Dr. Sara Gessner

Jul 112014
 

Lyons Road Animal Hospital offers many General Surgery Services for small animals in the Coconut Creek and surrounding areas. General surgery includes a variety of common and elective procedures performed under general anesthesia.

Examples of common surgeries include:

  • spay (ovariohysterectomy)
  • neuter (castration)
  • lump removal and biopsy
  • laceration repair
  • abscess and wound repair
  • exploratory surgery
  • removal of gastrointestinal foreign bodies
  • cystotomy (removal of bladder stones)
Jul 112014
 

Ear Exams

Dr. Gessner and her staff offers thorough Ear Exams as one of our many extensive Dermatology Services. Conditions of the ears can be extremely uncomfortable and even painful. Symptoms like head shaking, scratching and pawing at the ears, rubbing the ears on the floor or furniture, whining, and abnormal odors are common. Conditions of the ear occur frequently in dogs and cats and result from a variety of causes. Determining these causes is vital to the long term resolution of the symptoms.

Jul 112014
 

Pet Dental Services Coconut creekDental Care for Your Pet – How to Keep that Healthy Smile!

Dogs and cats don’t often get cavities. But they do frequently suffer from other types of dental disease. Periodontal or gum disease, in fact, is the number one illness found in both dogs and cats.

What you need to know about dental care for your pet

  • Dental disease can cause serious problems for your pet, ranging from gum inflammation and tooth loss to infection and even organ damage.
  • Up to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats that don’t receive proper dental care will develop signs of dental disease by the age of three.
  • Dental disease can be easily prevented by following your veterinarian’s advice regarding dental examinations, home care, and dental cleanings.

Signs of poor dental health

  • Bad breath
  • Visible tartar on the teeth
  • Swelling under the eyes
  • Loose or missing teeth
  • Difficulty eating
  • Discharge from the nose
  • Drooling or excessive salivation
  • Pawing at the teeth or mouth
  • Discoloration or staining of the teeth
  • Red, irritated, swollen, or bleeding gums
  • Weight loss or loss of appetite
  • Lethargy and loss of vitality

Pet Tips:

Older or ill pets may need dental cleanings more frequently than once a year. Smaller breeds of dogs seem to be particularly bothered by dental disease. Dental problems can cause loss of appetite and weight loss, especially in older pets. Contact us for more information.

Jul 112014
 

Did you know that your pets can have allergies to common environmental factors just like you?

Do you ever notice your pet’s skin becoming uncharacteristically red or itchy? This could be an allergic reaction. Pets can suffer from allergies to elements in the environment around them, as well as certain ingredients in their foods just like people can.

Some signs your pet may be suffering from an allergy can include:

  • Itchy, or red/pink skin
  • Unusual scratching or itching
  • Discharge from the eyes or nose
  • Hair loss
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

If you suspect that your pet could be suffering from an allergy, it is recommended that you schedule to have an examination and consultation. Dr. Sara Gessner and her staff will be able to assess your pet, discuss his or her symptoms, and conduct any necessary tests to help isolate the allergy. Together, you can decide on which course of medication, or diet will help make your pet healthy and happy.