As loving pet parents, we want our animal companions by our side for as many years as possible. At Homestead Animal Hospital, we believe the best way to ensure this happens is by making a commitment to their ongoing wellness. By bringing your pet in for regular checkups, you’ll help protect him or her from many common ailments that can affect companion animals. You’ll also give us the opportunity to identify and address potential health problems early before they have a chance to develop and worsen. These simple things can add years to your four-legged family member’s life.

An Ounce of Prevention

Our wellness services are comprehensive and thorough because we want to do everything in our power to keep your loved one healthy. At each visit, the doctor will examine your pet from nose to tail, looking for anything out of the ordinary. We will also develop and implement a customized preventative care plan tailored to your best friend’s unique needs, lifestyle and risk factors. This will include vaccines, parasite control, nutrition, and weight management and anything else we deem relevant to your companion.

Ongoing Health Management

Wellness visits also provide us with regular snapshots of your pet’s health status at each appointment. We can then compare this information against previous exams to identify any changes. This allows us to detect the signs of illness early and develop an effective treatment plan in a timely manner. With many ailments, an early diagnosis can vastly improve the outcome for your pet. The more we stay on top of these things, the better chance we’ll have of extending and improving the quality of your companion’s life.

Getting to Know You

Finally, annual visits give all of us at Homestead Animal Hospital the chance to truly get to know you and your pet. Developing a relationship with you and forging a bond with your animal friend is an integral part of the care we provide. This allows us to partner with you in managing your loved one’s health, and also makes visiting the vet a more positive experience. The more we understand your companion’s needs, the more precisely and effectively we can develop a health care plan.

Is your pet’s itchy skin keeping you both up at night?

There are many different ailments that can affect a companion animal’s skin. Whether it’s a topical problem, like a hot spot or rash, or something more in-depth like an infection, the symptoms can be unpleasant. You don’t want to see your best friend suffer like that, and neither do we! That’s why we offer professional pet allergy and dermatology services as part of our comprehensive system of care. We want to help get your loved one as healthy on the outside as on the inside.

 Diagnosing the Problem

The first step toward helping your pet feel better again is identifying the precise condition he or she is experiencing. Our hospital is outfitted with an in-house laboratory, which allows us to run a number of diagnostic tests quickly and efficiently. We may be able to tell what’s wrong just by examining your pet, or we may need to investigate further. Blood work, skin scrapings, and biopsies help us get the answers we need to move forward with a cure.

Some of the dermatological issues we can provide assistance with include:

• Allergies (food and/or environmental)
• Infections (acute or chronic)
• Parasites
• Dermatitis
• Hormonal disorders
• Autoimmune diseases
• Tumors
• Skin cancer

Developing a Treatment Plan

To determine how best to treat the problem, we will consider a number of unique factors. This allows us to develop a tailor-made approach just for your pet, designed to achieve the best possible results. Depending on the situation, we may recommend something as simple as applying a topical cream. More complex conditions may call for a combination of treatment methods.

Allergies require a little more work to manage. Once we understand what’s causing your pet’s reactions, we will work toward a solution that will eliminate outbreaks as much as possible. Some allergies can be managed through lifestyle changes, such as switching food products. Others may require a longer-term strategy. Our recommendations will be based on and tailored to your pet’s specific needs.

Signs of a possible skin problem include:

• Excessive scratching
• Scabbing or flaking of the skin
• Hot spots
• Shedding more than usual
• Biting, chewing or licking at the affected area
• Bumps or lumps on or under the skin

When people get sick or hurt, they go to the doctor, explain their symptoms and receive the appropriate care. With pets, it’s not always this straightforward. Because our animal companions can’t speak, they can’t tell us when something is bothering them. What’s more, many animals are able to hide the signs of illness for long periods of time. All the while, the condition is able to develop and worsen.

In cases such as these, we rely on veterinary diagnostics to get the answers we need. These tools and technologies allow us to conduct an in-depth evaluation of your pet’s health, both externally and internally. By gathering a complete picture of your pet’s condition, we’re better able to diagnose and treat health problems in a timely manner. Faster diagnosis of illness and injury can vastly improve the chances of a positive outcome for your companion. Homestead Animal Hospital provides a full array of comprehensive diagnostic services to help us better manage your loved one’s ongoing health.

In-House Laboratory

Our hospital features an on-site diagnostic laboratory, which makes it fast and efficient to run a wide variety of tests. In many cases, we can have results within just minutes. This means we can have a treatment plan in place before you even leave the exam room. The ability to run blood work, urinalysis, and other tests in-house are especially beneficial for critical cases when time is of the essence. Laboratory work is also available for routine health screenings as part of your pet’s wellness care. 

