Parasite prevention is key for your pet’s health and well-being. Parasites, both internal and external, can cause significant distress and severe illness. At Newport Center Animal Hospital, we offer comprehensive parasite prevention services, including flea and tick prevention, heartworm testing, deworming, and protection against intestinal parasites. As the age-old saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

What Are Pet Parasites?

Pet parasites live inside your pet or attach to the body, causing discomfort, illness, and even death without treatment. Aside from carrying disease and infection, parasites can sometimes affect a pet’s ability to absorb nutrients and damage the intestinal tract lining. Not only is preventing external and internal parasites critical, but it is also essential to recognize the symptoms of infestation to take immediate action to safeguard your furry companion’s health. 

What Are Common Pet Parasites?

The following are the most common parasites posing a threat to household pets:

Fleas: Fleas are common in Newport Beach, typically found outdoors, on other animals, and can even hitch rides into homes. Despite their small size, fleas can jump several feet to attach to your pet’s coat. Common signs of flea infestation include itching, biting the skin, skin irritation, and even bald spots of fur. 

Ticks: Ticks are blood-sucking parasites typically found on the face, ears, legs, or belly. They can cause serious health conditions like Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever Disease. Signs of tick infestation may include redness, itching, fever, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Untreated, tick-borne diseases can lead to severe health problems and can even be fatal. 

Heartworms: Heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites, posing a serious and often deadly threat to pets. Once inside your pet, heartworms can reproduce multiple times, potentially growing up to one foot in length. Heartworms usually live in the heart chambers but can also infect the lungs and blood vessels, causing severe health issues and potentially death by obstructing blood flow. Symptoms of heartworm infection may include cough, rapid breathing, fatigue, a bulging chest, and sudden collapse. 

Intestinal Parasites: In addition to heartworms, pets are at risk from intestinal parasites like hookworm, roundworm, and tapeworm. These live in the digestive system, posing a significant threat to your pet’s health. Symptoms of intestinal parasites may include diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, a bloated abdomen, scooting, or visible worms in feces. 

Pet Parasite Prevention

Preventing parasites is much easier and safer than treating existing infestations and their complications. Our skilled and experienced veterinary team at Newport Center Animal Hospital will outline your options and work with you to develop a customized parasite control program for your pet’s unique needs.

Here’s a look at some of our parasite prevention services: 

• Flea and Tick Prevention: We are happy to offer a range of topical treatments and oral medications for maximum protection based on your pet’s breed, size, and unique needs.  
• Heartworm Prevention: Monthly heartworm pills can help prevent infection, safeguarding your pet’s health. 
• Routine Check-ups: Regular wellness visits, blood work, and fecal testing can help detect heartworm and intestinal parasites, ensuring prompt treatment for your furry friend.
• Deworming: Regular deworming treatments help eliminate internal parasites, preventing their devastating impacts on your pet’s health.

Parasite Prevention Near Me in Newport Beach, CA

Parasite protection for your furry friend is a year-round commitment, and we at Newport Center Animal Hospital are here to help. Our experienced veterinary team will recommend the best prevention methods for your pet’s unique needs. We invite you to contact our office at 949-644-5460 to schedule your appointment or request one online today! 

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Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the thought of boarding your furry companion can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Our team at Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Hotel Suites offers luxury accommodations, providing all the comfort of your home away from home. Here’s a list of dos and don’ts we’ve put together to make your pet’s boarding experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. 

Pet Boarding Dos

Choose the Right Boarding Facility: Make sure to choose a boarding facility where your furry companion will feel right at home. At Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Hotel Suites, we offer a unique pet boarding experience. Our dog suites feature spacious individual rooms complete with cozy beds, mirrors, and additional amenities. Our cat suites are equally inviting, offering stairs and ledges for enjoyment and exploration. We welcome you to see for yourself the exceptional facilities and loving care we provide for our furry guests.

