Keeping Monroe's pets healthy for over 25 years!

AAHA accredited for over 25 years!

Welcome to Kindness Animal Clinic               360-794-8813 info@kacpets.com 

19845 Hwy 2, Monroe, WA                            Call for an appointment today!

KINDNESS ANIMAL CLINIC is a full-service, AAHA accredited, veterinary medical facility located in MONROE, WA. Our professional and courteous veterinarians and technical staff at KINDNESS ANIMAL CLINIC seeks to provide you with the best possible medical care, surgical care and dental care for your highly-valued pets. We are a small family owned clinic, and your pets will be seen by Dr. Garver every visit. He is committed to promoting responsible pet ownership, preventative health care and health-related educational opportunities for our clients. KINDNESS ANIMAL CLINIC strives to offer excellence in veterinary care to MONROE, WA and surrounding areas. We are the ONLY certified Gold Level "Cat Friendly Practice" in Monroe! The American Association of Feline Practioners required our practice to meet several performance criteria and complete staff training, as well as having to make cat friendly changes to our clinic!  Please take a moment to contact our veterinarians and technical staff today to learn more about our newly expanded veterinary practice and to find out more information about how KINDNESS ANIMAL CLINIC can serve the needs of you and your cherished pet.

Fleas: Pesky Parasites!

Flea Season is here!

With an appetite for blood, a short life cycle, and an amazing ability to reproduce, the flea is a difficult parasite to eradicate. The common cat flea is one of the hardiest pests our dogs and cats will encounter and it can carry diseases that affect our pets and us.

Did you know? FLEAS:

• Are the most common parasite of dogs and cats in our area?
• Lay 50 eggs per day for over 50 days? That's 2500 eggs per female flea!
• Time from egg to adult is less than 20 days?
• Can double their population every 3 days in a temperature of over 70 degrees?
• In the pupa form can lay dormant in the environment for over 6 months waiting for an animal (host) to come by?
• Can jump up to 2 feet in the air?

Year round use of veterinary approved flea prevention and control products along with an effective environmental protection product is the BEST means to prevent infestation.  Kindness Animal Clinic has the newest, safest and most effective flea products to win the war on fleas!

Prescription flea medication will control and prevent further flea infestation.  These are the topical or oral prescription products we recommend:

Flea Control for Cats: Revolution

• Revolution is the product Kindness Animal Clinic recommends for cats and kittens 8 weeks or older.
• The active ingredient of Revolution is Selamectin, a chemical specific for the insect neuromuscular systems. Because it does not affect mammals it is very safe for use in our pets.
• Revolution only needs to be used once monthly to last all month long!  Applied to the skin at the base of your cat's neck, it is absorbed through the bloodstream within 10 minutes.
• It kills adult fleas and ticks, as well as preventing eggs from hatching for 1 month after application.
• Revolution works best if used year round to prevent an infestation of fleas from becoming established.
• As a plus, it is also effective against ear mites, roundworms, hookworms, and heartworm, making it the best all-around prevention for cats.

Flea Control for Dogs: Bravecto, Revolution, and Trifexis

Bravecto

• Bravecto is the newest flea and tick product on the market, and we have found it to be very effective, safe, and easy to use!
• The active ingredient in Bravecto is Fluralaner - an insect neuro inhibitor. Because it has no effect on mammals it is safe for your dog...but not for fleas and ticks!
• Bravecto is a tasty chew that is given to your dog with his or her dinner once every 12 weeks.
• Fleas begin to die within 2 hours, and the product stays strong and lasts long - killing fleas and ticks for up to 12 weeks.
• Because it protects from inside the dog, it is not affected by bathing or swimming and will not rub off.
• Bravecto can be used in all adult dogs and in puppies over 6 months of age.
• As a plus, Bravecto kills 3 types of ticks: black-legged, American dog, and brown dog for 12 weeks, and lone star ticks for 8 weeks.
• This is an economical time to purchase Bravecto for your dog. We have coupons available for the 2016 mypet rewards program, for a rebate of $15 back on two doses of Bravecto. In addition, we are now offering a buy 2 doses of Bravecto get $10 off at our clinic. Normally the two doses would be $112, but with the discounts they are $87. This will provide your dog with 6 months of excellent flea and tick control ($1

Revolution

• Revolution is also recommended by Kindness Animal Clinic for dogs and puppies over 6 weeks of age.
• The active ingredient of Revolution is Selamectin, a chemical specific for the insect neuromuscular system. Because it does not affect mammals it is very safe to use in our pets.
• Revolution only needs to be used once monthly to last all month long. Applied to the skin at the base of your dog's neck, it is absorbed through the bloodstream within 10 minutes.
• It kills adult fleas and ticks, as well as preventing eggs from hatching for 1 month after application.
• Revolution works best if used year round to prevent an infestation of fleas from becoming established.
• As a plus, Revolution also prevents Heartworm disease, and is effective against ear mites, Sarcoptic mites, and American dog ticks, making it a great all-around prevention for dogs.

