Ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging technique that veterinarians use to view your pet’s internal body structures. Ultrasound probes, or transducers, contain special ceramic crystal materials (i.e., piezoelectrics) that produce sound waves that travel through your pet’s body when the probe is placed on your pet’s skin. When these sound waves encounter boundaries between tissues in [...]

Any ear infection can be irritating, unpleasant, and downright painful for your pet, but a chronic infection can cause significant problems that can be difficult to manage. Pets with chronic ear infections routinely visit their primary care veterinarian for their latest flare-up, but some chronic ear infections require urgent treatment for the pet to get [...]

Blood tests are one of the most important diagnostic tools your veterinarian uses to monitor your pet’s health. Collecting blood is quick, minimally invasive, and provides information about several body systems. Our Southern Arizona Veterinary Specialty and Emergency in-house laboratory provides results quickly, so our veterinarians can begin directing your pet’s treatment plan right away. [...]

Thyroid Disease in Dogs and Cats Thyroid disease is a common endocrine (i.e., hormonal) abnormality that affects dogs and cats, although they suffer from different thyroid conditions. Dogs typically are affected by hypothyroidism (i.e., underactive thyroid), whereas cats usually suffer from hyperthyroidism (i.e., overactive thyroid). Our team at Southern Arizona Veterinary Specialty and Emergency [...]

You are taking your new puppy to visit your friend, and realize that you have forgotten to bring their “puppy peanut butter” to stuff their Kong. However, you figure your friend’s peanut butter will do in a pinch, and ask for a dollop. As you scoop out a spoonful, your friend starts telling you about [...]