Schedule a Trial Stay: If possible, schedule an overnight or short trial stay at our boarding facilities before an extended stay. This way, your pet can meet our staff and acclimate to the new environment before an extended stay. 

Ensure Vaccinations are Up-to-Date: We only accept cats and dogs that are current on their vaccinations. For dogs, we require rabies, bordetella, and distemper or distemper combo vaccines. We also recommend the canine flu vaccine. Cats, on the other hand, need current rabies, feline leukemia, and FVRCP vaccinations. 

Check Out Our Boarding Requirements: Your pet must be at least 16 weeks old and current on all required vaccinations. We do not accept overly aggressive animals at our boarding facilities to ensure the safety of our caretakers and your treasured pets. 

Pack Familiar Items: Make sure to bring along some of your pet’s favorite items, such as a blanket, toy, or an item of your clothing. Familiar scents can help provide comfort and reduce anxiety during your furry companion’s stay. Don’t forget to pack your pet’s favorite treats. 

Communicate Special Needs: Inform our boarding facility of any special needs your pet may have, such as dietary restrictions, medication requirements, or behavioral concerns. Clear communication can help ensure your pet receives the best possible care.

Update Contact Information: Make sure our boarding facility has your current contact information and the contact details of a local emergency contact person who can make decisions in case we cannot reach you.  

Pet Boarding Don’ts

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute: Avoid making last-minute boarding arrangements. Our pet boarding facilities book up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Plan ahead to secure a safe and comfortable spot for your treasured pet.

Don’t Forget Health Checks: Make sure to schedule a health check before boarding your four-legged friend. It’s also important to stay current on flea and tick prevention. 

Don’t Ignore Your Pet’s Anxiety: Some pets experience anxiety when separated from their owners. Don’t ignore signs of stress or anxiety in your pet. Consider discussing anxiety management strategies with our veterinary team before boarding.

Don’t Forget to Label Belongings: Don’t forget to label your pet’s belongings, including food containers, medication, and personal items. This will ensure that nothing gets lost or mixed up during their stay.

Don’t Show Negative Emotions: Your pet will pick up on your emotions, so it is important to stay calm and reassuring during drop-off. Avoid a long, drawn-out goodbye, which can be confusing and stressful for your furry companion. 

Pet Boarding Near Me in Newport Beach, CA

Our compassionate team at Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Suites understands how difficult it is to be away from your furry friend. We never spare any effort to ensure your pet is as comfortable and happy as possible at our boarding facilities. We care about our canine and feline guests – and it shows! We invite you to contact our office at 949-644-5460 to schedule your appointment or request one online today! 

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As the weather starts warming up, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend. However, more time outside increases the risk of catching fleas or ticks, which can pose a serious risk to your pet’s health. Our team at Newport Center Animal Hospital has put together some tips to help you keep your pet safe and healthy as you both enjoy the great outdoors. 

Understanding the Risks

Fleas and ticks are more than a nuisance; they can transmit serious diseases to your pet and even your family members. Fleas can cause intense scratching, allergies, and even hair loss in pets. They can also lead to health complications like anemia and can transmit intestinal parasites, such as tapeworms. 

Ticks also pose a significant threat to your pet and family members. Their bites can cause serious complications, such as skin irritation or infection, anemia, and tick paralysis. These pests are also carriers of serious diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Use Flea and Tick Prevention Medication

Using preventive medications is one of the safest and most effective ways to protect your pet from fleas and ticks. 

• Topical Treatments: Topical flea and tick prevention medications are applied to your furry friend’s shoulder blades, offering a month of protection. Make sure you use a formulation suitable for your pet’s breed and size. 
• Oral Medications: Chewable medications offer a convenient and effective way to protect against fleas and ticks. Many of these monthly medications also provide protection against heartworm. 

If you are unsure of the best flea and tick prevention option for your furry companion, our team at Newport Center Animal Hospital is here to help. We are happy to recommend the ideal protection for your pet based on size, breed, age, and lifestyle. 

