​January brings colder temperatures, icy sidewalks, and more time spent indoors, but winter weather can create hidden challenges for our pets. From dry skin to icy paws, a little extra care goes a long way in keeping your furry family members healthy and happy through the heart of winter.
Here are some essential January pet care tips to help your pets thrive all season long.
Protect Paws from Ice, Snow, and SaltSidewalk salt and ice-melting chemicals can irritate your pet’s paws and may be harmful if licked.
What you can do:

• Wipe paws after every walk
  
• Use pet-safe ice melt at home
  
• Consider booties for extra protection
  
• Check for cracks or redness regularly
  

Watch for Dry Skin and Winter Coat ChangesCold air outside and dry heat indoors can lead to flaky skin and dull coats.
Helpful tips:

• Brush regularly to stimulate natural oils
  
• Make sure your pet stays well hydrated
  
• Ask your veterinarian if omega-3 supplements may help
  
• Avoid over-bathing during winter months
  

Keep Pets Warm, Even the Tough OnesNot all pets are built for cold weather, and even cold-tolerant breeds can become chilled.

• Limit time outdoors during extreme cold
  
• Use sweaters or coats for short-haired or senior pets
  
• Provide warm bedding away from drafts
  
• Never leave pets unattended outside in freezing temperatures
  

Be Careful with AntifreezeAntifreeze is extremely toxic, and even small amounts can be fatal.

• Clean up spills immediately
  
• Store chemicals securely and out of reach
  
• Watch for symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or loss of coordination
  
• Contact your veterinarian immediately if exposure is suspected
  

Do Not Skip Winter ExerciseWith shorter days and colder weather, pets may be less active, but regular movement is still important.

• Try indoor play, puzzle toys, or shorter walks
  
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint strain
  
• Keep routines consistent to support mental and emotional health
  

Schedule a Winter Wellness CheckJanuary is an excellent time to reset and plan for your pet’s health in the year ahead.
A wellness visit can help:

• Catch potential issues early
  
• Review nutrition and weight
  
• Update vaccines if needed
  
• Discuss mobility or age-related changes
  

At Animal Health Center of Leawood, we are committed to keeping your pets healthy through every season. If you have questions or would like to schedule a winter wellness exam, our team is always happy to help.
Call today to schedule your pet’s January checkup and start the year off healthy and comfortable.

The holiday season is a time for family, celebrations, and travel. Whether your pet is joining you on the road or staying behind with a trusted boarding facility, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping them safe, healthy, and stress-free.
Plan for Veterinary Needs. Holiday schedules fill up quickly — for families and veterinary offices alike. Before you travel, make sure your pet’s routine care is up to date. This includes:

• Annual wellness exams
• Required vaccinations for boarding or travel
• Heartworm, flea, and tick prevention
• Prescription medication refills

Planning helps avoid last-minute stress and ensures your pet is protected while you’re away.
Boarding or Pet Sitting? Know the Requirements. Most boarding facilities require proof of vaccinations and a recent health check. Even if your pet is staying with a sitter or family member, keeping current medical records and medications readily available provides peace of mind in an emergency.
If your pet has special needs, clearly communicate feeding instructions, medication schedules, and any health concerns.
Traveling With Your Pet. If your pet is coming along, comfort and safety should be top priorities. Secure pets in carriers or safety harnesses, bring familiar items such as blankets or toys, and plan regular breaks during travel. Never leave pets unattended in a parked vehicle, especially during unpredictable winter temperatures.
Reduce Holiday Stress for Pets. Changes in routine, new environments, and busy schedules can be stressful for pets. Keeping mealtimes consistent, providing plenty of exercise, and offering a quiet space to rest can help them adjust more easily during the holiday hustle.
Schedule Early for a Smooth Holiday. The best way to ensure a smooth holiday for both you and your pet is to schedule veterinary visits and refills early. This allows time to address any concerns before travel plans begin.
At Animal Health Center of Leawood, we’re here to help your pet stay healthy and comfortable — wherever the holidays take you. Contact our team to schedule an appointment or prepare your pet for safe holiday travel.

