edgewater-animal-hospital

Fungal Skin Infections in Dogs

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 17:49:10 GMT

Have you noticed something unusual on your dog’s skin? A strange smattering of furless patches with lesions underneath, perhaps, or unusually brittle nails? These could all be signs of a fungal skin infection in dogs. The sooner your pup can be diagnosed, the more quickly your veterinary team can begin treatment.

Today, the team at Edgewater Animal Hospital will explain what to look out for and what to do if you notice ringworm symptoms in dogs or other troubling skin issues.

Signs of Fungal Skin Infections in Dogs

One of the most common fungal skin infections in dogs is ringworm, which, despite the name, does not mean your dog has worms . Instead, ringworm is the colloquial name for dermatophytosis, a fungal infection that can affect your dog’s skin, hair, and nails.

The most common signs of ringworm and other fungal infections include:

Circle-shaped patches of bald, furless skin
Crusty or scaly lesions on the skin
Skin that’s red, inflamed, or warm to the touch
Excessive scratching or licking, especially if it’s concentrated in a specific area
Dry, flaky skin
Broken hairs or fur that looks more like stubble than like lush, healthy hair

Keep in mind that things like lesions or dry skin can start out looking pretty mild. But in some dogs, what starts slow and subtle can get scary-looking without treatment.

Oh, and one more thing: ringworm from dogs can spread to humans. If you suspect this fungus has invaded your household, reach out to your vet right away for prompt treatment.

Infection vs. Allergy in Dogs

It can be tough for pet parents to know the difference between infections vs allergies in dogs. Here’s a quick guide on how to know the difference. First of all, allergies typically cause a lot of itching. They can also lead to ear infections, excessive paw-licking, and skin irritation that seems to pop up no matter how much Aquaphor you apply to your dog’s skin.

Fungal infections, on the other hand, are more likely to cause very specific-looking patches of stubbly or bald skin. These infections can also affect your dog’s fur and nails, making them feel brittle and unhealthy.

But know this: skin conditions can, and do, overlap. Your dog might be struggling with allergies and a fungal infection, or a fungal infection and an infection of the skin.

How Dog Dermatology Can Help

Your veterinary team can use skin cytology, fungal cultures, and microscopic evaluation of hair and skin samples to diagnose your dog effectively.

Once your pup has a diagnosis, treatment can include medicated shampoos, skin creams, oral or topical antifungal infections, and cleaning recommendations for your pet’s bedding at home to help prevent reinfection.

Here’s the good news: fungal skin infections respond well to treatment, especially when it’s applied early. The moment you notice something’s off, give your veterinary team a call.

Here in Indian Land, SC, the team at Edgewater Animal Hospital offers skilled diagnosis and treatment for dermatology issues in dogs. Call us at (803) 384-7695 to schedule an appointment today!

Pet Pool Safety in Indian Land, SC

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:27:59 GMT

Summer is here in Indian Land, and with the rising temperatures, many families will be spending more time enjoying their pools. But what about our furry family members? Pools can be a fun way for pets to cool off, but they also pose risks.

At Edgewater Animal Hospital , we want to ensure all pets have a safe and happy summer. Dive into our essential pool safety tips for a fantastic summer with your pet!

Dangers of Pools for Pets

While a refreshing dip in the pool can be an excellent way for us to beat the summer heat, it's important to remember that pools pose dangers to our furry companions, such as:

Drowning: Even strong swimmers can get tired or disoriented in a pool. Small dogs and pets unfamiliar with water are especially at risk.
Pool Chemicals: Chlorine and other pool chemicals can irritate your pet's skin, eyes, and ears, and accidental ingestion can be harmful.
Heatstroke: Swimming can be strenuous, especially in hot weather. Pets can overheat quickly, leading to heatstroke.

Proper precautions can easily mitigate these dangers. Let's explore some ways to create a safe pool environment for your pet.

Creating a Safe Pool Environment

Creating a safe haven for your pet around the pool is crucial for a worry-free summer. Here are some key elements to consider:

Fencing: Install a fence around your pool that completely separates it from the rest of your yard. Ensure it’s tall and secure enough to prevent pets from jumping over or digging under it.
Pool Cover: A sturdy pool cover adds an extra layer of protection. Solid covers are preferable to mesh covers.
Pet Stairs or Ramp: Provide a pet-friendly ramp or stairs that enable your pet to exit the pool if they fall in. An easy exit point can be lifesaving.
Supervision: Never leave your pet unattended around the pool. Even with safety measures in place, constant supervision is essential. Your vigilance is irreplaceable—accidents can happen no matter how secure your pool seems.

