by CandiceEishen | Jun 23, 2025 | Appointments, Blog
Why Year-Round Flea & Tick Prevention Is a Must for Every Pet
Fleas and ticks may be small, but the problems they cause can be huge. These parasites don’t just irritate your pet—they can carry serious diseases, lead to infections, and cause lasting health complications if left untreated.
That’s why year-round flea and tick prevention isn’t just a seasonal task—it’s an essential part of your pet’s ongoing wellness. At Hometown Veterinary Partners, we offer Primary and Urgent Care, plus Same Day Appointments, so it’s always easy to get your pet protected and keep them feeling their best.
Why Flea & Tick Prevention Matters Year-Round
Many pet parents think of fleas and ticks as a spring or summer concern. But in many parts of the country, these pests are active all year long—especially in warmer climates or indoor environments where fleas can continue their lifecycle uninterrupted.
Without consistent prevention, even a short lapse in coverage can put your pet at risk for:
- Flea infestations that spread quickly and are difficult to eliminate
- Tick bites that transmit diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, or anaplasmosis
- Skin irritation, allergic reactions, or hot spots
- Tapeworms, which are transmitted when pets ingest infected fleas
- Anemia in young or small animals from excessive blood loss due to parasites
Benefits of Regular Flea & Tick Prevention
Keeping your pet protected with routine prevention doesn’t just safeguard their health—it protects your home and family, too.
- Stops infestations before they start
Monthly or long-acting flea and tick preventatives disrupt the parasite lifecycle before it gets out of hand.
- Protects against serious disease
Many preventatives now also guard against mosquito-borne illnesses like heartworm, offering broader protection in a single dose.
- Keeps your home pest-free
Once fleas are in your home, they can spread fast. Prevention means fewer carpet treatments, less cleaning, and no surprise bites on you or your family.
- Saves money in the long run
Treating an infestation or illness caused by fleas or ticks can be far more expensive than simply preventing it in the first place.
- Peace of mind, year-round
Consistent prevention helps you rest easier, knowing your pet is protected every day, not just during “flea season.”
Not Sure Which Prevention Is Right for Your Pet?
With so many options on the market—topicals, chews, collars, and more—it can be hard to know what’s best for your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle.
That’s where Hometown Veterinary Partners comes in. During a Primary Care visit, we’ll walk you through the safest, most effective flea and tick solutions for your specific pet. If your pet is already showing signs of irritation or itching, our team can evaluate the issue quickly and recommend treatment right away — with Same Day Appointments available.
Protect Your Pet Before Problems Start
Don’t wait for scratching, biting, or surprise pests in your home. Flea and tick prevention is simple, safe, and one of the most important things you can do for your pet’s health.
Schedule a Primary or Urgent Care visit with Hometown Veterinary Partners today — Same Day Appointments available! Let’s get your pet on a year-round plan that keeps them safe, happy, and itch-free.
by CandiceEishen | May 27, 2025 | Blog, Sarasota, FL, Uncategorized
A New Chapter for Best Friends Animal Hospital – Sarasota
We’re thrilled to announce that Best Friends Animal Hospital in Sarasota is now part of the Hometown Veterinary Partners. This partnership marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter—one grounded in a shared commitment to exceptional, compassionate care for pets and the people who love them, right here in our Sarasota community.
Over the coming months, we’ll begin thoughtful renovations designed to create a more modern, comfortable space for both pets and their people. From updated, stress-reducing exam rooms to enhanced treatment areas, every improvement is made with your pet’s well-being in mind.
Hometown Veterinary Partners was founded to support veterinary teams in a profession facing real challenges like burnout and staffing shortages. Their mission is simple yet powerful: empower veterinary professionals, uplift communities, and ensure pets and their people receive the care they deserve. This partnership allows our incredible veterinary professionals to continue doing what they do best—providing heartfelt, high-quality care—while receiving the support and technology they need to thrive.
