News & Blog

Updates from our expert staff, including tips and tricks for a healthier pet and a happier you.
The Benefits of Spaying & Neutering Your Pet | Family Pet Medical Center
Pet Wellness Education

The Benefits of Spaying & Neutering Your Pet | Family Pet Medical Center

One of the greatest gifts we can give our pets is the opportunity to live long, healthy, and happy lives. As pet owners, we spend countless hours choosing the right food, scheduling vaccinations, purchasing toys, planning adventures, and creating memories with the animals who quickly become part of our families. Preventative healthcare is another important…
8/21/26
223
Read Article →
Pet Wellness Education

Spay & Neuter Recovery Guide for Dogs & Cats

Bringing your dog or cat home after spay or neuter surgery is often a relief. The procedure is complete, your pet is back where they feel safest, and you’re looking forward to helping them recover. Then reality sets in. Is it normal that they’re sleepy?Why won’t they eat?Can they jump on the couch?Should they be…
8/21/26
123
Read Article →
Pet Wellness Education

Everything You Need to Know About Your Pet’s Spay or Neuter Surgery

For many pet owners, scheduling a spay or neuter procedure is one of the first major medical decisions they’ll make for their dog or cat. While these surgeries are among the most commonly performed procedures in veterinary medicine, it’s completely normal to have questions. In fact, one of the most common things we hear from…
8/21/26
201
Read Article →
The Complete Guide to Spaying or Neutering Your Kitten
Pet Wellness Education

The Complete Guide to Spaying or Neutering Your Kitten

Few things are as exciting as bringing home a new kitten. Whether they were adopted from a local rescue, found as a stray, or welcomed from a breeder, kittens have a way of quickly becoming the center of the family. Their playful personalities, endless curiosity, and tiny bursts of energy make every day entertaining—but they…
8/21/26
141
Read Article →
Pet Wellness Education

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Puppy?

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting milestone. From choosing the perfect name and stocking up on toys to beginning training and scheduling those first veterinary visits, there’s a lot to think about during your puppy’s first year. Among all the questions new dog owners ask, one of the most common is: “When should…
8/21/26
139
Read Article →
vet examining pet
Advanced Surgery

BOAS Surgery: Improving Breathing and Quality of Life for Flat-Faced Dogs

Flat-faced dog breeds are known for their unique appearance, but their anatomy can also create challenges—particularly when it comes to breathing. For many of these dogs, what seems like “normal” snoring or heavy breathing is actually a sign of an underlying condition known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). Understanding this condition—and how surgery can…
7/10/26
243
Read Article →
Veterinarian holding dog
Advanced Surgery

Exploratory Surgery in Pets: When Answers Aren’t Clear and Precision Matters Most

Not every medical condition can be diagnosed through imaging or lab work alone. In some cases, symptoms persist without a clear explanation, leaving both pet owners and veterinarians searching for answers. Exploratory surgery is a procedure that allows for direct evaluation of internal organs when other methods don’t provide enough clarity. What Is Exploratory Surgery?…
7/10/26
184
Read Article →
Dog worried after ingesting foreign object
Advanced Surgery

Foreign Body Removal in Pets: What Happens When Something Gets Stuck

Pets are naturally curious, and sometimes that curiosity leads them to swallow things they shouldn’t. While some objects may pass on their own, others can become lodged in the digestive system, creating a potentially dangerous situation. When this happens, surgical removal is often necessary to protect your pet’s health. Why Foreign Body Ingestion Is So…
7/10/26
267
Read Article →
Veterinarian performing Gastrointestinal Surgery on pet
Advanced Surgery

Gastrointestinal Surgery in Pets: Understanding Blockages, Symptoms, and When Surgery Is Necessary

Digestive issues are one of the more common reasons pets require advanced veterinary care, and in some cases, surgical intervention becomes necessary. While mild gastrointestinal upset can often resolve on its own, more serious conditions—such as blockages or internal complications—can escalate quickly and require immediate attention. Understanding how these issues develop and when surgery is…
7/10/26
178
Read Article →
Veterinarian performing emergency surgery
Advanced Surgery

Emergency Surgery for Pets: Recognizing Urgency, Acting Quickly, and What Happens Next

Emergency Surgery for Pets: Recognizing Urgency, Acting Quickly, and What Happens Next There are moments as a pet owner when something shifts quickly—your pet isn’t acting like themselves, symptoms appear suddenly, and you’re left trying to determine whether it’s something minor or something serious. In some cases, that moment leads to emergency surgery. Understanding what…
7/10/26
194
Read Article →
Dog being examined after swallowing a foreign object
Diagnostics

