At Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals, we believe pets deserve rapid care and relief. Our same-day urgent care appointments help ensure you spend your summer making memories—not waiting to see the veterinarian.

When it can’t wait: Summer hazards for pets

Although we enjoy warm temperatures year-round, summer brings its own risks. When the unexpected happens, prompt veterinary care prevents your pet’s condition from worsening, eases their pain and discomfort, and gets them on the road to recovery.

Common summer hazards include:

• Heat stress and heat stroke — If your pet is overheating, call us for guidance and to let us know you’re on your way. 
• Foreign object ingestion — Corn cobs, skewers, and food wrappers are common summer items that pets love to swallow.
• Digestive upset (vomiting, diarrhea) — Gastrointestinal issues can be caused by a range of things, from parasites and stress to excitement and too many summer treats.
• Paw pad burns — Walking on hot pavement can lead to painful injuries.
• Toxin ingestion — Harmful items include lawn care products, onions, grapes, raisins, alcohol, foods containing xylitol, and more.
• Water toxicity — This can occur when dogs ingest too much water while swimming or wading.
• Allergic reactions — These include mild seasonal allergies (e.g., itching) or more severe reactions (e.g., facial swelling, pain).
• Wildlife encounters — Florida can be wild, and pets can be curious. 
• Musculoskeletal injuries (limping, pain) — Knee and joint injuries are common as pets play outdoors during the summer. 

How urgent care helps

Your summer to-do list is long, but it probably doesn’t include a trip to the nearest veterinary emergency center or being stuck at home waiting for an opening. Urgent care provides help when your pet needs it, with walk-in appointments and after-hours availability (at select locations). Plus, your pet receives timely care from a familiar and trusted team—and you avoid the long waits and high cost of an emergency visit. 

Your pet’s accident or illness may be unexpected, but at Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals, we’re always prepared.

When to seek urgent care

Urgent care is for pets with non-life-threatening conditions. If your pet has experienced severe trauma (e.g., hit by a car), difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, repeated seizures, or is unable to urinate or unresponsive, they will be treated as an emergency. If your pet needs assistance after hours, take them to the nearest emergency center immediately.

Signs that urgent care is right for your pet

Urgent care is appropriate for pets experiencing:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Excessive panting and/or drooling
• Itching, inflammation, or ear infections
• Difficulty walking, running, or jumping 
• Frequent urination or accidents
• Not eating
• Unusual behavior
• Wounds or burns
• Pain or discomfort
• Hiding or restlessness

Urgent care provides relief for a wide range of conditions and ailments, bridging the gap between regular veterinary visits and emergency care. If you’re unsure about what type of care your pet needs, contact our team.

Serving local clientele and welcoming visitors 

Whether you’re a familiar face at Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals or a summer vacationer visiting with your pet, our urgent care services are available for all. Each of our locations is staffed by a compassionate, knowledgeable veterinary team prepared to provide timely, high-quality care to help your pet feel better quickly and get back to their daily routine.  

Saving the day (and the summer) with same-day appointments

Summertime in Florida can be a time of fun and sun, but it can also be unbearably hot, humid, and hazardous. Our same-day urgent care appointments ensure your four-legged friend receives necessary care without delays and downtime—so you can spend less time worrying and more time together. 

Learn more about our same-day services, find a Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals location near you, or book a regular appointment online.  

At Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals, we offer a range of services and perks that make caring for your pet easier, quicker, and less stressful. Here’s a closer look at how these aspects of our care create greater comfort, consistency, and better outcomes for your pet.

Access to care

When your pet is sick, injured, or simply not themselves, convenient care helps them feel better, faster, and experience less stress and pain. Our urgent care offers same-day appointments for unexpected moments when your pet’s needs can’t wait—even after our standard hours. Plus, you and your pet will both find comfort in the care of a team you already know and trust.

Early detection of illness

When routine care is all that’s needed, convenient locations and reliable access to comprehensive services help you keep your pet’s vaccines, exams, and other care needs up to date. Regular exams improve early detection of many health conditions, leading to better outcomes.

Less stress

Fear, stress, and anxiety can harm a pet’s physical health. It can also mask certain conditions and complicate diagnosis. Of course, pets aren’t the only ones who feel stress. Whenever possible, we’ve provided options and alternatives that make care easy and intuitive. This includes:

• Video calls and mobile services – Want to discuss a pet health concern or find out if you need to bring your pet in? Schedule a video call to chat one-on-one with one of our veterinarians. Need help with at-home care tasks like follow up medications, nail trims, or ear cleaning? Book a mobile services visit and one of our skilled team members will come to your home. 
• Online pharmacy and home delivery — With an expanded inventory and convenient home delivery, our online pharmacy ensures you never run out of your pet’s medications and that what you need is always in stock.
• Online booking — Your pet’s next appointment is always only a few clicks away. Our online booking makes it easy to schedule your pet’s visit when you think about it—even if that’s the middle of the night. 
• Reminders, your way — Overdue services and missed appointments can compromise your pet’s health.  Convenient text, email, or phone reminders ensure you “get the message” every time, at the right time, and can easily follow through to book or confirm your next visit. By sharing your preferences, we ensure you receive reminders the way that works best for you—so staying on top of your pet’s care is simple and stress-free.

