Sudbury Animal Hospital

06/10/2026

How Does a Microchip Work?
One of the most common misconceptions about microchips is that they’re GPS trackers—they’re not!
A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is placed under your pet’s skin between the shoulder blades. Each microchip contains a unique identification number that can be read with a special scanner.
If your pet is found and brought to a veterinary hospital or animal shelter, they can be scanned for a microchip. The identification number is then linked to your contact information through the registration database, helping reunite you with your pet.
✔ No batteries
✔ No charging required
✔ Lasts for your pet’s lifetime
✔ Permanent identification
Remember: A microchip only works if your registration information is kept up to date. If you’ve moved or changed phone numbers, be sure to update your information with the microchip company.
Questions about microchipping your pet? Give us a call! 🐶🐱

06/05/2026

06/01/2026

🐾 Can GDV Be Prevented?

While GDV cannot always be prevented, you may be able to reduce the risk by:

✅ Feeding 2–3 smaller meals per day rather than one large meal

✅ Preventing rapid eating (use a slow-feeder bowl if needed)

✅ Avoiding vigorous exercise for about 1 hour before and 1–2 hours after meals

✅ Maintaining a healthy body weight

✅ Reducing stress when possible, especially around mealtimes

✅ Discussing a prophylactic gastropexy with your veterinarian for high-risk breeds (a procedure that helps prevent the stomach from twisting)

Important Note

A gastropexy can significantly reduce the risk of the stomach twisting (GDV), but dogs can still experience simple bloat and should be evaluated if symptoms occur.

⚠️ No prevention method is 100% effective. Know the signs and seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect bloat.

05/29/2026

Never leave dogs in a hot car. A parked car can turn into an oven in just minutes, even when the weather feels comfortable outside.

⚠️ Cracking windows or parking in the shade is NOT enough to keep pets safe.
If you can’t bring your pet inside with you, it’s safest to leave them at home.
📞 See an animal trapped in a hot car?
Contact local authorities or animal control immediately.
Help spread awareness and protecth our furry friends this summer ❤️

05/27/2026

HEAT STROKE CAN HAPPEN FAST
Know the signs:
🐾 Heavy panting
🐾 Weakness
🐾 Vomiting
🐾 Bright red gums

☀️ When in doubt, call us immediately

05/19/2026

05/15/2026

05/13/2026

Black fly bites are very common this time of year and can look alarming on dogs, especially on the hairless area of the belly or groin. These bites often appear as small red circular spots or “bullseye-like” marks, which can sometimes worry owners because they resemble the rash people can get from Lyme disease.
The good news: dogs typically do NOT develop the classic bullseye rash associated with Lyme disease in humans. In many cases, these spots are simply irritation from black fly bites and usually resolve on their own within a few days.
Most dogs are not bothered by them, but you should contact your veterinarian if you notice:
• Significant swelling
• Oozing or infection
• Excessive licking or scratching
• Lethargy or other signs of illness
As always, keeping your pet on year-round flea and tick prevention is still important to help protect against tick-borne diseases. 🐾

05/08/2026

At Sudbury Animal Hospital we know most pets have:
✨ one official name
✨ and about 17 ridiculous nicknames

Drop your pet’s nickname in the comments

Bonus points if you post a photo with it! 📸🐶🐱

05/01/2026

Moe wanted to go to Winston’s appointment with him!