Why Fireworks Are So Frightening for DogsDogs can hear sounds from much farther away than humans and over a much wider range of frequencies. As a result, fireworks that seem distant or only mildly loud to us may sound much more intense to a dog.
A dog's highly sensitive hearing makes fireworks especially stressful for several reasons:
More Sensitive Hearing: Dogs can detect many sounds at greater distances than humans and hear higher-frequency sounds that people cannot. This means even fireworks that seem far away may sound startlingly loud.
The Element of Surprise: Unlike people, dogs don't understand that fireworks are part of a celebration. The sudden explosions, bright flashes, vibrations, and unfamiliar odors can trigger a natural fight-or-flight response. Check that your yard, fencing, gates and outdoor enclosures are secure. Make sure your pets wear identification with current contact information. Microchipping and having a recent photo will increase the chances of recovery if lost.
Difficulty Pinpointing the Source: Although dogs are excellent at detecting sounds, the echoes and repeated bursts from fireworks can make it difficult to determine exactly where the noise is coming from. This uncertainty can increase anxiety and lead to behaviors such as pacing, trembling, hiding, barking, or attempting to escape.
For many dogs, fireworks are more than just loud—they're confusing, unpredictable, and overwhelming. That's why keeping pets indoors in a quiet, secure environment during fireworks displays is one of the best ways to help keep them safe.

After the celebration check your yard for debris that could pose a hazard to curious pets. 

If your pet is anxious around fireworks or thunderstorms, talk to us about medications that help to reduce stress and anxiety.  Also, monitor your pet for any signs of stress or illness following the festivities and contact us if you notice anything concerning.  

​Lyme Disease in Pets: What Every Pet Owner Should Know
As the weather warms and outdoor activity increases, so does the risk of tick-borne diseases—especially Lyme disease. Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted through tick bites, Lyme disease is a growing concern for pets and us across many regions of the United States.  Pennsylvania ranked the highest in human Lyme disease cases 11 out of the past 12 years.  

🕷️ How Do Pets Get Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is primarily spread by the black-legged tick (commonly known as the deer tick). These tiny parasites latch onto your pet during walks in wooded, grassy, or even suburban areas. Once attached, a tick typically needs to be feeding for 24–48 hours before transmitting the bacteria.

⚠️ Signs and Symptoms in Pets
Not all pets show symptoms, but when they do, signs may include:

• Lameness or shifting leg pain
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen joints
• Enlarged lymph nodes

In rare cases, Lyme disease can affect the kidneys, leading to a serious condition known as Lyme nephritis.

🩺 Diagnosis and Treatment
Veterinarians often diagnose Lyme disease based on clinical signs, history of tick exposure, and blood tests. If diagnosed, most pets respond well to antibiotics, particularly doxycycline, and improvement is usually seen within a few days.

🛡️ Prevention is Key
Preventing tick bites is the best way to protect your pet:

• Use veterinarian-recommended tick preventatives year-round
• Check your pet daily for ticks, especially after outdoor activity
• Keep grass trimmed and reduce tick habitats in your yard
• Ask your veterinarian about the Lyme vaccine for dogs

🧼 Safe Tick Removal
If you find a tick on your pet:

1. Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick remover tool
2. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible
3. Pull upward steadily without twisting
4. Clean the area with antiseptic

Avoid using home remedies like petroleum jelly or heat, as these can increase the risk of disease transmission.

❤️ When to Call Us
If your pet shows any signs of illness after a tick bite—or if you’re unsure how to safely remove a tick—contact us right away. Early detection and treatment make a big difference.

🐶 Final Thoughts
Lyme disease is preventable, and with the right precautions, you can keep your pet safe and healthy all year long. If you have questions about tick prevention or Lyme disease, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!

​​Spring Into Protection: Flea, Tick & Heartworm Prevention for Your Pet
As the weather warms and we spend more time outdoors, parasites wake up right along with the flowers. Spring is one of the most important times of year to protect your pets from fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease. These pests are more than just a nuisance — they can carry serious diseases that affect both pets and people.
Here’s what every pet owner should know about keeping their furry family members safe this season.


