Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # North Buffalo Animal Hospital: State-of-the-art full-service veterinary hospital, led by an expert local team. New clients are always welcome! ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [The Importance of Regular Vet Visits in Lifelong Pet Health](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/the-importance-of-regular-vet-visits-in-lifelong-pet-health/): As pet owners, we all want our companions to live long, happy, and healthy lives. While providing nutritious food, exercise, and affection is essential, routine veterinary care plays an equally important role in supporting lifelong wellness. Regular veterinary visits help identify health concerns early, prevent disease, and ensure pets receive the care they need at every stage of life. - [How to Make Your Dog Live Longer: 10 Proven Ways to Extend Their Lifespan](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/how-to-make-your-dog-live-longer/): The good news is that helping your dog live longer does not require complicated routines. Instead, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference over the years. From maintaining a healthy weight to keeping up with preventive appointments, small actions today can help protect your dog's health tomorrow. - [Why Early Diagnosis Matters for Your Pet: Signs, Benefits & What to Know](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/early-diagnosis-pet-health/): Early diagnosis can provide valuable information before a health problem becomes more advanced. - [Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs: The Hidden Danger in Everyday Foods](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/xylitol-poisoning-in-dogs/): Xylitol poisoning can progress differently from one dog to another. - [Dental Care Mistakes That Can Harm Your Pet’s Long-Term Health](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/pet-dental-care-mistakes/): For families researching pet dentistry, understanding common dental care mistakes can help protect a pet's teeth and gums throughout life. North Buffalo Animal Hospital encourages pet owners to view dental health as part of preventive care rather than something that only needs attention when bad breath or visible tartar appears. Consistent home care, regular veterinary examinations, and professional dental treatment when recommended can work together to support better oral health. - [How to Prepare for an Unexpected Pet Health Issue](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/how-to-prepare-for-an-unexpected-pet-health-issue/): Unexpected pet health issues often develop quickly, leaving little time to gather information or locate supplies. Being prepared allows you to focus on your pet rather than scrambling for important details during a stressful situation. - [Loss of Appetite in Dogs and Cats: When to Be Concerned](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/loss-of-appetite-in-dogs-and-cats/): A healthy appetite is often one of the clearest signs that your pet is feeling well. While dogs and cats may occasionally skip a meal due to stress or a minor upset stomach, a prolonged loss of appetite should never be ignored. Refusing food can be an early indicator of illness, pain, or an underlying medical condition that requires veterinary attention. - [Best Vet-Recommended Foods for Senior Cats Over 10](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/best-vet-recommended-foods-for-senior-cats/): Senior cats commonly experience: - [How Veterinarians Monitor Pets During Surgery](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/veterinarians-monitor-pets-during-surgery/): Understanding how veterinarians monitor pets during surgery can help ease concerns and highlight the extensive precautions taken to protect your companion throughout every stage of the procedure. From pre-anesthetic evaluations to advanced monitoring equipment and attentive recovery care, every detail is focused on supporting your pet's safety and well-being. - [Common Veterinary Surgeries for Dogs and Cats](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/common-veterinary-surgeries-for-dogs-and-cats/): Q1. What are the most common veterinary surgeries for dogs and cats?Ans: Common procedures include spay and neuter surgeries, mass removal, dental surgery, soft tissue surgery, orthopedic surgery, foreign object removal, bladder stone surgery, and certain eye surgeries. - [7 Silent Signs Your Pet May Need Urgent Veterinary Care](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/silent-signs-your-pet-may-need-urgent-veterinary-care/): Pets have a remarkable ability to hide discomfort and illness. This instinct, inherited from their wild ancestors, often makes it difficult for pet owners to recognize when something is wrong. Unlike humans, dogs and cats cannot explain their symptoms, so subtle changes in behavior, appetite, or daily habits may be the only clues that a health issue is developing. - [How Regular Dental Cleanings Help Protect Your Dog’s Health](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/how-regular-dental-cleanings-help-protect-your-dogs-health/): Your dog's oral health plays a much bigger role in their overall wellbeing than many pet owners realize. While bad breath is often the first noticeable sign of dental issues, underlying dental disease can affect far more than just the mouth. Regular dental cleanings are an important part of preventive healthcare and can help your dog live a healthier, more comfortable life. - [Grand Opening Events](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/grand-opening-events/): Written by David Gurzak, DVM - [Spooky Fun, Safe