Introducing Trupanion Vet Direct Pay

Pet Insurance That Eliminates The Pet Insurance Reimbursement Model Pet insurance is still a relatively new concept for many pet owners. There are many different plans and policies available through many different companies, so it can be overwhelming when deciding what the right company and policy are for you and your pet. Despite the initial […]
Traveling and Your Pets

Summer is upon us and we know many of you are planning trips or vacations over the next few months. Here are a couple of tips to help you get ready for vacation season with your pets, whether you’re taking them on vacation with you, having them boarded, or having a petsitter come to your […]
New, Exotic Tick Found In Virginia

On May 14, the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa confirmed the finding of the Haemaphysalis longicornis tick (otherwise known as the East Asian or Longhorned tick) in Virginia. The tick appeared on an orphaned calf on a beef farm in Albemarle County. In late 2017 H. longicornis was found in New Jersey, but […]
Changes To Controlled Substance Prescriptions in Virginia

The Commonwealth of Virginia has implemented a Prescription Monitoring Program that will change the way we prescribe controlled substances. Starting July 1, 2018, we will no longer be able to dispense more than a 7 day supply of controlled medications. These medications include but are not limited to: Gabapentin, Tramadol, Buprenorphine, Valium, and Phenorbarbital. The […]
Taurine Deficiency Induced Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Golden Retrievers and Grain-Free Diets

We have recently become aware of a possible connection between Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in golden retrievers and dietary taurine deficiency from grain-free diets and feel it is important to pass this information along to you, our clients. While Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is becoming more prevalent in golden retrievers, Dr. Joshua Stern, DVM, PhD, DACVIM (Cardiology) […]
Canine Prevention Recommendations

Here at Big Lick Vet, we think taking a proactive approach to your dog’s health is important and it’s one of the reasons we follow the recommendations of the AVMA and highly recommend year-round Heartworm Prevention and Flea/Tick Prevention. Listed below are the preventatives we most commonly recommend for healthy adult dogs. Please talk to […]
Ehrlichia Positive Protocol

Tick-borne diseases are a growing threat to canine health as the geographic range of ticks continues to expand. Infection rates in dogs of dangerous tick-transmitted diseases are rising annually. Ehrlichiosis is one of these diseases and is caused by Ehrlichia, a type of bacteria that infects dogs nationwide and is transmitted by the Brown Dog […]
Digital Dental Radiography – Frequently Asked Questions

We’re excited to announce that we now offer digital dental radiographs and they are included in our Comprehensive Evaluation and Treatment. Read on for the answers to some of the frequently asked questions we receive about dental x-rays. What are dental radiographs? Dental radiographs are an invaluable tool in assessing the health and viability of […]
My Dog Has Arthritis – What Can I Do To Help?

1. Joint Supplement (Dasuquin Advanced) – This is a Glucosamine and Chondroitin supplement with multiple addititives that aid the joints by slowing down cartilage deterioration and promoting cartilage production. Some of the additives incude: MSM (methylsulfonymethane), ASU (avocado/soybean unsaponifiables) EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid), and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), which all have anti-inflammatory properties, and Green tea extract, […]
Understanding Canine Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture? Acupuncture is a method of health care with roots in ancient China. Its techniques have been developed and refined through at least 3000 years of continuous use. Acupuncture today is recognized throughout the world as a safe and effective form of medicine, which requires extensive training for its proper practice. How Does […]