What Happens During a Veterinary Ultrasound? | Family Pet Medical Center

What Happens During a Veterinary Ultrasound? If your veterinarian has recommended an ultrasound for your pet, you may be wondering what the procedure involves and what information it can provide. The good news is that veterinary ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic tool that helps veterinarians evaluate many internal organs and conditions without surgery. At…
7/10/26
181
Read Article →
Veterinarian performing abdominal ultrasound on a dog
Advanced Surgery

Dog Swallowed a Toy, Sock, or Foreign Object? Here’s What To Do | Family Pet Medical Center

Dog Swallowed a Toy, Sock, or Foreign Object? Here’s What To Do Dogs are naturally curious, and unfortunately, that curiosity sometimes gets them into trouble. Whether it’s a sock, toy, underwear, corn cob, bone, rock, or another household object, foreign body ingestion is one of the most common emergencies veterinarians treat. Some swallowed objects pass…
7/10/26
254
Read Article →
Veterinarian examining an adult female dog with owner present.
Emergency Care

Understanding Pyometra in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms & Emergency Treatment | Family Pet Medical Center

Understanding Pyometra in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms & Emergency Treatment Pyometra is one of the most serious emergencies veterinarians encounter in unspayed female dogs. Unfortunately, many pet owners have never heard of pyometra until their dog becomes seriously ill. The good news is that when diagnosed and treated promptly, many dogs recover successfully. The key is…
7/10/26
178
Read Article →
Emergency veterinarian examining a sick dog in Fort Lauderdale
Emergency Care

10 Signs Your Pet May Need Emergency Veterinary Care

One of the most common questions pet owners ask is: “Should I take my pet to the emergency veterinarian?” The answer isn’t always obvious. While some situations can safely wait for a scheduled appointment, others require immediate medical attention. Knowing the warning signs of an emergency can help you act quickly and potentially save your…
7/10/26
107
Read Article →
Dental Health

Why Dental Cleanings Are So Important for Your Pet’s Health

When we think about our pet’s health, dental care is often overlooked. Many dogs and cats continue eating and acting normal even when dental disease is present, which makes it easy to miss until it becomes painful or serious. The truth is, dental disease is one of the most common health conditions we see in…
1/25/26
323
Read Article →
News & Updates

What to Expect at a Spring Wellness Exam

Spring isn’t just for cleaning — it’s the perfect time for a fresh start on your pet’s health too! At Family Pet Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale, our spring wellness exams help your pet stay healthy, active, and protected from common seasonal threats. Here’s what to expect: During Your Pet’s Wellness Exam: Heartworm testing and…
5/25/25
303
Read Article →
Wellness & Prevention

Heartworm 101: What Every South Florida Pet Owner Should Know

Living in Fort Lauderdale means sunshine, beaches — and unfortunately, mosquitoes almost year-round. Heartworm disease is a serious risk for our pets, but the good news is: it’s entirely preventable with the right care. At Family Pet Medical Center, we help Fort Lauderdale pet owners keep their dogs and cats safe with simple, affordable prevention…
5/7/25
216
Read Article →
Pet Wellness Education

Is It Allergies? How to Spot the Signs in Your Pet.

Spring in Fort Lauderdale is beautiful — but it can be miserable for pets with seasonal allergies. Just like us, dogs and cats react to pollen, grass, mold spores, and other environmental triggers. However, unlike humans who might sneeze and sniffle, pets often show their discomfort in very different — and sometimes subtle — ways.…
4/28/25
282
Read Article →
Pet Health Library

The History of Veterinary Medicine

Veterinary medicine, the branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, disorder, and injury in animals, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. From its ancient roots to the sophisticated practices of today, the field of veterinary medicine has evolved significantly, paralleling human medical advances…
5/20/24
281
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

Top Ten Signs to Take Your Dog to the Vet

As a pet owner, knowing when to take your dog to the vet can be crucial for maintaining their health and happiness. While regular check-ups at your local Fort Lauderdale vet office are recommended, there are certain signs that should prompt an immediate visit to ensure your furry friend gets the care they need. Here…
4/29/24
271
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

Difficulty Breathing in Pets: What Pet Owners Need to Know

Witnessing your beloved pet struggle with breathing difficulties can be a distressing experience for any pet owner. Labored breathing in dogs, as well as similar symptoms in other pets, can be indicative of serious health issues that require immediate attention. Family Pet Medical Center, a renowned Fort Lauderdale emergency vet, is dedicated to providing comprehensive…
3/20/24
233
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

