River Road Animal Hospital

11/18/2025

💊 It’s Antibiotic Awareness Week! 💊

This week, we’re joining the global effort to raise awareness about antibiotic resistance. A serious issue that affects both pets and people.
When antibiotics are used the wrong way (like stopping them too soon or using them when they aren’t needed), bacteria can become resistant, making infections harder to treat in the future.
At River Road Animal Hospital, we’re committed to using antibiotics responsibly to protect your pets today and keep these lifesaving medicines working for the future.

Here’s how you can help:
🐶 Always give antibiotics exactly as prescribed -don’t stop early!
🐱 Don’t ask for antibiotic that aren’t needed.
🐾 Keep up with vaccines, parasite prevention, and hygiene to avoid infections in the first place.
💬 Ask questions — we’re here to help you understand your pet’s treatment plan.

Together, we can protect the health of our pets, our families, and our community. 🌎❤️

11/17/2025

Continued from Friday's post- More signs something may be wrong:
6️⃣ Bad odors — Persistent smells from the mouth, nose, or a**s can signal infection or even certain cancers.
7️⃣ Difficulty eating or swallowing — Especially if paired with drooling or pawing at the mouth.
8️⃣ Loss of stamina or interest in play — Fatigue or decreased activity can be an early clue something’s off.
9️⃣ Persistent lameness or stiffness — Don’t assume it’s just aging; bone or joint cancers can cause these symptoms.
🔟 Trouble breathing, urinating, or defecating — Any change in these habits warrants a vet visit.

🐾 Trust your gut — you know your pet best. If something feels off, don’t wait. Early veterinary care can make all the difference ❤️

11/14/2025

🥒 HAPPY NATIONAL PICKLE DAY 🥒

Come by and try a sample and cast your vote for best pickle!

11/14/2025

Here are 5 early warning signs of cancer in pets every pet parent should know:
1️⃣ Lumps or bumps that grow — Not every lump is cancer, but any new or changing mass should always be checked by your vet.
2️⃣ Sores that won’t heal — Persistent wounds can sometimes indicate an underlying issue, including certain types of skin cancer.
3️⃣ Unexplained weight loss — Sudden or gradual weight loss without a change in diet can be an early red flag.
4️⃣ Loss of appetite or energy — Subtle changes in eating or behavior may signal that something more serious is going on.
5️⃣ Bleeding or discharge from any opening — This includes the nose, mouth, or other areas and should always be evaluated promptly.

🐾 Early detection saves lives. Many cancers can be managed or even cured if caught early, that’s why regular vet visits and paying attention to small changes matter so much.
If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t wait, call your veterinarian right away. You know your pet best, and your quick action could make all the difference ❤️

11/12/2025

🐶💚 Happy World Animal Enrichment Day! 💚🐱

Today, we’re celebrating the power of play, curiosity, and creativity! At River Road Animal Hospital, we believe enrichment isn’t just fun, it’s essential for every pet’s physical and emotional well-being.
Whether it’s a new toy, a puzzle feeder, or even a simple walk with new scents to explore, enrichment helps pets stay happy, healthy, and engaged.
Here are a few easy ways to add enrichment to your pet’s day:
✨ Rotate their toys to keep things fresh
✨ Hide treats around the house for a scavenger hunt
✨ Try puzzle feeders or slow bowls
✨ Explore new walking routes together

Every little moment of enrichment strengthens the bond between you and your furry family member. 💕

11/11/2025

Today, we at River Road Animal Hospital proudly honor the brave men and women who have served our country — and their loyal K9 partners who stood faithfully beside them. 🐾
To our veterans, both human and canine, thank you for your courage, your sacrifice, and your unwavering devotion. Your service inspires us every day.
❤️ From all of us at River Road Animal Hospital — we salute you.

11/11/2025

Regular vet checkups aren’t just for vaccines. They’re your pet’s best defense against serious illness. Routine exams every 6–12 months, along with bloodwork and imaging, help veterinarians catch hidden problems before they become life-threatening.

