Veterinary Wellness Blog
Category: Uncategorized
Autumn Awareness
October 1, 2015Autumn has arrived, and the new season brings new risks to our pets. There are a couple of toxicities or risks for our pets as the weather turns cooler. Chrysanthemums or mums are toxic to our dogs and cats. Symptoms of ingestion can include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, decreased appetite, enlarged pupils, depression, and incoordination. Some pets are also sensitive to contact with the flower on their skin and may develop a rash, itch, or sores. Contact your veterinarian if your pet has ingested a mum and is showing symptoms. There are a variety of mushrooms popping up all over this time of year. Some are completely harmless and will not cause any issues. Others can cause some gastrointestinal tract irritation that may lead to vomiting and diarrhea. More toxic versions can cause hallucinations or liver or kidney failure. Because of the wide variety of mushrooms and the difficulty in identifying them, if your pet ingests a mushroom in your yard you should contact a veterinarian immediately. Hospitalization, inducing vomiting, activated charcoal, fluids, bloodwork, and sometimes even stomach lavage is needed to treat these pets. The sooner treatment begins the better the prognosis, but some mushroom ingestions can be fatal. Signs your dog may have ingested a mushroom can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, […]
Learn MoreNexgard, the next generation in flea and tick medication
April 2, 2015We are pleased to announce that we are carrying a new flea and tick medication called Nexgard. From the makers of Heartgard (Merial), this is a once a month chewable tablet that helps prevent fleas and ticks. It is given in addition to a monthly heartworm preventative, as it does not prevent heartworm disease. This is different from the topical products we carry such as Frontline Plus or Parastar Plus. The topical products are not absorbed systemically, but require the oil glands in the body to help spread them. This is good in patients with organ disease where we do not want the body to metabolize these medications. However, it can cause problems in protection if bathing or swimming occurs, and sometimes it seems it does not get everywhere (ever found a tick attached between the toes?). Nexgard is a systemic medication, meaning the organs do need to help metabolize it, but it works quickly and since it travels via the bloodstream, it gets to all areas on the pet. It is not affected by swimming or bathing. It must be used in caution in animals with seizures, liver or kidney disease, and soy allergies. Please discuss with us which option is best for your pet. We offer a wide range of options […]
Learn MoreProviding the best possible veterinary care for your pet.
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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