Pet Eye Injuries: Understanding Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

At Family Pet Medical Center, nestled in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, we understand that pets are more than just animals; they are cherished members of your family. Our team of compassionate and experienced veterinarians is committed to providing the highest quality care for your beloved pets. From routine check-ups to emergency situations, we are…
2/29/24
413
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

Bloody Diarrhea in Dogs: Understanding Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

As a trusted Fort Lauderdale emergency vet we are committed to providing the best care and advice for your beloved pets. Today, we’re focusing on a concerning issue many dog owners face: bloody diarrhea in dogs. This condition can be alarming, but understanding its causes, treatment, and prevention can help you take swift and effective…
1/24/24
3,446
Read Article →
Pet Health Library

New and Mysterious Respiratory Illness in Dogs

Dogs across the country are becoming seriously ill and are even dying due to a new and mysterious respiratory illness. In order to safeguard your pet and do all you can to protect them from contracting this infection, take a few minutes to learn what we know about this puzzling condition. Syptoms There are a…
12/29/23
271
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

Heatstroke in Dogs: An Essential Guide from Family Pet Medical Center

Heatstroke in Dogs Overview Heatstroke in dogs is a critical condition that arises when a dog’s body temperature exceeds a safe range, usually above 103°F (39.4°C). Unlike humans, dogs have limited ability to regulate their body temperature, making them more susceptible to heatstroke. This condition is not only distressing but can be fatal if not…
11/10/23
174
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

5 Things to Keep Away from Your Dog to Avoid Emergency Care

Every dog owner knows that our furry friends can be curious eaters. Sometimes, this curiosity can land them in trouble. At Family Pet Medical Center, your trusted Fort Lauderdale emergency vet, we often encounter pet emergencies due to unexpected ingestions. Here, we’ll highlight five things dogs might ingest that necessitate immediate medical attention. Chocolate: One…
10/6/23
320
Read Article →
Specialty Care

Recognizing Signs of Dog Heart Failure and the Proactive Steps to Take

Heart failure is a concerning health issue that can affect our canine companions, impacting their quality of life significantly. In Fort Lauderdale, dog heart failure cases are tackled with compassion and expertise by Family Pet Medical Center, ensuring your furry friends receive the best care possible. Recognizing the early signs of heart failure is critical…
9/29/23
1,097
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

What to Do If Your Cat Gets Hit By a Car

Accidents can happen, even to our beloved feline friends. As responsible pet owners, it’s essential to be prepared for any unfortunate situation, including a cat getting hit by a car. While it’s a distressing thought, having a plan and knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference in saving your cat’s life.…
7/11/23
314
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

9 Signs That You Need to Take Your Pet To the Emergency Room

Tips from our Fort Lauderdale Emergency Vet As pet owners, we cherish the companionship and love our furry friends bring to our lives. We strive to provide them with the best care possible, ensuring their health and well-being. However, there are times when our pets may experience a sudden illness or injury that requires immediate…
5/31/23
255
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

Seizures in Dogs

Help from a Fort Lauderdale Vet As a pet owner, one of the most concerning things to witness is when your furry friend suffers from a seizure. Seizures are a common neurological disorder in dogs and can be caused by a variety of factors such as epilepsy, brain tumors, or other underlying medical conditions. It…
5/8/23
162
Read Article →
Specialty Care

Does My Dog Need a Cardiologist?

Help from a Fort Lauderdale Canine Cardiologist For most Fort Lauderdale dog and cat owners, learning that their pets have heart disease can be frightening. While you might not be aware that heart disease can affect pets, up to one-quarter of all dogs will develop a form of heart disease between ages nine and 12.…
4/10/23
174
Read Article →
Specialty Care

6 Reasons to See a Veterinary Cardiologist

Tips from a Fort Lauderdale Veterinary Cardiologist Just like humans, some pets develop cardiovascular issues and require more specialized care than what a regular veterinarian can provide. Conditions of the cardiovascular system might be identified during your pet’s routine veterinary visit or when you bring it to Fort Lauderdale animal hospital Family Pet Medical Center…
4/10/23
217
Read Article →
Wellness & Prevention

Reasons to Give Your Pets Filtered Water

Florida pet owners typically want to do everything they can to keep their pets healthy and happy. They might try to ensure their pets eat healthy diets and get plenty of exercise. While it might seem to be fairly simple to take good care of a pet, being a responsible pet owner can often lead…
3/14/23
319
Read Article →
Dental Health

