Our staff at Laurel Park Animal Hospital is filled with passionate animal lovers who are here to help you and your pet! They are highly trained and dedicated to making sure that your pets receive the care and compassion every time they walk in the door!
We offer the following services to keep your pets healthy:
- Canine Wellness
- Feline Wellness
- New Pet Care
- Low Stress Handling
- Emergencies
- Internal Medicine
- Diagnostics
- Common Pet Toxins
- Laser Therapy
- Health Certificates
- Dental Care
- Surgery
- Spay and Neuter
- Microchipping
- Vaccinations
- Nutritional Counseling
- Behavior Management
- Parasite Prevention
- Pain Management
- Pharmacy
- Dermatology
- Puppy and Kitten Care
- Geriatric Care
- Euthanasia
- Referral Services
New Pet Care
Whether it is a puppy, kitten, or an older pet that has just joined your home, your new companion will need special consideration and care. We will help you get your new dog or cat off to a healthy start as they become a member of your family.
- Complete physical examinations
- Core & elective cat and dog vaccinations
- Parasite testing, treatment, & prevention (heartworm prevention & flea/tick control)
- Leukemia virus and immunodeficiency virus testing (for cats)
- Nutritional recommendations
- Spay & neuter surgery
Optional Services
- Microchipping & microchip registration
- Laser surgery option for feline declawing
Low Stress Handling
At Laurel Park Animal Hospital, we emphasize low stress handling of our patients in order to make their visit as comfortable as possible. We want our patients to enjoy their visits and we work hard to gain their trust.
We focus on having a quiet environment, taking our time, minimizing the amount and strength of restraint, and rewarding our patients with delicious treats and praise. Because of this care and handling, most of our patients are happy to come to our office and often enjoy the experience. We believe that these techniques set us apart from other animal hospitals.
We encourage you to regularly stop by our clinic lobby with your pet to give them a treat and have a chance to socialize with our staff.
Emergencies
In any emergency, seconds count. Our experienced staff is equipped to administer the ABCs of basic life support – Airway, Breathing, Circulation/Cardiac compressions. Emergency care is offered during regular business hours.
In addition, we use the services of the two local and fully-staffed emergency centers. Their information is:
MedVet in Asheville – (828) 665-2629 http://www.medvetforpets.com
Western Carolina Regional Animal Hospital in Flat Rock – (828) 697-7767 https://www.wcrah.com/site/home
Laser Therapy
We are proud to announce we are now offering laser therapy, an innovative new way to treat pain and inflammation in pets. Laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to create therapeutic effects such as improved healing time, pain reduction, increased circulation and decreased swelling. Multiple studies have shown laser therapy can help with a variety of problems including arthritis, joint pain, ligament sprains, muscle strains, dog/cat bites, feline acne/asthma, hotspots, post trauma/surgery pain, hip dysplasia, lick granulomas and snake/bug bites.
Health Certificates
If you want to travel internationally with your pet, you need to plan ahead. Since each country is different, you will have to contact the embassy or consulate where you are going to find out what you need to do.
Though every country has different requirements, most require a health certificate that is done by a USDA-accredited veterinarian. Luckily, we have a USDA-accredited veterinarian. If you are not a client, you need to make sure you bring your pets’ records in with you to the examination.
You will always need a health certificate and proof of vaccination. You may also need a microchip and blood tests. Many countries require that your pet get treated for parasites prior to travel. You may also need certificates for the airplane ride.
Since each country is different and we can’t stay up to date will all of the changes in each one, it is important that you call ahead and know what you need. Then, we will make sure that your pet is all ready to go!
Dental Care
Your pet’s bad breath may be a warning sign of some serious health problems. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of periodontal (gum) disease by age 3. Periodontal disease is one of the most common conditions seen in pets today.
Plaque and tartar builds up on your pet’s teeth. Plaque naturally harbors bacteria, which infects gum tissue and the roots of teeth. The bacteria will eventually enter the blood stream through large blood vessels in the gums. At this stage, the organs with the highest blood flow are susceptible to infections, including: lungs, heart, kidneys, liver and even the brain. Infection in these vital organs can seriously shorten the lives of our pets.