🌼 Why Spring Protection Matters
Warmer temperatures and increased humidity create the perfect environment for parasites to thrive. Fleas begin reproducing rapidly, ticks become more active, and mosquitoes — the carriers of heartworm disease — return in full force.
Many pet owners assume parasites are only a summer problem, but in reality, prevention should continue year-round in our area.


🐜 Flea Prevention: More Than Just Itching
Fleas multiply quickly. In fact, one flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day! Once they enter your home, they can infest carpets, bedding, and furniture.
Why Fleas Are a Problem:

• Intense itching and skin infections
• Allergic reactions (Flea Allergy Dermatitis)
• Tapeworm transmission
• Anemia in young or small pets

Prevention Tips:

• Use veterinarian-recommended monthly flea preventatives.
• Treat all pets in the household.
• Wash bedding regularly and vacuum frequently.
• Stay consistent — skipping doses allows the flea life cycle to restart.

🕷 Tick Protection: Tiny Pests, Big Risks
Pennsylvania consistently ranks number one in the United States for reported cases of Lyme disease. The state has recorded the highest number of cases in 11 of the 12 years on record, according to the CDC.   Ticks are commonly found in wooded areas, tall grasses, and even suburban backyards. They attach to pets and can transmit serious illnesses.
Diseases Ticks Can Carry:

• Lyme disease
• Ehrlichiosis
• Anaplasmosis
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Prevention Tips:

• Use monthly tick preventatives or combination flea/tick products.
• Perform daily tick checks after outdoor activities.
• Keep grass trimmed and minimize brush in your yard.
• Ask your veterinarian about Lyme vaccination,

🦟 Heartworm Disease: A Silent but Serious Threat
Heartworm disease is transmitted through mosquito bites. Once infected, worms live in the heart and lungs, causing severe damage that can be fatal if untreated.
Important Facts:

• Just one mosquito bite can transmit heartworm.
• Early stages often show no symptoms.
• Treatment is costly and can be hard on your pet.
• Prevention is safe, simple, and far less expensive than treatment.

Prevention Tips:

• Give monthly heartworm prevention year-round.
• Ensure your dog is tested initially if there is unknow history, missed doses, or before starting preventatives.  The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Heartworm Society (AHS) recommend annual, year-round heartworm testing and prevention for dogs to detect infections early, typically beginning testing at 6-7 months of age. 
• Don’t forget cats — indoor cats can get heartworm too, and prevention is available.

🐾 Why Consistency Is Key
Parasite prevention works best when given consistently and on schedule. Missing even one month can leave your pet vulnerable.
If you're unsure which product is best for your pet’s age, lifestyle, or health status, consult your veterinarian. With so many options available — chewables, topicals, collars, and combination products — there is a solution for every pet.


🌷 Make Spring a Fresh Start
Spring is the perfect time to:

• Refill or renew your pet’s preventatives
• Schedule an annual wellness exam
• Perform heartworm testing if due
• Update vaccinations

Protecting your pet from fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease is one of the simplest and most important steps you can take to ensure a happy, healthy season.
If you have questions about prevention options or need to schedule your pet’s spring check-up, contact our veterinary team today. We’re here to help your pets enjoy a safe and itch-free spring! 🌼🐶 🐱🌷
 

February Is Pet Dental Health Month 🦷🐾
Open wide! Consistent, quality dental care is just as important for your pet’s health as it is for yours. You brush your teeth daily, floss (when you remember!), and visit your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups. You know that dental problems can worsen if ignored — becoming more painful and more expensive to treat over time. Gum disease can even increase the risk of heart disease. The same is true for our pets.

Regular, preventive dental care — including at-home care and professional veterinary dental cleanings — is essential for your pet’s overall health, comfort, and longevity.  We are partnering with Pumpkin Pet Insurance to spread awareness about the importance of addressing pet dental disease.