Advanced Imaging

In some instances, a physical exam and lab work simply aren’t enough to effectively assess your pet’s condition. That’s why we also offer advanced imaging services. These tools, such as x-rays and ultrasound, allow us to look inside your pet’s body and learn precisely what’s ailing him or her. We can use imaging to evaluate the bones and internal organs, identifying injuries, diagnosing illness and determining its severity. Images can be analyzed by our doctors in real-time or shared electronically with specialists if necessary.

Do you shy away from kisses and close cuddles with your furry friend due to bad breath?

Contrary to popular belief, foul breath isn’t something that all pet owners simply must learn to live with. In fact, it’s probably a sign that your animal companion is in need of dental care. Without adequate attention, your pet’s mouth can become a haven for dangerous bacteria. Over time, these bacteria can spread through the bloodstream and cause a number of other serious health problems. Left untreated, dental disease can even shorten your pet’s life. The good news is, with the right support, you can prevent all of this.

The professional dentistry services at Homestead Animal Hospital are designed to provide all the care and attention needed for a lifetime of healthy smiles. We offer both routine, preventative care to keep plaque and tartar at bay, as well as advanced treatment for existing oral conditions. Whether you’re stopping in for an annual dental exam and cleaning, or your pet needs a tooth extracted, we’ve got you covered. Dental services include the use of safe, effective anesthetic and constant monitoring to ensure patient safety.

Some of the signs of dental disease in companion animals include, but are not limited to:

• Bad breath
• Excessive drooling
• Dropping food
• Sudden disinterest in chew toys
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen or painful face
• Pawing at the mouth
• Yellow, broken, loose or missing teeth
• Gums that are red, swollen or bleeding

If your pet is exhibiting any of these things, it’s time to schedule an exam. We can determine what the problem is and address it quickly, improving the prognosis for your loved one.

In addition to our professional dental care, we’ll also work closely with you to ensure that your pet’s teeth stay healthy and clean year-round. In between annual cleanings, it’s important that you’re brushing your companion’s teeth regularly. We recommend doing this at least three times a week, if not daily. Our experienced staff would be happy to offer demonstrations of the proper technique and give advice on various dental health products you can try.

Bringing a family member in for an operation is never easy, regardless of whether they happen to have two legs or four. At Homestead Animal Hospital, we want you to know we understand what you’re going through. That’s because we’re pet owners too. Each member of our team has experienced the uneasiness of surgery with our own animal companions. That’s why we go out of our way to ensure that every procedure performed in our clinic is as stress-free as possible. You can rest assured that your loved one will be in excellent hands with us.

Pre-Surgical Care

Our process begins with thorough preoperative screening. This helps us to uncover and prepare for potential concerns so we can reduce the risk of complications for your pet. We will also develop a strategy for keeping your best friend comfortable and pain-free — before, during and following surgery. We use the safest, most effective pain control medication and customize our approach to each individual patient.

Your Pet’s Surgery

Regardless of whether it’s a routine spay or neuter, or a more complex procedure, your pet’s surgery will be our highest priority. From the moment you arrive, we will be there to ease your mind and help keep your pet calm and relaxed. Any last-minute questions you have will be answered as we get your loved one settled in and prepared for surgery.

Once safely sedated, our team will complete the procedure as efficiently as possible. As the doctor works, our dedicated support staff will be present at all times, assisting with surgery and closely monitoring your pet’s wellbeing. Our surgical suite is outfitted with modern monitoring equipment which helps us track your companion’s vital signs and pain levels.

Discharge and Post-Surgical Care

When surgery is complete, we’ll gently relocate your pet to our safe, quiet recovery area. As the anesthesia begins to wear off, our staff will be there to offer comfort and reassurance. We want to make the experience as calm as possible. When you arrive to pick up your pet, we will go over our aftercare instructions, including a customized plan for pain management. We want to ensure that your loved one recovers as quickly and comfortably as possible.

Surgery doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety, especially if you’ve got the experienced, compassionate team at Homestead Animal Hospital in your corner. Contact us today and let’s discuss how we can help with all of your companion’s surgical care needs.

At Homestead Animal Hospital, we believe that when it comes to caring for your cherished companion, you should have as many choices as possible. That’s why we’re pleased to offer laser therapy as part of our comprehensive suite of services. The laser uses painless waves of light to treat areas of the body that are experiencing pain or have suffered trauma. This triggers a natural response without the need for medication or other invasive measures. As a result, your loved one can enjoy decreased pain, enhanced mobility and shorter recovery periods.

What is veterinary laser therapy?

Laser therapy is a painless, non-invasive form of treatment that stimulates the body’s natural healing and pain control response. It can be used as a standalone therapy or as a complement to other treatment methods. Using a small, handheld device, the doctor applies a low-level laser to the area on question, stimulating normal cellular function. This results in faster wound healing and enhanced pain relief. Best of all, because laser therapy requires no medication or surgery, there are no harmful side effects.

 What are the benefits of laser therapy?