- Bad breath – one of the first signs of dental disease
- Yellow or brown crust of plaque on the teeth near the gum line
- Visible pus or discharge
- Red and swollen gums
- Pain or bleeding when your pet eats or when the mouth is touched
- Decreased appetite or difficulty eating
- Drooling
- Loose or missing teeth
- Pawing at the mouth
*Your pet can have gum disease without showing any signs.
If your pet has any of the signs above, periodontal disease may be present. A thorough teeth cleaning may be recommended by our veterinarian. Our animal hospital is outfitted with an ultrasonic pet dental cleaning station. Our team members are experienced and trained to perform professional feline and canine dental cleanings.
Dental Cleaning…
The veterinarians will oversee each dental procedure. Our technicians have been trained, tested and qualified by the American Society of Veterinary Dental Technicians to perform dental cleanings. This training and experience assure the best possible care for your pet.
The doctor will perform a pre-anesthesia examinations looking for any signs that anesthesia may be unsafe for your pet. We require pre-anesthesia blood tests before introducing any anesthesia to our patients. All patients will have an IV catheter placed and fluids will be administered throughout the procedure to
Anesthesia is induced and a tracheal breathing tube is placed. This tube administers oxygen mixed with anesthetic gas and protects from inhalation of bacteria-laden plaque during the procedure. During the cleaning, your pet’s vital signs are constantly monitored, including the heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation level of your pet. All pets are placed on a warm water circulating blanket to maintain the patient’s body temperature. Next, an oral examination is made of all teeth, gum, and tongue surfaces. At this time the doctor decides if any teeth need special treatment. We are equipped with digital x-ray to ensure your pet is thoroughly diagnosed.
The next step is ultrasonic scaling of all teeth, followed by hand-scaling of tooth surfaces under the gum. This is the same technology is used in human dentistry. After scaling, the teeth are polished to remove microscopic scratches caused by scaling. If left, these scratches would provide a foothold for plaque and speed its return. Lastly, pocket depths around each tooth are measured and charted.
Surgery
We are pleased to offer our clients the highest quality veterinary care. We want nothing but the best for our clients, especially during surgery. It is our goal to make sure that our surgical team is prepared to offer our clients the latest medical procedures. We look forward to learning about the newest medical advances in surgery and actively partake in continued surgical education.
Spay and Neuter
Spaying and neutering are important and necessary medical procedures that enhance the quality of your pets’ life. Not only does spaying and neutering have positive effects on your pets’ health, it’s also vital to controlling the homeless pet population.
Microchipping
A lost pet is an unfortunate reality that every pet owner, regardless of how responsible they might be, may someday face. Luckily, however, there are certain precautions you can take to ensure that in the scenario you and your pet become separated, you can be reunited. Pet microchipping is one of the most effective methods available in locating a lost pet, and Laurel Park Animal Hospital proudly offers these services.
Here’s How It Works:
- Your pet goes missing or is lost
- Contact HomeAgain immediately.
- A notification will be sent out to all pet hospitals, shelters, in the area…
- The pet is found at one of these clinics/shelters and scanned
- HomeAgain contacts the pet owner notifying them of the location of the pet
- The pet and owner are reunited.
Vaccinations
No matter the age of your pet, it is always important to keep him or her safe from disease. At Laurel Park Animal Hospital, we are constantly updated with the latest information on diseases impacting cats and dogs. We will design a personalized preventive care plan designed to keep your pet safe.
There are several vaccines available for your pet. Some of these are universally recommended for all pets, and so are referred to as “core” vaccinations. Other vaccines fit into a “non-core” category, as they are only recommended to certain pets based on their life-style.
Common Dog Vaccines
Rabies—Rabies is a serious disease that can be transmitted to people. This is considered a “core” vaccine. It is required by law in North Carolina to have your dog vaccinated for rabies.
Distemper (DHPP)—This is also considered a core vaccine that protects dogs against distemper virus, canine hepatitis, para-influenza, and parvovirus. It is strongly recommended for all patients.
Leptospirosis—This is a serious disease that can cause kidney failure and death, and it can infect people. Because it is typically transmitted through the urine of wildlife, it is often found in standing water, including puddles.