What Is Periodontal Disease?
Dogs and cats rarely develop cavities like humans do, but dental disease is extremely common:

• About 80% of dogs
•  50-90% of cats
• Both by the age of three - four

Periodontal disease is the gradual destruction of the structures that support the teeth — including the gums, ligaments, and bone. It begins when plaque builds up and hardens into tartar above and below the gum line. Over time, this can lead to:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Tooth loss
• Pain and discomfort
• Difficulty eating
• Infection that can affect the heart, liver, and kidneys

Why February Matters
With February being Pet Dental Health Month, it’s the perfect time to focus on your pet’s oral health.  Please call us at 724-452-6151 and schedule a dental evaluation today.  
In the meantime, here are a few at-home dental care tips.
🪥 Brush Daily
Daily brushing is the gold standard of pet dental care. While it may seem difficult at first, most pets adapt with patience and positive reinforcement. Always use pet-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste — never human toothpaste, as it can be harmful if swallowed.
🦴 Dental Diets & Chews
Special dental diets and chew treats are designed to reduce plaque and tartar. Ask your veterinarian which options are best for your pet.
🧸 Chew Toys
Chew toys can help control plaque when used regularly. Avoid toys that are too hard, as they can fracture teeth.
💧 Water Additives
These are added to your pet’s drinking water to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
                                                           Help us keep your pet smiling.

​Keeping Your Pet Mentally and Physically Fit
As a pet owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy. While regular visits to the vet and a balanced diet are essential, it’s also important to keep your pet fit mentally and physically.  You can join in the fun!  Staying in shape with your pet can be done through various activities like walking, running, and swimming, or by incorporating them into your own workouts through exercises like circuit training or yoga.
Here are some tips to help you do just that.
Exercise
Outdoor activities

• Walking: A simple and effective way to stay active. Start with shorter walks and gradually increase the duration and intensity. Varying your route provides new sights and smells for both you and your pet.
• Running or jogging: A good option for athletic dogs, but it's important to consider their age and joint health, especially with puppies who should avoid hard surfaces until they are fully grown.
• Swimming: A low-impact workout, but not all dogs know how to swim, so it's important to ensure they are comfortable and safe in the water.
• Hiking: Excellent for longer, more strenuous activities. Make sure your dog has the stamina for the terrain and is appropriately equipped.
• Dog sports: Try sports like agility courses, which involve both you and your dog navigating obstacles, or Canine Freestyle, which combines dancing and your dog's movements. 

Indoor and home-based activities

• Fetch or frisbee: A classic and easy way to get both you and your pet moving, which can also be adapted to your personal fitness by adding squats or lunges between throws.
• Yoga or "doga": Incorporate your pet into a yoga session by having them follow along with simple poses, lie next to you, or perform poses like "downward dog".
• Circuit training: Create a circuit of exercises like push-ups, squats, and planks, and have your dog participate by doing tricks or by holding a "down" position next to you for added resistance.

Puzzle toys and hide-and-seek: These provide mental stimulation for your pet, which is just as important for their overall health as physical activity.
Ideas For Dogs:

• Agility Training: Set up an obstacle course in your backyard or take your dog to an agility class. This can help improve their coordination, stamina, and obedience.
• Hide-and-Seek: Hide treats around your house or yard and encourage your dog to find them. This can provide both physical and mental stimulation.
• Swimming: If your dog enjoys swimming, taking them to a dog-friendly pool or beach can provide great exercise while being easy on their joints.
• Puzzle Toys: There are a variety of puzzle toys available for dogs that require them to figure out how to get to a treat or toy. These can help keep them mentally stimulated.
• Fetch: Playing fetch is a classic activity for dogs that provides both physical and mental stimulation. Mix it up by using different types of balls or playing in different locations.

 
Ideas For Cats:

• Scratching Posts: Providing scratching posts or trees can help cats satisfy their natural urge to scratch while also providing exercise.
• Laser Pointers: Many cats love to chase laser pointers. This can provide mental and physical stimulation as they try to catch the moving light.
• Interactive Toys: Toys that allow cats to hunt, such as wand toys or toys with hidden treats, can provide mental stimulation and exercise.
• Window Perches: Setting up a window perch where your cat can watch birds or other animals can provide mental stimulation.
• Catnip: For cats that enjoy catnip, providing a catnip-filled toy can provide both mental and physical stimulation.

