards, patios, dog parks, or on walks. Humans can even bring fleas into their home on their shoes and clothing. Fleas and ticks cause itching, hair loss, allergies, anemia, skin infection, as well as transmitting parasites such as tapeworms or serious diseases such as Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Lymes disease. Pets living in Texas should be on flea and tick prevention year-round.
Ask your veterinarian for recommendations best suited to your pet’s lifestyle and needs.
Gastroenterology refers to the study of the gastrointestinal (gi) tract. The gi tract is responsible for digesting and moving food, absorbing nutrients, and removing waste from the body. The main components of the gi tract include the esophagus, stomach, and intestine. Disease of the gastrointestinal track range from simple to complex and can include intestinal parasites, foreign bodies, infectious causes (bacterial/viral), inflammatory bowel diseases, or gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV). Common clinical signs include vomiting, weight loss, diarrhea, loss of appetite, poor body condition, or constipation. GI diseases can be acute (isolated incidents with quick onset) or chronic (persistent illness requiring medications or treatments to control symptoms). Diagnostic tests dependent on the history and physical exam are typically required to accurately identify GI disease and may include fecal flotations, specific ELISA tests, radiographs, bloodwork, or ultrasound.
Health certificates are required when traveling with your pet. A heath certificate is documentation completed by a veterinarian ensuring your pet is free of infectious disease and satisfies specific requirements, such as specific testing, vaccinations, or treatments.
The requirements for travel are set by each individual state, territory or country. A veterinarian must first examine your pet and determine it is free of infectious disease and satisfies the appropriate requirements.
A simple health certificate is required when crossing state lines on road trips with your pet. Most international travel requires a specific health certificate that must be endorsed by APHIS after completion by a USDA-Accredited veterinarian.
It is important to plan travel far enough in advance to allow enough time to meet the destination country’s requirements. Factors to consider: Is a microchip required? Does the destination country require vaccinations, treatments, or laboratory test to be given or performed? When are vaccinations, treatments or laboratory tests required? (Many countries require vaccinations, treatments or laboratory tests to be performed at certain time intervals before travel.) How long will the process take to obtain APHIS endorsement for international health certificates? How long is the health certificate good for? (Most certificates expire after 10 to 30 days and require a new certificate to be completed)
It is also important to contact the company transporting the pet (for example airline, cruise line) to determine what additional or different requirements the pet must meet.
Complete Blood Cell Count (CBC) – A complete blood cell count (CBC) provides a microscopic look at the blood itself. Blood is composed of different types of cells. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. White blood cells are the body’s primary means of fighting infection. Platelets play an important role in blood clotting.
Chemistries – A blood chemistry panel evaluates the status of the internal organs and measures levels of important blood components such as blood sugar, blood proteins, and electrolytes. Blood chemistries are commonly used to screen for diseases of the organs such as the liver or kidney, for endocrine/metabolic conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disease, and to assess the overall health of the patient.
Urinalysis (UA) – An analysis of urine not only gives us information about the urinary system, but it provides some important data on other body systems as well. Evidence of some systemic problems may show up first in the urine. A urinalysis is an important component of a complete laboratory profile.
Heartworm disease is spread by mosquitoes. Cases of heartworm disease have been documented in all of the 48 contiguous states. Primary hosts and reservoirs of infection are domestic and wild canines, however, other hosts are domestic cats, non-domesticated cats, ferrets, and the California sea lion.
The disease is caused by the mosquito-borne filarial parasite Dirofilaria immitis. Endemic areas such as Texas provide adequate temperature and humidity to support a viable mosquito population year-round. Mosquitoes are outdoors and indoors; therefore .indoor. animals are affected as well.
Ask your veterinarian for recommendations best suited to your pet’s lifestyle and needs.
CityVet’s on-site laboratory is well-equipped in order to provide reliable, prompt results. Laboratory and diagnostic tests include:
Complete Blood Count
Blood Chemistry Analysis
Electrolyte Analysis
Heartworm and Tick-Bourne Diseases
Feline Leukemia/FIV Test
Parvovirus Test
Intestinal Parasite Screen – Fecal Tests
Urinalysis
Thyroid Screening
Blood Glucose
Cytology
Skin Scrapings
Radiographs
Dental Radiographs
Ultrasound
Microchipping has become a very popular and safe way to permanently identify your pet and you as the owner in the unfortunate case that your pet is lost.