As the holidays roll in, our homes fill with candy bowls, hearty meals, sparkling décor, and a steady flow of visitors. While the season brings joy, it can also introduce unexpected dangers for our pets. Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the weeks that follow are some of the busiest times of year for pet emergency visits, and many of those injuries or illnesses are preventable.
Here are the most common holiday hazards to watch for and how to keep your furry family members safe.
Halloween HazardsCandy & ChocolateMost Halloween treats are unsafe for pets, especially chocolate and sugar-free candy made with xylitol. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, tremors, seizures, or life-threatening drops in blood sugar.
Keep candy bowls out of reach and remind children not to share treats with pets. We know Halloween is ove,r but the treats might still be around! 
Thanksgiving HazardsTurkey Bones & Fatty FoodsTurkey bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Fatty foods — think gravy, skin, or ham — can lead to pancreatitis, a painful and serious condition.
Stick to pet-safe treats and avoid handing out table scraps, no matter how big the puppy-dog eyes are.
 Onions, Garlic, Grapes & RaisinsMany popular holiday dishes contain ingredients that are toxic to pets. Even small bites can harm red blood cells or cause kidney failure.
Keep dishes and leftovers safely out of reach.
 Trash Can TemptationsPets often follow their noses — and holiday trash smells irresistible. String, bones, packaging, and spoiled food can all create emergencies.
Use covered trash cans and take out the waste frequently.
Decorations & Seasonal DangersTinsel, Ribbons & String LightsShiny decorations attract cats and dogs, but ingesting them can cause intestinal blockages requiring surgery. Electrical cords can also lead to burns or shocks.
Secure cords, hang decorations high, and avoid tinsel if you have cats.
 Candles & PotpourriCurious pets can knock over candles or lick liquid potpourri, which is toxic and irritating to the mouth and stomach.
Use flameless candles and keep scent warmers out of paw’s reach.
 Toxic PlantsFestive plants like poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe can cause GI upset or more serious symptoms.
 Visitors & Open DoorsHoliday gatherings increase the risk of pets slipping outside or becoming anxious around guests.
Create a safe space away from noise and entryways.
What to Do in an EmergencyIf your pet eats something concerning or starts showing unusual symptoms, don’t wait.Call Animal Health Center of Leawood immediately. Quick action can prevent serious complications — and our veterinary team is here to guide you through the next steps.
Keeping Pets Safe All Season LongA little planning goes a long way in keeping your pets healthy and stress-free through Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the rest of the holiday season. When in doubt, give us a call — we’re always happy to help you make the best choices for your furry family.
Animal Health Center of Leawood
Compassionate care. Trusted experts. Here for your pets year-round.

As temperatures drop, many senior pets begin to feel the effects of arthritis more acutely. Just like people, cold weather can stiffen joints and make movement painful for older dogs and cats. At Animal Health Center of Leawood, we want your furry family members to enjoy the season in comfort. Here are a few ways you can help ease their discomfort and support joint health this winter.
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1. Keep Them Warm. Joints affected by arthritis are particularly susceptible to cold. Provide your pet with a soft, supportive bed in a warm area of your home—away from drafts, cold floors, and damp spaces. Heated pet beds or pads can also provide gentle relief, but always follow safety guidelines to prevent overheating.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight. Extra pounds put added stress on already sore joints. Winter walks may be shorter, but it’s essential to keep your pet active through low-impact exercise like indoor play or controlled leash walks. Combine that with a balanced diet to help manage their weight and overall health.

3. Provide Joint Supplements. Ask your veterinarian about supplements that support joint mobility and reduce inflammation. Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutraceuticals can make a real difference in long-term joint comfort when used consistently.
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4. Use Supportive Flooring and Ramps. Slippery surfaces can make it difficult for pets with arthritis to navigate safely. Add rugs or mats on slick floors and consider pet ramps for climbing onto couches, into vehicles, or up stairs. Small adjustments like these can prevent painful slips and falls.

5. Schedule Regular Veterinary Checkups. Cold weather can make arthritis symptoms worse, so regular exams help us monitor your pet’s condition and adjust treatments as needed. Depending on your pet’s comfort level, we may recommend pain-relief medications, laser therapy, or alternative treatments like acupuncture to improve mobility and quality of life.

6. Gentle Exercise and Massage. Short, frequent walks or light indoor play can keep joints flexible without overexertion. Gentle massages or warm compresses on sore areas can also help stimulate circulation and ease stiffness—many pets find this comforting and relaxing.