Additional Tips to Protect Your Furry Friend

Here are measures you can take to help keep fleas and ticks at bay: 

• Care for Your Lawn: Overgrown bushes and organic debris like grass clippings and leaves provide fleas and ticks with the perfect environment to breed and flourish. That’s why it’s important to mow your lawn regularly and keep your bushes trimmed. 
• Regular Pet Grooming: Brushing and grooming your pet regularly prevents matting, which can attract pests and make it hard to detect infestations. Grooming can also help remove fleas and ticks before they latch onto your pet.
• Checking for Ticks: After being outdoors, inspect your pets for ticks. Check for bumps and look on the feet, between the toes, under the legs, on the lips, around the eyes and ears, and under the tail.  
• Checking for Fleas: Check for signs of fleas regularly in areas where the coat is sparse, like the abdomen or underarms. Adult fleas are small, brown, and easy to detect. 
• Wash Pet Bedding: We recommend washing your pet’s bedding in hot water weekly to get rid of any fleas or ticks that may have hitched a ride on your pet’s coat. Don’t forget to wash any other soft items your pet frequently uses, like blankets or toys.
• Vacuum Regularly: Vacuum your carpets and furniture regularly to remove any unwelcome pests that may have made it indoors. Pay close attention to areas where your furry companion spends a lot of time. 
• Act Fast: If you find fleas or ticks on your pet, contact Newport Center Animal Hospital immediately for advice. You may also want to consider professional, pet-friendly pest-control treatments to eradicate fleas and ticks from your home. 

Quality Veterinary Care Near Me in Newport Beach, CA

Our team at Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Suites is happy to offer flea and tick prevention recommendations to keep your furry family member safe as the weather warms up. If you have any questions or concerns, we are always here and ready to help. We invite you to our office at 949-644-5460 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!

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Losing a beloved pet is one of the most heartbreaking experiences pet parents can face. Our dedicated veterinary team at Newport Center Animal Hospital strongly advocates for microchipping to dramatically increase the chances of a joyful reunion if your furry friend ever wanders off. If your beloved pet is not microchipped, don’t wait – contact us to schedule an appointment today!

What Are Microchips?

Microchips are electronic devices about the size of a grain of rice that offer a permanent and reliable solution for pet identification. These tiny chips are implanted under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. They hold a unique ID linked to your contact information. 

Unlike tracking devices, microchips do not have any battery sources and do not transmit signals. Instead, they rely on special scanners that are readily available at most veterinary practices or pet shelters to detect and read their unique identification number. Microchips continue to facilitate happy reunions between lost pets and their families day after day. 

Why Should You Get Your Pet Microchipped? 

Here’s a look at some of the reasons we highly recommend having your pet microchipped: 

• Permanent Identification: Collars and tags can fall off, but a microchip will stay in place for life, providing a reliable, permanent form of identification. 
• Increased Likelihood of Happy Reunions: Microchips significantly increase the likelihood of reuniting lost pets with their loving families.
• Simple Procedure: The procedure for microchipping is quick, with minimal pain or discomfort, similar to a routine vaccination.
• Safe for Your Pet: Microchipping comes with an incredibly high safety record with minimal risks of serious side effects or adverse reactions.
• Affordable: Microchipping is an inexpensive procedure and can be priceless in terms of helping increase the likelihood of a reunion with your beloved companion.
• Easy to Update: Any changes in your personal information are easy to update, so if you move homes or change your number, do not forget to update your pet’s microchip records. 
• Travel Requirements: Microchipping is often a mandatory requirement for traveling with your pet, especially if you are headed to an international destination.
• Proof of Ownership: A microchip provides an irrefutable proof of ownership in cases of theft, disputes, or mistaken identity.
• Peace of Mind: Microchipping your furry gives you the peace of mind that your chances of being reunited are high if your pet sneaks off or escapes. 

How Are Microchips Inserted? 