Microchipping involves placement of a small electronic chip the size and shape of a piece of rice just under the skin in the neck area. A needle is used to inject the chip. The injection is comparable to a regular vaccine.
If your pet becomes lost and is transported to a shelter, the shelter will be able to scan your pet for the chip and contact you. The scanner is similar to a scanner found in the grocery store.
We advise you to use this system of identification as well as a collar identification system on your pet.
The musculoskeletal system provides form, support, stability, and movement to the body. It is made up of the bones of the skeleton, muscles, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, joints, and other connective tissues. Diseases of the musculoskeletal system most often affect the pet.s ability to move. How severely movement is impaired depends on the type and severity of the problem. Skeletal and joint disorders are the most common, but problems of the musculoskeletal system can also indicate diseases of the muscles, neurologic problems, toxins in the body, hormonal abnormalities, metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, blood and vascular disorders, poor nutrition, and birth defects. Common diseases of the musculoskeletal track include congenital and inherited disorders such as hip dysplasia, degenerative joint disease (arthritis), ruptured ligaments such as the ACL, traumatic events such as fractures, infectious disease, and cancers such as osteosarcoma. Common clinical signs include lameness, weakness, limb swelling, and joint dysfunction. Diagnostic imaging such as radiographs (x-rays) are typically required to accurately identify musculoskeletal disease.
Good or Bad, Nutrition is the Foundation for Health
Most pet foods “feed” but very few of them “nourish”, despite all of their claims for health. All foods impact health either positively or negatively. And unbeknownst to most consumers, today’s pet foods are far from what nature designed dogs and cats to eat and live on. Our recommendations for feeding your pet center on a philosophy that looks to nature’s nutritional design and the science of nutrition, not savvy and often misleading messages of health fed to us by the pet food industry. Our veterinarians are passionate about getting the message out on pet food, good and bad, and how it is truly affecting our pets today. From allergies and obesity to cancer – food and nutrition play a greater role than most realize, just as it does for us humans.
It is our firm belief that choosing to understand your pet food options and choosing to feed a healthier food for your pet will make a difference in their health and their life.
Animals have various nutritional requirements depending on their age, breed and health status. Decisions regarding your pet’s nutrition should not be made without first consulting a veterinarian.
Geriatric animals have significantly different requirements than young growing puppies or kittens. Animals with diabetes or kidney disease also have different requirements.
Your veterinarian will be able to make informed decisions regarding your pet’s choice of diet given their age, breed and health status.
Provide diagnostic services in histopathology, cytology, and necropsies.
Research has shown that when pain is controlled, your pet heals much faster.
As in human medicine, we have a variety of medications available to manage your pet’s pain both before and after surgery and in the event of trauma. Since many pets develop arthritis, we offer a variety of ways to control pain that is tailored to your pet. Don’t hesitate to ask us to explain your options in more detail.
Radiology (x-rays) is routinely used to provide valuable information about a pet’s bones, gastrointestinal tract (stomach, intestines, colon), respiratory tract (lungs), heart, and genitourinary system (bladder, prostate). It can be used alone or in conjunction with other diagnostic tools to provide a list of possible causes for a pet’s condition, identify the exact cause of a problem or rule out possible problems.
When a pet is being radiographed, an x-ray beam passes through its body and hits a piece of radiographic film. Images on the film appear as various shades of gray and reflect the anatomy of the animal. Bones, which absorb more x-rays, appear as light gray structures. Soft tissues, such as the lungs, absorb fewer x-rays and appear as dark gray structures. Interpretation of radiographs requires great skill on the part of the veterinarian.
Ultrasonography, or ultrasound, is a diagnostic imaging technique similar to radiography (X-rays) and is usually used in conjunction with radiography and other diagnostic measures. It allows visualization of the deep structures of the body. Ultrasound is a useful tool for diagnosing many diseases.
