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Lyme disease is one of the most well-known tick-borne illnesses in the U.S., affecting both people and pets. Dogs are especially at risk because of their outdoor exposure, particularly in wooded, grassy, or tick-prone areas. Knowing how Lyme disease spreads, what to watch for, and how to prevent it can help you protect your dog…

We all know chocolate is a sweet treat for people—but for dogs, it’s a dangerous toxin. Chocolate contains compounds that can cause serious illness (and sometimes death) in dogs, depending on how much they eat and the type of chocolate involved. Understanding the risks and acting quickly can make all the difference if your dog…

If your dog is slowing down, hesitant to jump, or showing signs of hip pain, one possible diagnosis is Hip dysplasia. This structural condition affects the hip joint and can cause discomfort, limited mobility, and arthritis. At Partners Animal Hospital – Fruitville, we work with you and your dog to identify hip dysplasia early and…

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common conditions we encounter in cats as they age at Partners Animal Hospital – Fruitville. The good news: when caught early, we can take steps to slow progression and maintain quality of life. The key is recognizing the subtle signs before the disease becomes advanced. Why…

Florida is home to many unique creatures—not all of them harmless. The invasive Bufo marinus (cane toad) is one of those. If your dog chews or ingests a cane toad, it can be life-threatening. At Partners Animal Hospital – Fruitville, we want you to feel informed, prepared and confident about how to react in this…

Spending time near the water is one of life’s simple pleasures—for us and our pets. But while that refreshing dip in the lake or romp by the pond might seem harmless, one hidden danger pet parents should be aware of is blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria. These toxic blooms can make pets very sick…

If your male cat is straining to urinate, crying in the litter box, or not producing urine at all, it could signal a urinary blockage—a true emergency that requires immediate veterinary care. This painful and potentially fatal condition is most common in male cats due to their narrow urethra. What Causes Urinary Blockages? A blockage…

If your dog suddenly develops back pain, weakness, or trouble walking, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) could be the cause. This spinal condition is most common in long-bodied breeds like Dachshunds, Beagles, and Corgis, but it can affect any dog. Recognizing the signs early is key to preventing permanent damage. IVDD occurs when the cushioning discs…

Leptospirosis—often called “lepto”—is a bacterial disease that can affect both pets and people. It’s spread through water and soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, and it can cause serious illness in dogs. Because it’s found in both urban and rural environments, every pet parent should know the signs, risks, and how to prevent…

Warm weather can be tough on any pet, but it’s especially dangerous for brachycephalic breeds—dogs with short muzzles and compact airways. Breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boxers, Shih Tzus, and Boston Terriers are prone to heat stress and heatstroke because their anatomy makes cooling down much harder. With a little awareness and prevention, you…