 While ticks are active year-round in parts of Oregon, they thrive during our temperate summers. When you find a tick on your pet, dead or alive, it’s normal to worry! Ticks aren’t just a nuisance, they’re disease carriers that can cause serious illnesses. Luckily, knowing the signs of tick disease can help you catch problems early to give your pet the best care possible.
Common Tick-Borne Diseases in Oregon Ticks are arthropods who feed on the blood of humans, other mammals, and some reptiles. According to Oregon State University, Oregon is home to over 20 species of ticks. Luckily, only a few of these species feed on people and pets. Ticks to have on your radar are:
While tick disease has historically been rare in Oregon, new data from the CDC shows that we’re already facing our worst tick season since 2017. This increase in tick activity doesn’t only affect our pets. Human hospitalizations and rates of illness are also on the rise. The most common tick diseases affecting Oregon dogs include:
For more in-depth information on these diseases and their symptoms, check out our blog: Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs: Symptoms and Prevention. 5 Signs of Tick Disease in Dogs It only takes one bite from an infected tick to potentially spread disease. While the specific process and impact of each tick-borne disease varies, they often exhibit very similar symptoms. Importantly, because symptoms can take days or even weeks to manifest, it’s important to monitor your pet closely for up to 5 months after a tick encounter. Once symptoms develop, they can progress rapidly! If you suspect your dog has been bitten by a tick, seek medical care as soon as possible! #1: Fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite Fatigue and fever are common signs of your dog’s immune system fighting off tick-borne infection. Widespread, systemic inflammation can affect your dog’s appetite and lead to anorexia and weight loss. These symptoms typically manifest within 2-5 days of a tick bite, and can be your earliest warning sign that something’s wrong. #2: Sudden onset lameness, limping, or swollen joints Tick disease can trigger severe inflammation and pain in the joints. In fact, a classic sign of Lyme disease is lameness that shifts from one leg to another, sometimes disappearing altogether and recurring later. Dogs with tick disease symptoms may have a stiff gait, have trouble standing after lying down, and have lameness that comes and goes. #3: Unexplained bruising or bleeding Some tick-borne diseases attack the blood cells and prevent the body from producing enough platelets. Low platelet count increases the risk of circulatory issues and internal bleeding. Affected dogs may have nosebleeds, dark bruises on the belly and/or legs, and pale gums from blood loss. #4: Vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors Certain tick diseases target dogs’ white blood cells. As the disease spreads, it can directly impact gut and nervous system function. Inflammation in the intestines causes nausea, vomiting, and loose stools. As the disease progresses to the nervous system, you’ll see neurologic signs like tremors, stumbling, shaking, or collapse. These are symptoms of advanced tick disease that require immediate intervention! Left untreated, these symptoms continue to progress and can cause permanent organ damage or even be fatal. #5: Seizures and collapse Late stage tick disease can attack the brain and spinal cord. For example, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and late-stage ehrlichiosis often cause brain swelling, which cuts off oxygen to nerve tissue. This can lead to confusion, seizures, and sudden neurologic decline. Tick Disease: Prevention Is The Best Medicine Year-round tick preventatives can greatly reduce your pet’s risk of tick-borne diseases. It generally takes 24-48 hours for an infected tick to transmit disease. Preventatives work by killing or repelling ticks before they can spread disease. Our recommendations for monthly preventatives include:
In addition to a monthly preventative, tick checks after outdoor activity can help prevent disease transmission. For more information on how to check your dog for ticks, check out our recent blog: I Found a Tick On My Dog! Now What?! When In Doubt, Get In Touch Many tick-borne diseases can be treated with antibiotics and supportive care when caught early. If you find a tick on your dog or notice any of the above symptoms, give us a call! Our veterinary team can help assess your dog’s symptoms and recommend the best diagnostics to get your pet the treatment they need. Need a refill on your pet’s monthly tick preventative? You can order your vet-prescribed medications through our convenient online pharmacy partner. Please note: your dog must have an up-to-date physical exam (within the last year) and current prescription to order.  Summer is officially here! For many of us, that means hitting the trails, taking to the water, and spending plenty of time outdoors with our furry friends. But pets don’t always handle heat the same way humans do. So how hot is too hot, exactly? In this month’s blog, we’re looking at hot weather safety tips so you and your pets can have the best summer ever!