Pets: Halloween Tips for Cats and Dogs](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/halloween-tips-for-cats-dogs/): Written by David Gurzak, DVM ## Pages - [Urgent Pet Care](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/buffalo-ny/urgent-pet-care/): Our team understands that not every situation can wait for a routine appointment. Whether your pet is experiencing discomfort, showing unusual symptoms, or has suffered a minor injury, our veterinary team can help determine the next steps and provide the care your pet needs. For life-threatening emergencies outside regular hours, please visit our after-hours emergency page for additional guidance and support. - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/faqs/): Answers to Your Most Common Pet Questions What does the first exam include?Your pet's first exam includes a full nose-to-tail physical assessment, a review of medical and vaccination history, and time to discuss any current health concerns. Our veterinarians check the gums, teeth, heart, lungs, coat, joints, and abdomen, then recommend vaccinations, parasite prevention, or diagnostics suited to your pet's age, breed, and lifestyle. What kinds of veterinary services do you offer?We provide comprehensive veterinary care, including preventative care, diagnostics, pain management, puppy and kitten visits, senior pet care, surgery, and dental services, along with emergency care during business hours. As an AAHA-accredited hospital, we hold ourselves to rigorous standards so your pet's health is supported at every life stage. Can I schedule an appointment with a specific vet?Yes, our team includes Dr. R. Reed Stevens, Dr. David Gurzak, Dr. Alyssa Kramer, Dr. Alexandra Hrapach, Dr. Kelsey Warner, Dr. Mya Marchiano, and Dr. Shileyn Rego, and we're happy to accommodate a preferred doctor whenever possible. Simply let us know when booking online or by phone, and we'll do our best to schedule you with a doctor familiar with your pet's history. What can I expect during my pet's first visit?Your first visit includes a warm welcome, a detailed health history discussion, and a full physical examination in a calm, friendly environment. Our team takes time to answer your questions, explain findings clearly, and outline any recommended vaccinations, parasite prevention, or nutrition guidance. Are you an AAHA-accredited hospital?Yes, North Buffalo Animal Hospital is AAHA-accredited, joining our sister locations, Ellicott Street Animal Hospital and West Side Pet Clinic, under that same standard of care. AAHA accreditation means we're evaluated against rigorous standards covering everything from patient care to facility safety. Do you offer laser therapy or other pain management options for pets?We offer pain management services designed to keep pets comfortable during recovery, aging, or chronic conditions. For details on which specific pain management or therapeutic options fit your pet's condition, please call our office at 716-876-6023 and our team can walk you through what's available. Where are you located?North Buffalo Animal Hospital is located at 1606 Kenmore Avenue Buffalo, NY 14216. Our office is easily accessible for pet owners throughout North Buffalo and the surrounding communities, feel free to call 716-876-6023 or book online for directions and appointment details. Why should I schedule a wellness exam for my pet?Wellness exams allow us to catch potential health issues early, often before symptoms appear, and young or senior pets may need them more frequently since changes can develop quickly. Regular checkups support timely vaccinations, parasite prevention, and nutritional guidance so your pet lives a longer, healthier life. How often should my pet get vaccinations?Dogs require core vaccines for rabies and DHPP, while cats require rabies and FVRCP, with additional vaccines like bordetella, lyme, leptospirosis, feline leukemia, or FIV often recommended based on lifestyle. Puppies and kittens typically start a vaccine series early on, followed by boosters and annual updates, and we'll build a personalized schedule at your pet's exam. What types of diagnostic tests does your clinic offer for pets?Our diagnostic care services help our veterinarians identify underlying conditions early and monitor how your pet responds to treatment over time. This includes in-house and outside laboratory testing tailored to your pet's symptoms, age, and health history. Do you offer microchipping?Yes, we offer microchipping as part of our preventative care services. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, similar to a routine vaccination, and it allows any shelter or clinic to scan your pet and reunite them with you quickly if they're ever lost. Do you help with pet nutrition and weight management?Yes, our team advises on diet and nutrition to help prevent obesity-related health issues and keep pets active and healthy. We offer prescription food options, available through our online pharmacy, and can recommend daily feeding amounts tailored to your pet's size and health needs. Do you provide professional dental cleanings for pets?Yes, our dental services include professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar, check for oral disease, and help prevent future dental issues. Regular cleanings support your pet's overall health, since untreated dental disease can affect other organs over time. When should I schedule my puppy or kitten's first vet visit? We recommend scheduling your puppy or kitten's first visit as soon as possible after bringing them home. Early visits let us begin core vaccinations, discuss parasite prevention, and address any developmental questions right