To our valued clients: thank you for the trust you’ve placed in us over the years. We are deeply grateful and honored to continue caring for your pets—now as Hometown Veterinary Partners – Sarasota.
We’re excited to meet you and your pet — give us a call to schedule your visit!
Hometown Veterinary Partners
5110 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34233
Conveniently located near the intersection of Clark Road and Honore Avenue, just minutes from I-75 and a short drive from beautiful Siesta Key.
Phone: 941-927-4567
Hours:
| Monday |
8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Tuesday |
8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Wednesday |
8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Thursday |
8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Friday |
8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Saturday |
Closed |
| Sunday |
Closed |
For more information, please visit hometownvetpartners.com
by CandiceEishen | May 22, 2025 | Blog, Medicine, Minnesota, News, Saint Paul, MN
Caring for animals isn’t just what Dr. Longtin does—it’s who she is.
With nearly 30 years of experience caring for pets and their people, Dr. Longtin brings a wealth of knowledge, empathy, and a deeply personal approach to every appointment. A proud graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, she’s spent her career helping families navigate everything from routine checkups to some of life’s most difficult decisions.
A Veterinary Approach That Puts Your Pet First
What sets Dr. Longtin apart isn’t just her advanced training—though she certainly has it. She’s completed specialized education in veterinary acupuncture, Fear Free handling techniques, feline-friendly care, and gentle euthanasia. But more than that, she brings a calming presence to every interaction, taking the time to understand not just what’s going on with your pet, but who they are to you.
To Dr. Longtin, great veterinary care always starts with listening. She takes the time to get to know each pet and their family, understanding that no two households are alike—and no two care plans should be either.
A House Call Veterinarian at Heart
Before joining our team, Dr. Longtin spent 12 years as a house call veterinarian. That experience changed everything about how she practices medicine. It taught her to meet pets where they are—literally and emotionally—and helped her develop a flexible, patient-first philosophy that still guides her today.
Whether she’s treating a nervous cat or supporting a senior dog through end-of-life care, she brings patience, kindness, and clarity to every situation.
Beyond the Clinic
When she’s not in scrubs, Dr. Longtin enjoys hands-on projects, from crafting to working on her vintage Volkswagen Beetle. Her home is just as full of love as her work: she shares it with a golden retriever named Bubbles, five quirky cats, two curious snakes, and a tank full of vibrant fish. It’s no surprise that someone who cares for animals all day would have a few (or more!) of her own at home.
Here When You Need Her Most
Whether you’re visiting for a routine wellness exam or facing a tough medical decision, Dr. Longtin is here to walk alongside you. Her commitment to compassionate, individualized veterinary care means your pet—and your family—are always in good hands.
Looking for a veterinarian who treats your pet like family? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Longtin today and experience veterinary care that’s as thoughtful as it is skilled.
by Hannah@briarcliffpartners.com | Apr 5, 2025 | Blog, Canton, MA, Champlin, MN, Charlton, MA, Crestwood, MO, Gurnee, IL, Medicine, Myrtle Beach, SC, Naperville, IL, News, Orland Park, IL, Path to Partnership, Saint Paul, MN, Sarasota, FL, Schaumburg, IL
Hometown Veterinary Partners is proud to announce the addition of Dr. Cheryl Brocki as our new Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO). With an extensive background in veterinary operations, mentorship, and clinical excellence, Dr. Cheryl Brocki joins our executive leadership team at an exciting time in our growth. She will play a key role in shaping the future of our veterinary hospitals while upholding our unwavering commitment to supporting veterinary teams and providing compassionate patient care.
As CVO, Dr. Cheryl Brocki will oversee the operational aspects of our veterinary hospitals, ensuring smooth and efficient daily functions while fostering a culture of collaboration and growth. Her responsibilities include promoting medical excellence, enhancing our onboarding program for new DVM graduates, and supporting DVM recruiting efforts. Additionally, she will support new veterinary hospital partner locations and focus on developing Partner DVMs to strengthen their leadership, care standards, and business acumen.
