Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates’
Blog

Leptospirosis (“lepto”) has been diagnosed in pets for several decades, but recently, it’s begun to show up across the United States in higher numbers. Although the illness is most often associated with warm, rainy regions, outbreaks have occurred in cities such as Phoenix, New York City, and Denver.

In part, the increased diagnoses can be blamed on climate change and unpredictable weather patterns, more urban-adapted wildlife, and our ability to more accurately diagnose the illness. Because of the severity of lepto among dogs, as well as its risk to people, it’s integral to understand how this disease is contracted and what you can do to protect your pet and others.

Essential oils have enjoyed widespread interest and popularity in recent years. And it’s no wonder—they have the potential to soothe a variety of ailments and they smell wonderful. However, for all their positive attributes, essential oils can result in a pet poisoning if absorbed through the skin or inhaled.

While no one wants to experience an emergency situation, it’s our duty as responsible pet owners to be prepared for the worst. Whether it’s another animal attack or you notice strange behavior in your pet, recognizing a veterinary emergency and knowing how to respond can make a big difference in the life of your companion.

Recognizing a Veterinary Emergency

Sometimes, pet owners make the dangerous mistake of assuming injuries aren’t serious because there are no visible symptoms or external bleeding. However, some health threats are invisible to the naked eye or symptoms don’t emerge until they become more severe.

You should treat any of the following situations as a veterinary emergency and contact us immediately: