Heartworm disease is preventable with careful monitoring and administration of monthly medication. Heartworm disease can cause life threatening heart issues in dogs, and severe lung problems in cats. Heartworm disease is transmitted to dogs and cats by the bite of an infected mosquito. Although you can’t avoid mosquitoes, you can effectively kill the parasites. Continue…

Chronic  Kidney Disease (or CKD) is diagnosed with lab tests that are performed by your Veterinarian.  CKD occurs when the kidneys are not able to do their job of removing waste products from the body as effectively as they should. These waste products accumulate in the blood and cause symptoms including increased thirst and urination, loss of appetite, vomiting, and weight loss. Continue…

Difficulty urinating, frequent urination, excessive trips to the litter box, blood in the urine, and urinating outside of the litter box are all signs of bladder problems in a cat. Does this mean that your cat has a urinary tract infection? The answer might surprise you. Continue…

There are many benefits of having healthy teeth and healthy gums.  It improves overall health, it leads to longer life, and it helps with better breath.  Keeping your pet’s teeth and mouth clean and healthy involves regular care at home, and timely visits to the Veterinarian. Continue…

Toxic Products for Dogs and Cats

Do you know if you have any products  in your home that could be potential hazards for your dog or cat if the eat them? Many of us know that chocolate, ibuprofen, antifreeze and rat poison are toxic to pets if they are ingested, but what about sugar free products with xylitol, lilies, grapes and raisins, and Gorilla Glue? These are all potential hazards to your pets. Keep them out of reach of your pets, and immediately get help if any of these items are ingested; it happens! Continue…

 Does your pet’s breath smell bad enough to knock you over? If so, this is definitely the blog for you!

Many pet owners do not realize how important a healthy mouth is for their pet.  We humans hear about our own dental health all the time; just count the number of toothpaste, toothbrush, or mouthwash commercials you see during your favorite TV show.  Most of us are on board with keeping our own teeth healthy and our breath smelling fresh.  However, many pet owners just accept their pet’s horrible breath and rivers of drool as a fact of life.  Continue…

Why Do Puppies And Kittens Need Vaccines? 

Puppies and Kittens are born with an immune system that is immature so they are very susceptible to infection with common diseases. When Puppies and Kittens are not properly vaccinated they are at risk of infection from these life threatening diseases that are easily prevented with proper and timely vaccination. Continue…

Rolling out the Welcome Mat for an Under-served Pet Population

Cats Rule!

It’s a question that has been asked for many years: Are you a dog person, or are you a cat person? If pet ownership is any indication of allegiance, then the public has clearly spoken.  Cats are the pet of choice, making up the greater number of home companion animals.  It is apparent that more people are realizing what great pets cats can be. Continue…

Rabbit Husbandry

Rabbits are gentle, intelligent animals that make excellent pets. The more time you spend with your rabbit, the more it will become tame and bonded to you.  They are naturally social and will benefit from the companionship of either another bunny or a trusted human. They will enjoy the mental stimulation and exercise of being allowed to explore outside their cage, but you need to anticipate they will attempt to chew on everything. They are usually easily litter trained. Continue…

Why is Obesity a Problem

Overweight or obese dogs and cats is an increasing problem. What causes our pets to be overweight or obese? The simple answer is too much food and not enough exercise.

Continue…