To Pee or Not to Pee: Urinary Issues in Cats

Urinary issues in cats should be seen by a veterinarian near you.

One of the more common and potentially frustrating reasons that our clients bring their cats to see us at Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital is trouble in the litter box.

While not all urinary problems are created equal, they all do result in significant stress for both feline and caretaker. Urinary issues in cats may not be anyone’s favorite, but you can rest easy knowing that our expert staff has your back should you ever encounter them.

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Preventing Pooch Panic: Managing Separation Anxiety During Holiday Pet Boarding

an anxious dog surrounded by chewed paper.

The holiday season is synonymous with family gatherings, food, and fun, but pets left alone for long periods during all the hustle and bustle can feel lonely and even experience full-blown separation anxiety. At Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital, we want the holidays to be merry for pets and their people, so we’ve put together some hints for easing your pet’s stress during this busy season.

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The Healing Power of Pet Assisted Therapy

service dog.

Anyone who has had an animal in their life can attest to the fact that pets can make a huge impact on us. Did you know, though, that there is actual scientific evidence that animals are good for us? In particular, pet-assisted therapy can be instrumental for many people. The benefits of therapy animals abound.

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Managing Chronic Pain in Pets During Cooler Months

dog laying in bed.

The colder months of the year can be more difficult for pets with chronic pain. Conditions like osteoarthritis or hip dysplasia can flare up when the temperatures drop. Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital has some winter pain management tips for pets, though, that are sure to help.

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How to Introduce a New Pet to Your Existing Pet

An old black lab and a Jack Russell puppy.

When you think about bringing home a new pet, you may worry about how your resident pet might react. It is totally possible they’ll welcome a newcomer, but what if they don’t? You could be creating a stressful situation for at least one animal, if not both. The good news is that there are tactics that take everyone’s feelings into account in order to safely introduce a new pet to your existing one. 

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The Benefits of Spaying or Neutering Your Pet

a golden retriever wearing an e collar.

Spaying or neutering cats and dogs has become a relatively universal practice. Shelter animals are “fixed” before they hit the adoption floor, and most breeder contracts stipulate that pets must be spayed or neutered by a certain age. And yet, many animals do not undergo this important surgical procedure. There are many benefits of spaying or neutering your pet that goes far beyond reducing unwanted litters and behavioral changes. Remarkably, surgical sterilization has the potential to positively impact the community and so much more.

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Understanding Pet Vaccinations: What Every Owner Should Know

beagle getting a vaccine.

There are so many facets to responsible pet ownership, and preventing contagious diseases ranks pretty high on the list. Aside from the vaccinations that a puppy or kitten receives to be safely inoculated from various illnesses, there are numerous boosters of core and non-core vaccinations that provide the greatest defense against disease. Because we know firsthand the devastation associated with contracting a completely preventable disease, we off this primer on the most important pet vaccinations.

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Why Leaving Your Dog in a Hot Car is Never Okay

Dog in car.

You and your canine companion go together like peanut butter and jelly, and while your loyal sidekick is always happiest by your side, there are times when leaving him at home is the safest option. We endure some long winters here in New Jersey, and we understand that it’s tempting to want to enjoy every moment of the summer with your dog. But if your car trip includes any stop at all, leaving your dog at home is the kindest—and safest—thing you can do for your pet.

At Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital, we take pet safety seriously, and we want all pet families to understand the dangers of leaving animals in hot cars.

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Preparing Your Pet for Surgery: Tips for a Smooth and Safe Experience

A doodle wearing a cone.

Almost all pets will need to undergo anesthesia at some point during their life; whether it is for a spay/neuter, an elective procedure like a dental cleaning, or an emergency procedure. Pre-operative care for pets is important, and your role as an owner is key when it comes to pet surgery preparation. 

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The Top 10 Common Pet Emergencies: A Guide to Recognizing and Responding to Urgent Situations

a labrador at the vet.

When our pets are injured or seriously ill, it seems like nothing else matters. But sometimes it’s difficult to distinguish between pet emergencies and other health conditions that can wait for a scheduled appointment. Certain situations indicate true pet emergencies, and our team at Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital has put together a list of 10 to keep in mind.

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