Personalized recommendations and care

When pet parents think about convenience, personalization likely won’t make the list—but it’s a powerful part of convenient veterinary care. By tailoring your pet’s care, including our handling and approach, treatments, and medications to your pet’s preferences, we make it simple to keep them protected and healthy. 

For example, when choosing which flea, tick, or heartworm preventive to use, we’ll discuss which method is easier for you and your pet—such as a chewable tablet, a topical medication, or an injection that can last all year long. When care fits your lifestyle and your pet’s preferences, sticking to their routine becomes easier for both of you.

A sense of connection and trust

Being able to reach our team easily—by text, email, phone, or in person—helps support better pet health by making sure you get the information and support you need without delay. Knowing our caring staff is only a message away makes it easy to reach out with even the smallest questions or concerns, so we can stay aware of your pet’s needs, offer timely guidance, and help you feel heard, supported, and informed at every step of the journey.

Convenience: Care that puts pets first

Convenience is more than efficiency; it’s about making care easier and more consistent for your pet. By helping you access care when they need it, reducing stress for both you and your pet, and offering supportive communication and personalized guidance, the teams at Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals help improve outcomes, nurture healthier pets, and empower you to be the best pet parent you can be.

Ready to experience convenience? Book your pet’s next visit online. 

The Comprehensive Physical Examination is the most important part of any preventative health care plan for canine wellness. The veterinarian will examine your pet from head to toe evaluating every organ system. Specifically checking the condition of your pet’s eyes, nose, mouth, ears, muscles, bones, lymph nodes, skin, gait, neurological system, heart, lungs, and urogenital systems. Diet, exercise, mental and emotional health, lifestyle, housing and husbandry will also be addressed.

You will be provided a written report of your pet’s examination findings and any associated recommendations. This report will be reviewed with you verbally and answer any questions you may have for us.

Canine Wellness Health Recommendations:

Rabies Vaccination

Infection with Rabies virus results in fatal neurological disease and infected dogs can transmit the disease to humans and other mammals. Rabies vaccination is required by Florida Law. After the first adult Rabies vaccination, both Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties allow for either 3-year or 1-year Rabies vaccinations to be given. We generally administer 3-year Rabies vaccines since they are less expensive in the long run and are as safe and effective as the 1-year vaccines. Pasco County requires that Rabies vaccinations be given every year.

Distemper, Adenovirus and Parvovirus Titers

The Canine Distemper Virus causes respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous system symptoms. Adenovirus causes decreased appetite, depression and mild fever. Some dogs develop opacity (cloudiness) of one or both corneas of their eyes. Some dogs can have respiratory signs such as eye and nose discharge and cough that are indistinguishable from other forms of upper respiratory tract infections or kennel cough. Parvovirus typically causes vomiting and severe bloody diarrhea. Dogs infected with either of these viruses often die. Furthermore, both of these viruses are found everywhere and direct contact with an ill dog is not necessary for your dog to become infected. You could literally bring either of these diseases into your home on your shoes. It is critical that all dogs be protected against these deadly viruses. Not all dogs need to vaccinated for Distemper and Parvovirus every year. As with any medication, vaccines can cause side-effects and should only be given to those individuals that need them. Fortunately there is now an accurate economical test called a titer which can be used to determine if your dog has adequate antibodies to protect against these diseases or needs to be vaccinated.

Leptospirosis Vaccination

Leptospirosis is a potentially fatal disease for dogs and people. It is usually transmitted by contact with the urine of infected dogs, raccoons, rats, skunks, cows, pigs, or sheep. This urine may be mixed with water in puddles, ponds or streams. Since most dogs could be exposed to leptospirosis at some point, we generally recommend annual vaccination for this disease unless a pet is confined indoors exclusively or tends to have adverse reactions to vaccines. We utilize the most broad spectrum vaccine available which protects against 4 different strains (Serovars) of the disease.

Bordetella (Kennel Cough) Vaccination

Bordetella infection generally causes a self-limiting, upper respiratory disease syndrome. However, it can rarely cause a life threatening disease. Bordetella vaccination is advised for all dogs which will be exposed to groups of dogs such as those found in a boarding kennel, a grooming salon, or at a dog show. This vaccine is required by most reputable boarding kennels, including the pet resorts within our animal hospitals.

