Three Rivers Animal Hospital

Those adorable squishy faces and big round eyes make brachycephalic ("short-headed") breeds easy to love but they also come with some unique health considerations.

🐾 Common Brachycephalic Breeds Include:
• Bulldogs
• French Bulldogs
• Pugs
• Boston Terriers
• Shih Tzus
• Pekingese

Their shortened skull shape can lead to narrowed airways, making it more difficult for them to breathe, especially during hot and humid weather, something we know all too well here in Louisiana!

🔍 Things to Watch For:
✔️ Excessive panting or noisy breathing
✔️ Snoring while awake or asleep
✔️ Difficulty exercising
✔️ Overheating quickly
✔️ Gagging or regurgitation
✔️ Blue or pale gums (an emergency)

☀️ Summer Safety Tip:
Brachycephalic pets are at increased risk for heat stress and heatstroke. Always provide plenty of fresh water, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, and keep them in cool, air-conditioned environments whenever possible.

🐶 Fun Fact: While many people think snoring is "normal" for these breeds, excessive snoring or labored breathing may indicate an airway issue that should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Did you know that we offer Cold Laser Therapy to help pets feel more comfortable and improve their quality of life?

Cold laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate healing at the cellular level. It's a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that many pets find relaxing—even those who are nervous about veterinary visits!

💡 Benefits of Cold Laser Therapy May Include:
✔️ Reduced pain and inflammation
✔️ Faster healing after surgery or injury
✔️ Improved mobility and comfort in arthritic pets
✔️ Support for muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries
✔️ Enhanced wound healing
✔️ Increased circulation to affected areas

🐶🐱 Pets with arthritis, joint pain, back pain, soft tissue injuries, chronic inflammation, and post-surgical discomfort may benefit from laser therapy as part of their treatment plan.

One of the best parts? Treatments are painless, typically take just a few minutes

☀️🐾 SPOT THE SUMMER DANGERS! 🐾☀️
Summer is all about sunshine, backyard fun, and making memories with our pets but some warm-weather hazards can sneak up on even the most attentive pet parents.

🌿🐾 Is Your Pet Itchy? Louisiana Allergies Might Be to Blame! 🐾🌿
If your dog or cat seems extra itchy lately, Louisiana's warm, humid climate could be playing a role. With our long growing seasons, high pollen counts, abundant grasses, mold spores, and year-round flea activity, allergies are a common concern for pets across the state.

🔍 Common Signs of Allergies in Pets:
✔️ Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing
✔️ Red, irritated skin
✔️ Recurring ear infections or head shaking
✔️ Hair loss or thinning coat
✔️ Paw licking or chewing
✔️ Watery eyes or sneezing
✔️ Skin infections with an unusual odor

In Louisiana, many pets experience allergy symptoms for much of the year—not just during spring. Flea allergies are especially common, and even a single flea bite can cause significant itching in sensitive pets.

💡 What Does This Mean for Pet Owners?
Persistent itching isn't just uncomfortable—it can lead to skin damage, infections, and ongoing discomfort. If your pet is showing allergy symptoms, a veterinary exam can help identify potential triggers and develop a management plan tailored to their needs.

🐶 Fun Fact: Dogs often show allergies through their skin, while people more commonly experience respiratory symptoms like sneezing and congestion!

Don't let your pet suffer through the itch. If you're noticing any of these signs, schedule a visit with your veterinarian to help keep them comfortable and happy all year long. ❤️

First aid tips for pet owners First aid is not a substitute for veterinary care, but it may save your pet’s life until you can get to a veterinarian.

🐱💕 Happy National Kitten Day! 💕🐱

Tiny paws. Big purrs. Endless mischief. ❤️

Today we're celebrating the kittens who keep us smiling with their playful antics, curious personalities, and irresistible cuddles.

If you've recently welcomed a kitten into your family, don't forget that early veterinary care helps set the foundation for a lifetime of health and happiness.

Regular wellness exams, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and microchipping are important first steps for your newest family member.

📸 We'd love to see your kittens! Share a photo in the comments and tell us their name. ⬇️