VMC of Indian River County

09/08/2026

Separation anxiety is a progressive condition that won't just go away with time or ignoring your pet. It can cause other anxiety disorders and even lead to unnecessary suffering for your furry friend. As pet owners, it's our responsibility to provide love, patience, and the right treatment for our pets. Seek professional help if your pet is showing signs of separation anxiety.

09/03/2026

🐾🏃‍♀️ Want to keep your pet happy and healthy? Exercise and mental stimulation are key! A quick walk or play session won't cut it, though.

🐶🐱 Switch up your pet's routine by trying puzzle feeders, new toys, or playing scent games. Take your dog to an off-leash park or enroll in obedience classes to keep their minds engaged.

🏋️‍♂️🐾 Your cat will appreciate additional climbing opportunities and prey-like toys to exercise their hunting instincts. Keeping your pet active and engaged will help them live their best life. Call 772-217-4771 to talk to your veterinarian for more ideas.

09/01/2026

Your pet might feel nervous during their veterinary exam as all the poking and prodding might make them feel like they're under attack. These techniques help the vet gain valuable information about your furry friend's health.

From checking their heart, lungs, abdomen, eyes, ears, and mouth, it's essential to keep up with these regular exams. To help your pet feel more comfortable with being examined, practice examinations at home and pair them with plenty of treats and encouragement.

08/27/2026

Are you tired of your dog's constant barking? The good news is that you can use a simple technique called "incompatible behavior" to train your furry friend to stop barking. The idea is to reward your dog for a behavior that makes barking impossible or inconvenient, such as fetching a toy or going to their bed.

To start, teach your dog the new behavior in a quiet, distraction-free space. Make it fun and reward them generously for a correct performance. Once they have mastered the behavior, practice it in areas where they usually bark, such as near a window or at the front door. Gradually increase the difficulty by simulating distractions and cueing the new behavior as soon as they get distracted.

With enough practice, the new behavior will become a habit, and your dog will stop barking altogether. Remember to be patient and consistent with your training, and you'll soon have a well-behaved dog that everyone will love!

08/25/2026

👀😬 Are you paying attention to your pet's dental health? Dental disease is a common issue that can cause chronic pain and discomfort for pets.

But since they can't tell us when they're in pain, it's up to us as pet owners to be vigilant. Look out for signs of dental disease like bad breath, yellow buildup on teeth, and swollen gums.

Annual dental evaluations as part of your pet's regular preventive care exam can help detect issues early, before they cause serious problems. A proper dental procedure can make a world of difference for your furry friend!

08/20/2026

When interpreting your dog’s body language, it’s important to pay attention to subtle cues as well as overt signals. For instance, a slight shift in weight or a barely visible change in ear position can be important indicators of your dog’s emotional state. Learning to recognize these smaller cues can help you better understand your dog’s needs and desires.

08/19/2026

Standing in the pet store dental aisle, every package promises fresher breath. The truth is simpler: a toothbrush does the most work, and wipes and gels are useful backup rather than gimmicks. That minty smell can also mask early gumline changes you would want to catch. Our latest post breaks down what is actually worth buying.

Standing in the pet store dental aisle, where every package promises fresher breath, the real answer is simpler than the shelf makes it look: a toothbrush does the most, with wipes and gels as genuinely useful runners-up rather than gimmicks. Bristles physically sweep plaque off the tooth, wipes cle...

08/18/2026

💉 Canine distemper is a viral infection that can be prevented through vaccination. Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are most at risk.

If you're concerned about your pet's risk for distemper, call us at VMC IRCat 772-217-4771 to schedule a vaccination appointment with one of our Veterinarians. We'll work with you to create a personalized vaccination plan that meets your pet's unique needs. 🐶🐾

08/11/2026

👉🍽️ Pet owners, here's a reminder: Not all human foods are safe for your furry friends!

🚫 Chocolate, xylitol, grapes, meat bones, garlic, onions, and yeast dough can all cause harm to your pets. Keep your furry pals safe and healthy by avoiding feeding them any human food, and stick to pet-safe treats instead!👌

08/06/2026

🚪🚗 Pet owners, beware of what you store in your garage!🐾 Many strong chemicals and substances, such as paints, glues, and antifreeze, can be HARMFUL to your furry friends.

😿 Antifreeze is especially dangerous, as it has a sweet scent and enticing taste that can attract pets. Even a small amount can lead to serious health issues, like kidney failure or death. Keep these products locked away and out of reach to protect your pets!🙏