Lyme Disease Vaccination

Certain ticks can transmit, Borrelia burgdorferi, the organism causing this disease to both dogs and people. Lyme disease in dogs usually causes fever, arthritis and kidney disease. Infected people often have skin lesions, arthritis, and meningitis. While Lyme disease can be very serious, we are fortunate that the ticks capable of transmitting are very rare in Florida. However, the Lyme vaccine is advised for all dogs that travel into areas where there ticks commonly transmit the disease, primarily the Northeast and Great Lakes regions.

Canine Influenza Virus

Canine Influenza is a newly emerging infectious disease caused by a ‘flu’ virus. In dogs, a highly contagious strain of the Influenza A virus, known as H3N8, is able to cause respiratory illness. Just like human ‘flu’ canine influenza is highly contagious. In fact, unless a dog has already had the illness and recovered, virtually every dog exposed to the virus will become infected. This is because the virus is relatively new, and dogs have no natural immunity to it. Dogs that do not show signs of the disease can still spread the virus to the other dogs. Since 2003, there have been numerous reports of influenza outbreaks in veterinary hospitals, kennels, and shelters. Some of these outbreaks were traced back to the presence of one sick dog that spread the virus throughout the facility and infected many other dogs. We recommend that all dogs over the age of 6 weeks old be vaccinated for Canine Influenza

What you should know about vaccine reactions:

Some pets have vaccine reactions, which are allergic reactions to some component of the vaccine. Small breeds of dogs tend to be more sensitive to vaccines than larger breeds of dogs, but it can happen in any dog breed as well as cats. With smaller breeds of dogs, if several vaccines are due at one time and we fell that they are at high risk for a vaccine reaction, we will time the vaccines being given at different times to decrease the risk of a reaction or to identify which vaccine is causing a reaction.

Common reactions which normally subside within 24-48 hours:

• pain or swelling at the injection site
• tired and less active, more quiet than usual
• loss of appetite

Severe reactions that require immediate veterinary care:

• rapid, difficulty or noisy breathing or panting
• trembling
• facial swelling (will be obvious) and/or hives (raised, red bumps on the skin)
• unresponsive sleepiness from which you cannot awaken your pet

Long term vaccine reactions:

If the site of the vaccination remains swollen or is getting larger a month following vaccination, or is still present 3 months after vaccination, please make an appointment with us right away, as this could be the sign of a more serious problem.

April 30 is Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, but at

If you’re planning to bring home a new puppy, kitten, or adult pet this spring, we’ve got you covered with answers to common new pet questions, tips for the first puppy vet visit, and special offers like $50 off your adopted pet’s first exam, free pet insurance for a month, and medication rebates.

If you’ve been searching for a “puppy vaccinations near me” or “new kitten vet near me,” you’ve found what you’re looking for to help your new best friend start life healthy.

Who rescued whom? The benefits of pet ownership

Adopting a pet doesn’t just save a life; it enriches ours. Pet ownership is proven to provide powerful emotional and physical health benefits, such as:

Emotional and mental health

• Companionship
• Reduced stress
• Improved mental well-being

Physical health and lifestyle

• Increased physical activity
• Structure and routine  

Social and personal growth  

• Stronger household bonds for families
• Sense of purpose and responsibility

With these rewards comes the commitment to care for your pet’s health—starting with the essentials every new pet owner needs to know.

Haven’t had a pet in a while? What to know

If this is your first pet or it’s been a while since your last new four-legged friend, here’s what’s important—and what’s changed.

Veterinary care has advanced significantly

Rapid innovations in medicine, patient care, communications, and technology have made veterinary care more effective, accessible, and less stressful for pets and pet parents alike.

Preventive care is essential

Safer vaccines, more effective parasite prevention, and convenient screening tests protect pets from diseases and ensure early detection of hidden health issues.  

Early-life care promotes lifelong health

Researching “new puppy vet near me” or “kitten vaccinations near me” is a great first step toward supporting your pet’s health.  Our team will help guide you through other early-life decisions that will build your puppy or kitten’s future health, like vaccination schedules, nutrition, training, and more.

Health also begins at home. Creating a safe, supportive home environment can help your new pet start off on the right paw.

Introducing a new cat or dog to your home

A new home can be exciting and stressful for pets. Smooth the transition by providing a calm, positive, and pet-proof environment. This includes:

• Keeping a consistent routine
• Providing a safe space for sleeping and eating
• Removing potential hazards from your pet’s reach
• Supervising play and exploration 
• Introducing your pet to other dogs and cats gradually, with constant supervision

While it’s important to let your pet settle in, we recommend scheduling first kitten vet visits and first puppy vet visits within a few days after adoption.