Bordetella (kennel cough)—Kennel cough is a highly contagious disease that can lead to respiratory infection. It is recommended for any pet that is exposed to other dogs on a regular basis. If your dog visits a groomer, boarding facility, or a training class, it needs protection from bordetella. Most establishments offering these services require proof of this vaccination.
Lyme disease—Lyme disease is transmitted to your pet by ticks. Any pet that is at risk of being exposed to ticks should be vaccinated with a Lyme vaccine once a year. This disease has many symptoms including high fever, arthritis, and seizures.
H3N8 Canine Influenza- The dog flu is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs, caused by a specific Type A influenza virus. It has a morbidity rate estimated at 80%. This vaccine is recommended for any pet exposed to other dogs on a regular basis.
Heartworm prevention—Heartworm disease is transmitted to dogs by mosquitos. The heartworms live in the hearts and lungs of an infected dog, causing difficulty breathing, heart failure, and eventually death if left untreated. Luckily, there are many different and affordable preventatives available. Dogs should be on heartworm preventative for life, starting as early as 8 weeks. We offer several oral and injectable heartworm disease preventatives.
Common Cat Vaccines
Rabies—Rabies is a serious disease that can be transmitted to people. This is considered a “core” vaccine. It is required by law in North Carolina that all cats be vaccinated for rabies.
Upper respiratory viruses (FVRCP-often times referred to as distemper)—This is considered a core vaccine and protects cats against feline upper respiratory viruses. This vaccine is strongly recommended for all patients.
Leukemia (FeLV)—Feline leukemia is a highly contagious disease that can lead to immunosupression and severe illness. Vaccination of all cats is recommended, and blood testing is also recommended prior to vaccinations. It is especially recommended for outdoor cats.
Nutritional Counseling
Laurel Park Animal Hospital offers nutritional counseling for pet owners of Hendersonville, NC and surrounding communities. If you have any questions about your pet’s diet or would like more information about your pet’s nutritional needs, please contact us today. We can set up a nutrition plan for your pet.
Obesity is a common problem among pets, as it can be easy to overfeed a cute dog or cat that knows how to beg. Being overweight is a serious problem for animals, and can cause real health problems. With proper diet and exercise, all pets should be able to meet their dietary needs and stay within a healthy weight range.
- Food Allergies
- Puppy & Kitten Health
- Weight Management
- Digestive Health
- Feline Thyroid Health
- Bladder Health
- Skin & Coat Health
- Aging Health
- Joint Health
- Oral Health
- General Health
- Much More…..
Canine and Feline Obesity
Laurel Park Animal Hospital offers nutritional counseling to help you maximize your pet’s health and longevity through weight management.
An Estimated 54% of Dogs and Cats in the United States are Overweight or Obese
Effects of Obesity
- Shortened Lifespan
- Arthritis
- Locomotion Issues
- Respiratory Issues
- Hypertension
- Congestive Heart Failure
- Liver Disease
- Reduced Heat Tolerance
- Increased Skin Disease
- Digestive Issues
- Constipation
- Diabetes
- Infectious Disease Susceptibility
- Increased Anesthetic and Surgical Risk
The primary causes of obesity are overeating and lack of exercise. When regular caloric intake exceeds the energy burned, the excess is stored as fat. As little as an extra 1 percent caloric intake can result in 25 percent increase over ideal body weight by middle age.
Most owners do not recognize that their pets are overweight until they take them to the veterinarian for another reason. Most pets begin slowly gaining weight and only a historical review of body weight reveals the insidious nature of this condition.
Home Care
Weight loss should be a family effort. All members of the family must admit the animal is overweight and commit to a weight loss program. It may be helpful to maintain a log of intake (food and treats) and weight to monitor progress. It might be most effective if one person takes charge of feeding your pet, but all members can help exercising your pet.
To achieve significant weight loss, the diet sometimes must be changed to a therapeutic veterinary diet specifically designed for weight loss. Simply feeding less of your pets regular food is successful, if done properly. Owners must be willing to measure exactly the amount of food offered and minimize treats. If treats are necessary, offer low calorie snacks such as carrots or green beans.