• Anti-Inflammation – Decreases swelling from bruising/inflammation

• Anti-Pain – Blocks pain by decreasing nerve sensitivity

• Accelerates Tissue Repair, Cell Growth and Nerve Function

• Improves Circulation

• Accelerates Healing and Reduces Scarring

What can laser therapy treat?

Laser therapy can be used to address a broad spectrum of conditions, including:

• Arthritis

• Disc Disease

• Hip Dysplasia

• Degenerative Joint Disease

• Sprains and Strains

• Cranial Cruciate Ligament

• Dental Problems

• Chronic Pain and Inflammation

• Dermatological Conditions

• Lick Granulomas

How many sessions will my pet need?

Because every pet is different, their response to laser therapy is equally unique. Depending on your loved one’s specific condition, its severity and a number of other determining factors, treatment strategies will vary. For some patients, positive results can be seen after just one session. Others may require a more long-term strategy to achieve the desired outcome. We will provide you with an individual treatment recommendation once we’ve had the opportunity to evaluate your companion’s situation.

At Homestead Animal Hospital, we believe that when it comes to caring for your cherished companion, you should have as many choices as possible. That’s why we’re pleased to offer laser therapy as part of our comprehensive suite of services. The laser uses painless waves of light to treat areas of the body that are experiencing pain or have suffered trauma. This triggers a natural response without the need for medication or other invasive measures. As a result, your loved one can enjoy decreased pain, enhanced mobility and shorter recovery periods.

What is veterinary laser therapy?

Laser therapy is a painless, non-invasive form of treatment that stimulates the body’s natural healing and pain control response. It can be used as a standalone therapy or as a complement to other treatment methods. Using a small, handheld device, the doctor applies a low-level laser to the area on question, stimulating normal cellular function. This results in faster wound healing and enhanced pain relief. Best of all, because laser therapy requires no medication or surgery, there are no harmful side effects.

What are the benefits of laser therapy?

• Anti-Inflammation – Decreases swelling from bruising/inflammation
• Anti-Pain – Blocks pain by decreasing nerve sensitivity
• Accelerates Tissue Repair, Cell Growth and Nerve Function
• Improves Circulation
• Accelerates Healing and Reduces Scarring

What can laser therapy treat?

Laser therapy can be used to address a broad spectrum of conditions, including:

• Arthritis
• Disc Disease
• Hip Dysplasia
• Degenerative Joint Disease
• Sprains and Strains
• Cranial Cruciate Ligament
• Dental Problems
• Chronic Pain and Inflammation
• Dermatological Conditions
• Lick Granulomas

How many sessions will my pet need?

Because every pet is different, their response to laser therapy is equally unique. Depending on your loved one’s specific condition, its severity and a number of other determining factors, treatment strategies will vary. For some patients, positive results can be seen after just one session. Others may require a more long-term strategy to achieve the desired outcome. We will provide you with an individual treatment recommendation once we’ve had the opportunity to evaluate your companion’s situation.

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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy delivers a massive influx of oxygen – even to areas with poor blood flow – and results in remarkable benefits that cannot be achieved with any other therapy.

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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is medicine’s most efficient method of transporting oxygen cells throughout the body. Safe and painless, it involves breathing concentrated oxygen inside a specially designed, pressurized chamber. (Hyperbaric means “under pressure”). The result is dramatic benefits for stroke, traumatic head and spinal cord injuries, slow-healing wounds, burns, and a broad range of other conditions.

The typical hyperbaric oxygen treatment session lasts one hour. During this time, the patient sits or reclines comfortably in a pressurized hyperbaric chamber while breathing normally. When the session ends, the pressure is slowly returned to normal. Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatments may be repeated, depending on the condition, anywhere up to 40 times and treatments may be given twice daily with minimum 4-hour intervals.

How Does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Work?

When oxygen is inhaled at normal atmospheric pressure, this gas is transported on hemoglobin in the red blood cells. Under pressure, however, oxygen dissolves in the plasma, cerebrospinal fluid in the brain and spinal cord, lymph, and other body fluids. It is therefore easily delivered to all tissues, including those with a poor blood supply. Therefore, even areas that have been deprived of oxygen are afforded the tremendous healing benefits of oxygen.

Stroke is perhaps the most dramatic example of what can happen when oxygen delivery to a vital organ is cut off. During a stroke, a blockage or bleeding in blood vessels in the brain interrupts the flow of oxygen – and nutrient-rich blood. As a result, cells in the affected area die or are damaged, resulting in speech, vision, mobility, or other problems. When these areas are infused with massive amounts of oxygen during a hyperbaric oxygen treatment, damaged brain cells literally wake up.

But even more subtle oxygen deprivation resulting from poor circulation, injury, surgery, and other causes can retard healing and impair function. That’s why HBOT benefits so many diverse conditions.

For more information on HBOT and its advantages, please visit www.hvmed.com.