By implementing these simple measures and maintaining close supervision, you can create a safe space for your pet to enjoy the summer alongside you.

Enjoying the Pool Safely with Your Pet

Who says the fun in the sun has to be exclusive to humans? With a bit of preparation, your pet can join you for a refreshing dip in the pool. Here are some tips to ensure your furry friend has a safe and enjoyable pool experience:

Teach Your Dog to Swim: Not all dogs are natural swimmers. Swimming lessons for dogs are available at some professional dog training centers, swimming facilities, and doggy daycares with pools or access to safe water areas.
Life Vest: Consider using a properly-fitted life vest for your pet, especially for breeds prone to buoyancy issues or those new to swimming.
Fresh Water: Provide plenty of fresh, cool water for your pet to drink to avoid dehydration.
Gradual Introduction: Introduce your pet to the pool gradually in a calm and controlled environment. Positive reinforcement is key!
Limited Swimming Time: Start with short swimming sessions and gradually increase the duration as your pet builds stamina.
Post-Swim Care: Rinse your pet with fresh water after swimming to remove chlorine and other chemicals.

Keeping Your Pet Healthy This Summer

By following these tips, you can help ensure your pet has a fun and safe summer. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a wellness check-up , call us or request an appointment online. And don’t forget to check out the swim teams we sponsor, the Bridgemill Bluefins and the Bridgehampton Barracudas !

Summer Wellness Exams for Pets Near Fort Mill

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 18:02:29 GMT

Summer brings all sorts of exciting things, from the blanket of muggy heat we get here in South Carolina to all the bugs, sunshine, and rainstorms that keep the days unpredictable.

Whether you love summer or wish you could go somewhere cooler, you might be wondering if you should get a summer pet wellness exam in Fort Mill or Indian Land, SC, for your dog or cat. Below, the team at Edgewater Animal Hospital will explore the benefits of preventive pet care in a South Carolina summer.

Benefits of Summer Wellness Exams for Pets in SC

Summers in the South can be extra tough on pets. The heat, the humidity, the parasites, and the increased outdoor time all raise the risk of health issues. A seasonal checkup with your vet can help catch any concerns early, before they become serious and costly to treat.

A visit with your South Carolina vet means your pet gets a thorough physical exam to check for humidity-aggravated skin conditions, parasite activity (hello, fleas, ticks, and mosquitos ), and early signs of overheating.

Summer wellness exams also offer a chance for you to review your pet’s routines, including how much exercise he’s getting, how much water he needs, and whether his diet is ideal for his age and health conditions.

What is Included in a Dog Wellness Exam in South Carolina?

For dogs, a summer wellness checkup is designed to catch small changes before they blow up into bigger problems. During an Edgewater Vet wellness exam, your veterinarian may:

Check your dog’s skin, coat, and paws for signs of infection or irritation
Listen to the heart and lungs
Check your dog’s joints and mobility level
Review any parasite prevention and testing needs your pup may have
Update vaccines, if needed
Ask about your pet’s nutrition and activity levels
Order a blood test panel to check for early signs of any other conditions
A quick oral exam to check for dental health needs

Your veterinarian will pay careful attention to your pet’s age, risk factors, and lifestyle as the exam is conducted so that your pup receives the best possible care.

What is Included in a Cat Wellness Exam in Fort Mill, SC?

Even the most chill, relaxed, indoor cat benefits from routine care, including in the summer. A cat wellness checkup at our veterinary center in the Fort Mill area typically includes:

A full, nose-to-tail physical exam of your kitty
A peek into your kitty’s mouth for a quick oral health check
Evaluation of your cat’s weight
Help with parasite prevention and testing, if necessary
Updates to any vaccines, if needed
Routine bloodwork to screen for any issues that could affect your kitty

Because kitties are so good at masking signs of illness, these routine visits are often the best opportunity you have to catch issues early , before they become more serious.

Preventive Pet Care in SC

Busy as it can be, summer is a perfect time to stop and check on your pet’s health. The experienced team at Edgewater Animal Hospital is here to help you navigate every aspect of your pet’s health. Schedule a routine wellness appointment with us by calling today.