What happens during your pet’s first vet visit 

Your pet’s first visit to any of our locations includes benefits beyond puppy vaccines or kitten vaccines; it’s an opportunity to establish care, ensure your new pet is healthy, and receive expert support and guidance.

Typical first visits include:

• Complete physical exam
• Weight and growth assessment
• Diet and nutrition discussion
• Parasite screenings (fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites)
• Microchipping
• Age-appropriate vaccinations

Special offers for new adoptees 

Adopting a new pet doesn’t only make you their hero—it makes you ours, too. We’d love to reward you with special perks that simplify your new pet’s veterinary care.

$50 off your pet’s first veterinary visit

Shape their future health with the care they receive today.

30 days of free Trupanion pet health insurance

Discover the peace of mind and financial advantage of pet health insurance, with a one-month free trial. 

Manufacturer rebates on select medications

In Florida, year-round heartworm, flea, and tick prevention is essential. Protect your pet and save with rebates on select medications.

Affordable payment options

We accept multiple payment and financing options—including Cherry, CareCredit, pet insurance, and our own three and six-month payment plans—to help make your pet’s care more accessible and manageable.  

Join in: Connect with our online community

Adopting a pet can feel exciting and a little overwhelming, but you’re never more than a call, click, or message away from caring, knowledgeable support. Connect with our dedicated team and a library of helpful resources by:

• Following us on social media (Facebook and Instagram): Get practice updates, helpful articles, and answers to common pet questions from any of our locations
• Subscribing to our YouTube channel: Informative videos on common pet health topics
• Joining our email list: Practice news, promotions, special offers, and more

New beginnings start here

Adopting a pet is an act of love. Make sure your next step is, too. Give your new companion the healthiest start possible, with the help of our team. Schedule your new pet’s first vet visit now.

You pause, panic a little, and then perhaps decide to “keep an eye on it.”  You tell yourself you’ll schedule an appointment if something changes.

Unfortunately, this approach can be problematic. Here’s why Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals recommends timely care for any lump, bump, or mass.

What is it? Understanding lumps and bumps

Lumps and bumps, formally referred to as masses, are raised or thickened areas of tissue that form on, under, or within the layers of your pet’s skin. They may appear suddenly or develop gradually and can occur as a single growth or in multiple areas. They vary widely in size, shape, texture, and appearance—some feel soft and movable, while others are firm or fixed in place. The term “mass” simply describes an abnormal growth of tissue and does not indicate whether it is benign (harmless) or serious.

What causes these changes? Types of masses

Pets can develop a variety of masses. The most common types include:

• Lipomas — Soft, slightly movable masses of fat tissue (lipids), which are generally benign and slow-growing
• Cysts — Fluid-filled pockets that can change in size
• Abscesses — Areas of trapped infection that may be warm, swollen, or drain to the outside
• Warts or growths — Small, sometimes crusty lesions that vary in shape and texture 
• Firm or fixed masses — Immobile lumps that arise from deeper layers of tissue

While understanding the different types of masses can be helpful, the appearance or feel of a mass cannot determine its cause or risk. Your veterinarian will need to take a sample to provide an accurate diagnosis.

What now? Why “wait and see” isn’t the best plan

There are several reasons we recommend scheduling an exam after you find a new mass, lump, or growth on your pet. 

#1: Diagnosis

After examining your pet and the area of concern, your veterinarian will collect a sample of the mass. This may involve inserting a needle into the mass or, if it’s closer to the skin, gently scraping cells onto a glass slide. The cells can then be reviewed under a microscope or sent to a pathologist to determine the type of mass and whether it is cancerous.

#2: Mapping and measuring

Your veterinarian may take notes or pictures of your pet’s mass for future reference. Taking notes on its precise location and measurements can help track growth or changes and provide the pathologist with helpful information.

#3: Planning and removal

In many cases, removal is the best treatment option. The reasoning for this will vary for each pet and the type of mass, but can include:

• Removal of cancerous tissue — If cancer is confirmed or suspected, surgical removal is a critical part of treatment.
• Location — Larger masses can interfere with your pet’s movement, breathing, or comfort, affecting their quality of life. Others may create pressure on certain organs or internal structures.
• Poor sampling — Sometimes a growth or mass can’t be adequately sampled or biopsied while the pet is awake. When sedation or general anesthesia is necessary for a biopsy, complete removal is not only convenient and economical but also beneficial for the pet. 
• Cosmetic reasons — Some pet parents are upset by the appearance of a benign growth and will elect to have it removed.
• Irritation or infection —  If your pet is constantly biting or licking the growth, or if it keeps breaking open or oozing, removing it can help stop the irritation and prevent infection.
• Peace of mind — Lumps, bumps, and masses can change over time and even become cancerous. Removal eases worry and ensures you won’t miss something important. 

