Mission Animal Hospital of SLO

10/23/2026

As we wrap up this week, we want to celebrate the veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants who dedicate their days to caring for animals and supporting the people who love them.

Veterinary medicine isn't always glamorous. It means long days on our feet, messy moments, difficult cases, worried pet parents, emotional goodbyes, and sometimes going home completely exhausted.

But it also means celebrating successful treatments, watching sick patients recover, comforting frightened animals, and knowing that the work we do makes a difference.

Our technicians bring medical knowledge, technical skills, and critical thinking to patient care. Our assistants help keep the hospital running and provide an extra layer of support and compassion. Together, we make a team that shows up for our patients every day.

To our entire veterinary team: thank you for your dedication, your patience, your compassion, and all the little things you do that often go unnoticed.

You are more than the people behind the scenes. You are an essential part of every patient's care.

10/21/2026

Ever wonder who’s doing much of the hands-on work during your pet’s veterinary visit? Veterinary technicians are often the ones making it happen behind the scenes!

From administering vaccines and drawing blood to placing IV catheters, collecting samples, and examining cytologies under the microscope, veterinary technicians have a wide range of responsibilities that help keep your pets healthy.

Drawing blood: Collecting samples that help veterinarians evaluate organ function, investigate illness, and monitor overall health.

Administering vaccines: Helping protect pets against preventable diseases while monitoring patients and documenting their care.

Placing IV catheters: Establishing access for fluids and medications, including during surgery and emergency treatment.

Reading cytologies: Examining samples from ears, skin, and other areas under the microscope to look for bacteria, yeast, inflammatory cells, and other clues that help guide treatment.

These tasks require technical skill, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of animal health. Veterinary technicians are an essential part of the medical team, working alongside veterinarians to provide quality patient care.

And let's not forget our veterinary assistants, who help prepare patients, gather supplies, maintain clean treatment areas, and keep the hospital running smoothly!

Veterinary medicine is a team effort, and so much of your pet's care happens behind the scenes. This week, we're celebrating the technicians and assistants who make it all possible!

10/20/2026

When your pet stays in the hospital, their care doesn't stop after the veterinarian's examination.

Veterinary technicians help administer prescribed medications, monitor vital signs, assess pain, manage IV fluids, and watch for subtle changes in a patient's condition. Veterinary assistants help keep patients clean and comfortable, change bedding, prepare meals, and provide gentle reassurance to pets who may be scared or confused.

And yes, sometimes that means cleaning up messes, changing bedding for the third time, or encouraging a patient who just won't eat!

It's medical care, compassion, and a whole lot of patience. Every patient deserves to feel safe and loved while they're with us.

10/19/2026

When your pet goes in for surgery, the veterinarian isn't the only one keeping a close eye on them!

Veterinary technicians play a critical role in anesthesia by monitoring heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and body temperature. They watch for changes, help maintain patient safety, and respond to concerns throughout the procedure and recovery.

Our veterinary assistants also help prepare patients, organize supplies, and keep the treatment area ready for the team.

Anesthesia monitoring takes knowledge, training, attention to detail, and constant vigilance. It's a whole lot more than watching a monitor!

This week, we're celebrating the veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants who help keep our patients safe, comfortable, and cared for.

10/18/2026

Happy Veterinary Technician Week!

This week, we’re celebrating the incredible veterinary technicians AND veterinary assistants who make a difference in the lives of our patients every single day!

From monitoring anesthesia and assisting with procedures to comforting nervous pets, caring for hospitalized patients, and supporting their families, our veterinary team works hard behind the scenes to provide the best possible care. It takes compassion, teamwork, dedication, and a whole lot of heart to do what they do!

Veterinary medicine is a team effort, and we’re so grateful for the skilled, hardworking, and compassionate people who help keep our patients happy and healthy.

To our veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants: thank you for everything you do, every single day. You are an essential part of our team, and we couldn’t do it without you!

Join us in celebrating the amazing veterinary professionals who make a difference, one paw at a time!

10/16/2026

Our pets are family, and while we never want to think about unexpected illnesses or injuries, veterinary care can become expensive quickly. From swallowing something they shouldn’t to an unexpected emergency, accidents and illnesses can happen when we least expect them.

Pet insurance can help reimburse eligible veterinary expenses, making it easier to focus on your pet’s health rather than the financial stress of an unexpected bill.

Did you know? Many pet insurance plans have waiting periods and exclusions for pre-existing conditions, so enrolling while your pet is young and healthy may offer more coverage options!

Every plan is different, so be sure to review the coverage, deductibles, reimbursement rates, and exclusions before enrolling.

A little planning today can make a big difference tomorrow.

Ask us about pet insurance options and find a plan that works for you and your furry family members!

10/14/2026

Canine distemper is a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease that affects dogs and other wildlife, including foxes, raccoons, and skunks. It can affect the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems, causing symptoms such as fever, coughing, nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.

The good news? Distemper is preventable with vaccination! Keeping your dog up to date on their vaccines is one of the best ways to protect them from this serious disease.

Have questions about your pet’s vaccination schedule? Our team at Mission Animal Hospital is here to help!

10/12/2026

Today, we recognize and honor the Indigenous peoples who have cared for the land, animals, and natural world for generations. Their knowledge, traditions, and contributions continue to shape our understanding of the world around us.

We recognize the importance of respecting the deep connections between people, animals, and the environment. Today is an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous cultures, honor their histories, and acknowledge the lasting contributions of Indigenous communities.

10/09/2026