Inserting a microchip is an incredibly quick and simple procedure. We typically start by scanning your pet’s new microchip to ensure it is working correctly. Next, we will gently insert it between the shoulder blades using a sterile applicator, similar to a syringe. The entire process can take a minute or two to complete, all with minimal pain or discomfort. 

After insertion, we will scan the microchip once again to ensure it reads correctly. The insertion site may feel a little sensitive for some time, but your furry friend should be up and about before you know it. 

Registering Your Pet’s Microchip 

A microchip won’t serve any purpose if it’s not registered in a national pet recovery database. If you haven’t created an account with the chip manufacturer, we recommend doing so right away. That way, you can make sure your contact information is always current. If you have any questions about registering your furry companion’s microchip, our friendly team members are always happy to assist you. 

Pet Microchipping Near Me in Newport Beach, CA

Our dedicated veterinary team at Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Suites hopes you never lose your pet. But in the event you do, a microchip can help increase your chances of a happy reunion. We highly recommend getting your fur-ever companion microchipped if you have not already done so. We invite you to our office at 949-644-5460 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!

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February marks a special time for our furry friends—it is Pet Dental Health Month! Just like humans, pets can develop dental problems that, if left unchecked, can lead to serious health concerns. Our dedicated veterinary team at Newport Center Animal Hospital proudly offers preventive dental care to keep dental disease at bay. We are also happy to provide tips on how to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy and sound. 

The Importance of Pet Dental Health

Did you know that roughly 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop signs of periodontal disease by age two? The serious, progressive condition can lead to pain and tooth loss, and worse yet, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, causing systemic disease and complications. Plaque buildup and tooth decay are other dental health concerns that can leave your pet in pain and struggling to eat. 

At-Home Preventive Dental Care

Nutritious pet foods go a long way in promoting good oral health. Our dedicated team at Newport Center Animal Hospital is happy to evaluate your pet’s nutrition and make any necessary recommendations. 

It is also important to brush your pet’s teeth daily. The earlier you get your furry companion used to the sensation of brushing, the easier it will be. Remember, never use human toothpaste, which can be toxic to your furry friend. There are many toothpaste varieties out there made with your pet’s oral health in mind. Be loving and patient, and don’t forget to reward your pet with lots of praise and a treat or two when done. 

There are many dental treats and toys designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, complementing your brushing routine. Ask our team at Newport Center Animal Hospital for recommendations. It is important to note that while dental chews for dogs are helpful, they should never take the place of brushing their teeth. 

Watch Out for Signs of Dental Problems

Be on the lookout for signs of dental problems, which may include visible signs of pain, loose or broken teeth, yellowish teeth, swelling around the mouth, drooling, trouble eating, or refusing to eat altogether. And let us not forget that stinky breath – no, it is not normal for your dog or cat’s breath to leave you gasping for air! 

If you see signs of dental health problems or have any concerns, don’t wait. Contact Newport Center Animal Hospital to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team will determine the causes of your furry friend’s symptoms and may recommend treatment for prompt relief. 

Preventive Dental Services

Aside from home oral health care, it is important to have your pet’s teeth and gums checked regularly to keep them healthy and free from disease. Here are some of the dental services we offer: 

• Oral Exams: During your pet’s regular wellness visits, we conduct oral exams to assess the overall condition of the teeth and gums and check for tartar buildup, gingivitis, or other concerns. 
• Dental Cleaning: If we find tartar buildup, we may recommend a dental cleaning under general anesthesia to lower the risk of periodontal disease and tooth decay. 
• Tooth Extractions: We sometimes need to extract infected or decayed teeth to prevent further damage and complications. 
• Pet Parent Education: We are happy to offer tips and demonstrate how to brush and care for your pet’s teeth. 

Pet Dental Care Near Me in Newport Beach, CA

Pet Dental Health Month is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of pet dental care. Our dedicated team at Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Suites looks forward to working alongside you to ensure your furry companion enjoys a happy, pain-free life with sparkling, clean teeth and healthy gums. We invite you to our office at 949-644-5460 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!