Pet Dental Extractions at Family Pet Medical Center

For pets, teeth are essential for eating, grooming, and playing. When a cat or dog doesn’t receive adequate dental care, it can suffer pain caused by dental problems and tooth decay. Fort Lauderdale animal hospital Family Pet Medical Center performs pet dental extractions for pets throughout the area. If your pet is experiencing dental pain…
2/21/23
151
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

Signs of a Blocked Cat and What You Should Do

My Cat Wont Pee – What to Do? If you’ve noticed signs that your pet is having trouble urinating, you might not know what to do. It can be hard for pet owners when their cats are in pain. Obstructions and blockages can cause waste to build up in your cat’s system, which can be…
2/3/23
221
Read Article →
Specialty Care

What to Expect From Your Pet’s Echocardiogram

Do I Need a Fort Lauderdale Pet Echocardiogram? If your veterinarian suspects that your pet might have heart disease or has diagnosed it with a heart murmur, they might have recommended an echocardiogram at Fort Lauderdale animal hospital Family Pet Medical Center. This type of test can help diagnose what might be happening with your…
2/1/23
224
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

Dog Not Pooping or Peeing?

My Dog Is Constipated – Is it a Problem? If you’ve noticed that your dog has not been peeing or pooping, you might be rightly concerned. The inability to urinate or being constipated might indicate your dog is experiencing serious issues. Here’s some information you should know about these issues and what to do from…
1/25/23
3,473
Read Article →
Wellness & Prevention

When Should Dogs Get Blood Work Done?

The Benefits of Fort Lauderdale Dog Blood Work As a dog owner, you might wonder when you should get blood work done for your pet and whether doing so is necessary. Most veterinarians, including Dr. Cotto and Dr. Cutrone at Family Pet Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale, recommend dogs should get blood work done at…
12/15/22
464
Read Article →
Dental Health

Dog Teeth Cleaning in Fort Lauderdale: Why It’s Important

Fort Lauderdale Dog Teeth Cleaning Like other aspects of your dog’s health, it is important to ensure that it has good dental health through annual exams. Since dogs won’t remain still to have their teeth cleaned, general anesthesia is recommended for any dental procedure. It is safest for both your dog and the veterinarian for…
12/7/22
198
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

What to Do if Your Pet Is Choking

Help from a Fort Lauderdale Pet Choking Vet For most people, their pets are important members of their families. It can be frightening for pet owners when their dogs or cats start choking, and some people don’t know what to do. Here are some steps to take from Fort Lauderdale animal hospital Family Pet Medical…
11/7/22
711
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

What to Do When Your Pet Is Bleeding

For most dogs and cats, minor scrapes and scratches are usually no cause for alarm. If your pet is bleeding heavily or for longer than five minutes, however, seeking veterinary help at your Fort Lauderdale animal hospital right away is essential to protect the health and life of your beloved dog or cat. This guide…
9/19/22
204
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

What to Do When Another Dog Bites Your Dog

Was Your Dog Bitten by Another Dog? Knowing what to do if your dog has been bitten by another dog can help you to avoid panic and can provide you with a clear framework for getting your beloved pet veterinary help as quickly as possible. At Family Pet Medical Center, we have the skilled staff…
8/16/22
412
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

What Does It Mean When Your Cat Can’t Pee?

What do Do if Your Cat Can’t Pee Knowing what to do when you notice that your cat can’t pee normally can help you prevent serious issues with your beloved pet’s health. If your cat can’t pee, a urinary obstruction could be responsible for this issue. If left untreated, urinary obstructions can cause severe pain,…
7/18/22
215
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

What to Do If Your Dog Consumes Marijuana

Worried About Dog Marijuana Intoxication? Medical marijuana is legal in the state of Florida. This does not mean, however, that marijuana is safe for pets in your home. Dog marijuana intoxication can pose serious risks to your four-legged friend and may require a visit to your Fort Lauderdale animal hospital to resolve issues related to…
6/27/22
274
Read Article →
Specialty Care

All About Veterinary Orthopedic Surgery for Dogs and Cats

Orthopedic problems can affect both dogs and cats and can pose serious issues for mobility and comfort for these four-legged friends. Working with a Fort Lauderdale animal hospital with experience in orthopedic surgery procedures can help you protect the health and well-being of your pet and can help to keep your cat or dog mobile…
5/24/22
402
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

What To Do If Your Dog Is Hit By a Car in Fort Lauderdale

If your dog has been hit by a car, knowing what to do next can often make a big difference in your pet’s chance to survive and the quality of life your dog experiences after these traumatic events. At Family Pet Medical Center, we are a leading Fort Lauderdale animal hospital with a proven reputation…
4/19/22
277
Read Article →
Wellness & Prevention

How to Keep My Pet Healthy?