First, Know Your Pet There’s no one-size-fits-all recommendation for summer weather safety. Where some pets are happy to bake in the sun on a 75 degree day, others will overheat if temperatures climb into the 60s. As a pet parent, the best thing you can do is understand your pet’s personal heat preferences. A few factors that can impact heat tolerance include: Breed Some dogs were bred to thrive in warmer climates while others are better adapted to cool winter conditions. In general, dogs with long, lean bodies and snouts will tolerate heat better. Brachycephalic (or flat-faced) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers are prone to overheating in the summer because of their shortened skulls and restricted airways. The same is true for our feline friends! Flat-faced cats like Persians and Himalayans will be much more sensitive to high temperatures than other breeds. Age Seniors and young animals are much more heat sensitive than healthy adult animals! Because puppies and kittens are still growing and developing, they struggle to thermoregulate. Younger animals also have less body mass, which means their internal temperature can spike rapidly. Similarly, senior and geriatric animals may have more difficulty keeping cool than other adult animals. With their lower muscle mass and aging circulatory systems, older pets can’t move heat away from vital organs as efficiently. Medications and Chronic Conditions Many medications and chronic health conditions can change your pet’s ability to thermoregulate. If your pet is on medications for a chronic condition, talk to your veterinarian about the risk of heat exhaustion and heat intolerance. Coat Type and Color Next time you’re walking in the sunshine, imagine how you’d feel wearing a heavy, black sweater. Some coat types are more naturally adapted for warm weather. Dogs and cats with short, single-layer coats (ex. Chihuahuas, Greyhounds, Siamese cats) are more easily able to dissipate excess heat. Pets with thick double coats (ex. Malamutes, Huskies, Maine Coon cats) have insulating fur that’s perfect for Arctic conditions. Unfortunately, that means their coat quickly traps summer heat. Fur color also makes a big difference in heat sensitivity. Darker coat colors absorb more heat than lighter coats. Size and Weight Small, lean dogs and cats tend to handle heat much better than their larger counterparts. Smaller animals have a higher surface-area-to-mass ratio, allowing them to radiate body heat much faster. Your pet's body condition will also affect how they handle the heat. Excess body fat acts like a blanket, trapping body heat and hindering the cooling process. Even if you have a large breed dog or cat, keeping your pet at a healthy weight can help them keep cool during hot summer months. So, How Hot Is Too Hot? While heat tolerance varies by breed, age, body condition, and health status, there are a few simple rules of thumb you can follow when adventuring with your pets this summer. If the temperature is... Below 75°F This temperature is comfortable for most animals. Still, you should always consider your pet’s coat type, size, and overall health before taking them outside. Watch for signs of heat stress, like excessive panting, drooling (especially in cats), or bright red gums. 75°F to 85°F This is the caution zone! Some dogs will be uncomfortable at this temperature. Seniors and puppies will be more prone to heat stress at this temperature. Consider shortening walks or outdoor play sessions and watch your pet closely for signs of discomfort. Above 85°F High risk temperature zone for most dogs. Try to walk early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak heat. Limit to short walks or play near water. Make sure pets have access to more water than normal. Above 90°F Extremely dangerous for most animals! Avoid taking dogs outdoors except for quick potty breaks. Make sure all pets have plenty of cool water, access to shade, and use A/C if possible. The Impact of Humidity Because dogs don’t sweat, they rely on panting to cool themselves down. Panting works through heat transfer. As the dog breathes in, cool air moves across their respiratory tissues. As they breathe out, hot, moisture-heavy air leaves the body. This draws heat away from the surrounding tissues and lowers their body temperature. When the air is more humid, panting is less effective. High humidity traps moisture in the air, making it harder for the dog's body to release heat via evaporation. Even mild temperatures can quickly become dangerous when the humidity is high, so pay attention to humidity levels if you live in a more humid area! Mitigating the Impact of Heat Even when temperatures soar, there are a few ways to keep your pets comfortable. Clean, cool water. The number one rule of hot weather safety is to make sure your pets ALWAYS have access to clean, cold water. Panting works through evaporation, which can quickly dehydrate dogs. On hotter days, place multiple water bowls around the house and in a shaded part of the yard. Taking your furry friend on an adventure? Pack your pet at least a liter of water and offer them a drink every 15-20 minutes. Schedule around hot weather. Even on the hottest summer days, mornings and evenings tend to be cooler. Plan walks and playtime around the hottest part of the day, trying to get pets outdoors before the sun is at peak intensity or after it has started to set. If you have to take your pet out during the heat of the day, always check the asphalt temperature first! The best way to do this is to hold the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for their paws. You can also plan for a shorter walk or less intense exercise if you’re going to be out during peak heat. Shade and cooling gear. The ambient temperature in the shade can be drastically different from the full-sun! If you’re taking your pet out on a hot day, try to choose a shady, wooded hike or make sure they have access to shade on the boat, paddleboard, or kayak. If shade isn’t an option, specialized cooling gear can make it easier for your dog to thermoregulate. Air conditioning and fans. For brachiocephalic animals, seniors, puppies, and kittens even indoor temperatures can get too hot! If possible, keep these pets in an air conditioned house when the temperature soars. No access to A/C? Strategically placed fans help circulate air and help with cooling. Know the Signs of Heat Stress Heat stress can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening heat stroke. It’s important to know the signs so you can intervene early and get pets cooled down! Signs to watch for include:
In extreme, life-threatening cases, your pet may vomit, collapse, or experience seizures. If this occurs, contact your veterinarian or nearest emergency hospital to take immediate action! Pets and Hot Cars Every year, hundreds of animals die in parked cars from heat-related complications. Hundreds more are rescued from hot cars, often by breaking a window. In fact, hot cars are so dangerous for pets that Oregon has laws in place to protect them. Need to take your pet somewhere on a hot summer day? Crank up the A/C before loading up your pet to prevent temperature spikes. If the ambient temperature is at or above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, it is NOT SAFE to leave your dog unattended. Even with shade and cracked windows, the temperature inside your car can soar to over 115 degrees. If you must leave your dog in the car, make sure at least one adult stays with them and keep the A/C on! Keep Pets Happy & Healthy This Summer Summers in the Pacific Northwest offer plenty of opportunities to get outside with your pets! But it’s important to know when and how to safeguard your furry friends against hot summer conditions. If you ever have questions about your pet, the team at Mountainside Veterinary Hospital is here to help!  Summer is just around the corner, and the signs are everywhere! Flowers are blooming, trees are green, and your pet’s seasonal allergies are likely starting to flare up. If your pet suffers from seasonal allergy symptoms, you’re not alone. As many as 10-15% of cats and dogs have environmental allergies, just like us.