Dr. Cheryl Brocki brings a wealth of experience to Hometown Veterinary Partners. She has successfully mentored numerous early-career veterinarians, certified veterinary technicians (CVTs), and veterinary assistants (VAs). In her previous leadership role, she prioritized DVM engagement and retention efforts for a network of over 75 veterinarians. She also played a key role in building a veterinary university program, expanding it to 16 universities with 22 student ambassadors. Furthermore, Dr. Cheryl Brocki developed and implemented a comprehensive onboarding program for new graduate veterinarians, ensuring they received the support and guidance needed for a successful career. Her work in furthering veterinary medicine has extended to forging strong partnerships in the vetmed community, and she has also earned a certificate of completion from the BlendVet DEIB program in March 2023.
Hometown Veterinary Partners Founder and President Keri Kamba expressed her excitement about Dr. Cheryl Brocki joining the team, “We are thrilled for Dr. Brocki to join our leadership team in our rapidly growing organization. Dr. Brocki embodies encouragement and empowerment for our veterinary professionals in each of our locations, and we are excited for her to continue our compassionate care programs for pets and our communities.”
At Hometown Veterinary Partners, we are more than just a network of veterinary hospitals—we are a passionate team dedicated to empowering veterinarians to provide the highest level of care. Founded by individuals who left corporate veterinary practices behind, our organization is driven by a commitment to fostering a culture of empowerment, support, and medical excellence.
We look forward to the expertise, leadership, and compassion she brings to the Hometown Veterinary Partners team!
by Danielle Schermerhorn | Oct 30, 2024 | Blog, Medicine
What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs characterized by a persistent cough. The term “tracheobronchitis” refers to the inflammation of the trachea (windpipe) and the bronchial tubes. The disease is caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria, including adenovirus type-2, parainfluenza virus, canine coronavirus, and Bordetella bronchiseptica. The name “kennel cough” originates from the frequent outbreaks in places where dogs are housed together, such as kennels, making the infection easily transmissible.
Clinical Signs of Kennel Cough
The clinical signs of kennel cough can vary but typically include a loud, persistent cough often described as a ‘goose honk’. Other symptoms may include runny eyes and nose, swollen tonsils, wheezing, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Dogs with this condition often cough when their throat is rubbed or after exercise.
How Dogs Contract Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is highly contagious and spreads through casual contact between dogs, such as sniffing, playing, or sharing water bowls. Factors that increase the likelihood of contracting the infection include stress, cold temperatures, exposure to dust or smoke, and crowded living conditions.
Treatment for Kennel Cough
Treatment for kennel cough largely depends on the severity and the specific pathogens involved. Viral infections typically do not have specific treatments, but antibiotics like doxycycline and amoxicillin can help manage bacterial infections caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica. In some cases, prolonged treatment may be necessary, but most infections resolve within one to three weeks. Cough suppressants and anti-inflammatory medications can also provide relief.
Preventing Kennel Cough
Vaccination is a key preventive measure against kennel cough. Most standard vaccination programs include vaccines for adenovirus and parainfluenza. The Bordetella vaccine is especially recommended for dogs that frequently interact with other dogs, such as those that are boarded, groomed, or visit dog parks. The Bordetella vaccine can be administered via injection, orally, or as nose drops, with the latter providing more rapid local immunity.
Effectiveness of Kennel Cough Vaccines
The immunity provided by vaccines, or even natural infection, is neither complete nor long-lasting. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian for specific vaccination recommendations. Some kennel facilities may require booster vaccinations before boarding, and veterinarians may recommend booster shots every six months to maintain optimal protection.
Additional Considerations
In addition to vaccinations, good hygiene practices and reducing stress can help prevent kennel cough. Avoid exposing your dog to known risk factors such as crowded places and environments with poor air quality. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can also ensure that your dog remains healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations.
