Vanguard Veterinary Hospital PLLC

05/27/2026

Spring and summer storms can be intense, For many pets, they’re downright terrifying.

Loud thunder, wind, and rain. Flashing lightning. Changes in barometric pressure can trigger intense anxiety in dogs and cats.
⛈️ Signs of storm anxiety include:
•Pacing or hiding
•Shaking or trembling
•Whining or barking
•Clinginess
•Destructive behavior

❤️‍🩹 Here’s how you can help:
•Create a safe space where your pet can retreat
•White noise or calming music can lessen the sounds of the storm
•Thunder shirts or anxiety wraps may have a calming effect similar to swaddling
•Stay calm—your pet takes emotional cues from you

05/25/2026

Today we honor more than a holiday we honor memories🇺🇸

In observance of Memorial Day, our office will be closed today and will reopen with normal business hours on Tuesday. We’re taking this time with our families and loved ones, remembering those who can’t be with theirs. Our hearts are with all who have lost someone in service to our country.

Dr. Vamvakias & The Vanguard Team❤️🤍💙

05/22/2026

In observance of Memorial Day, our office will be closed on Monday, May 25th, 2026 and will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, May 26th.

If you have a medical emergency, please visit our website for directions and phone numbers to the emergency facilities.

From our families to yours, we hope you have a wonderful Holiday.

05/21/2026

May is Pet Sitter Safety Month 🐶🐱 — with vacation season upon us, it's the perfect time to ensure your pets are in safe hands! Setting your pet sitter up for success is essential for keeping your furry friends happy, healthy, and stress-free.

Here are some must-do tips to make the process smooth:
✔️ Leave clear feeding & medication instructions
✔️ Provide emergency contact info (including your vet!)
✔️ Ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccines & preventions
✔️ Secure leashes, carriers, and escape routes
✔️ Share your pet’s quirks — we all know they have them 😉

05/20/2026

As the weather warms up, it's officially flea and tick season — and that means it's time to ensure your pets are protected! 🐾🌿

Fleas and ticks aren’t just an outdoor‑pet issue. Even indoor‑only pets can end up with unwanted hitchhikers if someone brings them in from outside. These pests can carry diseases, cause irritation, and create big problems fast — so prevention is always easier than treatment.

Also don't forget about heartworm prevention for dogs! Heartworm disease can be preventable with regular monthly protection.

05/18/2026

🐾 Modalities in Canine Rehab: TENS 🐾

Did you know that dogs can benefit from advanced physical therapy tools just like humans? Electric modalities in canine rehabilitation like TENS and NMES are gentle, non-invasive treatments that play a big role in pain management and muscle recovery.

🔹 TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) helps reduce pain by stimulating sensory nerves and releasing endorphins – your dog’s natural painkillers. It’s ideal for managing chronic conditions like arthritis or post-operative discomfort.

05/15/2026

Before and after progress for Pippin!

She couldn't walk on her own due to severe hip dysplasia. Her owner had been taking her on walks in a wagon so she could still enjoy the outdoors. We started with pain management using laser therapy, acupuncture, and a TENS unit. Once her pain improved, we introduced gentle static exercises in the underwater treadmill. The water buoyancy helped her stand and move more easily despite her weakness. Over time, we progressed to walking in the treadmill.

Today, Pippin is walking on her own again and even wants to go on short walks! 🐾🎉

05/12/2026

May is Pet Cancer Awareness Month 🐾
Did you know that 1 in 4 dogs and 1 in 5 cats will develop cancer at some point in their lives? It’s the #1 disease-related cause of death in senior pets, but early detection can make all the difference.

🔍 Why early detection matters
Cancers caught early are often more treatable. That’s why veterinarians recommend X-rays and ultrasound as powerful screening tools—they can reveal tumors or abnormalities long before you’d notice symptoms at home. Regular wellness imaging is especially valuable for middle-aged and senior pets.

05/11/2026

05/10/2026

Since I tend to share so much about my boys with you all…this is my youngest. He graduated yesterday from UNC-Chapel Hill with a double major in History and Peace, War, & Defense. He then took his oath of office as a second lieutenant entering the US Army. Lots of emotions 🥰💜 -Dr. Vamvakias

05/08/2026

Meet Pippin 💜

When Pippin first came to us, she could not walk on her own due to severe hip dysplasia. Her loving owner had been taking her on walks in a wagon so she could still enjoy the outdoors.

We started with pain management treatments using laser therapy, acupuncture and a TENS unit to help make her more comfortable. Once her pain was better controlled, we introduced gentle static exercises in the underwater treadmill to help her build strength while reducing stress on her joints. After several sessions, we slowly progressed to walking in the treadmill.

Today, Pippin is walking on her own again and even wants to go on short walks! 🐾
Watching her regain strength, confidence, and independence has been such an incredible journey. We are so proud of this sweet girl and grateful to be part of her recovery story. 💙