Trifexis

• Trifexis is a beef flavored chewable table that is safe for dogs over 8 weeks of age.
• The active ingredients are Spinosad (an insect neurotoxin) and Milbemycin oxime (a Macrocyclic Lactone).
• Given with a meal once monthly, Trifexis will kill adult fleas before they lay eggs, and continue killing them for the entire month.
• Because Sentinel only sterilizes fleas and Trifexis actually kills them Trifexis is our preferred broad spectrum oral flea product for dogs.
• It protects from inside the dog and will not rub or wash off.
• Although Trifexis won't kill ticks, it is very effective against heartworm and the intestinal parasites roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.

For Environmental Control

Knockout Spray ES

• If your home is currently infested with fleas, we recommend treating it completely with an area treatment (not a fogger) as well.
• Kindness Animal Clinic recommends Knockout Spray ES(pyrethrin, permethrin and Nylar). This spray has both an adulticide for a quick kill of adult fleas, and an insect growth regulator to prevent hatching of any eggs in the environment.
• The only stage of the flea lifecycle that is not affected by Knockout is the pupa (cocoons), which will hatch out in 10 days. Because of this, we recommend a second treatment 10 days after the first.
• Before using Knockout, first vacuum the house thoroughly and dispose of the bag.  Use a light spray application onto the floors and carpet, beds, under furniture, along baseboards and beneath cushions on furniture. Launder all area rugs and bedding.  It is important to treat the entire house as if an area remains untreated, it can serve as a source for reinfestation. Don't vacuum for at least 3 days after treating. Allow the house to dry for an hour, and then ventilate by opening windows for an hour. During the treatment time it is best to vacate the premises for two hours, taking all pets with you. If this isn't practical, treat a room at a time by putting a towel against the door, and ventilate the room after treatment.  Make sure to treat the house twice, 10 days apart.
• Protect your other pets as well! Birds and reptiles should be removed during treatment and not returned until the room is well ventilated. Also, fish tanks should have the tank covered with a towel and filters unplugged while the room is being treated to prevent any of the product getting into the water.
• One 16oz can of Knockout will treat 2100 square feet and prevent infestations for up to four months.

In this area of the country, environmental conditions are perfect for fleas, and flea control can be difficult.  Keep in mind the following:

• Year round use of a veterinary approved flea prevention and control product is the best means to prevent infestation.
• Veterinary approved flea medication must be used on all animals in the home.  Even indoor only cats are at risk as fleas can be brought in by other animals and even people.
• It may take several months to completely control an infestation.
• Prescription flea medication will control and prevent further flea infestation.  Revolution, Bravecto, and Trifexis are the products we recommend.  Products such as Frontline and Advantage we no longer recommend as they are topical pesticides that fleas have developed resistance to.  Also, we do not recommend flea shampoo, foggers, or flea collars as they too often are outdated pesticides that fleas are resistant to.

The staff at Kindness Animal Clinic will be happy to help you formulate a plan for the best flea control for your pets and home!

Happy Labor Day...and September!

Although the calendar may consider Labor Day the official end of summer, here in the Pacific Northwest we often enjoy a beautiful, summery September. We gather with friends and families and enjoy games, picnics, and BBQ’s outdoors. As always, our furry family members are included on these holidays! Here are a few tips from Pet Poison Helpline to help keep them safe:

The Backyard:

• Fire Up The Grill!
  • Fat drippings from the grill, and meats; can contain large amounts of oils that could lead to risk for your dog developing pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Symptoms include: vomiting, diarrhea, and intense abdominal pain. This can be life-threatening if left untreated. Make sure the dogs are not licking up that tasty grease!
  • Charcoal: Not poisonous but very upsetting to the stomach when ingested. Commonly this can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and inappetence. Large pieces could even lead to obstruction. 
  • Hot! It may seem like common sense, however watch out for running dogs to prevent accidental burn injuries.
• Lounge Time & Relaxation
  • Tiki Torches: These contain petroleum distillates that are very irritating to the skin and the stomach. The greatest danger occurs when the animal vomits and the liquid can slide into the lungs (aspiration). This could immediately cause coughing/wheezing, choking and even sudden death. If left untreated, this could be very dangerous and could cause a chemical pneumonia. If on the skin, wash quickly with a dish soap to prevent further irritation.
  • Bug Sprays: Preventive Vet advises some human products, such as essential oils — including tea tree, neem, and citronella — can be useful in keeping mosquitoes and other insects away from your dogs.It’s important to only use DILUTE formulations of these oils. The concentrated oils can cause very serious problems for dogs if applied to their skin, and even the diluted ones can cause problems for cats. We have had some luck with Avon's Skin So Soft products. Their spray can be placed on a cloth and used to gently wipe your dog's face - avoiding their eyes. Very importantly:

    Stay away from DEET! Most of the common bug sprays and mosquito repellents for people contain DEET, in varying concentrations. DEET can be very toxic for dogs, leading to vomiting, staggering, seizures, and other concerning problems.

Let’s Eat!