from the start. How often should senior pets see the veterinarian? Senior pets benefit from more frequent veterinary visits, since aging animals are more prone to conditions like arthritis, kidney disease, and dental issues. Our senior pet care program is designed to monitor these changes closely and adjust your pet's care plan to support their comfort and quality of life. What types of pet surgeries do you offer? Our veterinary surgery services are performed with careful anesthesia monitoring and attentive post-operative care. Our experienced team prioritizes your pet's safety and comfort throughout every step of the surgical process, and we'll walk you through what to expect before any procedure. What happens if my pet has an emergency?We offer emergency care to address urgent health issues affecting our patients. Because emergency availability can depend on timing and severity, we recommend calling 716-876-6023 right away so our team can advise you on next steps. Trusted Pet Care & a Friendly Welcome for Every Pet Book Online 716-876-6023 - [Blog](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/blog/): North Buffalo Animal Hospital is an AAHA-accredited veterinary practice. This badge speaks to our commitment to veterinary excellence, first-rate patient care, and outstanding client service. We wear it with pride. - [Dr. Shileyn Rego](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/dr-shileyn-rego/): Dr. Shileyn Rego grew up in Rochester, NY, before attending Cornell University in 2008 to earn her bachelor’s degree in Animal Science. She continued at Cornell, completing her DVM degree at the College of Veterinary Medicine in 2012. - [Dr. Mya Rizek](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/dr-mya-rizek/): Dr. Marchiano earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from St. George’s University and completed her clinical training at The Ohio State University in 2025. She has particular interests in dermatology and internal medicine, but enjoys the full spectrum of general practice and the variety it brings to each day. - [Dr. Kelsey Warner](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/dr-kelsey-warner/): Dr. Warner is very excited to be working in general practice as she loves working closely with owners to help pets live long, happy, and healthy lives! She is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of their lives from kitten and puppy examinations, to geriatric care and end-of-life support, and everything in between. Her special interests in veterinary medicine include feline medicine, internal medicine, and cardiology. - [Dr. Alexandra Hrapach](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/dr-alexandra-hrapach/): Dr. Alexandra Hrapach was born in Ukraine and grew up just outside Toronto, Canada. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2012 from the University of Guelph. Dr. Hrapach’s strong passion for animal care led her to obtain a veterinary medicine degree from St. George’s University in Grenada and complete her final clinical year at Cornell University. She enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine with a special interest in dermatology. - [Dr. Alyssa Kramer](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/dr-alyssa-kramer/): Dr. Kramer’s clinical interests include surgery, anesthesia and pain management, and community outreach. She is especially passionate about creating a collaborative, judgment-free environment where pet owners feel supported in making the best decisions for their pets in their unique situations. - [Dr. David Gurzak](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/dr-david-gurzak/): Meet Dr. David Gurzak Medical Director & Co-Owner Dr. David Gurzak was born and raised in Buffalo and attended SUNY Geneseo for his Bachelor’s Degree. He graduated from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2012, and subsequently completed a year-long internship in Colorado. He worked in Buffalo for several years and then moved to Portland, Maine, but returned in 2018. Dr. Gurzak is a chairperson on the WNY Veterinary Medical Association board, and enjoys hiking, reading, biking and spending time with his family and friends. He and his husband Chad and their daughter and son live in the city of Buffalo with two cats named Beau and Magpie and a dog named Ernie. Trusted Pet Care & a Friendly Welcome for Every Pet Book Online 716-876-6023 - [Dr. R. Reed Stevens](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/dr-r-reed-stevens/): Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, Dr. Stevens traces his roots back 150 years to an Attica dairy farm that his family still operates today. - [Owner Resources](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/owner-resources/): LEARN MORE - [Full Service Animal Hospital](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/full-service-vet-clinic/): learn more - [Special Offers](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/special-offers/): Get - [CareCredit](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/carecredit/): A way to help ease cost concerns. - [Our PetDesk App](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/our-petdesk-app/): Once you download the app, create an account with the email address we have on file for you. - [Feline Wellness Care Recommendations](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/feline-wellness-care/): Kitten - Under One Year Old Wellness exams every 4 weeks until 16-20 weeks of age FIV/FeLV testing (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus/Feline Leukemia) Monthly flea and tick prevention Fecal parasite testing Microchipping Spay/Neuter at approximately 