Veterinary dentistry includes the cleaning, adjustment, filing, extraction, or repair of your pet's teeth and all other aspects of oral health care. The process begins with an oral exam of your pet’s mouth by a veterinarian. We perform digital radiographs (x-rays) to evaluate the health of the jaw and the tooth roots below the gumline. Because most dental disease occurs below the gumline, where you can’t see it, a thorough dental cleaning and evaluation are performed under anesthesia. Dental cleaning includes scaling (to remove dental plaque and tartar) and polishing, similar to the process used on your own teeth during your regular dental cleanings. We use a modern and safe ultrasonic cleaner to clean each tooth thoroughly, both above and below the gum line. Dental assistants polish teeth to create a smooth surface more resistant to plaque buildup. We apply protective coatings to help delay the buildup of plaque and protect the tooth enamel. If needed, the doctor will perform dental extracts of any diseased teeth.
Vaccination
All pets must be current for vaccinations at least 2 weeks prior to their stay. Inquire when you call for your reservation. All pets will receive Capstar or Nexgard to kill fleas upon arrival.
Veterinary Ophthalmology
Behavioral Counseling
Some pet issues don't stem from a physical cause. Our veterinarian will work with you and your pet to determine the cause of your pet's problems. Separation anxiety, obsessive behavior, and general obedience training concerns can all be addressed and treatment plans made to help you and your pet live happier together.
Nutritional Counseling
Riverside Animal Hospital is one of the leading veterinary practices in the Shreveport area. We can treat any health condition your dog or cat may be experiencing. Our practice offers your pet the latest and most effective treatment to ensure they recover as quickly as possible. We can treat injuries like fractures or lacerations, conditions like heartworms or diabetes, and even nutrition and weight issues. The treatments we offer include prescription medicines, suturing and setting fractures, and even nutritional counseling. Our team is dedicated to providing our patients the quality care they need. For additional assistance, our veterinary also works closely with specialists in the area to treat other unique cases.
Comprehensive Examination
Annual Physical Examinations: Our pets age so much faster than we and therefore require more frequent veterinary visits to keep them healthy. As they reach their golden years, (after age 6 for dogs and 8 for cats), it is very important to perform yearly tests to evaluate their blood cell count, kidney, liver, and heart function. Call Riverside Animal Hospital today if it is time for these important tests for your pet.
Fleas and ticks are dangerous parasites that can cause a lot of health problems for dogs and cats. If your pet is not on flea and tick prevention medication, call our veterinarian at Riverside Animal Hospital in Bossier City to schedule a visit. Dr. Ritter will perform a thorough examination and recommend a product that will keep your dog or cat happy and healthy for years to come.
Pain Management
Your pet feels pain in the same ways that you do. We know that recognizing and alleviating pain in animals is the essence of good patient care. Since 2006, Dr. Ritter attends an annual Pain Management Seminar learning various treatments for surgical pain and chronic pain in pets. Pain management is especially important as our pets age, as many signs of an aging pet are associated with pain.
Vomiting Treatment
Diarrhea Treatment
Skin Condition and Allergy Treatment
Dogs and cats are prone to dermatology issues, such as skin irritation, rashes, and allergies. If you have a pet that is suffering from a skin issue, contact Riverside Animal Hospital, LLC to meet with our veterinarian for an evaluation. We serve those living in Bossier City, Shreveport, and Haughton, LA. Here are some common skin problems pets suffer from so you are aware of the symptoms and can make an appointment without delay.
Obesity is a problem for pets, too! Did you know that your pets weight helps to determine its health? Overweight pets live unhealthy and shorter lives. Call today to see which weight loss program we recommend for your pet.
Diabetes Treatment
Heart Disease Treatment
Heartworms are parasites that can be spread to pets by mosquitoes. The heartworm will then live and reproduce in your pet’s heart. These parasites spread heartworm disease, which can cause lung disease, heart failure, organ damage, and more. The disease can be fatal, so it is vital to protect your pet against heartworms.
Periodontal Disease Treatment
Periodontal disease is the most common dental condition in dogs and cats – by the time your pet is 3 years old, he or she will very likely have some early evidence of periodontal disease, which will worsen as your pet grows older if effective preventive measures aren’t taken. Early detection and treatment are critical, because advanced periodontal disease can cause severe problems and pain for your pet. Periodontal disease doesn’t just affect your pet’s mouth. Other health problems found in association with periodontal disease include kidney, liver, and heart muscle changes.
Cancer Treatment
Animals may develop tumors as they age that require treatment to preserve life and normal function. Our veterinarian can diagnose these problems and determine the proper treatment for your pet.
Our animal clinic offers core and non-core vaccinations to keep your pet safe from infectious diseases. We will also customize a vaccination schedule for your newly adopted pet to maintain protection over the years. If your pet needs surgery, you can count on our team to provide quality surgical care. We perform general surgeries for tumor removal, tooth extraction, broken bone repair, and more.
Spaying and Neutering
Be wary of inexpensive clinics offering discounted spaying, neutering, teeth cleanings, and other surgeries. They often are cutting corners to provide these surgeries for less.
We have in house diagnostic and laboratory services to aid in the detection of infection and issues with metabolic and organ functions. Most test can be completed quickly, with results in 10 to 15 minutes, while you and your pet wait. We perform diagnostic blood testing once yearly as a part of your pet's yearly examination. As needed, we submit samples for diagnostics or pathology to outside laboratories for review by a specialist.
X-Ray
Microchipping
Pet microchips have helped reunite thousands of pets with their families! No larger than a grain of rice, microchips are injected into your pet between their shoulder blades. When your pet is scanned with a microchip scanner, your pets identification number is displayed allowing your pet to be tracked back to you.
A general wellness checkup can do wonders for your pets. It can help us determine your pet’s health and create a treatment plan if needed. Immunizations are also a very important and routine service that all pets should receive throughout their lives. Whether you have a young cat or dog or a senior pet, we will have the right resources to provide the care that they need.
Dog Training
We can also refer you and your pet to the local dog training clubs or assist you in finding an awesome trainer, if needed. Remember, great pets and good behavior begins the day you bring your pet home!