Your pets don't need to deal with itching, sniffling, and sneezing all summer long. In this month’s blog, we’re looking at common allergy triggers, symptoms, and treatment options. Common Culprits: Environmental Allergies Environmental allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless, everyday substances. These allergens can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin when your dog touches them. Allergens can include outdoor triggers like pollen, dust, and mold, or household allergens like dust mites and even dander from other pets. While some environmental allergies peak in the spring and summer, others persist year-round. Both dogs and cats are most commonly allergic to:
Another common allergen, flea saliva, is transmitted when pets are bitten by fleas. When pets with allergies come into contact with an environmental trigger, the immune system responds by releasing chemicals that cause inflammation. Unlike most people with allergies, animals generally experience atopic dermatitis, or skin inflammation. Signs Your Pet Has Seasonal Allergies When you think of “spring fever,” you probably imagine a scratchy throat, stuffy nose, and itchy, watery eyes. However, these symptoms are less common in our animal friends. While symptoms will vary depending on the type and severity of your pets’ allergies, some common symptoms include:
Less commonly, pets may show respiratory symptoms. Sneezing, an itchy, runny nose, and irritated, watery eyes are all well-documented symptoms of allergies. If you notice these symptoms tend to occur seasonally, it’s more likely that your pet has environmental allergies and not a systemic or food-related allergy. Treatment Options for Pets with Allergies Allergies can be a complex, chronic issue for pets with hypersensitive immune systems. As such, there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for pets with allergies. Instead, we recommend taking a personalized approach to determining triggers and creating the best course of treatment. A few options your veterinarian may recommend include: Minimizing Contact with Allergens First things first: get to the root cause of your pet’s seasonal itch. Check with your vet to rule out a bacterial or fungal infection or parasites like ringworm, fleas, and ticks. Then, try keeping a symptom log to help figure out your pet’s individual triggers. If symptoms are year-round or worse in the winter, you’re likely dealing with an indoor allergen. If symptoms peak in the spring or fall, try to figure out what’s in bloom when your pet’s allergies peak. Reduce contact time with allergens like pollen by wiping down pets with a wet washcloth each time they come indoors. Frequent brushing and bathing can also keep allergens from sitting too long on the surface of your pet’s skin. Over-The-Counter Medications & Supplements Does your pet have mild or intermittent allergies? Many OTC allergy medications and supplements are safe for pets, but only when appropriately dosed! NEVER give human medications without first consulting with your veterinarian, and ALWAYS make sure you’re not giving multi-symptom medications. In addition to anti-histamines, your vet may recommend dietary supplements to reduce inflammation. The omega fatty acids found in many fish oil supplements can help relieve itchy skin or prevent skin infection. Many specialty pet food stores sell supplements, treats, and tonics that claim to provide natural allergy relief. Always talk to your vet about the viability of these products before making them a part of your pet’s diet. Prescription Medications Your veterinarian may prescribe medications to manage persistent, severe, or year-round allergies. The goal of these medications is twofold: to relieve allergy symptoms and to address the hypersensitive immune system response. To relieve symptoms, your vet may prescribe a combination of topical and systemic treatments. For example, medicated shampoos and wipes to reduce skin irritation in conjunction with a steroid or monoclonal antibody medication to reduce immune‑driven inflammation. The best treatment plan for pets with allergies will address the root cause and not just the symptoms! Pets with severe, year-round symptoms might benefit from immunotherapy injections. These shots are typically given by a veterinary dermatologist. They work by gradually introducing small amounts of the pet’s specific allergens into the system. This process, which generally takes 3 to 12 months, helps desensitize the immune system to the allergen, preventing the allergic overreaction. Comprehensive Treatment for Pets’ Allergies Whether your pet needs seasonal relief or year-round allergy management, Mountainside Veterinary Hospital is here to help! Our veterinarians are passionate about helping pet owners understand their treatment options and making sure pets get the care they need to thrive! And, as a locally-owned veterinary clinic, we have strong ties to local veterinary specialists. If your pet requires advanced treatment, we’ll work hand-in-hand with their dermatologist to ensure seamless medical care.  Whether you’re growing your furry family or adopting your first pup, it’s exciting to bring home a new puppy! But between puppy-proofing your home, picking up supplies, and navigating those first few weeks it’s normal to feel a little daunted. As your local veterinary clinic, we love getting to educate folks about how to set their new puppy up for a lifetime of health and happiness. In this helpful how-to, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of puppyhood and give you the info you need to care for your new best friend. Before Bringing Your New Puppy Home A little preparation goes a long way for keeping your new puppy safe, comfortable, and entertained. Ask yourself the following questions:
While raising a puppy requires a lot of adaptability, having plans in place heads off some unknowns as your household gets used to its newest member. Talking through the above questions can help the whole family get on the same page about your puppy’s routine and care. Now, time for a visualization exercise. Take a long, careful look at the area where your puppy will spend the most time. Imagine you have a mouth full of sharp, brand new teeth and nothing feels better than chewing with them! What needs to be moved (cords and cables, shoes, precious heirlooms, etc.) and what needs to be secured or blocked off (cabinets that contain cleaning supplies or trash cans, etc.)  Feel free to save, print, or download for easy reference! The First Few Days
The first few days set the tone for your puppy’s routine, comfort, and trust. Although it’s an incredibly rewarding experience, raising a puppy is not for the faint of heart! Puppies are energetic, curious, and still learning the rules of their new life. They require plenty of patience and dedicated energy. The first day. It’s time to make your puppy feel like your home is their home! Take things slow and give your puppy breaks if they seem overstimulated or anxious. On the first day, give your puppy some calm, quiet exploration time. Puppies explore with their mouths, so keep a close eye to prevent unwanted chewing. Use treats and praise to reward good behavior like sitting, coming when called, and playing with toys. If you have other pets, start with short, supervised introductions one animal at a time. The first night. It’s been a big day for everybody! Puppies need a lot of sleep—as much as 20 hours per day. To help your puppy work off any excess energy, make sure they get a chance to play about an hour before bedtime. Now, where does your puppy sleep? Experts recommend using a crate or playpen so puppies have a quiet, enclosed place to sleep at night. Not only does this give them a “den” to feel safe in, it also prevents unwanted nighttime potty accidents and chewing. Plus, crate training can be a powerful tool when it comes to potty training. The first week. During the first week with your puppy, you’ll start to build a bond that lasts a lifetime. Yes, your puppy needs food, water, sleep, and potty breaks. But just as importantly, they need safety, predictability, and connection. Even sitting on the floor nearby while your puppy explores can create trust and foster a sense of security. Positive reinforcement, gentle training, and play are three great ways to build an unshakeable bond with your new puppy. Start building name recognition by saying your puppy’s name and giving them a treat when they look at you. Aside from bonding, use the first week home to reinforce potty training and get your puppy used to their daily routine! Consistency is the name of the game. Try to make sure they rest, play, go out to potty, and eat at the same time every day. A structured schedule will help your puppy adapt to their new surroundings faster and more confidently. It also helps your puppy learn faster and reduces potty accidents! Time Together vs. Time Alone Building a bond with your puppy is an important part of your early days together. But it’s also crucial to encourage your puppy’s independence! Including some alone time in your puppy’s daily routine can reduce separation stress later on. Some puppies—and even adult dogs—experience anxiety when their family leaves the house. Signs of separation anxiety can range from whining, pacing, and barking, to destructive habits like destroying toys and furniture. To help them work through this, start slow and gradually increase the amount of time they are alone. Your puppy may initially bark or whine when you leave, but as you practice they will learn to cope with their alone time. Remember: when leaving puppies unattended it’s important to have them in a crate, kennel, playpen, or a thoroughly puppy-proofed room to protect both the puppy and your home. When Should Your New Puppy See The Vet? We recommend getting your puppy into the vet within a week of adoption. During this first establishing care appointment, we’ll do a thorough physical exam, check for parasites, and make sure they’re on schedule with vaccines. If your puppy isn’t already microchipped, we can also get that done during their first visit. Preparing for Your First Vet Appointment We love getting to watch puppies grow up! During your puppy’s wellness visits, we'll practice low-stress handling and use distractions, like tasty treats, to create positive associations with veterinary care. Before your visit, you’ll want to gather:
The first few trips to the clinic are also a great time to discuss food and nutrition needs, recommendations for training and socializing, and how to prevent parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworm. Congratulations & Welcome to Puppy Life! Navigating puppyhood requires a little preparation, a LOT of patience, and a pinch of creativity. At Mountainside Veterinary Hospital, we’re proud to offer comprehensive veterinary care for every stage of life. As always, if you have any concerns or questions about your new puppy, our veterinarians are here to help!  We’re thrilled to announce that Mountainside Veterinary Hospital is moving into a new, much larger space on May 11th, 2026! We’ll still have the same wonderful team providing the same high-quality medicine you’ve come to know and expect, but with more room to stretch our legs. The new location will have more exam rooms, a dedicated dental suite, a larger surgical suite, and more kennel space—including separate areas for our cat and dog patients!