What to expect from your pet’s mass removal

Depending on your pet’s mass and overall health, removal can be a simple outpatient procedure using sedation or a more complex surgery under general anesthesia. In either case, there are a few considerations to help you prepare:

• Pain management — Your veterinarian may use a local anesthetic to numb the area or intravenous (IV) pain medication in the hospital. You may need to give additional oral medications at home while your pet heals.
• Wound care — You’ll need to care for the incision or surgery site. Specific instructions will be provided.
• Monitoring — In addition to watching for discomfort and incision complications, your veterinarian may instruct you to monitor the area for regrowth.
• Follow-up (if cancerous) — Depending on your pet’s diagnosis, next steps may include additional surgery, lab work, chemotherapy, or radiation.

Concerned? Let us help

Unusual lumps, bumps, and masses on your pet can be harmless or serious, but the only way to know the difference is with timely veterinary care. If you’re concerned about a change in your pet’s health, don’t wait—contact the team at your preferred Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals location or book an appointment online to schedule your visit. 

Here’s a closer look at the darker side of anesthesia-free dentistry and why dental care under anesthesia is the only type endorsed by major veterinary organizations and remains the standard of care at our animal hospitals.

What is anesthesia-free dentistry for pets?

Anesthesia-free or non-anesthetic dentistry is the removal of plaque and tartar from a pet’s teeth while they are awake. Although it is advertised as a “safe” and “pet-friendly” alternative to veterinary dental cleanings under anesthesia, it does not provide effective or appropriate care.

Why is anesthesia-free dentistry inappropriate for pets?

National and international veterinary organizations oppose anesthesia-free dentistry for pets for many reasons.

Not performed by a licensed veterinarian

While anyone can look at a pet’s teeth and see visible yellow or brown tartar, only a licensed veterinarian can diagnose and grade periodontal disease (dental disease) and other oral problems, such as gingivitis, fractured teeth, or resorptive lesions. Anesthesia-free dentistry is often performed by non-veterinary personnel who lack the training and expertise needed to provide this important service.

Prevents accurate diagnosis

Diagnosis of oral and dental pathology requires a thorough oral examination, reviewing every area of your pet’s mouth, both above and below the gumline. This includes:

• Complete oral examination
• Charting
• Dental probing to measure pockets and grade disease
• Digital dental X-rays

Anesthetic-free dentistry focuses on visible tartar (calculus), which does not actually contribute to dental disease. Instead, dental disease develops below the gumline, quietly progressing until significant infection and dental problems are present. Since anesthesia-free dentistry is limited to a visual exam and cleaning of the tooth’s surface, significant dental problems go undiagnosed.

Provides limited cleaning

Anesthesia-free dentistry is cosmetic. This means that only the visible parts of the tooth are cleaned and polished. While teeth look better from the outside, plaque-related bacteria continue to multiply and thrive below the gumline. This leads to worsening disease, pain, and injury.

Only veterinary dentistry under anesthesia includes subgingival scaling to safely remove damaging bacteria below the gumline.

Presents risks to the patient

Many pet parents choose anesthesia-free dentistry because they worry about anesthetic risks. However, anesthesia-free dentistry has its own dangers, including:

• Sharp instruments: Scalers and other handheld tools can easily poke or cut sensitive oral tissue when pets move or flinch, causing injury, bleeding, and pain. 
• Aspiration of fluid: Without an endotracheal tube to protect their airway, pets can inhale oral rinses, saliva, and other bacteria-rich fluids into their lungs.
• Incomplete exam: Because it’s difficult to see the pet’s entire mouth, personnel may not notice potentially cancerous tumors, abscesses, tooth resorption, or an oral fistula. These and other problems are readily identified during an anesthetic exam. 
• Emotional distress: An awake dental cleaning can be scary for pets, who may be sensitive about their mouth and muzzle and not want to stay still for prolonged periods.

May worsen periodontal disease

Without X-rays, pets who receive anesthesia-free dentistry instead of dental care under anesthesia may go longer without proper treatment and interventions. This can worsen disease and chronic pain and lead to more extensive, costly care later on.

Additionally, if the teeth are not properly cleaned, tartar can reaccumulate more quickly, requiring more frequent cleaning.

Recommended dental care at Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals

The only proven and effective way to care for your pet’s oral health and prevent or treat periodontal disease is comprehensive dental cleaning, full-mouth dental X-rays, and care under anesthesia.