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Maintaining a healthy, nutritious diet is one of the most important aspects of pet health. There are many considerations involved, including your pet’s breed, stage of life, and specific health concerns. Our team at Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Suites is pleased to offer nutritional counseling to help you determine the best diet to help your pet thrive!

Nutrition for Life Stages and Special Considerations

Here is a look at the unique nutritional needs of pets depending on their life stage or special health concerns:

Puppy/Kitten Diets: Kittens and puppies need to consume complete and balanced diets to set the stage for healthy, vibrant lives. Their foods are typically higher in calorie count per serving to meet the requirements of rapid growth. The foods must be rich in proteins, fat, calcium, phosphorus, and other essential nutrients. The type and amount of food will depend on your new family member’s breed, size, and health. 

Adult Diets: Adult dogs and cats ages 1 – 7 (or younger for large breeds of dogs) typically require healthy, balanced diets focused on promoting overall well-being, good dental health, and optimal weight. Adult cat and dog foods usually have a healthy balance of animal-based protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and carbs. If your pet has a specific health condition, we may recommend specialized diets or nutritional supplements.

Senior Diets: As the years go by, obesity, chronic health concerns, and mobility are often a concern. Your furry companion may require a reduced-calorie diet to meet lower energy requirements and maintain a healthy weight. They may also need foods with glucosamine and DHA or EPA to help promote joint health. 

Weight Control: Pet obesity is a significant health problem with devastating impacts on a pet’s quality of life. It is one of the primary causes of mobility issues and chronic diseases like joint pain, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Our team may recommend a diet low in calories but rich in essential nutrients to enhance your pet’s health and quality of life.

Additional Considerations: Chronic diseases, weakness, digestive problems, food allergies, or other health concerns may require specialized diets. Our experienced veterinary team will recommend dietary choices to ensure your furry companion enjoys the healthiest, most active life possible. 

High-Quality Pet Nutrition – Examine Food Labels 

We recommend feeding your pet quality food with certification from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This organization is a private, nonprofit group of agencies at the state and federal levels that reviews the contents of pet foods. While AAFCO provides nutritional standards, it is not a regulatory agency – its role is to provide guidelines for pet food manufacturers.

AAFCO certification will ensure your pet enjoys a healthy, complete, and balanced diet. Here is a look at some of the criteria used by the AAFCO when determining certification:

• Turkey, beef, lamb, or another type of high-quality meat is listed as the first ingredient instead of animal by-products.
• The second ingredient can be any type of meat meal.
• The third and fourth ingredients must be whole fruits or vegetables.
• The food label should not list preservatives or flavors like soy, wheat, or corn that may cause allergies or sensitivities.
• The food should be fortified with Vitamin C or Vitamin E.

Pet Nutritional Counseling Near Me in Newport Beach, CA

Contact Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Suites to learn more about pet nutrition for long-term health and wellness. Our dedicated veterinarians and team will help you determine the ideal diet depending on your furry companion’s unique needs. You can always count on us for the highest quality care. Contact our office at 949-644-5460 to schedule your appointment, or request one online today!

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If you’ve ever been on the receiving end of a slobbery dog kiss, you know that your canine companion’s breath isn’t always minty fresh. However, persistent bad breath in dogs, a condition known as halitosis, can be a warning sign of an underlying concern that requires prompt attention. If your furry friend’s breath leaves you gasping for air more often than not, it’s time to contact Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Suites to schedule a consultation. 

What Are the Causes of Bad Breath in Dogs?

Here’s a look at the most common causes of bad breath in dogs: 

Plaque and Tartar Buildup: Just like humans, poor oral hygiene is a leading cause of bad breath in dogs. Plaque and tartar buildup on your furry friend’s teeth and gum line can lead to bacteria in the mouth flourishing and causing an unpleasant mouth odor. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly and providing dental chews can go a long way in preventing bad breath.

Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to dental diseases, like gingivitis and periodontal disease, which can also result in foul breath along with pain and discomfort for your furry companion. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to serious oral and overall health problems. 

