Animal Emergency & Referral Associates (AERA)
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Signs Your Pet May Have Glaucoma or Cataracts
Diseases and Viruses
As a pet owner, you always know when something seems "off" about your pet. Perhaps your dog no longer wants to play, is sleeping more, or is constantly blinking. Maybe your cat is walking clumsily, has watery eyes, or keeps bumping into furniture...
CASE STUDY: Approach to Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs
Diseases and Viruses
Laryngeal paralysis is a manifestation of a polyneuropathy seen mostly in older large breed dogs; it is occasionally diagnosed in young dogs (less than a year of age) of certain breeds such as Siberian Huskies, Bouviers, Rottweilers, and others...
Are Essential Oils Dangerous for Pets?
Toxic Substances
You can’t walk into a home décor store without seeing essential oil diffusers. As one of the trendiest home décor items right now, essential oil diffusers are in thousands of homes in the United States, and many of these homes include pets..
Common Warning Signs of Pet Cancer
Diseases and Viruses
Like humans, pets tend to respond better to cancer treatments when they are diagnosed early. Our hope is that the following information helps pet owners notice the symptoms and signs of cancer in their dog or cat early on...
The Importance of Feeding Your Pet a Healthy Diet
Food Tips
People evaluate their diet and exercise habits, and resolve to make healthy changes, every New Year. Responsible pet owners also make good choices to keep their furry friends healthy. Include your pet in your resolutions to ensure she enjoys a long life by your side, starting by assessing your pet’s diet, since more than 50% of dogs and cats are overweight...
The Veterinary Criticalist: Elevating Patient Care
General
At Animal Emergency and Referral Associates, our critical care department functions much like a human intensive care unit (ICU). Pet emergencies and illnesses that may require round-the-clock intensive care can occur at all hours of the day and night. Our emergency and critical care doctors are equipped to handle the most serious cases and deal with any concerns or complications that may arise during your pet’s hospitalization...
Pets and Human Food: A Potentially Dangerous Combination
Toxic Substances
Our emergency department treats pets with a variety of medical conditions, but one problem brings pets through our doors over and over again—eating foods that get them into trouble...
Heart Disease in Pets: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Diseases and Viruses
We hear a lot about heart disease because it is common in humans, but did you know that it can also affect your pet? Both dogs and cats can also suffer from heart disease, which leads to congestive heart failure. Fortunately, pets can live for years with heart disease when receiving proper treatment...
Animal Pain Awareness Month Seeks to Educate Pet Owners on Pain Management
For Pet Owners
Like humans, animals can experience immense pain, but unlike humans, they can’t tell you about it in words. While some animals may experience acute pain from time to time, others may be dealing with chronic issues that you aren’t even aware of...
Does Your Pet Have Dental Disease?
Diseases and Viruses
You brush and floss your teeth twice daily, and visit your family dentist every six months, because you know that good oral hygiene is important for your overall health. Moreover, you want to avoid painful tooth root infections and prevent costly fillings, root canal therapies and periodontal procedures. But, when was the last time you thought about your pet’s oral health?
Honey’s Story: A Case Study from the AERA Surgery Department
Patients' Stories
Honey, a 9-year-old intact female Golden Retriever presented to the emergency service at AERA for an abdominal mass diagnosed by her primary veterinarian. A workup has been prompted by a sudden reduction in Honey's appetite...
Pet Loss and Bereavement: The Decision-Making and Healing Process
For Pet Owners
A pet is not just a friend and companion, but also a family member. That is why when we lose a pet, it makes it very difficult to say goodbye. We oftentimes don’t predict the difficult medical decisions or life adjustments that need to be made without our best friend by our side...
Hot Dogs and Cool Cats: Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses from Ruining Your Fun
Pet Safety
Summer is quickly fading into fall, and you want to squeeze every last bit of fun from the remaining beautiful days. As you include your pet in your outdoor plans, don’t forget that temperatures can become sweltering during the fall months as well. As you pack cold water and sunscreen for your gang before heading to the Jersey Shore, or on a sweaty hike, keep in mind that your pet also requires special precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses during your adventures...