Conclusion
Kennel cough is a common but preventable disease. Understanding its causes, recognizing the symptoms, and taking appropriate preventive measures can help keep your dog healthy and happy. Always consult with your veterinarian for the best practices in protecting your dog from this infectious disease.
Additional Sources
For more information on kennel cough and other canine respiratory diseases, you can visit:
- American Kennel Club
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Veterinary Partner
- PetMD
By staying informed and proactive, you can help ensure your dog’s well-being and reduce the risk of kennel cough in your community.
by Danielle Schermerhorn | Sep 18, 2024 | Blog, Medicine, Minnesota, Safety
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that targets the nervous system of mammals, including pets like dogs and cats, as well as humans. Once symptoms develop, rabies is almost always fatal, making it a critical public health concern that has persisted for thousands of years.
In July 2024, the Minnesota Board of Animal Health reported 32 rabies cases across the state, marking a sharp rise from the 20 cases recorded during the same period last year. This increase, primarily driven by rabid skunks, has been most pronounced in southwest and central Minnesota.
“This is a significant increase compared to other years,” said Minnesota Department of Health epidemiologist Carrie Klumb. “This is not a normal year.”
What is Rabies?
Rabies is caused by a virus from the Lyssavirus genus. The virus affects the central nervous system, leading to severe neurological symptoms and, eventually, death. It is present in many parts of the world, with the notable exceptions of Australia, Antarctica, and several island nations that have maintained strict quarantine measures to remain rabies-free.
Transmission of Rabies
The rabies virus is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal via bites. It can also be transmitted through scratches or open wounds exposed to the saliva of an infected animal. In North America, common sources of rabies include skunks, raccoons, foxes, and bats.
Incubation Period
The incubation period for rabies, which is the time between exposure to the virus and the appearance of symptoms, can vary widely. In dogs, this period typically ranges from two weeks to four months, but it can extend up to a year or more. In cats, the incubation period is generally shorter, from three to eight weeks. The length of the incubation period depends on factors such as the location and severity of the bite and the amount of virus introduced.
Clinical Signs of Rabies
Rabies progresses through several stages, starting with the prodromal phase, which involves behavioral changes. Quiet animals may become agitated, while active pets might become nervous or shy.
- Furious Rabies: This phase is characterized by extreme aggression, excitability, and the tendency to bite or chew objects. Dogs may exhibit pica (eating non-food items), and cats may show excessive drooling and muscle spasms that prevent swallowing.
- Dumb Rabies: More common in dogs, this form involves progressive paralysis starting in the limbs and moving to the facial muscles, leading to difficulty swallowing and a comatose state before death.
- Paralytic Stage: In cats, the third stage involves paralysis, leading to coma and death within ten days of symptom onset.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Rabies can only be definitively diagnosed post-mortem through the examination of brain tissue. There is no treatment for animals once symptoms have appeared. Therefore, prevention through vaccination is crucial.
Vaccination and Prevention
Vaccination is the most effective method of preventing rabies. Some cities and states have rabies vaccination requirements for dogs and cats, regardless if they roam outdoors or stay indoors. Vaccination typically begins at three to four months of age, with booster shots administered according to veterinary guidelines.
Human Exposure and Prevention
Rabies is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. If you are bitten by an unvaccinated animal, immediate medical attention is essential. Washing the wound thoroughly and seeking prompt medical advice can prevent the virus from taking hold. For those exposed to rabies, a series of post-exposure vaccinations can prevent the onset of symptoms.
Resources for Further Information
For more information on rabies in dogs and cats, and how to protect your pets and yourself, consider the following resources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Rabies
- World Health Organization (WHO) – Rabies
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Rabies
- RabiesAware.org
By staying informed and ensuring your pets are vaccinated, you can significantly reduce the risk of rabies and contribute to public health safety.
