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Oregon Veterinary Medical Association
@oregonvma.org
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The Oregon Veterinary Medical Association is a nonprofit group of veterinarians. We love helping people give their animals a high quality of life. https://oregonvma.org
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Happy Thanksgiving! On behalf of our member veterinarians, we want to share our gratitude and thankfulness for our clients. Make sure your Thanksgiving stays a happy day by keeping your pets away from potential hazards. 1/2
A black and white dog with bright blue eyes looks up from a lawn covered in orange leaves. The OVMA and our member veterinarians wish you the best this Thanksgiving. Help your pets avoid these potential food hazards: * Fatty turkey and turkey skin * Alcohol and marijuana * Raisins and grapes * Artificial sweetener xylitol * Chocolate * Yeast and dough * Onions * Leftovers on plates or in the garbage can
November 26, 2025 at 10:07 PM
oregonvma.org
It's Pet Diabetes Awareness Month. It is estimated that 1 in 300 adult dogs and 1 in 230 cats in the US have diabetes. Obesity is a contributing factor, so keeping pets at a healthy weight reduces their risk of diabetes. Obese cats are 4x more likely to develop diabetes than normal weight cats. 1/2
A golden lab and a black kitty cuddle. It's Pet Diabetes Awareness Month. Pets with diabetes cannot produce or utilize insulin properly, preventing the conversion of food to energy. Without the conversion to energy, extra sugar left in the blood leads to lethargy and other health problems. Signs of Early Diabetes in Pets * More frequent urination * Increased thirst * Increased appetite * Unexplained weight loss and lethargy Symptoms of Advanced Diabetes in Pets * Loss of appetite * Cataracts in dogs * Vomiting * Dehydration * Weakness * Abnormal gait and muscle loss due to nerve damage Diabetes Treatments * Insulin * Glucose monitoring * Diet and exercise * Veterinary checkups
November 20, 2025 at 4:28 PM
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It's National Pet Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer is a leading cause of disease-related death in older pets. Regular health exams—at least once per year for younger pets and twice per year for pets over 7—can help detect issues while still in the early stages, improving treatment options.
A golden lab is being gently petted on its head. It's National Pet Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer is a leading cause of disease-related death in older pets. Just as in humans, early detection can make a difference in treatment options and outcomes. Regular health exams—at least once per year for younger pets and twice per year for pets over 7—can help detect issues while still in the early stages, improving treatment options for your pet. Your observations of your pet's behavior and health are important. If you notice any of these signs in your pet, please consult with your veterinarian. Do not assume your pet has cancer if they show some of these signs. Symptoms such as bad breath and weight loss can be signs of other health problems, too. That's why it's best to have your pet seen by its veterinarian. When in doubt, check it out. Signs to Watch For * Swelling or changing lumps or bumps — check your pet once per month * Bad breath or bad smell coming from the body * Weight loss or gain without diet changes * Change in appetite * Bleeding or discharge from anywhere on the body * Sores that are not healing * Difficulty or changes in urination or defecation * Loss of energy * Lameness or stiffness * Difficulty breathing, chewing or swallowing
November 18, 2025 at 4:55 PM
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It's Senior Pet Health Month, a good time to make an appointment for your senior pet to have a veterinary check-up. A veterinary exam twice per year along with lab work will enable your veterinarian to diagnose and treat disease as early as possible in order to maintain your pet's quality of life.