Many cancers and other diseases start quietly, with no obvious signs until they’ve already progressed. Early detection can mean simpler treatments, better outcomes, and more healthy years with your furry family member. Your pet can’t say, “I don’t feel well,” that’s why you have to be their voice ❤️

11/10/2025

We had such a great time being part of the Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase this year!
It’s always special getting to step out of the clinic and connect with our neighbors — meet new faces, catch up with familiar ones, and of course talk about your pets like they’re local celebrities.

Thank you to the Southport Oak Island Chamber of Commerce-Welcome Center and everyone who stopped by to say hello.
This coastal community truly feels like home, and we’re grateful to care for the pets who make it whole. 💛🐾

11/10/2025

🌟 Practice Manager Appreciation Week 🌟
This week, we are shining a well-deserved spotlight on Autumn, our incredible Practice Manager and the true backbone of our hospital.
For 13 years, Autumn has been the glue that holds everything together. She manages the team, keeps our hospital running like clockwork, and somehow always knows what’s needed. Often before anyone else does! She quietly solves problems, keeps the chaos at bay, and ensures our hospital feels like a second home for both our team and our clients.
Autumn does so much more than her job title suggests. She’s a mentor, a cheerleader, a problem-solver, and the calming force when things get hectic. Her dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment make a world of difference to our staff, our patients, and our clients every single day. She inspires by example, balances professionalism with kindness, and makes even the busiest days feel manageable. Simply put, we couldn’t do what we do without her.
Autumn, thank you for everything you do, big and small. From the countless behind-the-scenes moments to the ways you lift up our team every day, you truly make this hospital shine. We are endlessly grateful for your dedication and leadership, and this week (and every week) is all about celebrating YOU!

11/07/2025

Today, we also observe National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day, shining a light on a disease that affects thousands of dogs each year.
Canine lymphoma is one of the most common cancers in dogs, but early detection can make a difference. Signs may include swollen lymph nodes, lethargy, unexplained weight loss, or changes in appetite.
💛 What you can do:
*Schedule regular vet check-ups
*Watch for subtle changes in your dog’s behavior or health
*Spread awareness to help other pet owners

Together, we can raise awareness, support research, and provide the best care for our furry friends facing cancer. 🐶💛

11/06/2025

Did you know that some pet cancers are preventable?
Just like in people, early action and preventive care can make all the difference in your pet’s long-term health.

✨ Spaying your female pet before 12 months of age can dramatically reduce her risk of breast cancer and eliminate the risk of uterine or ovarian cancer altogether.

✨ Neutering your male pet not only helps prevent testicular and prostate cancers, but also reduces roaming, marking, and certain behavioral issues.

These simple procedures do so much more than help with population control... they protect your pet’s health and can add years to their life.

One simple surgery can make a lifetime of difference. 💗

11/04/2025

🐾 Help Us Spread the Word!
River Road Animal Hospital is growing — and we’re hosting a HIRING EVENT in partnership with NCWorks Career Center! 🌊

We’re looking for kind, dependable animal lovers to join our amazing team in Southport, NC. Positions include:
• Veterinary Assistant
• Receptionist
• Registered Veterinary Technician

📍 NCWorks Career Center, Shallotte
🗓️ Wednesday, November 12 | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

If you know someone who’s passionate about pets and looking for a rewarding career in veterinary medicine, please share this post or tag them below! 💙💛

🐾 Join the River Road Animal Hospital Team!

Love animals? Enjoy helping people?
River Road Animal Hospital in Southport, is looking for caring, dependable team members to join their growing practice — and they’re hiring on-site at NCWorks Shallotte!

📅 Wednesday, November 12
🕘 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
📍 NCWorks Career Center – 5300-7 Main Street, Shallotte

Open positions include:
🐶 Veterinary Assistant
🐾 Receptionist
🐕 Registered Veterinary Technician

Experience in veterinary care is a plus, but not required — the team is happy to train motivated candidates who are eager to learn and grow in a caring, professional environment.

Stop by to meet the hiring team, learn more about the practice, and explore your opportunity to make a difference in the lives of pets and their families every day.

💬 Questions? Call 910-754-6120 or visit the NCWorks Career Center for more information.