How to Prevent an Animal Poison-Related Emergency
Pet Safety
If you've ever had a toddler in the house, you know how important it is to "babyproof" every room, making sure that all dangerous items are locked away or stored out of the reach of tiny, curious hands and mouths...
Animal Emergency & Referral Associates (AERA) Celebrates the Grand Opening of New Specialty & 24/7 Emergency Veterinary Hospital
Hospital News
On Saturday, March 26th, Animal Emergency & Referral Associates (AERA) officially celebrated the opening of their brand new specialty & emergency veterinary hospital with a grand opening event. The celebration took place in the hospital’s continuing education center and included hospital tours led by doctors and staff, food and drinks, a basket raffle, and other activities...
January is Glaucoma Awareness Month
Diseases and Viruses
Glaucoma is unfortunately a common disease in dogs that frequently results in permanent vision loss. Primary glaucoma, or that caused by a genetic or inherited component, is most common. Predisposed dog breeds include cocker spaniels, basset hounds, shiba inus, chow chows, shar peis, and arctic breeds.
Valentine’s Day: Staying Clear of These 5 Pet Hazards
Pet Safety
As Valentine’s Day approaches, you are probably thinking about the person you love the most. However, you shouldn’t forget about the furry friends that you love, too! During this holiday, AERA sees many pets that have gotten into common Valentine’s Day items that owners don’t always realize are hazardous. For this reason, AERA wants all pet owners to be aware of these five common Valentine’s Day pet hazards...
The Health Benefits of Pet Ownership
For Pet Owners
When you add a wriggling little fluff ball to your family, you’re probably not thinking much beyond puppy kisses or kitten snuggles. But, if you invest time and dedication into your pet’s training and health, they will repay you with a lifetime of benefits. While you are enjoying your four-legged friend’s companionship and goofy antics, the happiness they add to your days can improve your overall health, and add years to your life...
Fear Free Ways to Prepare for a Vet Visit
General
Many pets exhibit fears of visiting the veterinarian. Between the unfamiliar smells, people, pets, and touching, it is no wonder that your cat or dog may be terrified of a visit to the veterinarian...
First Radiation Oncology Patient Undergoes Treatment at AERA
Hospital News
When “Misty” Van Clief’s owner learned that her beloved Shih Tzu had a large cancerous tumor on her hard palate, she was understandably devastated. But after consulting with our Radiation Oncologist Dr. Theodore Chang, Ms. Van Clief has hope that Misty will live comfortably for the rest of her days...
Identifying a Pet Emergency
Pet Safety
If your pet experiences a veterinary emergency, you need to act quickly to ensure they receive the care they need as soon as possible to help improve their prognosis. However, while some emergency situations are apparent, others are not obvious, so keep reading to learn signs that indicate your pet needs emergency veterinary care...
AERA Hosts First Annual CE Symposium
Hospital News
On Sunday, May 7th AERA hosted their first annual CE Symposium for veterinary professionals in the surrounding area. The symposium took place in the Education Center of their new 47,000 square-foot hospital from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM and included lectures, breakfast, lunch, a "meet and greet", raffle and hospital tours. Total symposium attendance was around 20 individuals...
Heat-Related Illness and Heat Safety Tips for Pets
Pet Safety
Summer temperatures continue to rise each year, which can put people and pets in danger of heat-related illnesses and emergencies. Don’t let temperature extremes keep you and your pets indoors—with a few precautions, you can safely enjoy everything beautiful New Jersey has to offer. Here are some top tips and tricks for keeping pets safe...
