Ah, the joys of cat ownership: the purring, the playful attacks on your toes, and, of course, the occasional surprise hairball on your carpet. If you've ever been serenaded by the unmistakable sound of your cat hacking up a hairball, you're not alone. While often considered a normal part of cat ownership, hairballs hold a fascinating blend of biology, grooming habits, and health implications that warrant a closer look. As a veterinarian, I know that hairballs are one of the most common issues for cat pet parents. So let’s take some time to understand hairballs! From their formation to their ho ..read more

As veterinarians, we see a wide range of health concerns in our feline friends. One potential threat often overlooked by cat owners is heartworm disease. While less common in cats than dogs, heartworm infection still poses a serious health risk. Understanding the prevalence of this disease in cats, along with the importance of prevention, is crucial to keeping your furry companion safe. Unfortunately, unlike canine heartworm disease, there is currently no approved treatment for cats. This makes prevention the absolute cornerstone of protecting your feline friend from this potentially life-thre ..read more

Heartworm. It's more than just a buzzword you hear at your vet's office; it's a condition that could impact your dog's health and happiness for the rest of their lives. Every dog, from the tiniest Chihuahua to the towering Great Dane, is at risk of heartworm disease. Geography plays a role, with areas having high mosquito populations seeing more cases. However, no state in the U.S. is heartworm-free. Let's explore what heartworm disease is, how it's transmitted, its symptoms, prognosis, and, most importantly, prevention and treatment., As a veterinarian, I've witnessed firsthand the impact of ..read more

Spring’s arrival brings blooming flowers, chirping birds, and, unfortunately, a resurgence of unwelcome guests: pesky parasites. As veterinarians, we see firsthand the discomfort and health risks these tiny hitchhikers pose to our furry companions. While they might seem like a seasonal nuisance, the truth is year-round protection is crucial for keeping your pet happy and healthy. So, let’s shed some light on three of the most common springtime foes — fleas, ticks, and mosquitos — to equip you with the knowledge to keep them at bay. Fleas: Tiny Terrorists with Big Bites Imagine tiny vampires ju ..read more

As our loyal companions enter their golden years, their care needs evolve, and as a dedicated veterinarian, I'm here to guide you through this journey. Aging is a natural process, and with it comes changes that may affect your dog's health, behavior, and overall quality of life. But fear not, with the right support and care, your senior dog can continue to lead a happy, comfortable, and fulfilling life. In this blog, we'll dive into the essentials of senior dog wellness, from recognizing the signs of aging to understanding the health challenges that may arise. We'll explore practical ways you ..read more

As veterinarians, we’ve worked closely with many cats, uncovering the layers of their unique biological and physiological characteristics. Their abilities and uniqueness never get old! Let's have some fun and explore the top medical wonders of our feline friends, shedding light on what makes them special. 1. Powers of the Purr We all know that gentle purr of our cats, the rumble that vibrates our hearts and brings us closer. Our cat’s purr is typically seen as an expression of contentment, but it actually holds layers of complexity and utility far beyond a simple sign of happiness. Cats use pu ..read more

We all love a dog who can shake, speak, and roll over, but good behavior goes much deeper than party tricks. Today, we'll tackle pieces of the transformative journey of dog training. As a veterinarian with years of experience, I've seen the difference that timely and effective training can make in the lives of dogs and their families. The question isn't just if you should train your dog, but when. Understanding the role of your veterinarian in this process can enhance your dog's training journey, helping them to grow into well-adjusted, happy pets. The Right Time for Training: It's Earlier Tha ..read more

Mushroom ingestion by animals is dangerous, causing toxicities that can progress from severe to deadly in a matter of hours. While strolling through the woods or even in your backyard, your pet might encounter these intriguing “pseudo-plants” and cause unexpected dangers to our canine companions. Today we delve into a topic that is important for every dog owner to understand: mushroom ingestion. In this blog, we will uncover the hidden risks associated with mushroom ingestion in dogs. From identifying toxic varieties to recognizing symptoms of poisoning, our journey will equip you with the kno ..read more

In today's fast-paced world, the health of our pets often mirrors our own, and understanding the intricate balance between diet and overall well-being is more consequential than ever. This blog aims to shed light on some of the aspects of pet nutrition, debunk common misconceptions, and provide practical tips for managing your pet's weight. Whether you're a new pet parent or a seasoned owner, this will provide you with some extra knowledge to help your pet be emotionally and physically healthy. Understanding the Basics of Overnutrition in Pets Just like humans, pets can become overweight if th ..read more

In the world of dogs, brachycephalic breeds, with their distinctive smooshed faces, have captured the hearts of many. Their popularity, especially that of the French Bulldog, now reigning as the most beloved breed in the United States, is undeniable. The quirky snorts and snores we love in brachycephalic dogs, like Bulldogs and Pugs, aren't just adorable sounds; they're clues to a deeper issue. These dogs, known for their charming flat faces and short snouts, actually face a challenging condition known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). Acknowledging signs of any distress ea ..read more