6 months of age Core Vaccinations: Rabies FVRCP (Feline Distemper) Feline Leukemia for kittens less than or equal to 1 year of age Adult - One to Nine Years Annual wellness exams Monthly flea and tick prevention Fecal parasite testing FIV/FeLV testing for outdoor cats Annual wellness bloodwork Consider prophylactic dental cleaning and assessment Core Vaccinations: Rabies FVRCP (Feline Distemper) Lifestyle Vaccinations: Feline Leukemia for outdoor cats or those at risk Senior - Over Ten Years Old Bi-Annual wellness exams Monthly flea/tick prevention Fecal parasite testing FIV/FeLV testing for outdoor cats Annual to Bi-Annual wellness bloodwork and urine testing Dental cleaning and assessment Core Vaccinations: Rabies FVRCP (Feline Distemper) Lifestyle Vaccinations: Feline Leukemia for outdoor cats or those at risk Trusted Pet Care & a Friendly Welcome for Every Pet Book Online 716-876-6023 - [Canine Wellness Care Recommendations](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/canine-wellness-care/): Puppy - Under One Year Old Wellness exams every 4 weeks until 16-20 weeks of age Monthly flea, tick, heartworm and parasite prevention Fecal parasite testing Microchipping Spay/Neuter – surgical age may depend on sex, breed and behavior Core Vaccinations: Rabies DHPP (Distemper/Hepatitis/ Parvovirus/Parainfluenza) Leptospirosis Lifestyle Vaccinations: Lyme, Bordetella, Influenza Adult - One to Seven Years Old Annual wellness exam Monthly flea, tick, heartworm and parasite prevention Fecal parasite, heartworm and tick disease testing Annual wellness bloodwork Spay/Neuter – surgical age may depend on sex, breed and behavior Consider prophylactic dental cleaning and assessment Core Vaccinations: Rabies DHPP (Distemper/Hepatitis/ Parvovirus/Parainfluenza) Leptospirosis Lifestyle Vaccinations: Lyme, Bordetella, Influenza Senior - Over Eight Years Old Bi-Annual wellness exams Monthly flea, tick, heartworm and parasite prevention Fecal parasite, heartworm and tick disease testing Annual to Bi-Annual wellness bloodwork and urine testing Dental cleaning and assessment Core Vaccinations: Rabies DHPP (Distemper/Hepatitis/ Parvovirus/Parainfluenza) Leptospirosis Lifestyle Vaccinations: Lyme, Bordetella, Influenza Trusted Pet Care & a Friendly Welcome for Every Pet Book Online 716-876-6023 - [New Clients Information](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/new-clients-information/): We’re happy to welcome new pets and clients to the North Buffalo Animal Hospital family! NBAH is the newest sister location to Ellicott Street Animal Hospital and West Side Pet Clinic. Long-standing providers of animal care here in Buffalo. If you’re new to the area, have a new pet, was a client of the former Elmwood Small Animal Hospital, or simply want to find a new team for your veterinary care needs, we can’t wait to meet you and your pet. - [Emergency Pet Care](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/buffalo-ny/emergencies/): If you have an emergency with your pet outside of our regular business hours, we recommend contacting Veterinary Emergency Clinic. - [Pet Dental Services](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/buffalo-ny/dental-services/): Regular dental examinations allow us to have a close look at the inside of your pet’s mouth to check for overall health as well as screen for a range of potential issues, including tooth problems, gum disease, or other symptoms that could either be a sign of underlying problems or lead to more significant issues down the road. - [Veterinary Pet Surgery](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/buffalo-ny/veterinary-surgery/): North Buffalo Animal Hospital believes that all pets be spayed or neutered unless they will be bred under the direction of an experienced and licensed breeder. Otherwise, spaying and neutering helps prevent unwanted pregnancies and unpleasant, and often dangerous, behaviors such as protectiveness, excessive barking, roaming, aggression, and more. Spaying and neutering has been shown to help improve long-term health of pets in many ways, including reduced odds of certain cancers. - [Senior Pet Care](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/buffalo-ny/senior-pet-care/): As our pets get older, their health needs change. Their physical health can deteriorate quickly, which means that a single annual check-up sometimes isn’t enough to keep up with their evolving needs. - [Puppy & Kitten Care](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/buffalo-ny/puppy-kitten-care/): There are few things as exciting – or as overwhelming – as bringing home a brand new puppy. Puppies are adorable, hilarious, rambunctious, and lovable, but they’re also a lot of work. That also extends to their medical needs, including vaccinations and other preventative measures designed to keep them healthy and safe. - [Pet Pain Management](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/buffalo-ny/pain-management/): Acute pain is the term used to describe sharp, biting pain that usually results from an injury or sudden and urgent health issue. Acute pain in pets can lead to intense distress, which in turn can leave owners feeling equally distressed. - [Veterinary Diagnostic Care](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/buffalo-ny/diagnostic-care/): We use digital x-ray to get the best look at what’s going on inside your pet, in particular their bones and muscles. X-rays can help diagnose issues such as arthritis, bone fractures, pneumonia, and more. - [Internship Program](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/internships/): Thank you for your interest in completing an internship at North Buffalo Animal