Adding a new pet to your family is an important decision. There are many ways to acquire a new pet, be it from a rescue, a humane society or other adoption facility, or from a breeder. But how do you know if you are working with a reputable source? Here is a list of questions to help! Rescues: 1. Do they have you fill out an application. It should look at your plans for neutering/spaying (if not already done), your knowledge about pets and their interactions, your training intentions, and what your household is like (other pets, children, adults, work schedule, activity level, etc.) A good rescue wants to place pets in the best possible situation for the animal, so they will try to find a good fit with lifestyle and pet personality. They may even ask for references, such as your current veterinary clinic. 2. Do they do “meet and greets” where current pets and the new pet get to meet, or home visits to see how the pet interacts with the family? 3. Do they work with you for training issues, behavioral issues, or offer to take the pet back if it does not work? Again, they should have the pet’s best interest at heart, so if it does not work […]
Read PostAutumn 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, […]
Read PostOne of the more common questions we get asked as our pets age, is when to decide when it’s time for humane euthanasia. First off, I’d like to say there are many right answers to this question. A number of things are taken into account when looking at quality of life. You know your pet best-what makes your pet themselves? Does Fido love playing ball? Does Fifi lives to eat? Does Spot have to be in the room with you at all times? If your pet is not able to do these things anymore or is not interested in doing them anymore, it might be time. Important things to consider are whether the pet is still eating, able to get around, and interacting with the family. They may be slower than they used to be, and maybe a walk around the block instead of a mile long walk is all they can do, but if they can’t get around on their own this can significantly impact their quality of life. Nutrition is an important consideration, and if they aren’t eating on their own this can be a major red flag. Most pets live to eat, and this is often one of the main reasons clients choose to euthanize. An examination may be recommended […]
Read PostHeritage 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.
12624 Base Lake Road
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Mon-Fri: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Sat: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.