The new building is just up Scholls Ferry at 12655 SW North Dakota St (Tigard). A little over a mile from our current location, it’s nestled behind the Providence building and close to Whole Foods. Swing by and peek in the windows if you’re in the neighborhood! This is ALL because of the support each of you have given Mountainside Veterinary Hospital over the last four years. Each and every one of you has been instrumental to our growth. We so appreciate your support and can’t wait to share the new space with all of you! Move-in day is coming up fast! Please note the following dates: We will continue seeing patients at our current location until May 6th. The hospital will be closed May 7th-10th as the final pieces make their way into the new building. We’ll reopen for our regular business hours Monday, May 11th in the new space! We appreciate your understanding during this transition and hope to minimize the impact on our clients and patients. Please reach out to our CSR team with any questions in the meantime and we look forward to sharing our new space with you all! Thank you for being part of the Mountainside Team! Steve, Ronna, and the MVH Team  From extra rugs around the house to special toys and diets, caring for senior dogs comes with plenty of special considerations. At Mountainside Veterinary Hospital, we strive to provide exceptional care at every stage of life. That means taking extra time and care to meet older patients’ specific physical and emotional needs. This month, we’re sharing a few key tips from the Senior Dog Veterinary Society about how to make vet visits with your senior dog low-stress.
When to Schedule Senior Dog Vet Visits Many senior pets have clinic anxiety, trouble walking, or cognitive decline. For these pups, timing is key! When possible, we recommend scheduling senior visits during non-peak hours. For example, morning appointments can mean a quieter clinic environment and no lingering scents from previous patients. This lower-stimulation environment makes a big difference in how comfortable your senior dog is during their visit. Other quiet times include mid-afternoon appointments and appointments during the middle of the week. Not sure when to schedule? Our client service team can help find the best time for your dog’s visit. Where To Wait While we do our best to minimize wait times, vet clinic lobbies are a high-traffic area! For dogs with painful joints or trouble getting around, a lobby full of unfamiliar animals and people can be especially stressful. If you know your dog doesn’t do well with waiting in the lobby, you’ve got options. At our clinic, we have a direct-access room (and soon we’ll have two!). This lets clients go directly into the exam room without passing through the lobby. Not only does this mean less distance walking for senior pets, but it also keeps your pet from getting bumped or bombarded by other waiting pets. The Senior Dog Veterinary Society suggests letting older dogs wait in the car to reduce stress. If your dog can't wait alone in the car, call us for curbside check-in. We can handle most of the check-in process by phone and bring your dog directly to an exam room when it’s ready. Consider Pre-Visit Medication for Senior Dogs At Mountainside Veterinary Hospital, we always take steps to make visits as low-stress as possible. Unfortunately, senior dogs often have increased pain sensitivity and more difficulty adapting to unfamiliar or overstimulating environments. For these pets, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! When scheduling your senior dog’s appointment, talk to your veterinarian about pre-visit medication protocols. Whether you’re proactively managing pain or giving an anti-anxiety medication to help with stress, a calmer, more comfortable dog means safer handling and overall better care. Preparing For Your Senior Dog Appointment Because their health status can change quickly, we recommend bi-annual exams for ALL senior pets. We recommend taking a few extra steps to make sure your senior dog gets the most out of these visits:
We believe every dog deserves personalized care that works for them. Our goal is to make sure every senior dog visit runs smoothly—from scheduling through check-out. That means working proactively with you to plan the very best visit for your pup! Have questions? Don’t hesitate to ask our team about how to prepare for your senior’s check-up.  It’s true that cats might seem more independent than our canine companions. But cats need just as much care and attention as the family dog! Indoor and outdoor cats alike need food, shelter, socialization, and proper medical care.
