Baytown Animal Hospital

06/22/2026

: Pancreatitis in Dogs & Cats

Have you ever wondered what the pancreas does and why it’s so important?

The pancreas is a small organ located near the stomach and intestines, but it has a BIG job! It helps with digestion by producing enzymes that break down food, and it also helps regulate blood sugar by producing important hormones like insulin.

When the pancreas becomes inflamed, this condition is called pancreatitis. This inflammation can cause the digestive enzymes to activate too early, which can irritate and damage the pancreas instead of helping digest food.

What causes pancreatitis?
Sometimes the exact cause is unknown, but possible triggers can include:
• Eating high-fat foods or getting into table scraps/trash
• Sudden diet changes
• Certain underlying health conditions
• Some medications or other risk factors
• Genetics or breed predispositions in some pets

Signs to watch for:
Dogs and cats may show different symptoms, but common signs can include:
• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite or refusing food
• Lethargy
• Abdominal discomfort or pain
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Weight loss (especially in cats)

How is pancreatitis diagnosed?
There is not one single test that diagnoses every case. Veterinarians use a combination of:
- Physical exam and history
- Bloodwork
- Pancreas-specific tests (such as pancreatic lipase testing)
- Imaging, such as abdominal ultrasound, when needed

How is pancreatitis treated?
Treatment depends on how severe the case is, but may include:
• Fluids to help with dehydration
• Medication for nausea, vomitting, and/or diarrhea
• Pain management
• Nutritional support
• Addressing any underlying causes or risk factors
Some pets with more severe pancreatitis may need hospitalization for closer monitoring and supportive care.

Can pancreatitis be prevented?
While it cannot always be completely prevented, you can help reduce risks by:
- Avoiding fatty table scraps and sudden diet changes
- Keeping your pet at a healthy weight
- Feeding a balanced diet
- Scheduling regular wellness visits to catch health concerns early

06/19/2026

Everyone, meet Shadow!!

06/18/2026

We can take a message 😜🩺🐾

06/16/2026

We will be closed until 9:30am tomorrow morning. (Wednesday, June 17th)

06/15/2026

| New World Screwworm

Texas animal health officials have now confirmed concerns involving New World Screwworm in the United States, including a dog in Lea County, New Mexico that was identified by veterinarians in Andrews County, Texas just on June 7th! This parasite is considered a serious threat to livestock, wildlife, pets, and in rare cases, even people.

So… what exactly is a screwworm?
New World Screwworms are the larvae (maggots) of a specific type of fly. Unlike normal maggots that feed on dead tissue, screwworm larvae feed on living tissue. They are attracted to open wounds, surgical sites, ears, noses, mouths, ge***al areas, and even tiny skin injuries. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow deeper into the tissue, causing painful wounds, infection, and severe tissue damage.

Pet owners should start being extra cautious by:
• Checking pets daily for wounds, swelling, or unusual drainage
• Keeping surgical incisions and injuries clean and protected
• Monitoring pets after grooming, boarding, hunting trips, or outdoor activities
• Watching for excessive licking, foul odor, lethargy, or painful skin lesions
• Seeking veterinary care immediately if something looks abnormal

UPDATE: Trade & Travel Restrictions Due to Screwworm Concerns

Due to the detection of New World Screwworm in the United States, Mexico has placed restrictions on several animals entering the country, including livestock, ferrets, certain birds, and more while requirements continue to be reviewed.

PET DOG UPDATE (June 10, 2026):

Pet dogs are still currently allowed to travel to Mexico under previously established procedures, though updated requirements are still being negotiated.

Additionally, Mexico is now considered a screwworm-affected country, meaning dogs returning to the United States from Mexico must meet APHIS screwworm certification requirements before re-entry into the U.S.

The good news is that the FDA has conditionally approved a medication called Credelio Quattro for the treatment of New World Screwworm infestations in dogs. Credelio Quattro contains active ingredients that help protect against these dangerous parasites, and thankfully, this is a product we carry at our hospital and through our online pharmacy for our patients!

As temperatures rise and cases continue being monitored, prevention and early detection are extremely important. If your pet has any wounds or you notice anything concerning, please do not wait to have them examined.

06/12/2026

Baytown Animal Hospital will be closed on Saturday, July 4th.

To help keep your pets comfortable during the holiday festivities, please call ahead for any medication refills, especially anxiety or calming medications. We kindly ask that you allow our team plenty of time to process refill requests before the holiday weekend.

Thank you and stay safe!

06/09/2026

Our new clinic is coming along, and we couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead. Stay tuned for more updates! ✨🐾 Epoch Construction Services

06/08/2026

: Tracheal Collapse in Dogs
A collapsed trachea happens when the cartilage rings supporting the windpipe weaken over time, making it harder for air to move normally. This condition is most commonly seen in small breed dogs like Yorkies, Pomeranians, Toy Poodles, and Chihuahuas.

Common signs may include:

• Honking cough
• Coughing when excited or after exercise
• Trouble breathing or wheezing
• Gagging or retching
• Exercise intolerance

While tracheal collapse is a progressive condition, many pets can still live happy, comfortable lives with proper management. Treatment may include weight management, medications, avoiding airway irritants, and switching from collars to harnesses to reduce pressure on the neck.

If your pet is having trouble breathing or develops a persistent cough, it’s important to have them evaluated by a Veterinarian.

LEARN MORE: https://www.medvet.com/tracheal-collapse-in-dogs/. & https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951968&sx=316971724&n=1

06/04/2026

Check out this article in the The Baytown Sun by our own Dr. Alvarez! 🐾

As we move into May, temperatures in Baytown start to climb and summer is just around the corner. While we may still have some mild days, the heat is coming

05/26/2026

Meet Lumière, the adorable Frenchie puppy who came in today for his 2nd puppy visit with us!

He was such a sweet boy and did amazing for his check-up and vaccines today! We love watching our puppies grow big, strong, and healthy with every visit.

Thank you for trusting Baytown Animal Hospital with Lumiere’s care.