Summer Heat & Pet Safety: Protecting Your Dog or Cat

Tue, 05 May 2026 14:00:01 GMT

Summer brings longer days, outdoor adventures, and plenty of sunshine, but rising temperatures can pose serious risks for our pets. While we’re enjoying the season, it’s important to remember that dogs and cats can quickly become overheated or dehydrated in the summer heat. Practicing good summer pet safety by making sure your pet has constant access to water, shade, and a cool resting place can make all the difference. With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy all the fun summer has to offer while keeping your furry companions safe, comfortable, and well-hydrated.

Summer Heat Hazards for Dogs & Cats

Heat poses a few different kinds of risks for pets in Indian Land. Some of the most common include:

Heat Stress

Pets can experience heat stress much faster than humans, especially during the hottest summer months. Dogs and cats rely on limited ways to cool themselves, such as panting or grooming, which means even a short time in extreme heat can become dangerous. Signs of heat stress may include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or difficulty walking. If you notice any of these symptoms, move your pet to a cool area immediately and offer water.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when a pet’s body temperature rises too high. It can develop quickly, especially during outdoor activities or when pets are left in warm environments without proper ventilation. Never leave pets in parked vehicles, even for a short time, as temperatures inside a car can rise rapidly within minutes. Signs of heatstroke may include heavy panting, disorientation, collapse, or seizures. If these symptoms appear, seek veterinary care right away.

Paw Pad Burns

Hot pavement, sand, and sidewalks can easily burn sensitive paw pads during the summer months. If the ground feels too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your pet’s paws. Walking dogs during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening, is an important part of dog heat protection. Whenever possible, stick to grassy or shaded areas to help prevent burns.

Sunburn

Just like people, pets can get sunburned, especially those with short or thin coats. Areas with less fur coverage, like the nose, ears, and belly, are particularly vulnerable. Limiting prolonged sun exposure and providing shaded areas outdoors can help reduce the risk of sunburn.

Keeping Pets Cool in the Summer

While it can be easy for our furry friends to overheat in the summer, there are plenty of ways to ensure they stay cool. These include:

Cat Summer Safety

Cats often seek cool surfaces to rest on, but they still need support staying comfortable in hot weather. Make sure your cat always has access to water and a shaded, well-ventilated indoor space. Cooling mats, tiled floors, and automatic water fountains can help encourage hydration, and keep cats comfortable during the hottest days.

Dog Heat Protection

Dogs benefit from regular access to shade, water, and breaks from the heat during outdoor activities. Walks should be scheduled during cooler hours of the day, and playtime should include plenty of rest and hydration. Kiddie pools, cooling mats, and shaded resting spots can also help dogs regulate their body temperature during hot summer days.

Pet Hydration Tips

Proper hydration plays a key role in summer pet safety. These simple pet hydration tips can help keep your dog or cat healthy during hot weather:

Always provide fresh, clean water and refill bowls frequently throughout the day.
Place multiple water bowls around your home so pets always have easy access.
When spending time outdoors, bring a portable water bowl or pet water bottle for quick hydration breaks.
Add ice cubes to water bowl s to help keep water cool during hot days.
Offer pet-safe frozen treats, such as ice cubes made with low-sodium broth, for a refreshing and hydrating snack.
Make sure outdoor pets have constant access to shade and water, especially during peak heat hours.
Watch for signs of dehydration, including dry gums, excessive panting, and reduced appetite.
Keep bowls clean and in shaded areas so water stays fresh longer.
After walks or playtime, allow pets to rest and rehydrate before returning to activity.

Protecting Your Pets All Summer Long

Summer can be a wonderful season for spending time outdoors with our pets, but warmer temperatures also bring increased health risks. Being able to recognize early warning signs, prevent overheating, and respond quickly if problems arise can make a critical difference in your pet’s safety. By following simple summer pet safety practices and monitoring your pet’s hydration and activity levels, you can help ensure they stay happy and healthy throughout the season.

If you ever have concerns about your pet’s health during extreme heat, the team at Edgewater Animal Hospital is here to help. Our veterinary professionals are committed to supporting your pet’s well-being all year long, and can provide guidance on keeping your dog or cat safe during the hottest months of the year.