Keeping Your Senior Pet Comfortable This Winter: Arthritis Doesn’t Have to Mean Discomfort for Your Beloved Pet. With a few adjustments at home and regular veterinary care, you can help your senior dog or cat stay active, happy, and pain-free all winter long.

If you’ve noticed your pet slowing down, struggling to stand, or hesitating to climb stairs, contact Animal Health Center of Leawood. Our compassionate team can develop a personalized plan to manage arthritis and keep your furry friend feeling their best—no matter the season.

Autumn is a favorite season for many of us, but it can bring hidden dangers for pets. From colorful mushrooms sprouting after rain to the fertilizers and herbicides often used for fall lawn care, your yard and neighborhood walks may contain toxic risks. Here are three common fall hazards to be aware of:
1. Mushrooms: Fall is peak season for wild mushrooms, and while most are harmless, some are extremely toxic. Dogs, in particular, may sniff out and nibble on mushrooms in the yard or on walks. Ingesting poisonous mushrooms can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, liver failure, and even death. If you see mushrooms in your yard, remove them immediately, and keep a close eye on your pet during walks.
2. Toxic Plants: Many plants and shrubs become more tempting during the fall season. Acorns, for example, contain tannins that can upset your pet’s stomach, and some seasonal plants like chrysanthemums and autumn crocuses are toxic if eaten. Even dried or fallen leaves can harbor mold that irritates sensitive stomachs.
3. Yard Chemicals: Fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides used for fall lawn prep can be dangerous for pets. These chemicals may stick to your pet’s paws or fur and be ingested later during grooming. Always follow product instructions carefully and keep pets away from treated areas until they are completely dry.

If you’ve ever noticed your pup twitching, wagging their tail, or even “running” in their sleep, you might have wondered,what’s going on in that little head?
The good news: science says dogs do dream!

What the Research Shows
Studies on canine sleep patterns have revealed that dogs experience REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, just like humans. REM is the stage most associated with dreaming. That’s why you may see their paws twitch, noses wiggle, or even hear soft barks while they snooze.

What Do Dogs Dream About?
While we can’t peek into their minds, experts believe dogs dream about their daily activities—similar to us. That means your pup could be reliving their morning walk, playing fetch, or even remembering cuddles on the couch. Puppies and senior dogs tend to dream more often, possibly because they’re processing new experiences or recalling favorite memories.

Is Twitching in Sleep Normal?
Yes! A little twitching, kicking, or “sleep running” is perfectly normal and healthy. It’s simply their brain staying active during the dreaming process. However, if your dog shows signs of distress (whimpering intensely, waking suddenly in panic, or having frequent nighttime disturbances), it’s worth mentioning to your veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues.

Sweet Dreams for Sweet Pups
Just like humans, dogs need quality rest to stay happy and healthy. Providing a comfortable, quiet sleeping spot will help them drift into dreamland without interruptions.
So next time you see your furry friend snoozing and twitching, you can smile knowing they’re probably dreaming of chasing tennis balls, exploring the yard, or spending time with you—their favorite person.
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What do you think your dog dreams about? Share your thoughts with us at Animal Health Center of Leawood—we’d love to hear your stories!

​Our pets rely on us to keep them healthy, and that includes taking care of their hearts. Just like people, dogs and cats can develop heart disease. The good news? With regular vet visits and early detection, many heart conditions can be managed to help pets live long, happy lives.






Signs Your Pet May Have a Heart Problem: Heart disease can be challenging to detect, especially in its early stages. Keep an eye out for:

• Persistent coughing, particularly at night or after play
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Fatigue or reluctance to exercise
• Loss of appetite
• Fainting or collapsing
• A bloated or swollen belly (often due to fluid buildup)

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to schedule a check-up right away.
Keeping Your Pet’s Heart Healthy: Prevention Starts with Everyday Care. Here are some simple steps to support heart health:

• Regular vet check-ups – Routine exams allow us to spot potential problems early.
• Healthy weight management – Extra pounds can put unnecessary strain on your pet’s heart.
• Daily exercise – Whether it’s a walk, a game of fetch, or playtime, movement is key.
• A balanced diet – Nutritious food helps maintain overall health.
• Dental care – Oral health impacts the heart, as bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream.

