Veterinary Wellness Blog
Category: Exotics Health
Responsible Pet Ownership
February 1, 2018February is National Responsible Pet Owners Month. Pets are a joy to own, but they are also a commitment. Dogs and cats can live 10-20 years, and some pets such as birds can live even longer. They depend upon us fully to care for them, but in return they give us unconditional love. So what are some ways to be a responsible pet owner? Spay or neuter your pet. Unfortunately in the U.S., there is an overpopulation of companion animals, with many dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, and other pets living in shelters and rescues. Spaying and neutering helps prevent further overpopulation, and has some health benefits as well. Get pets from reputable sources. On a similar note, when looking to add to your family, consider rescues and shelters. There are many pure bred rescues if you want a pure bred, and mixed breed animals often have the benefit of fewer health issues. Go to the vet annually. While your pet may not require yearly vaccinations, the physical examination is the most important part of your visit. Pets are very good at hiding pain and problems, and going to the vet regularly may help catch issues earlier, when they are easier to prevent or treat. Microchip or otherwise identify your pet. Tags with phone […]
Learn MoreSpooky Skeletons and Icky Innards
October 5, 2016This is the month of halloween, and skeletons, goblins, and guts will make their annual appearance. In medicine, we tend to see bones and organs in a different way that this freaky holiday portrays however. Dog bones costume Since the skeleton and organs are on the inside of the body, we often require some means of diagnostic imaging to see them. Diagnostic imaging can include a variety of tools-the most common being x-rays (radiographs) and ultrasound. Others include things such as CT scans, MRI scans, endoscopy (and it’s many branches), fluoroscopy, or PET scans. Radiographs or x-rays are one of the most commonly used diagnostic imaging tools used. They take a two dimensional picture of an area of the body. They can see bones and metal as bright white, and gas or air as dark black, and fluid, fat, and other soft tissues as other shades of gray. It can reveal the outline of organs as well seeing some of the contents in the stomach or intestines. X-rays can be used to see if there is heart enlargement, fluid buildup, foreign body ingestions, tumors, fractures, bladder stones, or infections present. X-rays are not the best at seeing inside some of the other organs such as the liver, kidneys, spleen, or pancreas. Radiograph of […]
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Heritage Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinarian clinic that provides examinations, diagnostic services, dental care, surgical services, medicine, grooming and boarding services in Maple Grove, Minnesota. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of pet care possible and facilitating an environment where client communication and education are at the forefront of our practice.
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