Hospital! We welcome motivated high school juniors and seniors (age 16+), college students, and college-bound individuals who are interested in exploring a future in veterinary medicine or animal care. - [Careers](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/careers/): Our Practice Our veterinary team is dedicated to serving the full range of medical needs for common pets, providing everything from routine examinations to potentially lifesaving surgical procedures - and everything in between. Equipment & Services Besides offering a state-of-the-art facility that allows us to meet the needs of a wide range of pets, health needs, and conditions, we’re also proud to uphold rigorous industry standards. These standards help to ensure our practice provides a world-class experience that guarantees pets are comfortable, at ease, and safe throughout their visit - and that owners receive flawless communication, service, and respect as well. Trusted Pet Care & a Friendly Welcome for Every Pet Book Online 716-876-6023 - [Accreditations & Certifications](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/aaha-accreditation/): North Buffalo Animal Hospital is an AAHA-accredited veterinary practice. This badge speaks to our commitment to veterinary excellence, first-rate patient care, and outstanding client service. We wear it with pride. - [About North Buffalo Animal Hospital](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/about-us/): North Buffalo Animal Hospital is a new veterinary practice connected to a proud legacy of Buffalo veterinary caregiving. It is the newest sister location to Ellicott Street Animal Hospital (founded in 1880) and West Side Pet Clinic. North Buffalo Animal Hospital is located in the former Elmwood Small Animal Hospital building, with new state-of-the-art equipment and led by an expert local veterinary staff including co-owners Dr. R. Reed Stevens and Dr. David Gurzak. - [North Buffalo Animal Hospital Policies](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/hospital-policies/): We require full payment for services at the time they’re rendered, including payments for treatments, examinations, prescription medication or food, and any other purchases made at our office. - [Preventative Pet Care](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/buffalo-ny/preventative-care/): Vaccinations are a foundation of your pet’s preventative health. From required vaccines to recommended options based on your pet’s lifestyle, these vaccinations can protect your pet from dangerous and even deadly viruses – while also helping stop their spread from your pet to others. - [Meet Our Doctors](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/meet-our-doctors/): learn more - [Reviews](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/reviews/): Trusted Pet Care & a Friendly Welcome for Every Pet Book Online 716-876-6023 - [Sitemap](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/sitemap/): PostsCommon Veterinary Surgeries for Dogs and Cats7 Silent Signs Your Pet May Need Urgent Veterinary CareHow Regular Dental Cleanings Help Protect Your Dog’s HealthThe Importance of Regular Vet Visits in Lifelong Pet HealthGrand Opening EventsSpooky Fun, Safe Pets: Halloween Tips for Cats and DogsPagesBlogDr. Shileyn RegoDr. Mya MarchianoDr. Kelsey WarnerDr. Alexandra HrapachDr. Alyssa KramerDr. David GurzakDr. R. Reed StevensOwner ResourcesFull Service Animal HospitalSpecial OffersCareCreditOur PetDesk AppFeline Wellness Care RecommendationsCanine Wellness Care RecommendationsNew Clients InformationInternship ProgramCareersAccreditations & CertificationsAbout North Buffalo Animal HospitalNorth Buffalo Animal Hospital PoliciesMeet Our DoctorsReviewsSitemapTerms of UsePrivacy PolicyContact UsBook OnlineAccessibility StatementHomeBuffalo, NYEmergency Pet CarePet Dental ServicesVeterinary Pet SurgerySenior Pet CarePuppy & Kitten CarePet Pain ManagementVeterinary Diagnostic CarePreventative Pet Care Trusted Pet Care & a Friendly Welcome for Every Pet Book Online 716-876-6023 - [Terms of Use](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/terms-of-use/): These terms of use are entered into by and between you and North Buffalo Animal Hospital ("Company," "we," or "us"). The following terms and conditions, together with any documents they expressly incorporate by reference (collectively, "Terms of Use"), govern your access to and use of this website, including any content, functionality and services offered on or through this website (the "Website"). - [Privacy Policy](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/privacy-policy/): North Buffalo Animal Hospital ("Company" or "We") respects your privacy and are committed to protecting it through our compliance with this policy. - [Contact Us](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/contact-us/): 716-876-6023 - [Book Online](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/book-online/): We’re so excited to offer a direct booking feature to all clients, whether we’ve already seen your pet before, or you are brand new to our hospital! Our reception team is always happy to answer more questions on the phone regarding your pet’s specific needs, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us. However, for a quick and easy way to book a visit without picking up the phone, simply use our online scheduler below. - [Accessibility Statement](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/accessibility/): These tips were provided by the US Social Security Administration. - [Home](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/): learn more - [Buffalo, NY](https://www.northbuffaloah.com/buffalo-ny/)