Anesthesia safety

Although many pet parents worry about their pet’s safety under anesthesia, general anesthesia is relatively safe. In a recent study, the overall anesthetic-related death rate was only 0.05% in sick or healthy dogs and 0.11% in cats.¹  These numbers are even lower when pets receive pre-anesthetic assessments (exams and testing), personalized anesthetic protocols, pain management, and continuous monitoring, which are standard at our animal hospitals.

Full-mouth dental X-rays

Dental X-rays increase diagnostic accuracy by 40%, ensuring the detection of hidden changes such as tooth resorption, infection, and bone loss.1 In addition, X-rays help monitor your pet’s oral health over time and ensure complete removal of tooth roots after extractions.

Complete oral exam and charting

Detailed records allow the veterinary team to document and track any oral findings. This informs future care and timely treatment.

Deep cleaning

Subgingival scaling and polishing with precise veterinary instruments allows the veterinary team to remove harmful bacteria above and below the gumline. This is performed on every aspect of the tooth’s surface, including hard-to-reach areas. Polishing removes microabrasions on the tooth’s surface, which can speed re-attachment of plaque and tartar.

Advanced procedures (tooth extractions and more)

When indicated by exam findings or dental X-rays, your pet’s veterinarian can perform necessary advanced care, including tooth removal (extraction), tissue biopsy, and other procedures.

This eliminates the need for a second anesthetic event and ensures pets receive timely treatment and pain relief.

A deeper commitment to dental health

On the surface, anesthesia-free dentals sound like a promising alternative to traditional veterinary recommendations. But with no proven medical benefit and known risks including physical injury, emotional distress, inadequate cleaning, and worsening disease, it is easy to see why it’s not a suitable alternative to comprehensive dental care under anesthesia.

If you have questions about your pet’s dental health, our recommendations, or our commitment to anesthetic safety, our team is happy to help. Contact us for more information.

Source: 1. Niemiec, Brook A et al. “Anesthesia-free dentistry does not provide any demonstrable medical benefit for the control of periodontal disease in dogs.” Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association vol. 264,2 1-7. 29 Oct. 2025, doi:10.2460/javma.25.06.0405

While that reality can feel alarming, understanding Florida’s unique parasite problems is the first step to protecting your pet. Simply put, when fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes don’t take an off-season, your pet’s prevention can’t either.

Florida parasites don’t play by the rules

In other regions of the country, freezing winter temperatures can halt parasite activity and reproduction. When this happens, pet parents may opt to pause their pet’s parasite prevention until spring. However, like the Florida sunshine, our region’s fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are present—and multiplying—all year long.

In addition to warmth, our notorious humidity creates an ideal environment for parasites to breed. Moisture-rich air and standing water, combined with heat, contribute to high populations and rapid disease spread.

Florida parasites: Types and risks

Fleas

Tiny but relentless, fleas can cause intense itching, skin irritation, and allergic reactions in dogs and cats. Fleas also multiply quickly, with females laying dozens of eggs per day—often in the pet’s surroundings (i.e., your home). Once mature, fleas bite and feed on pets and people. Infected fleas can transmit tapeworms, an intestinal parasite that requires additional treatment. 

Ticks

Ticks are common in grassy or wooded areas, where they wait for warm-blooded passersby. These small hitchhikers often go unnoticed until they’re already attached—increasing the risk of disease transmission. Tick-borne diseases—including Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis—are a significant concern for pets and people alike, as they affect quality of life and can require extensive treatment. 

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are a familiar sight and sound to many Floridians, but these pests are more than a nuisance. Infected mosquitoes can transmit heartworm disease to pets in a single bite, leaving unprotected dogs and cats vulnerable to a life-threatening infection. Although treatment is available for dogs, it is lengthy and expensive. Sadly, there is no treatment for heartworm disease in cats, who often develop a less obvious but equally harmful form of the disease. 

What happens when prevention is paused

Relentless parasites require consistent prevention. Missing even one dose can leave your pet unprotected and vulnerable to biting parasites. But that’s not all—parasite preventives also work by breaking the parasite life cycle. When a dose is missed, young heartworms in your pet’s bloodstream can continue to develop, and newly hatched fleas can feed on your pet and start reproducing. Both can quietly grow into much bigger problems before you’re even aware that a problem exists.

Year-round prevention also ensures you won’t forget to start again when spring arrives.

Indoor pets need year-round prevention, too

Parasites don’t stop at the front door or a closed window, especially here in Florida. Our balmy climate creates ideal conditions outside, where a parasite can hitch a ride on an indoor-outdoor pet or your clothing, shoes, or bags and be carried inside. Once indoors, these parasites can take up residence in your climate-controlled home while feeding on—and possibly infecting—unprotected pets.