Ultrasound can be used for a variety of purposes including examination of the animal’s heart, kidneys, liver, gallbladder, bladder etc. It can also be used to determine pregnancy and to monitor an ongoing pregnancy. Ultrasound can detect fluid, cysts, tumors or abscesses.
Ultrasound is a non-invasive and non-painful procedure. A “transducer” (a small hand held tool) is applied to the surface of the body to which an ultrasound image is desired. Gel is used to help the transducer slide over the skin surface and create a more accurate visual image.
Sound waves are emitted from the transducer and directed into the body where they are bounced off the various organs to different degrees depending on the density of the tissues and amount of fluid present. The sounds are then fed back through the transducer and are reflected on a viewing monitor. It does not involve radiation.
The respiratory systems primary function is to deliver oxygen to the cardiovascular system and remove carbon dioxide. The respiratory system includes the nose, sinuses, pharynx, trachea, and lungs. Diseases of the respiratory system often affect the pet’s ability to breathe. How severely breathing is impaired depends on the type and severity of the problem. Common diseases of the respiratory track include collapsing trachea, asthma (especially cats), pneumonia, infectious or viral diseases such as kennel cough or canine distemper. Common clinical signs include nasal discharge, difficulty breathing, increase rate or depth of breathing, or coughing. Diagnosis is based on history, physical examination, bloodwork, diagnostic imaging (x-rays) of the heart and lungs, and sometimes a chest tap to remove fluid or air.
The majority of your pet’s health needs will be met at our practice; however, there are circumstances where a veterinary spet may be required.
Under these circumstances, we may direct you and your pet to a spet who is a veterinarian with advanced knowledge in a particular area of veterinary medicine or surgery. In some cases, specialized equipment is required to perform procedures that are not routinely performed by general veterinary practitioners. Examples of veterinary spets include ophthalmologists, oncologists, surgeons, etc.
Acupuncture is the treatment of conditions or symptoms by the insertion of very fine needles into specific points in the body. Those specific points provide access to nerve endings which, once stimulated, send information to the spinal cord and brain. A cascade of events occurs promoting pain relief, increased blood flow, and increased function of organs and tissue which then speeds healing.
There is evidence of the success of acupuncture for treating disorders of the reproductive, musculoskeletal, neurologic, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and dermatologic systems.
Alternative therapies are characterized by a holistic and natural approach and include treatments other than conventional western medicine. Alternative therapies include acupuncture, herbology, homeopathy, and massage.
Did you know budgies, parrots and songbirds require regular veterinary attention too?
We advise annual visits to the vet for your feathery friends. During their yearly check up, we will examine your bird’s beak, nails and feathers to determine if they require any specialized attention. Some birds require more frequent examinations. Since birds are notorious for hiding illness, we also recommend annual wellness blood testing to catch disease in it’s early stages.
Note: A bird that doesn.t groom itself correctly and exhibits a ruffled, un-kept look associated with its feathers is usually a sick bird and should be examined as soon as possible by a veterinarian.
Beak Trims
Beaks grow continuously and healthy birds wear their beaks evenly. Some birds develop problems with their beaks and require veterinary assistance to trim and grind the beak to a normal functioning appearance. Do not attempt to trim your bird’s beak at home.
Sexing
Determining the sex of many birds can be very difficult and in some cases, impossible, if relying solely on physical appearance. A blood test can be done to determine the sex of your bird. Please feel free to consult with us about these procedures.
Toe Nail Trims
Most birds require their nails to be trimmed on a regular basis. Trimming the nails of birds too short can be detrimental to the bird. Blood vessels inside the nail are easily “nicked” during the trimming process. Be careful if you perform this procedure at home. We suggest it only be performed at home if you have a small bird with white nails. We also suggest you have a readily accessible .caustic. agent available to use if the nail begins to bleed. Alternatively, bring your bird to us on a regular basis and we will trim or grind away the appropriate amount of nail.
Note: Do not use sandpaper perches! They do not wear down the nails and they can cause skin problems.
