At Westside, we are all about Santa Cruz and the animals and people who live here. And there are many ways to give to the pets in need right in our own back yard. We have talked about ways to… Read More »
Category Archives: Tributes and Memorials
Foster a Pet for Member of the Military
Serving away from home is a fact of life for members of the U.S. Military. Whether in combat or serving a tour that is away from home in the United States or abroad. In nearly all cases, they can’t take… Read More »
Dolphin Tale Teaches Us the Power of Knowledge…
Since last weekend, the movie Dolphin Tale has been capturing the hearts of movie goers all over America. Who doesn’t love a miracle? Winter the Dolphin, who beats every odd to thrive with a prosthetic fin after being caught in… Read More »
So Long, Goose
Compassionate and top notch Veterinary care is our profession, but the animals who come into and out of our lives make it so much more than a job for our veterinarians and staff. For many of our clients, our official… Read More »
Japan Earthquake: Who is Rescuing and Supporting the Animals?
Each day, there seems to be more bad news coming from Japan. Once we got through the initial devastation of the disaster and rescue efforts, the painful realities of the relief effort set it. So we have to ask “What… Read More »
Autism Service Dogs Transform Families…
I first became aware of the existence of dogs that are specifically selected and extensively trained as service dogs for children living with autism and their families when the family of one of our son’s friends was fundraising for “Millie”… Read More »
When It Comes to Explosives and Airport Security, The Nose of the Cute Puppy Knows…
Less than a month after 9/11 changed our lives forever, my husband and I boarded a plane at the San Francisco Airport for Heathrow. The walk through the international terminal at SFO was certainly memorable. There were armed National Guard… Read More »
Horseback Riding as Therapy
In some ways, it seems counter-intuitive. Take someone out of their wheel chair and watch them sit up tall when they are put on the back of a big, powerful horse. A child with ADHD or anxiety issues finds calmness… Read More »
When is Euthanasia the Right Thing to Do for Your Beloved Pet?
Euthanasia is the one medical procedure that separates veterinary and human medicine. Many times we are called upon in our practice to humanely end the life of one of our patients. This is always a bittersweet experience. Bitter in that… Read More »
Stem Cell Therapy Is a Safe and Effective Way to Help Dogs Who Suffer With Joint Pain
There are few things that are more disturbing than seeing an animal in pain. But until recently, the options for treatment of joint pain for dogs, especially osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia were severely limited. Some relief was available through pain… Read More »
