Have you ever wondered why your local government requires a yearly Rabies vaccine? This is because Rabies remains a major concern worldwide; killing more than 55,000 people every year. Did you know in 2018 there were a total of 103 reported Rabies cases in Florida alone? Nine cases were found in Hillsborough county and two in Pasco county. Our Tampa Bay veterinarian wants to educate owners on why a simple vaccination is a vital importance to not only your pet’s health but yourself and the community.

Eating healthy and exercising is just as important for your pets as it is for you! Did you know it is estimated that over half dogs and cats in the United States are overweight or obese? Our Tampa Bay veterinarian at River Mill Animal Hospital would like to help kick start your New Year off to a great start with these helpful tips, to manage pet obesity.

The holiday season is full of delicious meals and special treats. However, many of those foods can be dangerous for our pets and may lead to pancreatitis in dogs, a common and potentially serious condition.

Senior pets equal a time to celebrate the love, loyalty, and companionship our older pets bring into our lives. As pets age, their needs begin to change, and they often require additional medical care and support to stay healthy and comfortable.

Dogs and cats are creatures of habit, and bringing a newborn home introduces new sounds, smells, and routines they may not be used to.

Dogs are known for their incredible sense of hearing, which helps them navigate the world around them. But what happens if a dog is born deaf? How do they adapt? The good news is that with a little patience, training, and understanding, deaf dogs can live full, happy, and completely normal lives. Here are some interesting facts you may not know about deaf dogs:

As a pet owner, there’s nothing more frightening than watching your dog or cat have a seizure. It’s natural to panic and want to help, but knowing what to do in the moment can make all the difference.

As Floridians, we all know the saying—“it’s so hot outside you could fry an egg.” With summer temperatures in Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, and New Tampa often climbing well above 90 degrees, outdoor activities can quickly become dangerous—not just uncomfortable—for your dog. Many pet owners assume dogs tolerate heat better than humans, but the truth is simple:

When we say “urban wildlife,” we’re not talking about the rowdy neighbors down the street—we’re talking about the wild animals commonly seen in backyards throughout New Tampa, Wesley Chapel, and surrounding Tampa Bay communities.

Spaying and neutering are important decisions that play a key role in your pet’s long-term health, behavior, and overall quality of life.