A sprightly senior golden retriever with a white muzzle walks on a stone path. It's Senior Pet Health Month, a good time to make an appointment for your senior pet to have a veterinary check-up. A veterinary exam twice per year along with lab work will enable your veterinarian to diagnose and treat disease as early as possible in order to maintain your pet's quality of life. Your veterinarian can recommend the appropriate diet for your senior pet's nutritional needs as well as discuss behavior and mobility issues. It's also Adopt a Senior Pet Month, and we remind you that, while older pets may sometimes have health issues, they make great companions, and regular veterinary care will help them live a healthier life. Health Issues Common in Senior Pets As they age, pets may develop some of the same health concerns seen in aging humans, such as: * Diabetes * Arthritis * Loss of hearing * Loss of eyesight * Heart disease * Cancer * Kidney or liver disease * Thyroid issues * Behavior changes * Cognition issues What to Watch for in Senior Pets Your senior pet should be seen by its veterinarian if it shows any of these symptoms: * Increased or decreased appetite * Weight gain or loss * Urination issues, such as accidents in the house * Vomiting * Changes in grooming habits or behavior, such as disorientation * New lumps or bumps that persist or grow * Lameness or stiffness
November 13, 2025 at 5:43 PM
oregonvma.org
Today we honor all Veterans, both human and canine, including the K-9 officers who serve as sentries, scouts, explosive detection dogs, search and rescue dogs, and others. Their service and sacrifice are appreciated.
A military K-9 German Shepherd sits on a tank. Today we honor all Veterans, both human and canine, including the K-9 officers who serve as sentries, scouts, explosive detection dogs, search and rescue dogs, and others. Their service and sacrifice are appreciated.
November 11, 2025 at 5:03 PM
oregonvma.org
It's Veterinary Practice Managers Appreciation Week, a time to recognize and thank practice managers for their important contribution to the veterinary health care team. On behalf of our member veterinarians, thank you!
A woman sits at a desk behind a computer across from a brown dog who is sitting in front of its own computer. Practice managers are essential members of the veterinary health care team. We recognize your important contribution to veterinary medicine and the well-being of animals. Thank you!
November 10, 2025 at 6:44 PM
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Today is International Human-Animal Bond Day, created by Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) to celebrate the special relationship between humans and animals! Veterinarians are proud to help keep animals healthy and support this bond. 1/2
A woman offers her dog a bowl of food...the dog wags its tail excitedly. It's International Human-Animal Bond Day. Veterinarians are proud to help keep animals healthy and support the important bond between people and animals. "Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened." ~Anatole France
November 8, 2025 at 5:17 PM
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It's National Animal Shelter & Rescue Appreciation Week, a time to honor the important work of animal shelters, animal control agencies, humane organizations and the dedicated people who work to protect animals in need. Thank you!
A shelter worker wearing a badge on a lanyard looks at a dog and a cat, both in cages. A cartoon bubble above her head includes a graphic of a house with a heart next to it. She will help them find a forever home.
November 5, 2025 at 5:25 PM
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It's National Cat Day! A great way to celebrate our feline companions is to ensure that they receive regular veterinary care, a healthy diet, toys to chase, places to scratch and a lap to curl up in.
A white cat with striking green eyes looks at the camera. It's National Cat Day! A great way to celebrate our feline companions is to ensure that they receive regular veterinary care, a healthy diet, toys to chase, places to scratch and a lap to curl up in. "There are few things in life more heartwarming than to be welcomed by a cat." ~Tay Hohoff
October 29, 2025 at 4:52 PM
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🎃👻 Halloween is almost here! Here are some tips to help keep your pet safe on the spookiest night of the year. 👻🎃
🎃👻 Halloween is almost here! Here are some tips to help keep your pet safe on the spookiest night of the year. 👻🎃 A dog wearing a ghost costume holds a plastic pumpkin in its mouth. Here are some tips to help keep your pet safe on the spookiest night of the year: Keep Pets In When Trick-or-Treaters Are Out * If you are answering your door to trick-or-treaters, keep pets in a quiet part of the house. Pets can become overexcited, confused or frightened by trick-or-treaters in costume. * Watch for open doors and make sure your pets have ID tags and/or microchips in case they do get out. * Young trick-or-treaters may be scared of dogs who run excitedly toward them when the owner answers the door. Costumes May Not Be a Treat * Costumes should fit properly and not hinder your pet's movement, vision or breathing. * Have your pet try out the costume several times before Halloween so it can get used to wearing it. * If your pet is uncomfortable or stressed, skip the costume.
