Have you observed an increase in the amount of times your pet is drinking and urinating? Is he also losing weight, despite a good appetite? These aren’t usually normal, age-related changes. If you notice these changes, it’s time to see your family veterinarian and find out whether or not your pet has diabetes. What is diabetes? Many people are familiar with diabetes in humans. The disease is similar in
read moreOur pets are living longer lives these days! Because of this, it’s important to make some changes to help our pets age gracefully and with dignity: 1. Regular Vet Visits An aging body changes more quickly than a young one which is why older pets require regular and more frequent visits to the vet. During these visits, it’s important for owners to discuss changes in their pet’s behavior, as
read moreIt’s time to celebrate Halloween frights and delights with trick-or-treating and costume parties! Are you going to make your furry family member part of the party too this year? Halloween costumes aren’t just for people. We’ve all seen the photos of hot dogs and pirate cats on social media. Plenty of people spend a scary amount of money on Halloween costumes and accessories for their pets. In fact, in
read moreAs a board-certified veterinary internist, I often ask clients, “If you were vomiting once a week, would you consider this normal?” Certainly, most people would not. Yet veterinarians frequently hear clients speak of their cats vomiting “all the time” or “whenever he eats too fast,” often with the added disclaimer, “that’s just what he does.” The fact is, with the exception of an occasional hair ball, our feline companions
read moreIt’s fall- time to hit the trails, admire the colorful leaves, and enjoy the cooler temperatures. But while you and your dog are hiking through the woods, be on the lookout for mushrooms! Mushrooms? Yes, you read that correctly! North America is home to several thousand different types of mushrooms. The majority of them being benign and taste delicious. However, there are a few different species that can be
read moreWe know it can be intimidating bringing your pet home after a surgical procedure. Don’t worry! Below we have addressed the five things you need to know for successful at-home care after surgery. 1. Activity Restriction Most animals’ activity will need to be restricted for 10-14 days after surgery while the incision heals. This means your pet should be confined to a small area where there is minimal furniture
read moreIt’s pumpkin spice season! Colorful leaves, cool temperatures, Halloween and all things pumpkin flavored — pies, lattes, ice cream, bread, pancakes, and even beer. As you indulge in this season’s pumpkin treats, you may wonder if your pet can indulge as well. Pumpkin is frequently touted as a healthy dietary supplement for dogs and cats, but does it work? And is it safe? Many veterinarians suggest adding canned pumpkin
read moreFinding dog hair everywhere? Feel like you’re constantly getting out the vacuum? Tis the season for dog shedding! A dog’s hair cycle timing is directly influenced by the amount of daylight hours which is why many dogs go through a shed as the seasons change. Now that it’s autumn in Minnesota, our dogs are shedding to prepare for the long, cold winter! When dogs shed, the hair follicle cycle
read moreIs your dog barking excessively, sleeping more, not listening to your commands, or starting to have accidents in the house? These are all signs that she could be losing her hearing. Dogs that cannot hear (and therefore cannot respond to verbal commands) can seem like their behavior is changing, when in fact they are just adapting to a new world without sound. Why is my dog hearing impaired? Some
read moreAs pet owners, we are constantly searching for new and exciting things to do with our furry companions. Most cat owners have heard of catnip and probably even tried it on their feline friend. The behavior changes in cats can be both entertaining and mysterious. I hope I am able to demystify this “magical” product for you. What is catnip? Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb native
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