Diet and Digestive Issues: Diet plays a significant role in your furry friend’s health and often contributes to unpleasant dog breath. Certain foods can leave your dog with bad breath, as can digestive issues. If halitosis is accompanied by changes in appetite, diarrhea, or vomiting, make sure to contact Newport Center Animal Hospital to schedule a consultation.

Oral and Respiratory Infections: Infections of the mouth or respiratory system can lead to foul-smelling breath in dogs. Identifying and treating the root causes of the infections is important for your canine friend’s health and well-being. 

Systemic Health Issues: Bad breath can, in some cases, point to underlying systemic conditions like diabetes, kidney, or liver disease. These conditions can result in certain chemicals being released in the breath, leading to an unpleasant odor. Regular veterinary check-ups and diagnostic tests can uncover and manage these health concerns.  

Dog Bad Breath Remedies

One of the most important things you can do to keep your dog’s breath fresh is to maintain good oral hygiene. Establish a tooth brushing routine using an appropriately sized toothbrush and a dog-specific toothpaste. Dental chews are helpful but should not be used to replace regular tooth brushing. We are always happy to provide tips and tricks on making brushing time a fun experience for you and your furry companion.

Aside from tooth brushing, we recommend scheduling an annual dental appointment. Signs of dental problems, including periodontal disease, may include bad breath, problems chewing hard foods, or pawing at the mouth. Our skilled veterinarians may recommend a professional dental cleaning, fluoride treatment, or even extraction, if needed, to maintain your pet’s oral health. These procedures take place under general anesthesia for your pet’s comfort and safety. 

In some cases, treating and managing systemic conditions provide the needed relief from bad breath. We offer comprehensive pet exams and chronic disease management to address your dog’s specific needs. Aside from fresher breath, your furry companion will enjoy improved health and a better quality of life. 

Bad Dog Breath Treatment Near Me in Newport Beach, CA

Our dedicated veterinarians and team at Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Suites are dedicated to caring for your dog’s dental and overall health to keep bad breath at bay. You can always count on us for paw-some, compassionate care. Contact our office at 949-644-5460 to schedule your appointment, or request one online today!

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As the holiday season approaches, there is a good chance you are making travel plans to visit family, explore new destinations, or simply take a well-deserved break. The thought of boarding your pet can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Hotel Suites is pleased to offer luxury accommodations so your pet can enjoy the holidays just as much as you do!

Choosing the Right Boarding Facility

It is important to choose a place where your pet will feel right at home. Consider touring the boarding facilities to ensure they meet your pet’s unique needs. Ask questions about the procedures and emergency protocols to help you make an informed decision. 

At Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Hotel Suites, we offer an exclusive experience for your furry companions. Our dog suites are large, individual rooms with resting beds, mirrors, and so much more. Our cat suites are just as inviting, with stairs and ledges for added enjoyment. We invite you to check out our pet hospital suites to see for yourself the incredible facilities and the loving care your furry companion will receive. 

Are There Any Requirements for Pet Boarding?

Your pet must be at least 16 weeks of age and current on all vaccinations. Dog vaccinations include Bordetella, Rabies, and Distemper or Distemper combo. We highly recommend the canine flu vaccine for our canine guests. Our feline guests will need the Feline Leukemia, Rabies, and FVRCP vaccines. We recommend checking with us ahead of time to ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date.  

We understand that boarding can be a stressful time for any pet. Our caretakers offer compassionate care to ensure every pet thrives during their stay. It’s important to note that we do not board overly aggressive animals to ensure the safety of our caretakers and your pets. 

