Family Pet Health

09/03/2026

Family Pet Health will be closed on Monday, September 7th in observance of Labor Day. If your pet experiences a medical emergency during this time, please contact Veterinary Emergency Group at (615) 257-5160.

09/01/2026

Heartworm prevention works best when it’s given consistently and on schedule. Missing even one dose can create a window of opportunity for heartworm infection, especially this time of year!

Keep your pet protected by giving their heartworm prevention on time, every month, without missing a dose! 🐶🐱

08/26/2026

We had a very productive day at the hospital today.
We held a kitten.
We held the kitten again.
We considered holding the kitten again.
Somebody has to do the hard work around here…😻🐾

08/25/2026

Did you know curbside check-in is more than just a convenience? It’s an important part of Fear Free veterinary care!

For some pets, a busy lobby filled with unfamiliar people, sounds, and other animals can be overwhelming. Curbside check-in gives your pet a chance to stay in the comfort of the car while our team gets everything ready for their visit. 🐶🐱

Less unwanted interaction with other pets. Less stimulation. Less stress. That means we can help create a calmer, more positive experience from the moment your pet arrives. ✨

Because a Fear Free visit starts before they even walk through the door. 💙

08/24/2026

08/21/2026

Today's forecast: 100% chance of happy tails, extra treats and lots of cuddles! ☀️🐾😂 Happy Friday!

08/10/2026

Preferred exam location:
Floor ❌
Patio ❌
Dr. Shirley's lap ✅

07/31/2026

It's National Mutt Day!🐶
Drop a picture of your favorite mutt in the comments below.

07/30/2026

Fear Free care is about more than treats and gentle handling. 🐰💙 We also use calming rabbit pheromones to help create a sense of security, making veterinary visits less stressful for our fluffy-eared patients.

07/23/2026

Myth #1: My dog stays indoors, so they can't get heartworms.
Fact: Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes, and mosquitoes can easily get inside your home. Even indoor dogs are at risk and should stay on year-round heartworm prevention.

Myth #2: We only need heartworm prevention during the summer
Fact: In Tennessee, mosquitoes can be active well beyond summer—and even during winter days. Veterinarians recommend year-round heartworm prevention to keep your dog protected.

Myth #3: Heartworm disease isn't common in Tennessee.
Fact: Tennessee is considered a high-risk state for heartworm disease due to its warm, humid climate and long mosquito season. Prevention is much easier—and safer—than treatment.

Myth #4: If my dog has heartworms, I'll notice right away.
Fact: Many dogs show no signs of heartworm disease in the early stages. By the time symptoms like coughing, fatigue, or difficulty exercising appear, the disease is likely already causing damage to the heart and lungs.

Myth #5: Cats don't get heartworms, so they don't need prevention.
Fact: Cats can get heartworms from just one infected mosquito bite. While heartworm disease is less common in cats than dogs, there is no approved treatment for infected cats—making prevention the best protection.

💗Learn more heart works and available prevention options: https://familypethealth.com/heartworms/