 
Mental Stimulation
Pets also need mental stimulation to stay healthy. Interactive toys, puzzles, and games can help keep your pet’s mind sharp. You can also try teaching your pet new tricks or commands, which will not only provide mental stimulation but also help strengthen your bond with your furry friend.
Socialization
Pets are social animals and need interaction with other animals and people. Socialization can help prevent behavioral problems such as anxiety and aggression. Taking your pet to the dog park or arranging playdates with other pets can help provide socialization opportunities.
Regular Check-Ups
Regular check-ups with the veterinarian can help identify any potential health issues early on. This is especially important for older pets, as they are more prone to health problems. Regular check-ups can also help ensure that your pet is up to date on vaccinations and preventative care. Pets are considered a senior at seven years of age.  We advise proactive medical care and would like to see your senior pet twice a year.
Balanced Diet
A balanced diet is essential for your pet’s physical and mental well-being. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the right type and amount of food for your pet. Avoid giving your pet human food, as it can cause digestive issues and lead to obesity.
​
Remember to always supervise your pets during any activities and consult with Green Valley Veterinary Hospital before starting any new exercise routines or diets. By providing opportunities for physical and mental stimulation, you can help ensure that your furry friends live long, healthy, and happy lives.

​You can picture it: Christmas morning. Your kids or significant other are gathered by the tree. You hand them one last box. They open it to find a new puppy or kitten. They cry happy tears. It’s a moment you will remember fondly together for years to come.

So, is Christmas the best time to add a pet to your family? This happy holiday moment can happen.  But there are a few things to keep in mind to help ensure this holiday present is a success for everyone.
 
If it is your own children, a surprise is fine, but not for other family members or friends.  For instance, does the person even want a pet? Do you know their lifestyle well enough to choose a pet that is a good fit for them?
Going to the shelter with the recipient and offering to take care of the adoption fee. Together with the shelter staff, you can find an animal with the energy level, size, personality, and training or medical needs that is the right fit for your friend or loved one.
While it is easy to get caught up in the cuteness of a new kitten or the thought of your kids’ reaction to a new puppy, it is also important to remember this is a lifetime commitment. It is a wonderful, enriching commitment, but be sure it is one you are ready to make.
A pet supplies bundle would be a great gift idea instead of surprising someone with a new puppy or kitten. Tell them, “Here is everything you need for when you get your new furry companion. Now let’s go pick one out!”
 

​Ideas for pets at Christmas include giving them new toys, treats, and cozy items like beds or sweaters, as well as creating new experiences like holiday photos, festive walks, or even a special holiday meal. You can also include them in decorating by using pet-safe ornaments or creating a special pet-friendly area. 
Gift ideas

• Toys: Get interactive toys that dispense treats or puzzle toys to provide mental stimulation.
• Treats: Prepare homemade, pet-safe holiday treats or buy special store-bought ones.
• Clothing: Consider a new sweater for warmth or a festive collar with a bow.
• Comfort items: A new, cozy bed or a warm blanket can make a great gift. 

Experience ideas

• Holiday photo session: Take holiday photos, either professionally or at home, and create a family card.
• Winter walk: Take a walk to look at Christmas lights, keeping safety in mind.
• Special meal: Prepare a special holiday meal for your pet with safe ingredients, like plain turkey or green beans.
• "Spa day": Take your pet to the groomer for a special pampering session. 

Decorating and safety

• Pet-safe decorations: Opt for shatterproof ornaments and avoid tinsel, which can be dangerous if swallowed.
• Pet-friendly decor: Place decorations at an accessible height and ensure any holiday lights or garlands are out of reach.
• Create a safe space: Set up a quiet, cozy retreat where your pet can go if they feel overwhelmed by the festivities. 