• Bones: Giving your dog any type of bones should be avoided. These can splinter; get lodged in the teeth or throat, and puncture (perforate) the intestinal tract. 
• Corn on the cob: Another food that is not toxic, but if portions of the cob are swallowed, it can cause an intestinal blockage that could result in surgical removal.
• Grapes: These can lead to kidney failure. Any number of grapes (and also raisins!) can lead to toxicity concern. Don't allow your dog to eat grapes!
• Desserts - be careful with those which:
  • Contain chocolate which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, agitation/hyperactivity, a rapid heart beat, tremors, and seizures.
  • Increasingly more common; Xylitol, a natural sugar substitute, is used as a replacement for sugar in many baked goods. Even small pieces of a baked goods containing xylitol can cause a life-threatening drop in the blood glucose (hypoglycemia) and possibly liver failure.

Have a happy and safe Labor Day and September!

American Animal Hospital Association 

Why We Choose AAHA

(and you should too!)

Our veterinarians and staff hold themselves accountable to the highest possible standards every day.   This is reflected in our facility and quality of our patient care. Kindness Animal Clinic is the only AAHA accredited hospital in Monroe and east Snohomish County area. Click here for more information on AAHA.

Testimonials

Terri M.                      

February 26, 2016

I can't say enough about Dr. Garver and his amazing team. When we recently had to bring my dog in for failing kidneys together we reviewed the whole scope thoroughly, of his condition, and they help us through the process. I also brought my new Chihuahua puppy in and we had a great time with the wellness check. Love you guys thanks again.

Brianne S.-C.              

February 19, 2016

I love this place! And so does our puppy! Always full of information and helpful hints!!!

Kalisa J.-F.                  

February 19, 2016

Dr. Garver and his team are absolutely amazing! Not only are they compassionate and caring, but they also understand that our dogs are part of our family and not just pets.

They always take the time and listen to our concerns, recommend the approaches/treatments possible, and provide detailed information regarding options and the costs/effects of each solution. Additionally, the team goes above and beyond when it comes to scheduling appointments and emergencies.

We have never had to wait long to see Dr. Garver and when our time comes, it does not feel rushed. He spends adequate time examining our dogs and resolving any issues. I feel fortunate to have such a caring and skilled veterinarian in our area. I also appreciate the care his front and back office staff provide - they are always cheerful and welcoming. And, as someone with a busy schedule, I find the texts, calls, and emails his staff sends to remind us to schedule appointments for follow up care and to confirm upcoming visits very helpful!

Jennifer M.                  

February 19, 2016

Dr. Garver and his exceptional staff won me over with the incredible, above and beyond care they provided my beloved pit bull Clyde. From the meticulous removal of over 2400 pieces of wood when he impaled himself on a stick all the way through saying good bye to him last spring. When I adopted my Wee Beasty Tucker last week I never thought twice about who his health care provider would be, I will only ever bring my fur babies to Dr. Garver. Even though I live in Bellevue, I'd be foolish to take them anywhere else. I'd happily give Kindness Animal Hospital more than 5 stars if I could.

Heather R.                  

February 19, 2016

I have been taking my animals to Kindness Animal Clinic for 16 years, ever since we found a tiny, undernourished and sick kitten. We called our regular vet (at that time) and they were unable to even see her for a week. So we called Kindness Animal Clinic. Kindness was able to get us, who they had never met before, in for an appointment on the same day. We have never looked back. Since then, they have cared for all of our animals with the same skill and compassion as they did at that first visit. That sickly kitten is now 16, and they have seen us through several health issues to keep her as a healthy, happy member of our family. Dr. Garver is always willing to answer our questions (even when they come up after the appointment), is willing to discuss treatment options, and has never pressured us to make a decision we are not comfortable with. He has seen our family through new kittens and puppies, middle aged health concerns, and the passing of beloved pets, and has always guided us through their care with expertise and sensitivity. There is no other vet we would trust with our pets' regular care. Dr. Garver and his staff truly embody their clinic name, "Kindness."

Warren M.                   

February 19, 2016

The staff at Kindness Animal Clinic treat my dogs like family, they know what my dogs like and don't, as well as their favorite treats. When it came time to make the painful decision to euthanize my dog Zeus, Dr. Garver and his staff helped make the painful process as easy as that situation can be. He gave me his honest opinion about treatment,care, and prognosis. I am thankful for that. I can't see taking my pets any place else.

Katrina C.                   

February 10, 2016

I have always had wonderful service from this clinic. We have 4 dogs and they love when they visit Dr. Garver and the girls!!!! Tiger, White, Yellow and little fortune say hi to everyone.

Merrilee O.                 

February 6, 2016

I have had the best care for my dog Nikko, not only did they save his life when he got very ill but they continue to keep him in optimal health.

Rebecca N.                 

February 3, 2016

Kindness Animal Clinic has been by far the most thorough clinic I've taken my pets to. Their prices are par with everyone else in the area, they always provide estimates and are always available via phone when I have questions. I was warned they were expensive but when I price shopped they were cheaper if not the same price as other clinics in the area. I think people think they are pricey because they offer preventative care options instead of just sending you on your way and seeing you next time there is a problem. I think prevention is cheaper than a chronic problem or an emergency!