October 27, 2025 at 7:08 PM
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It's National Pet Wellness Month, a time to draw attention to the importance of ensuring your pet's wellness all year round. Protect your pet's health and quality of life with regular veterinary care (including vaccinations/parasite control), exercise, socialization, a healthy diet and lots of love!
A white dog and a white and black cat with striking blue eyes cuddle together on a blanket. It's National Pet Wellness Month, a time to draw attention to the importance of ensuring your pet's wellness all year round. Protect your pet's health and quality of life with regular veterinary care (including vaccinations and parasite control), exercise, socialization, a healthy diet and lots of love! "No one loves you as unconditionally as your beloved pet." ~ Cynthia Dobesh
October 21, 2025 at 5:15 PM
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It's National Veterinary Technician Week! Veterinary technicians are vital members of the veterinary profession, educated in the latest medical advances, and dedicated to giving pets the best medical care possible. On behalf of the OVMA and our member veterinarians, thank you! 1/2
A group of healthcare professionals makes the heart sign with their hands. It's National Veterinary Technician Week! Veterinary technicians are vital members of the veterinary profession, educated in the latest medical advances, and dedicated to giving pets the best medical care possible. They work closely with veterinarians, veterinary assistants, practice managers, and owners to provide essential, compassionate care to all species of animals. On behalf of the OVMA and our member veterinarians, thank you veterinary technicians! This year’s theme, “Paths to Success: Shining a Light on Credentialed Veterinary Technician Stars,” highlights the many unique journeys of Credentialed Veterinary Technicians (CrVTs) and the mentors, educators, and colleagues who help guide their way.
October 13, 2025 at 3:29 PM
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🕸🎃 Spooky season has arrived! 🎃🕸 Here are some tips to help keep your pet safe during the Halloween festivities.
A brown dog sits on a wooden bench surrounded by pumpkins. A sign reading "Trick or Treat" sits on a ledge above the dog. Here are some tips to help keep your pets safe during the Halloween season: Halloween Treats Are Not for Pets * Unsweetened, dark, bittersweet and baking chocolate can be toxic to pets. If your dog eats this type of chocolate, or lots of Halloween candy, call your DVM or an animal poison control center. * Keep food, gum, candy or breath mints containing the sweetener xylitol away from your pets. Decorations Are Potential Tricks * Halloween decorations such as fake cobwebs should be kept out of reach of pets. * Glow sticks can be hazardous if chewed or ingested, causing mouth pain and irritation, as well as profuse drooling and foaming at the mouth. * Light strands, loose wires and electric cords can be a serious hazard to your pet, especially puppies, who may chew them. * Never leave candles, such as those in jack-o-lanterns, unattended— especially around puppies and kittens.
October 9, 2025 at 4:00 PM
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It's World Pet Obesity Week. Obesity is a serious health issue affecting pets that requires action on the part of pet owners and veterinarians. You and your veterinarian can help your pet get to a healthy weight. 1/2
A graphic shows a cat silhouette in a scale with the Earth on the other side of the scale. The cat's side weighs more. Other silhouettes include a horse, dog and rabbit. It's World Pet Obesity Week. Obesity is a serious health issue affecting pets that requires action on the part of pet owners and veterinarians. You and your veterinarian can help your pet get to a healthy weight.
October 7, 2025 at 3:20 PM
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🍂 Fall is here, and so are its potential hazards for pets. If you think your pet has been poisoned by any of these, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away.

Rodenticides 🐀
Place poisonous baits where your pet can’t reach them. Seek care if your pet ingests rodenticides. 1/2
A woman and her dog are posed for a picture on a yellow leaf strewn path. Along with the arrival of fall come specific potential hazards for pets. Mouse and Rat Poisons Always place these poisonous baits in areas where your pet can’t reach them. Seek care right away if your pet ingests a rodenticide. Avoid cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3), bromethalin and phosphides as these do not have an antidote. Mushrooms If your pet ingests a mushroom, place the remnants in a paper bag (if you can) and take them with you to the veterinarian. Compost Piles or Bins Fence off piles or bins. Decomposing and decaying organic matter and food products can contain toxins that can make your pet ill. Lawn Care Store all fertilizers, herbicides and insecticides in their original packaging and away from pets. Wait until chemicals have dried and even up to four days after application before allowing a pet into the area.