5 Ways to Get Active With Your Dog This Spring
For Pet Owners
Spring is finally here, and if you are like us, you can’t wait to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air with your pet. Being active with your pet is a great way to stay healthy, strengthen your bond, and enjoy the many benefits of physical activity. Exercise releases endorphins, reduces disease risk, improves brain health, and strengthens bones and muscles—all which benefit you and your pet...
5 Ways AERA Elevates Anesthesia Safety to a Higher Level
Veterinary Services
If your pet needs surgery, you may be concerned about them undergoing anesthesia. You may wonder whether the procedure is really necessary, or can be put off to avoid your pet being anesthetized. We understand that although you want the best for your pet, anesthesia and surgery can be scary. Fortunately, veterinary anesthesia has come a long way, and most procedures can be performed with minimal risk...
Animal Eye Center of NJ Gets a New Look!
News
Our fellow veterinary hospital, the Animal Eye Center of NJ, is starting off 2021 with some exciting news! They have developed a new look and feel for their hospital, including logo, branding, and their own individualized website and social media channels. Now, veterinarians and pet owners alike will have an even closer look at the AEC team and a more regular cadence of updates from their hospital...
Preparing Your Furry Co-Worker for Your Return to Work
For Pet Owners
No one has been happier about you working from home over the past several months than your furry companion. Your pet has undoubtedly been glued to your side—napping at your feet while you type away, hovering nearby during lunch breaks, and enjoying more frequent trips to the backyard...
Surgery to Repair Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injuries in Dogs
General
The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) provides important stabilization in the knee, and a CCL tear or rupture is the most common cause of hind-limb lameness and pain in dogs. Dogs with CCL injuries will eventually develop arthritis in the affected knee, but proper stabilization can minimize joint pain and inflammation...
Coping with a Pet Cancer Diagnosis
Diseases and Viruses
A pet cancer diagnosis is difficult to hear, but AERA is here to help you develop a treatment plan. From diagnosis to treatment, you and your family are likely to face different emotions and decisions. It is best to be prepared and work through the process with experts, and AERA can help you do just that...
Recognizing Vision Problems in Your Pet
For Pet Owners
Your pet’s eyes are an important part of her sensory system. Keep them in tip-top shape by immediately recognizing problems that could interfere with vision. The following signs warrant an immediate appointment with your veterinarian or one of the board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists at the Animal Eye Center of New Jersey...
Bandit’s Story: A Case Study from the AERA Surgery Team
Patients' Stories
After two weeks of inappetence and lethargy, Bandit's parents decided it was time to bring the 14 year-old cocker spaniel to the hospital, as, even for an old guy, Bandit was just not himself. A thorough work-up by our Emergency Service revealed that Bandit had a suspected gallbladder mucocele...
November Health Clinic: Comprehensive Echocardiograms for Cats that Qualify
Hospital News
Our cardiology health clinic is back by popular demand!
How to Handle the Loss of a Pet
For Pet Owners
Pets are part of the family, and when a pet passes away it can be a difficult time for your family. AERA is here to help you get through this time with some tips for coping with the loss of a pet...
Pet Heart Health Q&A
Health Tips
In honor of American Heart Month, we have some pet heart health Q&A with our cardiologist, Dr. Gordon Peddle!
How Your Family Can Create an Emergency Plan for Your Pets
For Pet Owners
Emergencies and natural disasters are scary and stressful for everybody – especially our pets. With a little bit of planning, however, you can make sure that your pets will be safe and comfortable if something unexpected happens...
August Health Clinic: Comprehensive Echocardiograms for Cats that Qualify
General
Has your cat been diagnosed with a heart murmur but displays no other symptoms? Are you putting off further testing due to cost? Our board-certified cardiologist, Dr. Gordon Peddle, will be performing feline echocardiogram screenings without a consultation fee for cats that qualify during our August Health Clinic.
Welcome to our new website!
Hospital News
As you may have noticed, our website has a new look. We redesigned it with you in mind; detailed information about our services and doctors, owner resources, pet tips, upcoming events, and more is now just a click away!