Our Exclusive Pet Hotel Suites

Here’s a look at your options for furry companion’s accommodations:

• Extra Care Dog Suites: These oversized suites have indoor, outdoor, and even ocean and bay views. 
• Deluxe Dog Suites: These are similar in size to the Extra Care suites, without direct window access. 
• Mini Dog Suites: These cozy suites offer just the right space for shorter stays – these suites go fast during the holidays, so make sure to book well in advance. 
• Penthouse and Master Cat Suites: These large suites are perfect for two or more cats, providing ample space, stairs, and ledges for your feline friends to explore. 
• Deluxe Cat Suites: Our Deluxe suites also offer stairs and ledges but are a little smaller, designed for single occupation. 
• Mini Cat Suites: Our Mini suites are single-level, glass-enclosed areas that provide a safe and cozy retreat for senior cats. 
• Small Animal Boarding: We are also happy to offer boarding for small animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, turtles, tortoises, hamsters, fish, snakes, and more. We request that you bring personal crates for your pets. 

Additional Services

Dog boarding comes with at least two walks a day for a minimum of 15 minutes. You can always add on extra walks if your dog has excess energy. We are also happy to offer personal play packages, which include additional 20-minute play sessions customized for your pet’s ultimate satisfaction.  

We also offer extra kitty cuddles for cats who enjoy human interaction. We are happy to entertain your feline friend(s) in our exam room, where they have free reign. From chasing a laser to relaxing in one of our caretakers’ laps, we’ll ensure your cat has our undivided attention. 

Pet Boarding Near Me in Newport Beach, CA

Our dedicated team at Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Suites understands how hard it is for pet parents to entrust others with their furry friends’ care. Our pledge to you is that we will care for your precious pet like we do for our own. We invite you to contact our office at 949-644-5460 for more information about boarding your fur-ever friend during the holidays!

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Cats make wonderful pets, offering warmth, affection, and endless entertainment. Spaying or neutering is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your furry friend. From animal population control to enhancing your cat’s health and well-being, there are many reasons why veterinarians and animal advocates recommend having pets spayed or neutered. 

When Should You Spay or Neuter Your Cat?

Kittens can be spayed or neutered from as young as eight weeks old. In general, veterinarians recommend scheduling the procedure before your cat is five months old. That helps avoid unwanted pregnancy and decreases the risk of health problems. It also curbs many undesirable behaviors before they even start. When it comes to adult cats, it is never too late. The best time to spay or neuter your feline friend is now!

What Are the Benefits of Spaying or Neutering Your Cat?

The following are some of the many benefits of spaying or neutering your cat: 

Population Control: According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, a staggering 7.6 companion animals end up in shelters nationwide every year. Of those, about 3.4 million are cats. Each year, about 2.7 million shelter animals are euthanized, 1.4 million of which are cats. Spaying or neutering helps control the pet overpopulation problem, reducing shelter overcrowding or stray cats left to fend for themselves. 

Health Benefits: Spaying and neutering provide numerous health benefits. Female cats spayed before the first heat cycle are at a lower risk of cancer of the ovaries, uterus, and mammary glands. Neutering male cats eliminates the chances of testicular cancer and reduces prostate disease. Spayed and neutered cats tend to live longer, healthier lives. 

Behavioral Benefits: Spaying or neutering can help improve your feline friend’s mood and behavior. Unaltered cats in heat can become loud and aggressive, yowling and howling in their attempts to attract mates. Male cats can also be loud and aggressive when searching for a female in heat. They are more likely to roam and get in conflict with other male cats, putting their safety at risk. Spayed and neutered cats are usually calmer and happier.  

Reduces Spraying: Unaltered cats are more likely to spray urine to mark their territory, producing a strong and unpleasant scent. That can be quite a frustration for pet owners. Spaying or neutering will change the odor and significantly reduce or eliminate your cat’s motivation for spraying. 

No Increased Weight: Despite what you may have heard, spaying or neutering do not make your cat overweight. Pet obesity usually results from lack of exercise and overfeeding, so as long as you keep your cat active and monitor food intake, they should maintain a healthy weight. 

Better for the Community: Spaying and neutering can benefit your community in many ways. It helps reduce the number of stray cats around, which can damage property, injure children, and harm local wildlife. It can also save taxpayer money, as millions of dollars are spent each year providing care for stray and unwanted animals. 