As experienced cat health professionals, we understand the complexities of caring for your feline friend throughout their lifetime. In honor of National Cat Health Month, this blog outlines the cat care essentials that will help your kitty live their longest, healthiest life. Cat Health & Wellness Guidelines While every cat is different, most kitties will have the same general wellness needs at each stage of life. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), cats have four life stages: kitten, young adult, mature adult, and senior. While many health conditions can affect cats of any age, some cat health issues are mostly seen in certain life stages. For example, kittens are most likely to have intestinal parasites, and older cats are more likely to show signs of kidney disease. That’s why it’s so important to know your cat’s unique needs at every age! Caring for Kittens (Birth to 1 Year) A kitten is a curious, energetic, and adorable addition to the family! Just like babies and puppies, they require a little “kitten-proofing” before your new bundle of fluff comes home. Kittens can get themselves into plenty of trouble if you haven’t checked your home for certain safety issues. Kittens also have different nutritional needs than adult cats. A nutrient-dense food will support their rapid growth and development. Ask your vet about the right formula for your kitten’s breed, age, and lifestyle! Veterinary care is especially crucial during the first few months of your kitten’s life. If possible, schedule your kitty’s first veterinary visit within 10-14 days of adoption. During your kitten’s visits, we’ll check their eyes and nose, listen to their heart, check their teeth, and make sure they’re growing normally. We’ll also administer vaccines and boosters to protect your kitten against serious, deadly diseases like feline distemper, feline leukemia, and rabies. Depending on how old your kitten was when they had their first round of vaccinations, they will likely need to see the vet every three to four weeks until they’re 16 weeks of age or older. At this point, most kittens will be done with their vaccine series. The last thing you’ll need to consider is when to spay or neuter your new furry friend. Most kittens coming from a shelter or rescue are spayed or neutered around 8 weeks of age. But if your kitten is not already spayed or neutered, you can talk to your vet about the appropriate time to perform this routine surgery. Enjoy your kitten’s first year of life, they grow up fast! Those first twelve months are an incredible time for socialization, play, and watching your kitten learn about the world. Toys and enrichment—like cardboard boxes—give kittens an outlet for their energy and can prevent more destructive behaviors, like couch scratching. Caring for Young Adult Cats (1-6 Years) Many people think that adult cats don’t need veterinary care unless they’re sick or injured. Nothing could be farther from the truth! Because cats age more rapidly than humans, an annual exam and routine diagnostics are incredibly important. Your young adult cat needs fewer calories than your growing kitten. Around 10-12 months old, you’ll transition from a kitten diet to a lower-calorie food. While cats are obligate carnivores (AKA they MUST eat an animal-based kibble or canned food), they can eat veterinary-approved diets containing grains and plant material. When in doubt, ask your vet which food is best for your pet! Healthy young adult cats should still be seen annually for a physical exam and routine labs. These yearly visits help your veterinarian determine if your cat is at risk of developing a preventable condition or, if a condition is already present, diagnose and treat it early. During this annual visit, your cat’s veterinarian will also examine their mouth and look for signs of tartar, gingivitis, or tooth resorption. Cats generally need annual professional dental cleanings starting around 1 to 3 years of age to prevent periodontal (tooth and gum) disease. Finally, all cats, regardless of whether or not they go outdoors, need to be up-to-date on vaccines. Your veterinarian will make vaccine recommendations based on your cat’s lifestyle and exposures (e.g., indoor vs. outdoor), age, breed, and health status. Caring for Mature Adult Cats (7-10 Years) While cats age at different rates, many will experience changes that require more veterinary care around 7 or 8 years old. For example, up to 60% of cats will have symptoms of undiagnosed arthritis by age 7. Cats with emerging or chronic health conditions may need bi-annual veterinary visits and more frequent diagnostics like labs, X-rays, or ultrasound. As your cat ages, you are their most important advocate! Subtle behavior changes at home could be useful clues about your cat’s health status. If you notice your cat sleeping more, playing less, changes in appetite, or difficulty grooming, using the litter box, jumping or going up stairs, it’s important to discuss these changes with your cat’s care team. Obesity is a big concern for adult cats as it can aggravate or contribute to health issues like osteoarthritis and diabetes. Try to keep your kitty at a healthy weight with regular, measured feedings and daily play sessions to prevent age-related muscle loss. Caring for Senior & Geriatric Cats (10+ Years) There’s nothing quite like loving a sugar-faced senior pet! As cats age, their health can change quickly. Common conditions in senior cats include diabetes, thyroid disease, kidney disease, and feline IBS/IBD (bowel disease). Early disease detection often improves response to treatment, which is why we recommend twice-yearly physical exams and senior-specific lab work for older cats. Senior and geriatric cats may have drastically different nutrition needs. Some older cats still struggle with obesity, while others will have uncontrolled weight loss. If your cat has a chronic condition, your veterinarian may also recommend a prescription diet. Regular weigh-ins and nutrition counseling can help us ensure your pet is on the best diet possible. While healthy senior cats can still get their regular annual vaccines and dentals, some senior kitties might need more or less frequent care to stay safe and healthy. At Mountainside Veterinary Hospital, we provide tailored treatment based on your cat’s actual health history and needs! We’ll work with you to manage chronic conditions, maintain a healthy weight, and help your kitty live better for longer. We’re also committed to providing compassionate guidance, education, and support when it’s time to navigate your pet’s final days. We believe every pet’s end-of-life care should be filled with dignity and love. Exceptional Care At Every Stage of Life We’re honored to offer comprehensive veterinary care for cats at every stage of life. Set your new kitten up for a lifetime of success or keep your adult cat thriving with personalized care. As always, if you have any concerns or questions about caring for your feline friends, our veterinarians are here to help! General Practice, Urgent Care, or Emergency Clinic: What’s The Difference And Where Should You Go?2/3/2026
 Note: If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency outside of our normal business hours, please contact your nearest emergency veterinary clinic! You can reference our website for a comprehensive list of Portland-area ER hospitals.
