connected care

Researchers have identified a new bladder stone in dogs linked to certain dietary additives, especially choline bitartrate. Not all “fresh”, “raw” or “natural” foods are risk-free. Checking labels and consulting with a veterinarian is the best way to protect your dog’s urinary health.

House-soiling is one of the most frustrating challenges for cat owners—and one of the leading reasons cats are surrendered to shelters. The important thing to remember is that cats don’t urinate or defecate outside the litter box out of spite. Instead, house-soiling is usually a sign that something in their environment, health, or emotional well-being needs attention. Common Causes of House-Soiling Environmental and Social Stressors: Cats value cleanliness and privacy. A dirt

Your pet is a cherished member of your family. They share your routines, comfort you during tough times, and fill your life with joy. Dogs, cats, and small animals have adapted beautifully to our homes and routines—curled up on couches, begging for snacks, and greeting us at the door. But while your dog or cat may seem fine on the outside, remember that animals have the same instincts as their wild ancestors—to hide signs of pain, sickness, or weakness. It’s part of how they’

Savage Raw Cat Food has issued a recall due to potential bird flu (H5N1) contamination and potential cat illness. The product with lot code/best by date of 11152026 was distributed in November 2024. More details can be found through the Savage Cat Food Website. Please check your labels and stop feeding recalled products immediately. If you have fed your cats the recalled products you should watch for symptoms of bird flu, including fever, lethargy, low appetite, reddened or i

The H5N1 avian influenza virus, commonly known as bird flu, has been detected in cats, including pet, feral, and zoo cats according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) in 2025. Since the 2024 outbreak in U.S. dairy cattle, multiple feline cases have been linked to raw food consumption and exposure to infected animals. Additionally, avian flu has been confirmed in birds in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware over the past few weeks. Wild birds, including bac

At Aardvark Animal Hospital, we prioritize RACE certified, American Association of Veterinary State Boards approved, continuing education (CE) well beyond what is required for licensure for our team. This commitment aligns with our mission to deliver exceptional, compassionate, proactive, and preventative medicine. But why is CE so critical in veterinary medicine? Let’s explore the key reasons. Staying Current with Advances in Veterinary Science Veterinary medicine is a const

As part of our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional care, we want to address a topic that affects all of us: the current rising cost of medications from our distributors, as these changes are actively happening and impacting our pricing. Not all our in-house medications will be affected by these changes or experience significant price increases. However, in the spirit of transparency and our commitment to your trust, and your pet's health, we want to inform you that yo

Our pets, with their boundless curiosity, can sometimes find themselves in precarious situations, including accidental ingestion of substances like marijuana, illicit, or prescription drugs. As responsible pet owners, it’s essential to stay informed and be prepared for unexpected emergencies.  Let’s discuss the immediate steps to take if your furry family member happens to ingest drugs unintentionally.  But before we do that… NO JUDGEMENT HERE!   To best care for your pet, we

We understand that you love your pets and want them to thrive and enjoy a healthy, happy life and guess what, animal chiropractor visits are indeed a thing. Animal chiropractic care is a specialized field that focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal issues in animals, particularly in dogs, cats, and horses. Just like in humans, chiropractic adjustments for animals can help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being. Dr. Thomas recommends chir

In recent years, Pennsylvania has experienced a concerning increase in reported cases of Anaplasma, a tick-borne disease that poses a threat to both humans and animals. Anaplasma is transmitted primarily by the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis), commonly known as the deer tick, which has a significant presence across the state year-round . The surge in Anaplasma cases underscores the importance of heightened awareness and proactive measures to protect your pets against ti

In the world of sugar substitutes, a wolf in sheep's clothing has emerged – "birch sugar/sap". Formerly known as Xylitol, this sweetener has undergone a name change, but its dangers for our companions remain as potent as ever. Xylitol, often lauded for its low-calorie sweetness in human diets, poses a severe threat to dogs, cats, and ferrets when ingested. Now, marketed under the friendlier-sounding term "birch sugar," this substance can be found in a range of products, from

In recent months, a new, highly contagious respiratory illness has emerged among our canine companions, sending concern through the dog-owning community. At AAH we suggest caution rather than panic but as responsible pet owners, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest developments regarding matters of our pets’ health.  We hope that this post sheds light on the recent surge in cases of dog respiratory illness, exploring it’s causes, symptoms, and preventative measures

In addition to considering the safety and well-being of your pets, it's equally important to ensure that children are taught the appropriate way to interact with your pet. This is crucial for creating a harmonious environment for both your children and your furry family members. Teach children to treat pets with the same kindness and respect they would like to receive themselves. Children can often be curious and enthusiastic around pets, but it's crucial to guide them in the

hanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family gatherings, and indulging in delicious feasts. However, it can also be a time of potential danger for your pets. From tempting but hazardous holiday foods to the stress of traveling and the arrival of visitors in your home, there are several factors to consider when it comes to the safety and well-being of your furry friends during this festive season. 1. Thanksgiving Food Dangers: While you're savoring the aroma of a Thanksgiving f

As our beloved pets age, their needs change, and providing proper care for our senior companions becomes increasingly important. Just as we adapt our own routines as we grow older, our furry friends also require specific attention and care to ensure their golden years are comfortable and fulfilling. In this blog, we will explore the essential senior pet care tips to keep your aging pet happy and healthy. Understanding the Aging Process Before delving into senior pet care tips

Our furry friends can't always tell us when they're in pain, but they often show subtle signs that something is wrong. As responsible pet owners, it's crucial to watch for indicators so we can provide our beloved companions with the care and comfort they need. In this blog, we'll explore some of the signs that may suggest your pet is in pain and what steps you can take to help them. Changes in Behavior: Keep an eye out for sudden alterations in your pet's behavior. This can

Halloween is a spooktacular time for humans, but it can be a bit scary for our furry friends. Here's how to ensure your pets have a safe Halloween. Costume Cautions: While dressing up your pet can be adorable, not all pets enjoy or will tolerate it. If your pet is comfortable in a costume, ensure it doesn't obstruct their movement, vision, or breathing. If your pet shows no interest in wearing a costume, it's best to refrain from putting one on them. Pets can become enta

As we gear up to celebrate Labor Day, it's important to remember that while this holiday often marks the end of summer fun, it can also pose some potential hazards for our beloved pets. The festivities, gatherings, and even the food associated with Labor Day can sometimes present risks to your furry family members. Here are some essential tips to help you ensure a safe and enjoyable Labor Day celebration for your pets. Beware of BBQ Foods: The barbecue is a hallmark of Labor

August 15th was National Microchipping Day and we would like to take a moment to highlight some of the benefits of microchipping your pet. A microchip is a small, painless step that can make a significant difference in their safety and wellbeing. Permanent Identification: Unlike collars and tags that can be lost or removed, a microchip provides permanent identification for your pet. It ensures that your pet's information is always accessible, no matter where they are. Reuni

Losing a beloved pet is an incredibly difficult experience for any pet owner. It can also have a profound impact on the other pets in your home. Dogs and cats, like humans, form strong emotional bonds with their animal companions, and when one of them passes away, the surviving pet may experience grief and confusion. As a pet owner, it's essential to provide support and understanding during this challenging time. In this blog post, we'll explore ways to help your dog or car c