Wellness Services
Immunization and Wellness Care
A regular physical examination is just as important for your pet as it is for you. Our veterinarians recommend a complete physical examination for your pet at least once a year, though more frequent exams are encouraged. During a physical examination, we perform a "nose-to-tail" examination of your pet. We examine your pet's nose, eyes, ears, check your pet's teeth and oral cavity, listen to your pet's heart and lungs, carefully examine the skin and coat, look for any unusual lumps or swelling, palpate the abdomen and muscles and perform an orthopedic evaluation of the bones, joints and back.
We strive to prevent illness whenever possible. The time and effort invested in wellness programs has rewards for both pets and owners. Our wellness programs are designed specifically for your pet and include a comprehensive physical exam, internal parasite testing, heartworm and flea control, vaccination program and specialized blood tests for all life stages.
Vaccinating your pet is a simple procedure that is safe, effective and well worth the financial commitment. Many diseases that were once considered fatal to pets are now under control due to the use of modern vaccines.
When vaccinations are administered, the body produces substances called antibodies. These antibodies are produced by cells (called lymphocytes) which originate in the bone marrow and multiply in the spleen, thymus and lymph nodes. When the actual disease agent is encountered by the dog's body, these lymphocytes respond very quickly, producing antibodies that neutralize the disease. This rapid production of antibodies is only possible if the animal had been previously vaccinated.
At Carlsbad Animal Hospital, we realize that not every pet requires the same vaccinations. We tailor a unique vaccination schedule for your pet based on his / her individual needs and unique lifestyle.
Internal Medicine
Today, more than ever, pets have become important members of our family. When our pets are sick or injured, we want the best possible care for them. The staff at Carlsbad Animal Hospital provides compassionate, high-quality care for pets seven days a week. Our hospital is staffed by skilled doctors and technicians, capable of handling the most complicated and demanding medical and surgical cases. Quality patient care and client satisfaction are our top priorities. Our commitment to providing you and your pet with the most advanced veterinary medical diagnostics and treatment in a caring, compassionate atmosphere is second to none.
Our goal at Carlsbad Animal Hospital is to provide your pet with the best medical care and make this experience as easy for you as possible. Since all of the hospital staff members are pet owners themselves, we understand the love you have for your pet. Each pet seen at our hospital receives the utmost veterinary care and attention from the time he or she comes into the hospital until the time he or she leaves. Additionally, we encourage you to visit your pet during his or her stay, as the positive results of a reunited pet and owner ofetn help speed up the recovery process.
Carlsbad Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital and wellness center. Whether your pet is a playful puppy or a cat entering the golden years, he or she receives world-class care. In order to help diagnose your pet's medical condition, we have invested heavily in the most up-to-date medical instruments. We use the latest technology, including ultrasound and endoscopy, to provide your pet with the highest level of care possible.
We cover all areas of internal medicine including cardiology, ophthalmology, neurology, dermatology, gastroenterology and endocrinology.
Exotic Pet Care
Veterinary medicine for exotic pets is growing as the popularity of these animals increases. With better public education in health, nutritional and environmental management, all species have a greater chance for living longer and healthier lives. Since exotic pets often conceal their illnesses, we strongly recommend bi-annual physical examinations to check for health problems and nutritional and husbandry-related conditions.
We offer wellness care programs for many exotic pet species, including rats, hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits. Dr. Lauren Bauer has many years experience treating rabbits and works closely with the House Rabbit Society.
Microchipping
Each year, millions of pets go missing, and many never make it back to their homes. Implanting a microchip in your pet is a simple, painless way to avoid this tragedy.
A microchip is a tiny electronic device, about the size and shape of a grain of rice. It is implanted beneath a pet's skin between the shoulder blades, and stays there for the pet's entire life. This procedure is as easy and as painless as a vaccination.
Each microchip has a unique number. This number, along with information about the owner and pet, are added to a national pet registry. Most veterinary hospitals and animal shelters have electronic scanners for detecting and reading these implanted microchips. If a lost pet is found and a microchip is scanned, the registry is called and the owner can be contacted. Carlsbad Animal Hospital uses the Home Again microchip system.
Pharmacy
Carlsbad Animal Hospital offers a full array of the most up-to-date veterinary medicines, including those for treating heart disease, intestinal problems, skin disorders and arthritis. We carry a variety of flea control products, heartworm preventatives, shampoos and ear cleansers. We also stock a wide variety of prescription foods that are designed to support good health and treat numerous medical conditions such as kidney failure, heart disease, and food allergies.
Behavioral Medicine and Nutritional Counseling
Illness doesn't always have a physical cause. Our veterinarians are trained in animal behavior and can help determine the cause of disorders such as separation anxiety and obsessive behavior, and then develop a treatment plan for the pet owner.
Some pets require special food, and all pets benefit from a balanced diet. Our trained and certified staff is available to help you choose the right diet for your pet in order to keep him or her happy, healthy and active. We carry a full line of Royal Canin veterinary diets.