How Do I Know If My Dog Has Fleas?

Hip dysplasia is most common in large breed dogs. Most people have heard of hip dysplasia but don't necessarily know exactly what it is. Hip dysplasia occurs when there is abnormal development or growth of the hips. It essentially means that there is a poor fit between the "ball and socket" of a hip. This occurs when a puppy is growing. The head of the femur (thigh bone) is the ball, and the acetabulum is the socket part of the pelvis.

As veterinarians, we have had the pleasure of caring for countless dogs, each with their own unique personalities and quirks. Some dogs are shy and reserved, while others are outgoing and full of energy. But no matter what their individual temperament may be, one thing is for sure: There’s nothing quite like a dog’s smile!

If you were to meet Howie with his cute bow tie and his wagging tail, you would never know that one fateful day last spring his mother thought he was on death’s doorstep. When Howie arrived at my clinic he was painful to the touch, had a high fever, had no appetite, and was very lethargic. He had no desire to walk around and we could barely touch him without him yelping in pain. After carefully examining him, my top two differentials were a back issue or Lyme disease.

As veterinarians, one of the most common concerns we hear from animal owners is how to protect their furry friends from fleas and ticks. These parasites not only cause discomfort and itching, but they can also transmit diseases and infest your home. Without proper treatment, they can make your four-legged family members (and other members of your family) downright miserable, and that’s nothing no loving animal owner wants!

Dog heartworm is a dreaded diagnosis that can mean extreme discomfort for your dog, but it’s also a disease that is highly preventable. Thanks to effective monthly preventatives, dogs are suffering from heartworm disease far less frequently and enjoying a high quality of life. However, no preventative measure is 100 percent effective; therefore, dog owners must know the signs and symptoms of heartworm so quick action can be taken when suspected.

As a pet parent, you undoubtedly want to do everything you can to help them live a healthy, happy life. This includes scheduling appointments for dental care. Pet dental care ranges from routine exams and cleanings to extractions and other procedures, all of which we perform while the patient is under anesthesia.

One of the most anxiety-inducing experiences for pet owners is having to take their furry friend in for surgery. Whether it's a routine procedure or something more serious, no one wants to see their pet go through anything uncomfortable, and it's normal to feel a bit nervous when sending your four-legged best friend into surgery. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help make the experience as smooth as possible—both for your pet and for yourself.