Wing Clippings
Wing clipping is performed on birds to inhibit their flying abilities. It is a non-painful procedure that ensures the safety of your bird in its environment. A bird that has had its wings trimmed will no longer be at risk of flying into a ceiling fan or into a window. There are several techniques available to preserve the aesthetic appearance of your bird. Please call to discuss this option further or to set up an appointment.
We offer individualized dog and cat behavioral counseling on a variety of issues including aggressive behavior and inappropriate elimination. If you are concerned about some aspect of your pet’s behavior, please contact us and request an appointment with our veterinarians.
Therapeutic laser therapy has been used in human medicine for decades and is now becoming a common complementary therapy in veterinary medicine. Often referred to as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or less accurately, as “cold” laser, these lasers are different from surgical lasers, which cut tissue with a very concentrated beam. Simply put, low level laser therapy works when the laser beam penetrates to the cellular level, causing a reaction that essentially boosts the cell’s energy. Increased energy means faster tissue repair and cell growth creating results like pain relief, decreased swelling and faster healing of wounds and injuries, just to name a few. Laser therapy initiates the body’s own healing process meaning that, even after the treatment is over, the anti-inflammatory response can continue for up to 24 hours!
Laser therapy is a non-invasive, quick and essentially painless treatment for a wide variety of conditions. It can be used to treat acute conditions such as soft tissue injury, surgery recovery, wounds and bone fractures as well as chronic conditions such as arthritis, ear infections, skin infections and some neurological issues. Most treatments take less than 15 minutes and even chronic patients can experience improvement after just a few treatments. The frequency and duration of treatment depends on the condition being treated but, most patients can decrease or stop laser treatments over time and still achieve the same results as their body begins to heal itself.
Ever wondered what type of dog your mixed breed dog is? It is now possible to answer that question with DNA testing. Following a simple sample collection, the test is submitted and results are provided in a few short weeks.
The loss of a pet can be a tragic event. The emotions we have as a result of this loss are real, justifiable and nothing to be ashamed of. Our team understands these feelings, as many of us have faced this in our own lives. We also have literature that can help you and your children deal with the loss of a family pet. Please don’t hesitate to contact us regarding this issue.
We are pleased to offer you veterinary services at most of our locations for ferrets, lizards, hamsters, snakes, rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small but important pets.
Ferrets
Your ferret should be examined yearly by a veterinarian. A stool sample for parasite check should be submitted at the same time as the yearly check up. Vaccines are available for ferrets and can be discussed with you during your visit.
Common problems associated with ferrets include gastrointestinal disease (diarrhea), parasites and cancer. Ferrets are inquisitive creatures by nature and frequently ingest objects they shouldn’t. Any loss of appetite or abnormal behavior should alert you to a potential problem and the need for veterinary consultation.
Gerbils, Guinea Pigs & Hamsters
Your furry friends require veterinary attention too! You should seek veterinary attention if your pet stops eating, appears quieter than normal, exhibits discharge from the eyes or nose, and/or develops a lump on its body. Teeth grow continuously in these small animals and often require attention.
Iguanas & Other Lizards
These interesting and entertaining creatures are frequently presented to veterinarians for nutrition-related problems. We strongly advise you to set up a nutritional consultation with our veterinarians to discuss how you may best avoid these conditions.
All reptiles should have yearly examinations and parasite checks.
Rabbits
Rabbits are susceptible to a variety of conditions including hairballs, overgrown teeth, parasites and cancer. If your rabbit stops eating, appears overly quiet, experiences discharge from the eyes and/or nose, you should have him or her examined by a veterinarian.
Rabbits should be examined yearly by your veterinarian. Wellness blood testing and parasite checks may be recommended.
Other Exotics
We provide medical assessments and surgical procedures for a variety of other exotic animals including mice, rats, sugar gliders, pot-bellied pigs and hedgehogs. We see many diseases related to improper nutrition in these animals. Please talk to us about how to properly feed your pet as most of these diseases can be prevented with a fundamental knowledge of their nutritional requirements.
Massage therapy is an alternative therapy which may help reduce stress in the body, help joints, muscles, and bones heal, provide basic pain relief, and may assist in the rehabilitation and regeneration of muscle tissues. Both acute and chronic conditions may respond to massage therapy, especially as a complement to other forms of treatment.