When your pet needs care, choosing where to go can feel overwhelming. It’s especially stressful if you don’t know how urgent the situation is. This blog will help you make informed decisions about where to seek care! What Can Mountainside Veterinary Hospital Do For Your Pets? Not all veterinary clinics are the same. Just like human medicine has different clinics for different services, there are important distinctions between emergency, urgent care, and general practice hospitals. When in doubt, call your vet! Mountainside Veterinary Hospital is a general practice, which makes us your pet’s primary care provider. We see pets by appointment for preventative care such as wellness exams, vaccine updates, routine diagnostics, and chronic condition management. As a full-service hospital, we also have the ability to see same-day and urgent appointments! This could include everything from minor illnesses to more urgent situations. When your pet is sick or injured, our team can triage and provide supportive care, making sure they get the very best care possible. Our services include:
What if my pet needs to be seen urgently? Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a long-standing client, your pets’ well-being comes first! When you call with an urgent medical concern, we do our best to facilitate same-day or next-day appointments. Urgent health concerns might include:
For urgent appointments, our certified veterinary technicians use over-the-phone triage to make sure we’re prepared to give your pet the best care possible. When you arrive, we’ll get your pet into the treatment room quickly for hands-on assessment and stabilization as needed. While each urgent case is different, you can always expect clear communication from our doctors and support staff as we care for your pet. What if my pet is experiencing a medical emergency? When your pet is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, every minute counts! We recommend taking pets to your closest veterinary hospital during a medical emergency. Emergency visits to Mountainside Veterinary Hospital receive the same level of care and attention that urgent visits do. Examples of emergencies include:
When you arrive, our first priority is getting your pet stabilized and on necessary supportive care. That may mean taking your pet straight to the treatment room for assessment and life-saving interventions. Next steps will depend on your pet’s injury or condition. In our hospital, we can provide supportive care and treatments and perform advanced diagnostics—x-ray, ultrasound, and labs. While we are not a 24/7 facility, we can coordinate transfer to an emergency hospital if your pet requires overnight hospitalization and monitoring. When To Go To Urgent Care Urgent care clinics have extended weekday hours and weekend appointments. If your pet is experiencing an urgent medical concern outside of your regular vet’s business hours, an urgent care clinic should be able to see your pet quickly! Most urgent care clinics do not offer overnight care, but can help coordinate transferring your pet to an emergency clinic if needed. After an urgent care visit, your general practice vet will receive medical records for follow-up care. Benefits of urgent care clinics:
When To Go To An Emergency Hospital Emergency veterinary hospitals have 24/7 staffing and the ability to hospitalize patients who need hands-on, continuous care overnight. Emergency hospitals treat life-threatening cases first. Less urgent cases may wait longer. For non-emergencies, urgent care is often quicker and more affordable. Deciding Where To Go So, how do you decide where to go when your pet isn’t feeling well? Start by asking yourself:
If your pet is unconscious, non-responsive, or has rapidly worsening symptoms, head to your nearest hospital. For new but mild-to-moderate symptoms, you may want to call your general practice for help determining urgency. In ALL cases, you should trust your instincts! If something feels truly wrong, it’s important to seek veterinary care and advice as soon as possible. Your Veterinary Team In Every Situation We’re here to support you and your pets through stressful medical situations, and we do our best to facilitate same-day appointments. In the rare event that we’re unable to see your pet, our team can help triage their condition over the phone and coordinate referral to a local urgent care or emergency clinic. When your pet isn’t feeling their best, it’s normal to feel uncertain about what to do. The good news is that you don’t have to navigate those decisions on your own! Whether your pet needs same-day care, guidance on whether a concern is urgent, or a referral to an emergency hospital, our team is here to help you understand your options and take the next best step. When in doubt, reach out—early intervention can make all the difference in getting your pet the care they need, when they need it most.  Between cold, rainy days and busy holiday schedules, winter can be tough for our dogs. Dogs who aren’t getting enough physical or mental stimulation generally find ways to keep themselves busy—and the results can be disastrous for our homes! The good news is that a little can go a long way when it comes to dog enrichment. Whether you add a few puzzle toys to your pup’s letter to Santa or DIY some simple treat dispensers, dog enrichment toys can help keep your dog happy and healthy.