Holiday & Springtime Pet Hazards

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 14:00:09 GMT

Spring is here, and that means bunny ears, beautiful bouquets, colorful Easter baskets, and plenty of chocolate treats. While you're busy hunting for eggs and celebrating the season, it’s easy to overlook the hidden hazards that can put curious pets at risk. Dogs and cats can quickly get into Easter baskets, candy wrappers, and chocolate left within reach. To help keep your furry friends safe this holiday and throughout the spring season, read on for important Easter pet safety tips.

Springtime Pet Hazards

Cats and dogs can become curious about the items in an Easter basket and can easily consume what you leave at their level, like chocolate, plastic, or paper Easter basket grass, floral bouquets (lillies specifically), and small toys. Make sure you’re keeping your pets safe, be aware of choking hazards and toxic snacks.

Choking Hazards

Small toys and knick-knacks
Plastic & paper Easter basket grass

Toxic Snacks

Chocolate
Grapes
Raisins
Macadamia nuts
Peanut butter (containing xylitol)
Sugar-free candy
Gummy bears
Chewing gum

Although springtime bouquets add a beautiful touch of color during spring, they can be harmful to pets if ingested. Bulb flowers such as tulips, lilies, daffodils, amaryllis, hyacinths, gladiolus, and peonies should be kept out of reach to help keep pets safe.

Chocolate is a big part of many springtime celebrations, but it should always be kept away from pets. While delicious to us, chocolate contains substances such as xylitol and caffeine that can cause pet poisoning. You can help prevent chocolate poisoning by keeping holiday and springtime treats safely out of reach especially around holidays when candy is plentiful. Keep your pets safe and stick to pet-safe snacks for your furry friends.

When to Call the Vet

Don't wait for symptoms, which can take up to 6 to 12 hours to show up. Assess the situation by gathering information about the kind of chocolate consumed, the amount your pet ate, and their behavior. Next, contact your veterinarian, inform them of the situation, and follow the recommended advice.

Safe Snacks for Pets

If you’d like to treat your pets during the springtime holiday season, there are several safe options to consider:

Plain, unseasoned boiled eggs are a great source of protein.
Raw vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes make healthy, pet-friendly snacks.
Store-bought pet treats are always a safe choice.

As with any treat, these foods should always be offered in moderation to help maintain your dog’s overall health and a balanced diet.

Springtime Safety Tips for Pets

Don’t let your holiday fun turn into a panicked call to the vet that starts with, “My pet ate…” With a few simple precautions, you can keep curious paws safe from common Easter and springtime hazards around the home.

Springtime Pet Safety Tips

Store chocolates out of reach
Put chocolate & candy in sealed containers
Keep easter baskets off the floor
Store toxic items behind closed cabinet doors
Sweep up any glitter
Pick up candy wrappers
Remove plastic & paper easter basket grass

A Hoppy Spring Starts with Pet Protection

If your pet is experiencing chocolate poisoning, has consumed seasonal flowers, or is choking, vomiting, or having diarrhea, they may be reacting to toxic foods, high sugar intake, or swallowed a small toy. If your pet has ingested something and you’re unsure whether it’s toxic, contact Edgewater Animal Hospital immediately to get your questions answered and ensure your pet receives prompt care.

Why Early Parasite Prevention is Key

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 20:31:25 GMT

In North Carolina and South Carolina, parasites can be detrimental to your pet's health throughout the year. Warmer winters and unpredictable weather patterns with fluctuating temperatures create ideal environments for parasites to flourish. With early prevention, parasites can be 100% preventable. Early parasite prevention is key for your pet to enjoy a long and healthy life. Keep your pets safe with early parasite prevention.

Routine prevention not only protects your pet from discomfort such as itching and irritation, but also helps guard against more serious illnesses that parasites can carry. Talk with your veterinarian about the best year-round prevention plan to keep your pet healthy and protected.

What are Pet Parasites?

Pet parasites are a common nuisance that, if left untreated, can cause serious and life-threatening diseases in household pets. These pesky parasites can live dormant during colder months in a warm indoor environment. Fleas and ticks often enter homes while latched onto people or pets, and can survive in carpets and upholstered furniture such as sofas, lounge chairs, and bedding.

