Leesburg Vet Blog 
The 12 Days of Christmas – Veterinary Edition
Over the past twelve days, we shared our tips for keeping your pets happy and healthy throughout the entire year. As you prepare to enjoy the Christmas holiday with friends and family this weekend, take a moment to revisit our daily veterinary-inspired take on a holiday classic.
On the 1st day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
ONE MICROCHIP
We recommend every pet patient has a microchip. Microchips are the only permanent and most effective form of ID should your pet go missing.
On the 2nd day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
TWO VACCINES
Vaccines offer the greatest protection against specific infectious diseases caused by a virus or bacteria. We offer vaccinations for common dog and cat diseases that attack the immune, gastrointestinal, and respiratory systems and tailor vaccine plans for each pet’s age, health status, and lifestyle.
On the 3rd day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
THREE DAILY WALKS
Getting out a few times per day has many health benefits for your pet. Walking at least 30 minutes a day can help increase energy levels, reduce boredom, improve socialization, lower blood pressure, and keep weight in check. And don’t let a fenced-in yard stifle your motivation. Your pet will be mentally stimulated by the sights and sounds beyond the backyard, get to use muscles they normally wouldn’t use and perfect their leash walking! We are fortunate to have many beautiful parks and green spaces right here in Northern Virginia, so there’s no excuse not to get out with your pup!
On the 4th day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
FOUR TICK CHECKS
It may be cold outside, but ticks are very hardy insects. To help prevent Lyme Disease, keep up with regular tick checks all year long.
On the 5th day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
FIVE DENTAL X-RAYS
Did you know that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats will have some form of periodontal disease by age 3? We do a thorough mouth exam as part of your pet’s annual and bi-annual exam, but also utilize x-rays to analyze the health of the teeth roots and gums below the jawline.
On the 6th day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
SIX TEETH BRUSHINGS
The best part of oral hygiene starts at home! Believe it or now, most pets will tolerate teeth brushing, which we recommend several times per week.
On the 7th day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
SEVEN CLEAN LITTER BOXES
To keep your feline friends happy and healthy, scoop out their litter box daily! Inappropriate bathroom behavior outside of the box may be attributed to its cleanliness.
On the 8th day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
EIGHT TUMMY RUBS
What pet doesn’t love a good tummy rub?! Did you know we offer professional tummy rubs through holistic massage therapy? Veterinary massage therapy helps relax, rejuvenate, and accelerate healing processes. Learn more about all of our holistic services.
On the 9th day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
NINE HEALTHY TREATS
Some of our favorite holiday indulgences can cause stomach upset, pancreatitis, or toxic poisoning in cats and dogs, even when given in small amounts. It’s best to keep your pet’s diet as normal as possible during holiday dinners or when entertaining at parties. Get all of our holiday pet safety tips here.
On the 10th day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
TEN TRIMMED TOENAILS
Proper grooming not only improves the appearance of your pet, but it greatly enhances their quality of life. Learn more about our professional grooming services, then schedule a spa day for your pet in the New Year!
On the 11th day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
ELEVEN POSITIVE PRAISES
Have a skittish pet that gets fearful at exam time? Stop by for a non-appointment “happy visit,” where they can walk and sniff around, get a few treats, and of course, lots of hugs and kisses from our staff! We strive to make every pet feel comfortable and at ease come exam time.
On the 12th day of Christmas, my dear LVH vet gave to me…
TWELVE MONTHLY PREVENTIVES
We recommend every pet patient (both indoors and outdoors) take a monthly flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives as part of their wellness care plan. Always have their medicine on hand by ordering from our online pharmacy.
Best wishes and a very Merry Christmas from the entire LVH team!
Leesburg Vet Blog 