A balanced diet is an important point for the health of our pets.  Their nutrition is affected by specific factors (age, physiological state, activity), diet (nutrient imbalance, deterioration, pollution, adulteration) of feeding practices implemented in the home (frequency of feeding, feeding method) and environmental factors (space, other animals and quality of the environment). To calculate…
4/11/22
259
Read Article →
Dental Health

Dental Prophylaxis For Our Pets

Learn All About Dental Prophylaxis MVZ. MSc. Andres Renato Ordoñez Dental prophylaxis is based on the maintenance of oral hygiene at home when possible and periodontal therapy carried out by the veterinarian. The purpose of the procedure is based on the removal of all the dental plaque, as well as the polishing of each of…
4/6/22
136
Read Article →
Specialty Care

What is IVDD?

All About Intervertebral Disc Disease By: MVZ. MSc. Andres Renato Ordoñez What is Intervertebral Disc Disease? IVDD is Intervertebral Disc Disease. All dogs’ discs degenerate with age; they lose water, become more fibrous and sometimes mineralized. VDD is a relatively common degenerative condition affecting all types of dogs, although small breeds and long-backed breeds (such…
4/5/22
238
Read Article →
Specialty Care

Does my cat need a cardiologist?

Help from a Fort Lauderdale Cat Cardiologist MVZ. MSc. Andres Renato Ordoñez A veterinary cardiologist studies diseases of the cardiovascular system of animals. They deal with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disorders such as heart failure, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or hypertension in animals. Pathologies in a cat’s heart can be just as frequent as…
3/23/22
170
Read Article →
Specialty Care

All About Furunculosis From the Experts at Family Pet Medical Center

Help from a Fort Lauderdale Dog Skin Infection Specialist Taking good care of your pets is essential to keep these important members of your family happy and healthy. Working with a Fort Lauderdale animal hospital can help you to access the veterinary care and grooming services you need in a safe and comfortable environment. Improper…
3/9/22
486
Read Article →
Dental Health

Important Tips for Canine Dental Health in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale Canine Dental Health Services Taking care of your dog’s teeth can help these beloved companions to stay healthier throughout their lives. Proper dental care should include regular visits to your Fort Lauderdale canine dental health specialist. Here are several proven tips for keeping your dog’s teeth healthy and strong to help you enjoy…
2/15/22
168
Read Article →
Pet Wellness Education

Why does my pet need an ultrasound?

Getting a Fort Lauderdale Pet Ultrasound When your pet feels ill, it can be stressful for everyone in your family. At Family Pet Medical Center, we can help with expert veterinary services in the Fort Lauderdale area. Our team of experienced veterinarians can provide the care your pet needs to feel better quickly. In some…
1/14/22
222
Read Article →
Pet Wellness Education

How Often Should I Take My Cat to the Vet?

In Need of a Fort Lauderdale Cat Check Up? Your pets depend on you to schedule regular visits to your Fort Lauderdale animal hospital for routine exams, vaccinations and other treatments. If you have a cat or kitten, knowing when to schedule your Fort Lauderdale cat check up can provide you with added peace of…
12/10/21
266
Read Article →
Wellness & Prevention

How Often Should I Take My Dog to the Vet?

In Need of a Fort Lauderdale Dog Check Up? Knowing how often to take your dog to the veterinarian can help you and your canine companion to enjoy many years of happiness and love together. Finding the right schedule for visits to your Fort Lauderdale animal hospital can ensure the best health for your four-legged…
12/3/21
175
Read Article →
Emergency Guide

What to Do if You Think Your Cat or Dog May Have Been Poisoned

Fort Lauderdale Pet Poisoning Clinic Knowing what to do if you suspect that your dog or cat has been poisoned can help to save the life of your four-legged and furry friend. Here are some key facts every pet parent should know about how to identify and treat cases of poisoning for your cats or…
11/15/21
245
Read Article →
Specialty Care

Help for Canine Heart Problems From Family Pet Medical Center

Heart and circulation issues can affect dogs in mild to severe ways. Because the heart and lungs are so closely interrelated, cardiology veterinarians can treat both of these systems to help your dog live the best life possible. The canine cardiology experts at Family Pet Medical Center can provide you with the best treatment options…
10/19/21
206
Read Article →