Proactive prevention: The year-round recommendation

Year-round parasite prevention—including a flea and tick preventive and a heartworm preventive that includes protection against intestinal parasites—is now recommended for all pets throughout the U.S., by leading veterinary organizations, including:

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
• American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
• Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) 

In line with these recommendations and recognizing our subtropical climate, Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals strongly advocates year-round prevention for every dog and cat.

Partnering together to protect your pet

Fortunately, year-round prevention is easier and safer than ever. If your pet isn’t already on preventives, your veterinarian will work with you to determine which products suit your pet’s preferences, lifestyle, and health needs. Our preferred options for trusted, research-backed, year-round protection include:

For dogs:

• Simparica Trio^® – A monthly oral chewable tablet that protects against fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease.
• Proheart 6 or 12 and Bravecto® Quantum – When paired together, these injectable medications provide up to 12-months of continuous protection against fleas, ticks, and heartworms. 

For cats:

• Revolution^® Plus – This monthly topical formula is easy to apply, stress-free, and delivers 30-days of protection against heartworm disease, fleas, ticks, ear mites, and some intestinal parasites.

Florida is proof that even paradise has its problems, but just because we share our environment with parasites doesn’t mean they have to compromise your pet’s health or comfort. Contact us to get your pet started with year-round prevention. 

Preventive care planning goes beyond the promise to “do better” this year—it turns resolutions into action. Here are five reasons why a preventive care plan promotes better health for your pet—and less stress for you!

What is preventive care planning?

Preventive care planning is simply taking time to map out your pet’s health needs for the year ahead. This includes:

• Routine vet visits (wellness exams and vaccines)
• Annual services like dental cleanings 
• Expected costs and knowing how you’ll pay for them
• At-home care tasks to maintain wellness between visits

Having a plan helps keep your pet healthier and more comfortable while making pet care easier to manage.

5 Reasons why you need a preventive care plan

Despite your best efforts, life with pets can be unpredictable. Preventive care planning helps you stay in control of things you can manage and stay prepared for the unexpected. Here’s how planning now can ensure a year of greater pet health and less stress.

#1: Preventive care planning helps us detect health problems early

Routine veterinary visits provide a chance to identify small changes in your pet’s health before they become larger issues. The sooner these things are detected, the faster your pet can receive care. In addition, early interventions are often less invasive, more effective, and more affordable, helping prevent more serious conditions and costly care. Translation: Less discomfort and illness for your pet, and greater confidence for you.

#2: Preventive care planning provides financial peace of mind

Preventive care planning includes considering how you’ll manage and pay for your pet’s expected and unexpected care. This may include pet insurance, or a payment plan like Cherry.

Enrolling in one or both of these options before your pet needs care ensures you’re ready to say “Yes” when they need it, without financial hardship.

#3: Preventive care planning helps you manage care costs

Planning your pet’s care for the year helps you budget and avoid large lump-sum expenses. Instead of doing all vaccines and services in one visit, you can spread them out over several appointments, making costs easier to handle. Heartworm and flea prevention are extremely important for dogs and cats in Florida. Having your pet’s prevention mailed to you from our online pharmacy or having the veterinarian administer a prevention injection that lasts 6 or 12 months are additional ways to help spread out the cost of care. These options give you time to plan ahead and confidently approve the care your pet needs.

The financial options above can help make those planned costs even more manageable.

#4: Preventive care planning helps you avoid preventable problems

Many serious, sometimes heartbreaking, pet health conditions can be prevented with consistent care. In addition to identifying hidden health concerns, preventive care visits provide  a layer of protection that includes:

• Vaccinations — Vaccines protect against infectious diseases such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus in dogs, and feline leukemia and calicivirus in cats.
• Screening tests — Routinely checking your pet’s blood and urine through laboratory testing can help watch for serious diseases that may impact your pet’s kidneys, bladder, liver, heart and other organs. Intestinal parasite testing can also detect exposure to harmful disease-causing pests.
• Parasite prevention — Year-round heartworm, flea, and tick preventives create a strong defense against parasite infestations and dangerous diseases and are necessary in Florida.

#5: Preventive care planning builds healthy habits for year-long wellness

Preventive care planning creates a system to help you manage everyday care. Adding one or two healthy habits to your pet’s routine is a simple way to support better health and detect potential issues early. From juvenile to adult to senior and geriatric pets, working with the veterinarian will help your pet feel their best and extend their life.