October 3, 2025 at 4:18 PM
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It's National Walk Your Dog Week. We encourage you to walk your dog regularly, for their health—and yours!

Not only is exercise good for your pet, but it provides mental stimulation for your dog to see and sniff areas outside of your yard. 1/2
A brown and black dog on a leash excitedly walks next to its owner on a gravel path. It's National Walk Your Dog Week, a week to raise awareness about the importance of taking your dog for regular walks. Walking helps keep your dog's joints and muscles healthy, and can help them shed extra pounds. It also provides mental stimulation and strengthens your bond. “The only thing better than one walk is two walks!”
October 1, 2025 at 3:06 PM
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Today is World Rabies Day, a day to emphasize the contribution we can make to the health of our community by ensuring our dogs, cats, ferrets and horses are vaccinated against rabies.
A hand and a dog's paw encircle the earth. The 2025 World Rabies Day theme is "Act Now: You, Me ~ Community," emphasizing the contribution we can make to the health of our community by ensuring our dogs, cats, ferrets and horses are vaccinated against rabies.
September 28, 2025 at 6:53 PM
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September is Animal Pain Awareness Month. Pain management is a high priority for veterinarians caring for their canine patients. Watch for changes in your dog's activity level and behavior as these are the best indicators that it may be experiencing pain. 1/2
A brown and white dog with orange-brown eyes and black dots on its nose looks up at the camera. September is Animal Pain Awareness Month. Consult with your veterinarian if your dog is not acting normally or is showing any of these signs of pain: * Lameness or abnormal gait * Reluctance to move or navigate stairs * Difficulty jumping, lying down or getting up * Decreased appetite * Changes in feeding behavior * Excessive drooling * Decreased interest in toys or play * Mood or temperament changes * Worried facial expression * Squinting or closed eyes * Restlessness * Abnormal sleeping habits * Abnormal reaction to petting or brushing * Licking a specific body region * Straining to urinate or defecate * Biting or aggressive behavior * Unusual whimpering, growling or groaning * Any evidence of injury
September 24, 2025 at 3:18 PM
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It's Responsible Dog Ownership Month. Owning a dog is a responsibility every day, and should not be entered into lightly. Regular (and emergency) veterinary care, exercise, nutrition and training are important parts of responsible dog ownership.
An adorable brown puppy with an orange collar sits in front of blurry trees. It's Responsible Dog Ownership Month. Owning a dog is an everyday joy and responsibility. In addition to providing love, healthy food, exercise and socialization, owners should plan for the costs of unexpected illness or injury and provide regular veterinary care. "The dog lives for the day, the hour, even the moment." ~ Robert Falcon Scott
September 19, 2025 at 7:21 PM
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September is Animal Pain Awareness Month. Pain management is a high priority for veterinarians caring for their equine patients. Watch for changes in your horse's activity level and behavior as these are the best indicators of pain. 1/2
A brown horse with a white stripe down its nose stands behind a wood fence. September is Animal Pain Awareness Month. Pain management is a high priority for veterinarians caring for their equine patients. Your veterinarian can diagnose the cause of your horse’s pain and help treat it. Some signs of pain are obvious, such as vigorous rolling and kicking at the belly indicative of colic, but other signs of pain are more subtle. Watch for changes in your horse's activity level and behavior as these are the best indicators of pain. Consult your veterinarian if your horse is not acting normally or if your horse shows any of these signs: * Lameness or abnormal gait * Unusual posture * Shifting weight from one leg to another * Muscle tremors * Abnormal sweating * Lying down more than usual * Mood or temperament changes * Decreased appetite * Abnormal reaction to grooming, saddle or bit and bridle * Changes in feeding behavior * Grinding teeth and/or excessive drooling * Weight loss * Squinting or closed eyes * Biting or staring at a particular body region * Any evidence of injury
September 16, 2025 at 3:19 PM
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Today is National Pet Memorial Day, a day to remember our beloved pets. The death of a pet can be very painful. Pets are part of our families and a source of unconditional love. It is important to give yourself permission to grieve the loss of your pet.
