Dogs get hurt. It happens, and vets understand. We also understand your desperate need to help your pet when they are hurting, but I implore you: Do not allow yourself to make the situation worse. Avoid the temptation to reach into your own medicine cabinet. Most medications, even over the counter ones that humans can take safely, can make your …
Porcupines seem to be particularly plentiful this year and are coming into frequent contact with people, pups, tires, and even cats in surprising numbers. Alaskans have to be watchful for moose in our yards, when out for a walk in the woods and especially in the backcountry with your guardians and hunting buddies. However, maybe you should scan a little …
Diarrhea and vomiting: as much havoc as they wreak on your carpeting, imagine your pup’s gut. Vomiting and diarrhea are some of the most common ailments that we see pets for at an emergency hospital, and they may be accompanied by a lack of appetite and energy. There are steps you can take at home to stop the train before …
As duck season approaches and we spend more time on water retrievals, I am battling an ear infection in my lab Colt. Colt has had a few major ear infections before, and part of that is because he is a lab mix. Labs have naturally narrow ear canals, making them more likely to get ear infections. Also, because I work …
As many of you gear up for hunting season, I know your 4-legged hunting buddies are chomping at the bit to join you. Whether you’re heading out to moose camp, gearing up for waterfowl, or adventuring in the mountains, the call to go is in the air, and hopefully not in the water. There is a “bug” out there, most …
Choosing a diet for your dog can be a difficult and daunting decision. There are so many different choices for makers and brands, flavors, protein and micronutrient make-up, treatment/age-focused foods, and prescription diets. Your pet’s activity level has a strong bearing on the diet recommended. Additionally, any medical conditions they have such as kidney disease, skin sensitivities, or joint pain …
What can you do at home to care for your pet’s teeth and set them up for dental success? Simple answer: the same as you do for your own — brush their teeth twice a day. However, very few people have the time or dedication to brush their dog or cat’s teeth every day. To be honest, even I’m not …
One of the most underutilized resources available today in veterinary medicine is pet insurance. I find that less than 15% of my clients have insurance for their pets. Why do so few people invest in pet insurance? Because most people are unaware that pet insurance exists. Emergency and advanced medical care for your pet can easily climb into the thousands …
Most dog owners are familiar with “bloat,” which is a piece of the GDV (gastric dilatation and volvulus) scenario. Unfortunately, that is not the whole story. A GDV involves gaseous distension of the stomach, which then completely twists over on itself in a 180-degree sideways rotation. This cuts off both the esophagus and intestines so nothing can get in or …
During the first few warm weeks of summer, we are all eager to get outside, soak up the sun, and enjoy the warmth. Our dogs are just as eager, however, during these first few weeks of hot weather that I have always seen more heat-related injury in dogs than any other time of year. Even though the rest of the …