Examples of powerful habits include:

• Educate yourself and your family 
• Brushing your pet’s teeth daily if they will safely tolerate it
• Providing a daily exercise routine that’s appropriate for your pet’s age and mobility
• Food is medicine. Making certain your pet is eating the best type of pet food for their metabolic needs and age. Feeding your pet a measured portion of food (Not sure which food is best or how much? Ask us!)
• Weighing your pet monthly
• Brushing your pet daily and checking for lumps, bumps and skin issues
• Watching for signs of pain or discomfort in your dog or cat

Action! Simple steps to help you get started

The new year is already underway. Take action today to ensure your pet’s year-long health and peace of mind. Potential steps include:

• Mapping routine care — Contact us or check your pet’s records to find out what’s due and when. Or use our App or Client Portal.
• Pre-booking appointments — Booking early helps you secure your preferred days and times and eliminates the need to call when the service is due. 
• Explore pet insurance and other payment options — This website will help you choose what’s right for your situation and be ready for future care costs.
• Set reminders — Create recurring phone or calendar reminders for ongoing tasks like parasite prevention or grooming.
• Choose one at-home habit — Select a task that you can easily incorporate into your current routine. Focus on keeping the habit for 30 days. Make a list of other habits to add once the first one is solid.

A little planning now for less worry later

Preventive care planning can seem unnecessary—until your pet’s health changes or their care costs increase. Starting the year with a system in place and a sense of direction turns uncertainty into preparedness and helps you focus on what matters most: your pet’s well-being and longevity.

Ready to schedule your pet’s appointments for the new year? Interested in payment options? Contact your preferred Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals location to get started. 

The holidays are full of joy, celebration, and special moments with the ones we love. At Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals, our veterinarians are here to help keep your pets safe, healthy, and comfortable all season long. As your trusted Tampa veterinary clinics, we’ve put together helpful holiday safety tips to make sure your furry family members enjoy the festivities right alongside you.

Cold Weather Safety for Pets

Even though winters in Tampa are mild, the temperature can drop quickly, especially at night. Here are a few ways to keep pets warm and comfortable:

Keep outdoor time shorter on chilly days

Small breeds, seniors, and pets with short coats feel the cold more easily and may need shorter outdoor breaks.

Watch for signs of discomfort

Shivering, reluctance to walk, or stiffness can signal that your pet is too cold.

Offer warm, dry bedding

A soft blanket, cozy bed, or elevated surface can make a big difference on cooler nights.

Plan ahead for travel

If your pet is traveling with you, make sure their carrier or crate stays warm and away from drafts.

If you have concerns about your pet’s comfort or chronic conditions like arthritis, your veterinarian can guide you on extra care during colder days.

Holiday Hazards to Keep in Mind

The holiday season brings decorations, treats, and lots of activity in the home. With so much happening, pets can get into things that aren’t safe. Our animal hospitals recommend keeping an eye on these common hazards:

Toxic holiday plants

Poinsettias, lilies, mistletoe, and holly can cause anything from mild irritation to more serious digestive upset.

Tinsel and ornaments

Cats love shiny, string-like objects, but swallowing tinsel can lead to dangerous blockages.

Holiday foods

Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, xylitol, and fatty leftovers are common causes of emergency visits this time of year.

Electrical cords and candles

Curious pets may chew cords or knock over candles, increasing the risk of burns or fires.

Busy households and open doors

With guests coming and going, pets may feel stressed or slip outside unnoticed. A quiet room just for them can help keep things calm.

If you’re ever unsure whether a decoration, treat, or plant is safe, your Tampa veterinary clinics are always here to answer your questions.

Warm Holiday Wishes from Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals

As the year comes to a close, all of us at Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals want to thank you for trusting our veterinarians and teams with your pet’s care. Serving you across our eight animal hospitals is an honor, and we appreciate the close relationships we’ve built with your families.

Your support means everything to us, and we love being part of your pets’ lives as they grow, thrive, and fill your homes with joy.

From our entire team to yours, we wish you a warm, safe, and happy holiday season. May it be filled with comfort, celebration, and plenty of cozy snuggles.

If you need us, your trusted Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals are here throughout the holiday season.

Happy Holidays! 

1. Save more money every month for my pet’s annual care needs.

2. Check my pet’s body condition score (BCS)

2. Walk my dog more regularly.

3. Play with my cat 30 minutes every day to keep him/her more active.

4. Get health insurance for my pet:

• Trupanion
• Compare dog insurance plans
• Consumer Report: Is Pet Insurance Worth The Cost?
• Scratch Pay
• Pet Insurance Review

5. Feed my pet a better quality pet food and stop feeding ‘people food’.

Wanna hear some of our doctors’ ‘Wish List’?

‘I wish all of my patients had pet health insurance so we could better relieve disease and suffering’.

‘I would like to have all of my patients at a healthier weight’.

‘I wish that each pet have an examination every 6 months so we could detect diseases sooner’.

‘I wish more clients would look in their pet’s mouth, in their ears and more closely at their pet’s skin/coat at least once a month’.