by Dr. M.J. Wixsom | Jun 2, 2025 | Animal Diseases, Blog
As veterinarians, we’re often the bearers of difficult news. This Memorial Day, I experienced the heartbreak that comes with losing four dogs to a silent killer: splenic tumors. Just a day later, my mentee faced the same tragedy. These cases are devastating for...
by Dr. M.J. Wixsom | May 26, 2025 | Animal Diseases, Blog
As the days grow warmer and we spend more time outdoors with our pets, we’re reminded that our region’s natural beauty comes with a hidden danger: ticks and the diseases they carry. Over the past decade, I’ve watched as tick populations have steadily increased in our...
by Dr. M.J. Wixsom | May 12, 2025 | Blog, Speaking of pets
There is a quiet companionship that comes with animals, a bond that doesn’t demand words but offers solace in the hardest moments. In the past month, I’ve leaned heavily on that bond. My chocolate lab, Foxtrot, has been my steadfast snuggler, a warm presence on the...
by Dr. M.J. Wixsom | Apr 16, 2025 | Blog, Howlidays, Vet Life and It's not just a vet life
Lyme disease is a significant concern for both humans and animals, particularly dogs. Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted through the bite of infected black-legged ticks (commonly known as deer ticks), Lyme disease is prevalent in many parts...
by Dr. M.J. Wixsom | Apr 9, 2025 | Blog, Howlidays, Vet Life and It's not just a vet life
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition that affects not only dogs but also cats and ferrets in the Kentucky and Ohio region. This disease, caused by the parasitic worm Dirofilaria immitis, is transmitted through mosquito bites and can lead to...
by Dr. M.J. Wixsom | Mar 31, 2025 | Blog, Vet Life and It's not just a vet life
Friday evening, just as the clinic was winding down for the day, a distraught woman arrived at Guardian Animal Medical Center carrying a dying kitten. She claimed her dog had accidentally sat on the kitten, but as we began our examination, it became clear there was...