Pets will eat — and enjoy — a number of foods, but just because they'll eat it doesn't mean it's good for them.
 Pets explore the world through their mouths, and they can end up chewing on some crazy things. So, which types of human foods are OK for pets? Which foods should they steer clear of and always reach out to your veterinarian if you think your pet may have ingested something dangerous.
Safe options for pets

• Plain turkey: Offer a small piece of white meat that is fully cooked and has no skin, bones, or seasoning.
• Plain cooked vegetables: Plain green beans, carrots, and sweet potatoes are safe options if they are cooked without butter, salt, or spices.
• Plain mashed potatoes: A small portion of plain mashed potatoes is acceptable if it's made without butter, milk, garlic, or salt.
• Plain pumpkin puree: A spoonful of 100% pure pumpkin puree can help with digestion, but do not give them pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices.
• Plain cooked corn: Off the cob, corn kernels are a safe treat.
• Plain apples: Small slices of apple without the seeds are a safe, crunchy treat.
• Plain cranberry sauce: A very small amount of plain cranberry sauce with no added sugar is safe, but many versions contain too much sugar. 

Dangerous foods to avoid

• Turkey bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.
• Gravy: It is often high in fat and can contain onions and garlic, which are toxic to pets.
• Onions, garlic, and chives: These are toxic to both cats and dogs and can be found in stuffing, mashed potatoes, and other dishes.
• Sweets: Many desserts contain chocolate or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which are toxic to pets.
• Fatty and salty foods: These can lead to stomach upset or more serious conditions like pancreatitis. 

 
Fruits & Veggies Grapes & Raisins
NEVER for dogs and cats
Grapes and raisins have been associated with kidney failure in both dogs & cats.
 
Bananas
OCCASIONALLY for dogs and cats
Bananas offer potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, manganese, biotin, and copper. Bananas are also high in sugar, so use them more as a treat than a meal — and make sure to remove the peel.
 
Apples
YES for dogs
High in fiber and protein, this fruit is a great source of vitamins A and C. Do not feed your dog the core or seeds, both of which contain cyanide. It is also recommended to avoid allowing dogs to ingest the stem or leaves.

YES for cats
Apples are safe for cats so long as the stems, leaves, and especially seeds are removed from the apple.
 
Blueberries
YES for dogs
With strong antioxidant properties, blueberries especially are considered a superfood for humans and dogs alike.

YES for cats
While cats can’t detect sweet flavors, they can appreciate the wet, juicy texture.
 
 Melons
YES for dogs and cats
Pets can eat a little cantaloupe and watermelon now and again, but make sure you remove any seeds and avoid feeding any part of the rind, which may result in a foreign body obstruction.
 
Citrus fruits
NEVER for dogs and cats
Ingesting citrus fruits can cause pets to experience gastrointestinal discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. 
 
Cherries
Not advised
Cherry pits contain cyanide, which is toxic to pets. The fruit of a cherry is considered safe. Wild cherries are more of a concern, so best to avoid wild cherries altogether.
 
Avocados
RARELY for dogs and cats
Avocados contain persin, which may cause mild stomach upset in dogs. Pancreatitis is also a concern due to the high fat content.
 
 Onions & Garlic
NEVER for dogs and cats
Both can cause anemia, and serious damage to the red blood cells.
 
Strawberries
YES for dogs
Strawberries are rich in fiber and vitamin C. They also have an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth

YES for cats
It’s unlikely your cat will want one, but in small amounts, strawberries can be an excellent source of vitamin C, folate, potassium, and manganese.
 
Carrots
YES for dogs
Carrots are an excellent low-calorie snack and a common ingredient in dog food that is high in fiber and beta-carotene.

OCCASIONALLY for cats
Vegetables like carrots are safe to eat and high in vitamins, but not a natural part of your cat’s natural carnivorous diet.
 
Tomatoes
MAYBE for dogs and cats
A red, ripe tomato is safe for your pet to eat, but the green parts of a tomato (including the stem and leaves) can contain dangerous toxins.
 
 Broccoli
RARELY for dogs
While high in vitamins and fiber, too much broccoli can lead to possible stomach issues for your dog.

YES for cats
If your cat shows interest, broccoli is a great source of antioxidants and fiber. Offer it in small bites.

Developed in partnership with Pet Poison Helpline
 
If for some reason you cannot reach a veterinary professional, you can call the ASPCA 24/7 Poison Control Hotline at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. There are fees for the services, but it's well worth it. Some poisons are more dangerous than others.