When to Visit the Vet: Even if your pet seems healthy, regular wellness exams are the best way to catch heart problems early. Our team at Animal Health Center of Leawood utilizes advanced diagnostics, including imaging and blood work, to monitor heart function and create a personalized care plan as needed.
Your pet’s heart deserves as much care as your own. If you’ve noticed changes in their breathing, energy, or appetite—or if it’s time for a routine check-up—contact us to schedule an appointment today.

Every year, thousands of beloved pets go missing, and many never find their way back home. The heartbreaking truth is that most lost animals end up in shelters without any form of identification. Collars and tags can fall off or become unreadable, but a microchip is a permanent, reliable way to give your pet the best possible chance of being reunited with you.
At Animal Health Center of Leawood, we’re passionate about protecting your pets, and microchipping is one of the simplest, most effective steps you can take.

What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that’s inserted just under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Each chip contains a unique ID number that’s registered in a national database with your contact information.
If your pet is lost and brought to a veterinary clinic or shelter, a quick scan of the chip allows staff to access your information and contact you immediately.

Why Microchipping Matters

• Permanent Identification: Unlike collars or tags, a microchip can’t fall off or be removed.
• Lifetime Protection: Once it’s implanted, your pet is protected for life.
• Increases Return Rate: Microchipped dogs are over twice as likely to be returned to their owners. For cats, the rate is even higher, more than 20 times compared to those without a chip.
• Affordable & Easy: Microchipping is quick, safe, and relatively inexpensive—especially when you consider the peace of mind it offers.

Make This Month Count: Microchip Action.
This month, take a few minutes to ensure your pet is protected:
✅ Already Microchipped?
Ensure your contact information is up-to-date in the national registry. Log in and verify that your phone number, email address, and address are up to date.
✅ Not Microchipped Yet?
Now’s the time! A microchip appointment typically takes only a few minutes, and no anesthesia is required. It's just like getting a routine vaccine.
✅ Have Questions?
Our team is happy to guide you through the process, explain how it works, and assist you in registering your chip correctly.

Ready to Protect Your Pet?
Your furry friend depends on you for their safety, and microchipping is one of the best ways to ensure they can always find their way home.
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📞 Call Animal Health Center of Leawood today to schedule a quick microchipping appointment or to verify your pet’s chip is functioning and properly registered.
Let’s work together to keep your pets safe—because every pet deserves a safe return home.

​As the weather warms up, it's not just flowers and sunshine we need to watch for — fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are back too! These pests aren’t just a nuisance; they can cause serious health problems for your pets, including Lyme disease, heartworm disease, and more.
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At Animal Health Center of Leawood, we’re here to help you stay one step ahead with spring parasite prevention.






Why Spring Parasite Prevention MattersFleas, ticks, and mosquitoes become much more active once temperatures rise. Even a quick walk through your backyard or a trip to the park can expose your pet to these pests. Unfortunately, it only takes one bite to transmit harmful diseases.
Common risks include:

• Heartworm disease (spread by mosquitoes)
• Lyme disease (spread by ticks)
• Flea infestations (leading to skin issues and other infections)

Prevention is easier — and far less expensive — than treating an illness later!
Protect Your Pet with Preventative CareAt AHCLeawood, we offer tailored parasite prevention plans based on your pet’s lifestyle, health, and risk level. Our veterinarians will recommend the safest and most effective options to keep your dog or cat protected year-round.
Parasite prevention typically includes:

• Monthly flea and tick preventatives
• Heartworm prevention medications
• Annual heartworm testing
• Education on reducing environmental risks (like standing water and tall grass)

Schedule Your Pet’s Spring Wellness Visit Today!Spring is the perfect time to make sure your pet is protected before parasites become a bigger threat.
During your pet’s visit, we’ll:

• Perform a full wellness exam
• Test for heartworm if needed
• Recommend or update parasite prevention medications
• Answer any questions you have about outdoor safety

Don’t wait until it’s too late — protecting your pet now means a healthier, happier season ahead.

🌟 Schedule your spring appointment today!
Call us at (913) 341-8836 or book online to get your pet started on the best protection plan.