Understanding Pet Emergencies and Where to Turn in McAllen, TX

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When your pet is in distress, every moment feels urgent. While Valley Animal Hospital is not an emergency vet hospital, it is still important for pet owners to understand what qualifies as an emergency and where to go for immediate care. Preparing in advance ensures your pet receives prompt, appropriate care from an emergency vet... Read More

Unexpected Situations That Require Emergency Vet Care in McAllen, TX

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Pet emergencies don’t always look dramatic at first, but certain unexpected situations can become serious without fast action. Understanding when your pet needs an emergency vet in McAllen, TX, helps you react quickly and protect their health. Sudden Changes That Signal an Emergency Some emergencies show up gradually or appear mild at first, but they... Read More

Puppy Behavioral Counseling: Training Foundations Every New Dog Owner Should Know

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Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but it also comes with challenges. From potty training to teaching good manners, early guidance shapes how your puppy behaves for life. With the right training foundations—and the support of professional puppy behavioral counseling—you can help your new best friend grow into a confident, well-behaved adult dog. At... Read More

How to Support Your Senior Pet’s Changing Nutritional Needs

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As pets grow older, their bodies and behaviors change—and so should their nutrition. The same food that kept your pet energetic in their younger years might not meet their needs in their senior years. Our geriatric programs help guide pet owners through this critical transition. With the proper feeding habits and regular monitoring, you can... Read More

Indoor Pets Get Lost Too: Why Microchipping Is Still a Must

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Many pet owners believe microchipping is only necessary for pets that roam outdoors. But the truth is—even strictly indoor cats and dogs can slip out when you least expect it. Our microchip program offers an added layer of protection that helps bring pets home—regardless of how they got out. Understand How Indoor Pets Can Escape... Read More

Is It Just Zoomies or Something More? Understanding Hyperactive Pet Behavior

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Most pet owners are familiar with the “zoomies”—those sudden, silly bursts of energy where dogs or cats race around the house like a bolt of lightning. While it’s perfectly normal behavior, some high-energy activity could actually be serious. Sometimes, repeated or disruptive energy may be a sign of something more. At Valley Animal Hospital, our... Read More

Back-to-School Blues: Easing Pet Anxiety with Behavioral Counseling

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As families settle into back-to-school routines, pets can struggle with the sudden quiet in the home. Dogs and cats used to constant companionship may feel anxious when left alone. Recognizing early warning signs helps pet owners provide support before stress escalates. Look for these common behaviors that suggest your pet may be struggling: Excessive barking... Read More

Fall is Peak Mosquito Season: Why Heartworm Prevention Matters Now More Than Ever

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Many pet owners assume mosquitoes disappear when temperatures cool. However, in South Texas, mosquito activity often persists at high levels throughout September and beyond. These pests don’t need extreme heat to thrive, which means the threat of heartworm transmission lingers well into fall. Heartworm disease, spread by infected mosquito bites, can cause lasting damage to... Read More

Caring for Senior Pets in the Fall: Mobility & Comfort Tips for Aging Animals

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Cooler days and unpredictable weather can make outdoor activities more difficult for senior pets. However, keeping aging dogs and cats moving is important for joint health and overall well-being. Geriatric programs and indoor exercise provide a safe and comfortable way to keep pets active, eliminating the challenges of cold mornings and damp grass. Ideas for... Read More