Our Blog
Valentine’s Day & Chocolate: Why Sweet Treats Can Spell Trouble for Pets
Why Chocolate Is Toxic to Pets Chocolate contains stimulants called theobromine and caffeine. While humans can metabolize these compounds easily, dogs and cats process them much more slowly. This allows toxins to build up and affect the nervous system and heart....
Canine Weight Loss: Helping Your Dog Live Longer, Healthier, and Happier
Is your dog a little rounder than they used to be? You're not alone—canine obesity is one of the most common and preventable health issues in pets today. But here’s the good news: with the right approach, you can help your dog lose weight safely and effectively,...
Phew! What Your Pet’s Bad Breath Could Be Telling You
We all love our pets—but their breath? Not so much. While the occasional “doggy breath” or fishy feline kiss might seem normal, **persistent bad breath (halitosis)** is often a red flag. At TLC Animal Hospital in El Paso, TX, we want pet parents to know that stinky...
Caring for a Tripod Pet: Helping Your Three-Legged Cat or Dog Thrive
Losing a limb doesn’t mean losing quality of life. At TLC Animal Hospital in El Paso, TX, we regularly help pet owners adapt to life with a “tripod” cat or dog—an animal that has undergone an amputation. With love, patience, and the right support at home, your...
Egg Binding in Birds: Prevention and Tips to Manage Egg Laying
Introduction Egg binding is a serious reproductive emergency in pet birds, particularly small species like budgies, cockatiels, and lovebirds. It occurs when a bird is unable to pass an egg, which can lead to life-threatening complications. At TLC Animal Hospital in...
Shocking Dangers: Electrocution and Electric Cord Safety for Dogs and Cats Shocking Dangers: Electrocution and Electric Cord Safety for Dogs and Cats
Introduction Chewing is a natural behavior for many pets—especially young, curious puppies and kittens. However, when that chewing involves electric cords, the consequences can be devastating. Electrocution injuries are not uncommon in household pets and can lead to...
The Myth: It’s Normal for Cats to Vomit or Have Hairballs The Truth: It Could Be Intestinal Disease
When Is Vomiting a Concern? Vomiting in cats - whether its food, fluid or fur – may be a sign of a deeper issue. While occasional hairballs are common—especially in long-haired cats—vomiting more than twice a month, losing weight, or showing increased frequency should...
“Help! My dog is eating poop!” Understanding Coprophagia in Dogs: Causes and Solutions
Introduction Coprophagia—the act of eating feces—is a perplexing yet relatively common behavior in dogs. While it can be distressing for pet owners, understanding the motivations behind coprophagia can help guide effective strategies for prevention and management....
What’s the Scoop on Anal Glands? A Guide for Pet Parents
If your dog scoots across the carpet or gives off a fishy odor from behind—don’t panic. They might be having trouble with their **anal glands**, a small but important part of canine anatomy. At TLC Animal Hospital in El Paso, TX, we believe that education can help...
Is That Red Lump in Your Dog’s Eye a Cherry Eye?
What Is Cherry Eye? Cherry eye is the prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid, visible as a red, cherry‑like mass in the inner corner of your dog’s eye. This gland normally keeps our dogs’ eyes moist, contributing about 30–40% of tear production. If the gland is...