Progress visits are essential every 4-6 weeks to monitor the weight loss since adjustments to the feeding plan are often needed. As your pet approaches ideal body weight, caloric intake must be reduced further to maintain weight loss.
Patients can come in at any time for an updated weight for free
Behavior Management
We offer solutions for a variety of behavioral issues that pet owners are faced with. Behavioral problems can be challenging and frustrating for both pets and pet owners, so it is our goal to work with you towards a solution.
There are many behaviors that can be negative or destructive, and many pet owners feel helpless in bringing peace to their home. We want you to know that we are here to help, and that undesirable behaviors can be corrected.
Parasite Prevention
The idea of your pet being infested with parasites is a disturbing thought, but it’s also a medical issue that can have serious consequences if not properly dealt with or prevented. Parasites pose a variety of health issues for our pets, who can be very susceptible to certain parasites depending on age, region, and other factors.
At Laurel Park Animal Hospital, we emphasize the importance of preventing parasites. Through preventative measures, you can successfully protect your pet. Pets that are not protected often develop parasites, leading to serious problems for them and their owners.
Pain Management
Pain management techniques have advanced greatly in recent years. The focus has changed from wondering how pets experience pain to anticipating and preventing pain and discomfort for our furry friends.
Dogs and cats naturally disguise signs of pain to protect themselves from predators. However, the lack of obvious signs does not mean they aren’t experiencing pain.
- Being unusually quiet, listless, restless, or unresponsive
- Whining, whimpering, howling, or constantly meowing
- Biting
- Constantly licking or chewing at a particular part of the body
- Out of character behavior, either aggressively or submissively
- Flattening ears against the head; Having trouble sleeping or eating
- Seeking a lot more affection than usual
- Unable to get comfortable (pacing to find the most comfortable position)
- Panting
Pharmacy
It is our goal to provide you with complete veterinary care in a professional and accessible atmosphere. That is why we offer a fully stocked pharmacy to fill your pets’ prescription needs.
Having an on-site pharmacy provides you with a more convenient way to get your pets’ medication. We hope that this will save you time and ultimately enhance your experience with us.
Dermatology
Your pets’ skin is the largest organ of the body. Allergies, parasites, infections, autoimmune diseases and cancers can all affect your pet’s skin.
We offer specific diagnostic tests like allergy testing, fungal testing, cultures and biopsies, along with the most cutting edge treatments to ensure the health of your pets’ skin.
Puppy and Kitten Care
Getting a new puppy or kitten is very exciting. You have a lot to look forward to. The great companionship that a good pet can bring is very rewarding. However, puppies and kittens come with a lot of responsibility and work. Here at Laurel Park Animal Hospital, we are here to help you with your new addition.
First, you should always bring your new puppy or kitten in for a full nose-to-tail examination to make sure that you have a healthy new animal. You also want to get him or her familiar with our veterinary hospital.
Euthanasia
Here at Laurel Park Animal Hospital, we understand how difficult it can be to lose a pet. The inevitable fact of pet ownership is that most likely, we as pet owners will outlive our dearest of companions.
It is our goal as Veterinary providers to help our clients provide the highest quality of life for their pets, as well as providing the client with all the information necessary to assess a pet’s quality of life during difficult times.
Understandably, most pet owners never contemplate end of life scenarios regarding their pets. Our goal is to present our clients with all of the pertinent information in regards to the euthanasia services provided by our clinic. To clarify every aspect of our service, an explanation of services are listed below:
Euthanasia is a medical procedure conducted by a Veterinarian to ease the pain and suffering of a pet. If there is a medical condition that is treatable, it is the Veterinarian’s purpose to ensure that the client is well informed before making the final decision in regards to their pet’s medical care.
Once the euthanasia procedure has been performed, there are three options in regards to the handling of your pet’s remains:
- Clients may take the remains home with them
- Clients may opt for a “Communal” Cremation
- Clients may opt for a “Private” Cremation with return of ashes in a keepsake urn
- If you have any questions or concerns regarding euthanasia or cremation services, please do not hesitate to contact our office for more information.