1) For adult animals, we recommend a yearly exam and vaccinations. A thorough physical examination can reveal health problems before they progress to serious issues.  Commonly detected health concerns during routine examinations include: heart disease, tumors, dental disease, musculoskeletal problems, dermatology problems, and many more.

2) Young animals and sometimes older pets may need to be seen more frequently. Pets under a year old are seen several times while receiving their vaccination series. Since their immune system is immature, young pets are more prone to certain infectious diseases and intestinal parasites. Preventative health care is essential for a healthy long life.

3) At the age of seven, our pets are now considered seniors.  For senior pets, we recommend biannual visits and yearly bloodwork which can help detect early health problems such as kidney, thyroid, and liver disease that could not be picked up on a routine exam.

Spaying and Neutering

Spaying and neutering your pet will prevent unwanted litters, help protect against some serious health problems, and may reduce many of the behavioral problems associated with your pet being intact.

Early spaying of female dogs and cats can help protect them from uterine infections and breast cancer. Neutering your male pet can also lessen its risk of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate gland), testicular cancer, and roaming behavior to locate a mate. These risks increase if the pet is neutered or spayed later than 6 months age.  

The procedure has no effect on a pet’s intelligence or ability to learn, play, work or hunt. Some pets tend to be better behaved following surgical removal of their ovaries or testes, making them more desirable companions.

Other Surgical Procedures

We provide many other high-quality routine surgeries for your pets. For more specific information on the surgical procedures we offer please contact our office.

We take anesthesia seriously here at Spanish Trail to ensure that your pet will be safe during any procedure.  We use the same gas anesthesia that is used in human hospitals to control the depth of anesthesia your pet will be in.  We monitor carefully using our state of the art anesthesia equipment which includes ECG, capnography (blood CO2 level), blood pressure, temperature, and blood oxygen level.  We recommend a pre-surgical screening that includes X-rays and blood work prior to any anesthetic induction to minimize anesthesia risk. These tests enable our veterinarians to further assess each animal’s general health, further evaluate their heart and lungs, and also evaluate kidney and liver function prior to anesthesia. If problems are identified, we can then make a decision with you to change our anesthesia protocol and proceed with surgery, or delay surgery while we treat identified problems.

Dental Cleanings

Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs and cats. Even minor issues, such as tartar buildup, can lead to more serious issues if they aren’t treated. When necessary, we will recommend a professional dental cleaning, which includes the ultrasonic removal of harmful tartar and polishing of the teeth.  

Dental X-rays

Did you know that much of our pet’s dental disease lies underneath the gum line? Dental x-rays help us visualize diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissue that cannot be seen with a simple oral exam. In addition, dental x-rays help us find and treat dental problems early in their development, which can potentially save your pet unnecessary discomfort.  

X-rays

We offer high quality digital x-rays that aid in rapid diagnoses for your pet.  X-rays are performed while you wait and the Doctors will review them with you in the examination room.    

Ultrasound

We offer Ultrasound by appointment with Dr. Siverio.  She is a veterinarian specially trained in ultrasound techniques and travels to clinics throughout the Pensacola area.  Ultrasounds can be performed while you wait for your pet.

Bloodwork

We offer in house bloodwork for your pet with our state of the art Idexx blood machines.  We can have results within 15 minutes to aid in rapid diagnoses for your pet.  A chemistry panel, complete blood count, urinalysis and heartworm test can be performed.

Veterinary laser therapy is an innovative treatment that has gained popularity in recent years as veterinarians discover its benefits for pets. Used similarly to acupuncture, massage therapy, and other alternative therapies, laser treatment can be used in conjunction with or in place of medication to manage pain, inflammation, and wound healing.

For more information about Veterinary Laser Therapy, visit the AAHA website here.