Ahwatukee Commons Veterinary Hospital

Please show some love for our "Pet of the Week" Denior🥰🐾

Help Your Barker Survive the Bite (Rattlesnakes)

As the weather gets warmer, snakes will become more active and there’s a good chance you’ll encounter one basking in the sun. Rattlesnakes aren’t confined to rural areas, however—they can be found in cities, suburban parks, and riverside areas.

Rattlesnake venom is extremely dangerous as it causes excessive swelling and death of the tissue surrounding the wound. The rattlesnake vaccine is effective for only about nine months, so if you had your dog vaccinated last year, your pet will need a booster soon.

Even though dogs have a natural fear of snakes, canines tend to be curious and a snake can strike before you or your dog sees it. To decrease the risk of being bitten, it’s a good idea to stick to well-used trails, keep your dog leashed, and don’t hike alone. It’s also important not to let your dog sniff or step where you can’t see, such as around rocks, brushy areas, and downed logs.

Because the vaccine can only reduce the severity of symptoms and give you more time to seek help, bites should always be treated as soon as possible at the closest veterinary emergency facility—even if your pet is vaccinated.

If your pet spends lots of time outdoors or accompanies you on hikes and other adventures, we strongly encourage you to keep their rattlesnake vaccine current! Give us a call for an appointment soon–call 480-893-8423.

Please show some love for our "Pet of the Week" Tuna Fish 🐾🥰

Lyme Disease and Pets:

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread by ticks and it can affect dogs, cats and people. It's much more common in dogs than cats, but tick prevention is important for every pet.

Ticks are most active during the spring, summer and fall, but they can be at risk year-round wherever temperatures are above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Most pets exposed to Lyme disease won't become sick. If signs to appear, they may not show up until 2-5 months after a tick bite. Watch for: fever, limping or lameness, lethargy, decreased appetite, joint swelling or pain and swollen lymph nodes.

Get your pet protected today!

Please show some love for our "Pet of the Week" Apollo! 🥰🐾

Pets can escape even from the most secure homes. Microchipping provides an extra layer of protection. Studies show microchipped pets are far more likely to be returned to their owners.

Checking your pets ears weekly can catch infections early. Redness, shaking head and odor are all signs to schedule a visit.

Please show some love for our "Pet of the Week" Belle! 🥰🐾

Send us a photo of your pet, or let us take one during your visit, for a chance to to be featured as our Pet of the Week and showcased on our page! Winner is selected every Tuesday!

Please text photo's to 480-893-8423 or email to [email protected]

Please note: only pets with an appointment are eligible to participate.

🐾 Your pet can't tell you when something's wrong, but we can help you figure it out. Regular checkups keep your fur baby happy, healthy and by your side longer. 🥰