Your pet’s health depends on routine tests, preventative care, and early treatment for illness. This can save you money in the long run, as it will lower your pet’s medical costs.
Veterinary dermatologists are experts in skin diseases and allergies. Animal behaviorists can address problem behaviors, such as itching or anxiety, while ophthalmologists treat eye conditions that fall outside the scope of general veterinarian expertise.
Microchipping
A microchip is a safe and permanent way to identify your pet in the event it gets lost or stolen. The microchip contains a unique identification number that is read by a hand-held scanner. The process is very similar to getting a vaccination, and it can be done during a regular visit.
The chips are made by several companies and have different frequencies. Talk to your vet about which chip they recommend, and be sure that the scanners at your shelter can read it.
The microchip is not a 100% guarantee that you will be reunited with your pet if it gets lost, but it increases the chances by a factor of 100. Make sure your pet’s collar has up-to-date information on it as well.
Weight Loss
Dr. Oakes earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Florida and completed an internship and surgical residency at Louisiana State University. He has performed a variety of orthopedic, soft tissue, and neurosurgical procedures. He currently oversees the surgical service at Tampa Bay Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Care Center. He enjoys his work with dogs, cats, and the occasional wildlife. In his spare time, he likes to go to the beach and watch Lightning games with his wife and son.
Cancer Care
We offer a team of board certified specialists and experienced emergency Veterinarians in Tampa FL who work together to ensure your pet receives the best possible care for their health problems. This can include orthopedic surgery, soft tissue surgery, urology, neurology and oncology.
During this appointment, the doctor will review your pet’s medical history and examine the ultrasound report to make a diagnosis and recommend any further testing that may be necessary. This may include an ultrasound-guided aspiration (obtaining a small sample of the mass with a needle), bloodwork, recheck imaging or surgery.
Dr. Nichols received her veterinary degree from Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine and spent several years in small animal general practice before joining our ER/CC staff here at Tampa Bay Veterinary Specialists in 2021. In her spare time, she enjoys fostering kittens and helping them find their forever homes.
Oral Hygiene
Dental hygiene is essential for your pet’s overall health. Regular cleanings and checkups can detect issues like gum disease or tooth decay, and prevent problems from worsening over time. These services can also keep your pet’s breath fresh and help them eat and chew easily. When not cared for properly, bacteria in the mouth can spread throughout the body, and cause systemic inflammation that could threaten your pet’s life. Our vets offer teeth cleanings, brushing and flossing, and can even perform dental X-rays and exams. They can also help you learn how to clean between your pet’s teeth on a daily basis with products like interdental brushes and floss picks, and water flossers. These tools can be purchased from our veterinarian’s office for your convenience.
Skin Care
The itchy, irritated skin of your pet is not only annoying for them but can also lead to infection. Fortunately, there are many ways your veterinarian can help with these problems. From shampoos and ointments to sprays and specialized diets, the right solution can help your pet’s skin look and feel better.
When you’re ready to address a skin problem, contact your family vet for an appointment. They will diagnose the cause of your pet’s itchy, scaly, or oily skin and prescribe the right treatment. Often, this is enough to cure the problem, but other times, a dermatologist will be needed to treat the more severe cases.