Here at Santee Animal Hospital we pride ourselves on practicing the best medicine possible. We provide a variety of services that include internal medicine, senior and pediatric wellness, radiology and surgery. We are proud to have an in-house laboratory, which allows for rapid diagnostics. Our doctors also provide a telephone consult emergency service after our normal hours for our clients. We provide a website with tons of valuable pet care information and answers to questions you may have about your special friend. We also have a fully equipped boarding facility in the event you need to leave your pet behind when going out of town.

WELLNESS:
Our practice strives to provide preventative medicine for dogs and cats. This includes annual exams, vaccinations and blood work for your pet from age 1-6 years to detect any early signs of illness. As they become senior at 7 years old, we recommend biannual physical exams and individualized testing based on your pet’s needs. We require a heartworm test once a year (to assure your pet is heartworm negative) in order to dispense heartworm preventative in accordance with the American Heartworm Association guidelines.

HEARTWORMS, FLEAS, AND TICKS:
Heartworm disease is extremely prevalent in this area due to the mild winters. Therefore, we strongly recommend having all pets (dogs and cats) on heartworm prevention year round and require testing once a year in dogs to dispense heartworm medication. Fleas and ticks are a year round problem as well. We carry Frontline Plus, Comfortis, and Capstar for these pests. Cats get heartworms too so we recommend Revolution once a month all year long.
We carry Interceptor and Sentinel heartworm prevention for dogs.

BOARDING:
Our boarding facility is located at the back of our hospital which allows your pet to be monitored by a veterinarian as well as the staff. We have a variety of cage sizes so your pet stays cozy and comfortable.
In order to maintain a parasite free environment all pets will be treated for fleas with a tablet called Capstar, which will kill any fleas on your pet within 30 minutes. This product is safe to use with any other flea medications.  Proof of vaccinations given by a veterinarian is required for pets that board with us. Dogs must be current on Rabies and Distemper within the last 12 months and bordatella within the last 6 months. Cats must be current on Rabies and Fvrcp within the last 12 months.
Pets are fed twice a day (unless otherwise specified) and dogs are let out in our fenced in yard 3 times daily. We use Science Diet Sensitive Stomach for cats and dogs. Feel free to bring your own food if your pet has a specific diet. We cannot accept leashes or bedding from home, but provide blankets for each boarder. We cannot guarantee the return of all toys due to potential damage by pets.
Due to the small size of our kennel, space is limited and fills up quickly in the summertime and holiday season. Therefore reservations should be made as far in advance as possible. Baths are available upon request and highly recommended. These include nail trimming and ear cleaning. If your pet is having a “salon” day prior to going home, please give us until after noon to pick up, so they have adequate time to dry.

Thank you for the opportunity to care for your pet. Feel free to call on us with any questions.

Sincerely,
Drs. Kenneth and Heather Shuler and Staff