Cost-Effective: Preventing health issues and unwanted pregnancies by spaying or neutering your fur-ever can save you considerable expenses down the road. Your pet will be less destructive and less likely to get in fights with neighborhood strays, preventing injury and the need for costly treatments. 

Cat Spaying and Neutering in Newport Beach, CA

Our dedicated veterinarians and team at Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Suites are proponents of cat spaying and neutering as a humane way to curb pet overpopulation while promoting healthier, happier lives. You can always count on us for compassionate, gentle care. Contact our office at 949-644-5460 to schedule your appointment, or request one online today!

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At Newport Center Animal Hospital & Pet Suites, we emphasize the importance of maintaining an ideal weight. Regardless of a pet’s breed, size, or age, obesity can impact their overall well-being and quality of life. Our dedicated veterinarians and team are pleased to provide weight management support tailored to your pet’s unique needs. We’re all about helping our valued furry patients thrive!

Pet Obesity – A Growing Concern

Pet obesity continues to be on the rise, posing a serious health concern. Like humans, being overweight can increase the risk of a host of health concerns for your pet, including joint pain, diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, and more. 

Some leading causes of pet obesity include increasingly sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy foods, overfeeding, and too many treats and table scraps. Recognizing the signs of pet obesity and taking prompt action to battle the bulge will help promote a long, healthy, and vibrant life. 

Is Your Pet Really Overweight? 

How can you determine whether your pet is overweight? The Body Condition Score (BCS) is a tool veterinarians use to determine whether a pet is underweight, at an ideal weight, or overweight. It involves evaluating factors such as the appearance of the ribs, waist, and overall body shape. 

The BCS scale ranges from 1-9, with 1 being extremely thin and 9 being obese. Ideally, a dog’s BCS ranges from 4-5, while a cat’s should be around 5. During your furry friend’s annual check-up, we’re happy to provide a thorough BCS assessment, offering insights into your pet’s health. 

What Are Signs of Pet Obesity?

Visible signs of pet obesity may include the following: 

• Lack of Waist Definition: If your pet’s abdomen appears more rounded than tapered, that could be a sign of being overweight.
• Ribs Not Easily Felt: While you should not see your pet’s ribs, you should be able to feel them under a thin layer of skin and fat – if you cannot feel the ribs, your pet may be overweight. 
• Fat Pads: Extra fat may sometimes accumulate in various areas, forming noticeable fat pads, which are typically found near the base of the tail, over the hips, or on the chest.
• Difficulty in Movement: An overweight pet may show reluctance to play or exercise, struggle with physical activities, or become lethargic. 
• Joint Problems: Excess weight can lead to problems like arthritis, difficulty moving comfortably, or a waddling or swaying gait due to joint strain.
• Trouble with Jumping or Climbing Stairs: Excess weight can make it difficult for your pet to jump onto furniture or climb stairs. 
• Trouble with Grooming: Overweight pets, particularly cats, may find it challenging to groom those hard-to-reach areas. 

Taking Control of Your Pet’s Weight

If your pet is overweight, our team at Newport Center Animal Hospital & Pet Suites is here to help. We will work with you on a weight management plan depending on your pet’s breed, age, weight, lifestyle, and any underlying health concerns. 

Creating a weight management plan starts with an evaluation of your pet’s weight and a comprehensive health screening. Our team may recommend a special diet that’s low in calories but rich in necessary nutrients. We will work with you to determine ideal food types and portions, as well as a feeding schedule. We will also help you develop an exercise routine to help your furry companion stay active and promote a healthier weight. 

Weight Management Near Me in Newport Beach, CA

Every pet is unique, with different nutritional and exercise needs. Our dedicated veterinarians and team at Newport Center Animal Hospital & Pet Suites will work with you to create a customized weight management plan to promote a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. Contact our office at 949-644-5460 to schedule your appointment, or request one online today!

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