#1: Pets increase our fitness 
We all know that daily exercise improves our health, and people with pets are generally more active than those without. Exercising with your dog for at least 30 minutes a day keeps them fit and at a healthy weight—and the same goes for you. Rolling around on the floor with your cat and their favorite toy or tossing a ball in the backyard with your dog strengthens your bond, raises your heart rate, and burns calories.
#2: Pets help us connect with others
When you work from home, you may sometimes feel isolated. Fortunately, pets often give us a reason to get out of the house—whether we feel motivated to or not. Taking your pet to public places like the park or a local café provides a built-in conversation starter, since few people can resist stopping to say hello to a cute dog. Pet ownership also helps you meet others who share your love for animals.
#3: Pets provide emotional and mental support 
After a hard day, few things feel better than coming home to a pet who greets you like you’ve been gone for years. Pets help us regulate our emotions through their calm, loving presence. Hugging a dog, stroking a cat’s soft fur, or feeling their warmth can be instantly soothing. Pets are also the best listeners—they never judge or share your secrets. Truly, they’re the most loyal friends we could ask for.
Pets as service dogs provide invaluable benefits to veterans living with PTSD, helping to reduce symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and nightmares while promoting social connection, resilience, and overall life satisfaction.  Demonstrating how the unconditional bond and steady presence of an animal can foster healing and significantly enhance mental well-being—offering comfort, purpose, and hope in daily life.
#4: Pets give us purpose
Pets thrive on routine and rely on us to meet their needs, giving our days structure and meaning. Making sure your pet is cared for provides a reason to get up and get moving, even when you’re not feeling your best. That daily rhythm keeps both you and your pet feeling secure and grounded.
#5: Pets improve our heart health
Research shows that pet ownership is linked to better heart health. In addition to the benefits of regular exercise, studies reveal that pet owners tend to have lower resting heart rates and blood pressure, and experience smaller increases in both during stressful times.
#6: Pets support children’s development
Growing up with a pet teaches kids responsibility, compassion, and empathy. Feeding the dog or cleaning the cat’s litter box builds pride and a sense of accomplishment. Pets also help children understand complex emotions, including loss. Plus, kids who grow up around cats and dogs often have lower rates of allergies and asthma.
#7: Pets keep loneliness at bay
Many people become pet parents for companionship—especially older adults who live alone. The affection of a cat or dog helps reduce feelings of loneliness, and simply petting them fulfills our human need for touch and connection.
#8: Pets provide entertainment
Pets make life more joyful—and often hilarious. Whether it’s a puppy running sideways to get from point A to B, a kitten jumping in the air when startled, a cat chasing a laser light up the wall or a dog with the zoomies their antics bring laughter and lightness to our days. And laughter, after all, is great medicine.
#9: Pets give us a sense of security
A pet’s presence can make you feel safer at home. Even the friendliest dog will alert you to someone at the door or unusual noises, offering reassurance and peace of mind. Many people also feel more comfortable walking outdoors when they have their pet by their side.
#10: Pets make us better people
Through their unconditional love, innocence, and loyalty, pets inspire us to be more patient, kind, and mindful. No matter what’s happening in the world, our pets remind us to slow down, appreciate the present, and cherish every moment with those we love.

Make Every Moment Count
There’s no denying the many ways pets enrich our lives. To thank them, keep them healthy with regular veterinary care and plenty of opportunities to play and socialize. Sadly, our pets don’t stay with us for our entire lives—but we have the privilege of being their whole world. Let us help you give them the best quality of life so you can treasure every moment.

 In loving memory of Gunner...What a beautiful difference one single life made. 

​

Autumn brings cool air, blowing leaves, apple cider and, of course, Halloween and plenty of tricks and treats.  Most people know that the candy that we give out every year to trick-or-treaters should be kept away from pets, but how much do you really know about the problems that chocolate can cause?  

As everyone who has one knows, dogs are famous for eating things they shouldn't.  Most love food and their keen sense of smell allows them to find even the smallest amounts of food that are hidden away.  These traits can prove dangerous however when there is chocolate within Fido's reach.