Urinary blockages are one of the most urgent and dangerous medical emergencies in male cats. Without immediate care, a blocked urethra can lead to kidney failure or bladder rupture within just 24 to 48 hours. In cats with recurring obstructions, Perineal Urethrostomy (PU) surgery can be a life-saving procedure that provides long-term relief and restores [...]

It usually starts with something small. A sneeze that won’t stop. A sudden head shake. A paw obsessively scratching at the ear. It might look like a minor irritation—but for many dogs during the dry season, these signs point to something much more serious: a foxtail. At the Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center of Northern [...]

Feline asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects a cat's lower airways, triggering symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Early recognition of these symptoms is crucial, as unmanaged feline asthma can lead to life-threatening respiratory distress. At Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff, AZ, we aim to educate [...]

Understanding and Treating Ear Hematomas in Dogs If your dog is constantly scratching at their ears or shaking their head, there’s more at stake than just annoyance. One of the most uncomfortable and messy complications that can arise from repeated ear irritation is an ear hematoma—and yes, it’s just as unpleasant as it sounds. At [...]

Diabetic Emergencies in Pets: Recognizing and Responding to Blood Sugar Crises Managing diabetes in pets—especially dogs and cats as they age—requires daily care, close monitoring, and a quick response when something goes wrong. One of the biggest risks diabetic pets face is a sudden blood sugar emergency, either too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia). [...]

Brachycephalic Breeds & Breathing Issues: What Every Pet Owner Should Know Short-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs and cats have a unique appearance that many people love—but those adorable flat faces can come with serious health challenges. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS) is a common condition in breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus, and Persian [...]

Torn or broken toenails are one of the most common injuries we see in emergency veterinary medicine. While some cases can be managed at home, others require prompt professional care. At Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff, AZ, we help pet owners understand when nail injuries are minor—and when they could [...]

Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a prevalent condition in cats, especially as they age. It involves a gradual decrease in kidney function, which can significantly impact a cat’s overall health. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and balancing electrolytes [...]

Preparing Your Pet for Hiking Season in Flagstaff, AZ Importance of Gradual Exercise After a cozy winter, it's tempting to jump straight into outdoor adventures with your pet. However, a sudden increase in activity can lead to exertional rhabdomyolysis, a condition characterized by the rapid breakdown of muscle fibers. This can be particularly dangerous after [...]