Benefits of Dog Enrichment Toys Like exercise and nutritious meals, dogs need mental stimulation to thrive. Dogs are intelligent, social animals evolved to interact with their environments. Without enough stimulation, dogs can become bored, anxious, and develop unwanted behaviors like barking, digging, and chewing furniture. Luckily, even simple enrichment toys give your dog a big brain workout, which leads to less boredom-driven destruction and a calmer pup. According to PetMD, enrichment toys can even help nervous dogs reduce anxiety and build confidence. Dog Enrichment Toys 101 Enrichment toys aren’t just toys. They’re brain games that are specifically designed to stimulate your dog’s mind and challenge their instincts. Enrichment toys elicit natural behaviors like sniffing, pawing, chewing, and chasing. Dog enrichment toys come in a variety of forms—from more complex puzzle feeders to simple snuffle mats. Often, they’ll include some sort of reward (e.g., food or treats) to keep your pup engaged. Busy pet parents can find a variety of pre-made pet puzzles and enrichment toys on the market. The general categories include: Treat-dispensing toys: These may be chew toys that hold special treats (like peanut butter, normal kibble, and Greenies), or that take a little more work. For example, some treat-dispensing toys might require your dog to tug, shake, or paw at them to release treats. Snuffle mats: Dogs get a lot of mental stimulation from sniffing and foraging, two natural canine behaviors. Snuffle mats let dogs use their natural instincts to search for hidden treats within the soft fabric. Interactive puzzle toys: Puzzle toys tend to be more complex than treat-dispensing toys, requiring some level of problem-solving to get hidden treats. There are hundreds of puzzle toys to choose from, with difficulty ranging from beginner level to expert. Hide and seek toys: Hide and seek toys are a great option for dogs who like to dig, burrow, or de-fluff their toys. These toys allow dogs to pull small treats or toys out of a larger container (like these dinos that live inside a volcano). With hundreds of different toys and puzzles available, knowing your dog’s play style and preferences can help you choose something they’ll love. For example, a nose-driven terrier might enjoy a snuffle mat they can dig around in, while a strong-jawed bully breed may prefer chomping on a Kong. No matter which style of enrichment toy you choose, make sure to supervise your dog when they’re playing and regularly inspect toys for damage. Get rid of any toys that are falling apart, as they can create a choking hazard for your four-legged friends! DIY Dog Enrichment Toys If you’re on a budget or prefer to DIY, there are plenty of everyday household items that can be repurposed! This helpful resource from the ASPCA has some creative ideas for DIY puzzle toys, snuffle mats, and treat dispensers. One of the most common at-home solutions is a toilet paper tube treat dispenser. Just cut a hole in a toilet paper or paper towel tube that’s slightly larger than the treats or kibble you’re giving your pup. Then fold one end of the tube closed, place treats inside, and fold the other end. Now your dog has a treat dispenser they can shred, roll, crush, or shake for fun, simple enrichment. Just make sure your dog doesn’t eat the bits of cardboard that fall off! As with any other puzzle toy, these are meant to be used under supervision. An Enriched Pup Is A Happy Pup! When it comes to managing boredom and destructive behaviors, mental exercise is just as important as your dog’s daily walk. Thoughtful enrichment encourages problem-solving, builds confidence, and can help reduce stress and anxiety. If you’re still looking for a few last-minute presents from Santa Paws, consider adding a snuffle mat or treat-dispensing toy to your wishlist!  Coughing, sneezing, runny nose... just like people, our dogs are susceptible to respiratory infections. While most of these infections aren’t dangerous, they’re still uncomfortable for both pets and concerning for their people. Luckily, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments can help keep pups happy and healthy.
Symptoms of Dog Respiratory Infections Most canine respiratory infections look a lot like the common cold. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and most often affect your dog’s nose, throat, and lungs. Infections can affect both the upper respiratory tract (nose, sinuses, larynx/pharynx) and the lower respiratory tract (trachea, bronchi, lungs). The most common symptoms of respiratory infection in dogs are:
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, call your vet as soon as possible! Early diagnosis and treatment can keep mild symptoms from getting worse. What Causes Respiratory Infections? Dog respiratory infections can be caused by viruses, bacteria, and (less commonly) fungi. Some infections can also be caused by environmental irritants like smoke, airborne chemicals, and pollution. While most respiratory infections are mild, they can get worse if left untreated. Potential complications include pneumonia, lung abscess, and bronchitis. “Kennel cough” is a particularly contagious canine respiratory infection that can be caused by several different types of bacteria and viruses. The most common contributors are Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine parainfluenza virus, and canine adenovirus type 2. Treatment for Dogs with Respiratory Infections The best treatment depends on the cause of your dog’s infection and the severity of symptoms. Potential treatments include: Rest and quarantine. Just like us, our dogs need rest to heal. If your dog isn’t feeling well, keep them indoors and try to limit activity until they start to recover. You can also help stop the spread of contagious infections by keeping your dog away from other animals while they’re symptomatic. Antibiotics or antivirals. For bacterial or viral infections, some medications can help support your dog’s immune system during the healing process. Cough medicines. If your dog has a persistent cough, your vet may prescribe a cough suppressant or mucus expectorant. These medications let irritated airways heal and can keep symptoms from worsening. Hospitalization. In the most severe cases, your pup might need more supportive care. Your veterinarian may recommend hospitalization if your dog needs oxygen therapy, IV fluids, or antibiotics. Please note: it’s important to only give medications as directed by your veterinarian! Never use over-the-counter human medications without veterinary guidance. Some human medications, including decongestants, are dangerous for our pets. Other medications may be the same for us and our pets, but with drastically different doses. A dose that’s helpful and healing to us may be toxic for them. When In Doubt, Call Your Vet! Canine respiratory infections are as common as the human cold, but early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are still important to help your pup bounce back quickly. If you’re worried about your dog’s cough or sniffles, get in touch with your vet to discuss potential treatment options. |
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July 2026
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Contact Us
Mountainside Veterinary Hospital
www.mountainsidevets.com [email protected] Office: (971) 405 - 1111 Fax: (503) 498 - 5322 |
Hospital Location
12655 SW North Dakota St Tigard, Oregon 97223
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Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00a - 6:00p
Saturday: 8:00a - 4:00p Give us a call today to schedule your appointment! (971) 405-1111 
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