Circles in black sand surround a grey-ish white heart. Grey-ish white paw prints are on top of the sand circles. It's National Pet Memorial Day, a day to remember our animal companions. "When we think of those companions who traveled by our side down life's road, let us not say with sadness that they left us behind, but rather say with gentle gratitude that they were once with us." ~ Unknown
September 14, 2025 at 9:01 PM
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September is Animal Pain Awareness Month. The signs of pain in cats can be subtle. They evolved to hide symptoms of illness or disease from predators. Watch for changes in your cat's activity level and behavior as these are the best indicators of pain. 1/2
A grey kitty with yellow orange eyes sits on a grey sofa. September is Animal Pain Awareness Month. Pain management is a high priority for veterinarians in caring for their feline patients. Your veterinarian can diagnose the cause of your cat’s pain and help to treat it. The signs of pain in cats can be subtle. They evolved to hide symptoms of illness or disease from predators. Watch for changes in your cat's activity level and behavior as these are the best indicators of pain. Consult your veterinarian if your cat is not acting normally or is showing any of these signs: * Trauma or injury * Lameness or abnormal gait * Difficulty jumping * Reluctance to move or jump * Withdrawn or hiding * Straining to urinate * Decreased appetite * Changes in feeding behavior * Excessive drooling * Playing less * Less rubbing on people * Mood or temperament changes * Squinting or closed eyes * Hunched up posture * Abnormal sleeping habits * Abnormal reaction to petting * Absence of grooming * Licking a specific body region * Unusual growling or groaning * Tail flicking Your veterinarian can help. How Veterinarians Alleviate Pain in Cats * Treat the illness or injury that is causing pain * Prescribe pain medications appropriate for cats * Recommend weight management and/or a special diet * Suggest changes to the home environment * Acupuncture * Laser therapy
September 11, 2025 at 3:51 PM
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National Dog Day is next Tuesday, 8/26. A great way to celebrate the canine companions who give us so much love and friendship is by ensuring they receive regular veterinary care. (We know this post is early, but we'll be spending that day with our dog! 🐶)
It's National Dog Day! A great way to celebrate the canine companions who give us so much love and friendship is by ensuring they receive regular veterinary care.(We know this post is early, but we'll be spending that day with our dog! 🐶)
August 22, 2025 at 8:29 PM
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Today is National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day, a great day to make an appointment for your cat to have a preventive health exam with your veterinarian. 1/3
A veterinarian holds a tiger striped cat with green eyes. The cat's paw is on the veterinarian's nose. National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day is a good reminder that one of the best ways to help your cat live a long and healthy life is for it to have an annual health exam with your veterinarian. Senior cats should see the veterinarian twice a year.
August 22, 2025 at 4:18 PM
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It's Check the Chip Day!

Microchips reunite pets with families. It’s as simple as that.

Please take a few minutes today to double-check or update your registration information for your pet's microchip.
A brown dog sits in the grass next to yellow flowers. Microchips reunite pets with families. It’s as simple as that. If your pet isn’t already chipped, make an appointment with your veterinarian for microchipping. It’s fast and easy. Register your current contact information with the pet’s microchip manufacturer. Ask your veterinarian to scan the microchip during your pet's annual wellness exam to ensure the chip can be read. Each year on Check the Chip Day (August 15), check your pet's microchip registration and update your contact information if it's incomplete or no longer accurate.
August 15, 2025 at 3:43 PM