Pet Parasites We See A Lot:

Common pet parasites include:

Fleas
Giardia
Heartworms
Hookworms
Roundworms
Tapeworms
Ticks
Whipworms

Pet Parasites and Their Symptoms

Being able to recognize the various symptoms of different pet parasites can help you spot them quickly. Some of the most common are:

Flea symptoms in household pets include: red and inflamed skin, constant licking and biting of the skin, intense itching and scratching, and restless behavior.
Giardia symptoms in household pets include: watery diarrhea, stool with mucus, sudden weight loss, frequent vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.
Heartworm symptoms in household pets include: a dry hacking cough, fatigue, decreased appetite, a swollen belly due to fluid buildup, and sudden weight loss.
Hookworm symptoms in household pets include: anemia, dark stool, weight loss, vomiting, skin and paw irritation, and respiratory issues.
Roundworm symptoms in household pets include: weight loss, failure to gain weight, and poor growth, swollen belly, stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and can often be seen coming out of the mouth or nose of the pet.
Tapeworm symptoms in household pets include: finding small, white or yellow pieces similar to rice in stool, excessive licking or biting around the rear area, vomiting, weight loss, a dull coat, and abdominal swelling. Other symptoms include behavioral signs like scooting or dragging their bottoms along the floor.
Tick symptoms may not show up for 7-21 days and include: changes in behavior or appetite, redness and swelling of the skin, and constant itching. In extreme cases, symptoms can include: nosebleeds, bruising, tremors, and difficulty breathing. The good thing about ticks is that they are highly visible and commonly attach themselves to a dog's head, neck, ears, and feet. To help prevent tick bites, check your dog for ticks each time they come in from playing outside.
Whipworm symptoms in household pets include: chronic bloody diarrhea with mucus, weight loss, dehydration, and anemia.

The Myths, The Parasites, and Prevention

Don’t be fooled by common pet parasite myths; make sure your pet is protected. Here’s the truth about some of the most common parasite prevention myths:

You don’t need to worry about parasites during the winter months. Unfortunately, parasites can survive the colder months indoors, and will thrive in a warm and hospitable environment.
If I keep my pet inside, it will be safe from parasites. Sadly, many indoor pets contract parasites such as fleas and ticks. Even indoor pets can be at risk due to common parasites being brought indoors by people and mosquitoes.
I won't catch parasites from my pets. Certain pet parasites, like tick bites, can cause paralysis in both pets and people. Tick paralysis is a rare condition, but if untreated, it can be fatal to animals and people.

Pet Parasites can transmit diseases that cause serious health concerns to people, such as:

Lyme disease
Ehrlichiosis
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Anaplasmosis

Regular parasite prevention is key to your pet's health and wellness.

Natural pet parasite remedies may offer limited parasite protection; however, they are not effective against all parasites.
Edgewater Animal Hospital utilizes safe and effective parasite remedies and offers dedicated and attentive personalized care, along with veterinary-approved treatments specifically designed to target specific parasites.

Flea and Tick Prevention is Essential for Pet Wellness

For healthy pets, schedule regular parasite prevention treatments . Using the right treatment prescribed by the veterinarians at Edgewater Animal Hospital will help provide your pets with year-round flea and tick control, parasite prevention, and internal parasite protec,mtion to ensure year-round pet wellness.

Early Parasite Prevention and Pet Wellness

Parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworms can be prevented. Work with your veterinarians to find the proper parasite prevention for your pet. At Edgewater Animal Hospital, we’re raising the standard for pet wellness in Indian Land, SC. We’ll help pet owners create a customized pet wellness program to prevent parasites for their beloved pets. Whether you are in the Indian Land, Fort Mill, Ballantyne, Waxhaw, or Marvin, we are here to help!

Welcome to Our Veterinary Blog

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:21:27 GMT

We are excited to open our hospital this Spring/Summer 2026!

We are excited to provide compassionate, high-quality veterinary care to pets and the families who love them in Indian Land and the surrounding communities. It is our privilege to serve not only Indian Land, but also Ballantyne, Fort Mill, Waxhaw, Marvin, and South Charlotte, building lasting relationships with pet owners throughout the a rea .

Our team is committed to delivering personalized, not rushed, advanced veterinary care in a welcoming environment for every patient, whether they're visiting for preventive wellness, illness, dental cleaning, or surgery .

We look forward to becoming a trusted partner in keeping your pets healthy and happy for years to come.

Please explore our site and learn about the our services.

Fill out our new client registration form. This will add you to our interest list.

Follow our social media for construction updates and opening details.