Oakland Veterinary Referral Services Blog

Pets come into our lives in ways both ordinary and extraordinary—through adoption, rescue, as gifts, or chance encounters. However they arrive, they change us. They remind us to play, to rest, to forgive easily, and to love without conditions. As a specialty veterinary hospital, we at OVRS witness these powerful human-animal bonds every day. And we’re continually inspired by the life lessons our furry companions offer. Here are a few of the lessons my pet taught me:

A cancer diagnosis is tough for any pet parent. New advances in targeted therapies and radiation oncology for pets mean there is more hope for a positive outcome. Here is a list of some of the latest and greatest advances in the fight against cancer in pets:

Cats are complex, fascinating creatures with personalities as unique as their paw prints. Whether your cat is a cuddle bug or a free spirit, understanding cat personalities can help you provide better care, build trust, and deepen your bond with your own cat. At OVRS, we see cats of every temperament, and we know each one brings its own special charm.

If you’ve ever owned a cat, you’ve probably spent some time wondering if you should let them enjoy some solo time outside, or if they should remain safely indoors. While spending time in nature can satisfy some biological instincts of the feline species, it can also be quite dangerous for your animal. Oakland Veterinary Referral Services is here to lay out the risks, benefits, and a few safer options for giving indoor cats a taste of being outside cats to help you decide what’s best for your cat’s health and happiness. 

We are lucky to live in a place with so much natural beauty, and it’s the perfect time of year to get outside with your pets to enjoy all that this area has to offer. If you love going for long walks or hikes with your pup, here are some dog-friendly trails and parks in southeast Michigan for you to explore. 

Anyone who has ever owned a pet knows that there is no end to the things animals can teach us. Not everyone realizes what a positive influence a family pet can have on a child, though. Growing up with pets helps kids learn life skills like empathy and responsibility in a hands-on way that can’t be taught as well in any other manner. Since pet ownership is a lifelong responsibility, children can quickly learn what it means to care for others. 

As the weather continues to improve and we all start to feel the summer breeze, most of us want to spend more time outside (including our pups). Although your go-to might be to strap on her leash and take her out for a stroll, there are many more ways to enjoy the great outdoors together. Here are ideas for outdoor activities for dogs beyond the daily walk.

Heart disease is one of the top causes of death in dogs, especially later in life but not only then. The field of veterinary cardiology focuses on a pet’s cardiovascular and respiratory systems, encompassing both preventive care and the diagnosis and treatment of existing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. Veterinary cardiologists are board-certified doctors who have received extra training in the field to ensure they can provide expert care. Here are some of the main reasons your pet might need to see a veterinary cardiologist:

Skin issues in pets can bother the whole family. It’s hard to be happy when our pets are suffering, especially when we don’t know what’s causing it. Several factors can contribute to skin issues in animals. Luckily, veterinary dermatologists provide relief for animals suffering from skin conditions. This guide will help you determine what to expect from your pet’s dermatology appointment.