 Regular veterinary exams are one of the most important ways to keep your dog or cat healthy. Even if your pet appears perfectly fine, many health conditions develop slowly and may not show visible symptoms right away.
Annual wellness visits allow your veterinarian to monitor your pet’s overall health and detect potential problems early, when treatment is often more effective. What Happens During a Wellness Exam? During a routine veterinary visit, your veterinarian performs a comprehensive health evaluation to detect any changes or concerns. A typical exam may include: • Weight and body condition evaluation • Heart and lung check • Dental health evaluation • Skin and coat assessment • Eye and ear examination • Abdominal check for internal health concerns These visits also provide an opportunity to discuss nutrition, behavior, exercise, and any concerns you may have about your pet. Early Detection Saves Lives. Many medical conditions are easier to treat when caught early. Wellness exams can help detect issues such as: • Dental disease • Arthritis • Heart disease • Diabetes • Kidney disease • Skin conditions Early diagnosis allows veterinarians to begin treatment sooner and help improve your pet’s quality of life. Keep Your Pet Healthy Year-Round. Preventive care is one of the best investments you can make in your pet’s health. Regular exams also ensure your pet stays up to date on vaccinations, parasite prevention, and recommended health screenings. Partner With Your Leawood Veterinarian. At Animal Health Center of Leawood, we believe preventive care plays a key role in helping pets live long, happy lives. Our team works closely with pet owners to provide personalized care for dogs and cats in Leawood and throughout Johnson County. If your pet is due for their annual exam, now is a great time to schedule a visit and keep them on the path to lifelong health.  Regular veterinary exams are one of the most important ways to keep your dog or cat healthy. Even if your pet appears perfectly fine, many health conditions develop slowly and may not show visible symptoms right away.
Annual wellness visits allow your veterinarian to monitor your pet’s overall health and detect potential problems early, when treatment is often more effective. What Happens During a Wellness Exam? During a routine veterinary visit, your veterinarian performs a comprehensive health evaluation to detect any changes or concerns. A typical exam may include: • Weight and body condition evaluation • Heart and lung check • Dental health evaluation • Skin and coat assessment • Eye and ear examination • Abdominal check for internal health concerns These visits also provide an opportunity to discuss nutrition, behavior, exercise, and any concerns you may have about your pet. Early Detection Saves Lives. Many medical conditions are easier to treat when caught early. Wellness exams can help detect issues such as: • Dental disease • Arthritis • Heart disease • Diabetes • Kidney disease • Skin conditions Early diagnosis allows veterinarians to begin treatment sooner and help improve your pet’s quality of life. Keep Your Pet Healthy Year-Round. Preventive care is one of the best investments you can make in your pet’s health. Regular exams also ensure your pet stays up to date on vaccinations, parasite prevention, and recommended health screenings. Partner With Your Leawood Veterinarian. At Animal Health Center of Leawood, we believe preventive care plays a key role in helping pets live long, happy lives. Our team works closely with pet owners to provide personalized care for dogs and cats in Leawood and throughout Johnson County. If your pet is due for their annual exam, now is a great time to schedule a visit and keep them on the path to lifelong health.  As the weather warms up in Leawood and Johnson County, pets begin spending more time outside. While spring is a wonderful time for walks and outdoor play, it also introduces new seasonal risks for dogs and cats.
Being aware of these hazards can help keep your pet safe and healthy throughout the season. Watch Out for Fleas, Ticks, and ParasitesSpring marks the return of fleas, ticks, and other parasites. These pests can cause skin irritation and transmit serious diseases to pets. Prevention is key. Your veterinarian can recommend safe and effective flea and tick prevention medications to protect your pet throughout the warmer months. Toxic Spring Plants and FlowersMany popular spring plants can be dangerous to pets if ingested. Some common toxic plants include: • Lilies (especially dangerous for cats) • Tulips • Daffodils • Hyacinths • Azaleas If you are planting flowers or landscaping your yard, it’s a good idea to check whether plants are pet-safe. Spring Cleaning HazardsSpring cleaning products, fertilizers, and lawn treatments can also pose risks to curious pets. Keep these safety tips in mind: • Store cleaning products out of reach • Keep pets away from treated lawns until dry • Secure trash bags and compost bins • Avoid rodent or pest poisons where pets may access them Schedule a Spring Wellness ExamSpring is also a great time to schedule a wellness exam for your dog or cat. Routine exams help ensure your pet stays current on: • Vaccinations • Parasite prevention • Heartworm testing • Overall health screenings At Animal Health Center of Leawood, our team is here to help pets stay safe and healthy as we head into the warmer seasons.  February is Pet Dental Health Month, making it the perfect time to focus on an important part of your pet’s overall wellness that often gets overlooked— their teeth and gums.
Just like people, dogs and cats can develop plaque, tartar, and gum disease. Without regular care, dental problems can lead to pain, infection, tooth loss, and even impact your pet’s heart, kidneys, and other organs. At Animal Health Center of Leawood, we often see pets with dental disease that could have been prevented with early care and routine checkups. Signs Your Pet May Have Dental Disease. Many pets hide discomfort, which means dental disease can progress before owners realize something is wrong. Watch for signs such as: • Bad breath • Yellow or brown buildup on teeth • Red or swollen gums • Dropping food or chewing on one side • Pawing at the mouth • Decreased appetite If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to schedule a dental exam with your veterinarian. How Veterinary Dental Care Helps: A professional veterinary dental cleaning goes far beyond brushing. At our Leawood clinic, dental care may include: • Oral examination • Professional dental cleaning • Removal of plaque and tartar • Dental X-rays when needed • Treatment for infected or damaged teeth Regular dental care not only keeps your pet’s mouth healthy, it also helps support their overall wellness and longevity. At-Home Dental Care Tips. While professional cleanings are important, there are also ways you can help protect your pet’s teeth at home: • Brush your pet’s teeth with pet-safe toothpaste • Offer veterinarian-recommended dental chews • Provide dental diets designed to reduce plaque • Schedule routine veterinary exams Schedule a Pet Dental Exam in Leawood. Dental disease is one of the most common health conditions in dogs and cats, but it’s also one of the most preventable. If it has been a while since your pet’s last dental checkup, February is a great time to schedule an appointment. The team at Animal Health Center of Leawood is here to help keep your pet healthy—from nose to tail, and teeth to paws.  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:
Helpful tips:
A wellness visit can 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:
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.
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. 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. 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! |
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Animal Health Center
3618 West 135th Street Leawood, KS 66214 913-215-9611 email: [email protected] |
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