Sometimes the first round of testing doesn’t give clear answers. Bloodwork may look mostly normal. X-rays might not show a problem. Medications help briefly, but symptoms return. Families are left feeling stuck, knowing their pet still isn’t well but not knowing why.

Most pets experience the occasional upset stomach or off day. A single episode of vomiting or a temporary dip in appetite usually resolves quickly. But when symptoms keep coming back, or never quite go away, it may be time to look deeper.

Living in New England brings unique risks for pets, from icy sidewalks to wildlife encounters.

When your pet isn’t feeling well, the hardest part is often deciding where to go. Waiting too long or choosing the wrong level of care can delay treatment, while heading to the emergency room for minor concerns can add unnecessary stress.

Veterinarian: “I hear a heart murmur.” For many families, that moment brings instant worry. The word heart alone can sound serious, and questions start racing. Is my pet in danger? Do they need treatment right away? What happens next?

Heart disease does not always give warnings. Sometimes it progresses quietly, with subtle changes in energy or breathing that go unnoticed. Other times, it shows up suddenly and dramatically.

For many families, a medical journey starts suddenly and without warning.

An emergency visit can feel overwhelming. Knowing what happens behind the scenes can help ease some of that stress.

“He just seems to be slowing down.” We hear this often. A dog that tires halfway through a walk. A cat that sleeps more and plays less. Heart disease rarely announces itself loudly at first. Instead, it whispers.

Not all diseases can be cured, but many can be managed successfully.

The biggest change? You no longer have to travel far for advanced heart care.

No pet owner ever plans for an emergency. But a little preparation ahead of time can make a stressful situation feel more manageable when every minute counts.

Every pet owner has faced it. Something feels off. Your dog won’t get up. Your cat is hiding and not eating. You’re left wondering, Do I wait, or do I go now?

Sometimes a pet just isn’t themselves, but nothing obvious explains why.

When your veterinarian recommends seeing a cardiologist, it often catches families off guard. Many pet owners assume it means something serious or urgent. In reality, a cardiology visit is often a proactive step.

We’re excited to introduce you to one of the compassionate and dedicated professionals behind the scenes at Boston West Veterinary Emergency & Specialty, Sarah Lempicki, our ECC Assistant Clinical Supervisor!

If your pet’s ears are painful, smelly, or constantly infected, you’re not stuck managing it forever. TECA-BO surgery removes the diseased ear canal and cleans the middle ear so your pet can be comfortable again. Most pets eat, sleep, and play better once they heal.

Today, we’re excited to spotlight someone who has not only helped shape our hospital with her expertise and compassion but is also stepping into a new leadership role: Joelle Riley, CVT, our newly promoted Hospital Services Manager.

If you’ve worked with our Surgery Service at Boston West Veterinary Emergency & Specialty, you’ve likely crossed paths with Dr. Sean Aiken, a highly skilled and deeply dedicated veterinary surgeon who’s been part of our team for years.

A torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) similar to a torn ACL in people is one of the most common orthopedic injuries we see in dogs. When it happens, it can severely limit your pet’s ability to walk, run, or even stand comfortably.

When your pet needs surgery, choosing the right team can make all the difference. Beyond skill alone, you want a team that combines expertise, advanced technology, compassion, and a commitment to the best possible outcome for your beloved companion.