It’s that time of year where the UV index is high, which means we’re at risk for sunburn and other UV damaging effects. Perhaps you slather on sunscreen, use protective clothing, find a lovely patch of shade, or completely avoid the sun during peak hours to protect yourself from the sun. But what about your dog or cat? Do they need protection from the sun? The short answer is that most
read moreBy now, many of you have likely heard about the risk of heart disease in dogs eating “BEG” diets – boutique diets from small companies, diets with exotic ingredients, and/or grain-free diets. In July 2018, the FDA announced that they were launching an investigation into the link between these nontraditional canine diets and dilated cardiomyopathy. They published an update on Thursday, June 27, 2019, which can be found here:
read more“I could never put Spike through chemotherapy.” “I don’t want Bella to suffer.” “I’m more focused on his quality of life.” We often hear statements like these from worried pet owners whose dogs or cats have recently been diagnosed with cancer. There are many different types of cancer, and treatment recommendations can include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination. Chemotherapy is not indicated for all cancer types, but if
read moreWith summer and the warmer weather here, it is important that your dog does not get overheated. Brachycephalic (smooshed face) breeds and breeds with thick hair coats can be at an especially high risk of overheating in the hot months. This may make you wonder “What can I give my pup to cool down?” There are many fun treats that you can make at home for your dog to
read moreSummer is finally here! This means you need to get outside and enjoy the sunshine with your dog! Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is a fun sport and if your dog enjoys the water, it could mean a great time for both of you! But don’t head to the water quite yet! First, make sure you have these items: Life Vests It is highly recommended that both you and your
read moreAfter a long winter cooped up indoors, summer means it’s time to get outside with our pets in the backyard, at nearby parks, and on hiking trails. But summer is also the season for baby birds, bunnies, fox kits, coyote pups, and other young wildlife who often have protective parents nearby. Our pets encounter wildlife during the summer more often than any other season. Unfortunately, not all pet-wildlife encounters
read moreSpring is here in Minnesota! We can finally throw open our windows, air out our homes, and… let in the allergens? Soon after, your cat or dog starts coughing. Could there be a connection? Many people are familiar with asthma in humans because they or their loved ones are affected, but pets can have asthma, too. Allergic bronchitis, often referred to as asthma, occurs much more commonly in cats
read moreDo you have an itchy dog? It could be allergies! Allergies are common in pets and can be due to a variety of causes. Typically, a pet owner will visit their family veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary dermatologist after their dog has been unusually itchy and may have sores on the skin. Depending on the allergy, treatment can be simple management like flea allergy dermatitis or it could involve
read moreGrapes and raisins are a lesser known toxin to dog and cat owners, but one that every pet owner should be aware of! This toxicity can be even more dangerous than chocolate! Grapes and raisins can lead to kidney damage or even life-threatening kidney failure. Often, owners don’t realize grapes and raisins are toxic and feed them to their pets. Other times, mischievous pets get into a bowl of
read moreJust as you might keep a first aid kit for you and your family in your home, it’s also a smart idea to keep one for your favorite four-legged furry friend! It is recommended to have these kits where you and your pet enjoy each other’s company. The size and components of each kit can be customized, depending on the location. The largest kits should be kept in the
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