As the weather turns warm again, we start to get the itch to go out and explore. Dogs can make great hiking companions with a little planning and preparation, and most enjoy getting out the house as much as we do! The first thing you will want to make sure of is that your dog is adequately covered for fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease. Topical flea and tick medications such as Frontline Plus and Parastar must be applied 48 hours prior to getting wet, so make sure to give this a few days in advance. Nexgard, an oral flea and tick preventative does not have the same water warning, but still should be given in advance so that it is fully on board by the time you hit the trail. Next, you should pack for your dog. A first aid kit specifically for your pet is a must. Things you may wish to have with you include bandaging material (non stick gauze pads, self adhesive wrap, and tape can all be helpful). Saline can be used to rinse both eyes and wounds, so having a saline eye wash can also be beneficial. Tweezers, scissors, and a tick removal device also may be helpful. Some dogs can snap when they are painful, so having […]
Read PostMarch 23rd is national puppy day, and this couldn’t be more fitting this year. Dr. Hartman recently got a new springer spaniel puppy named Afton! Puppies bring a lot of joy to the family, but are also work as well! A puppy should never be a spur of the moment decision, breeds and breeders should be researched, and lifestyle should be evaluated before bringing home a new pet. Different breeds have different energy levels, grooming requirements, and personalities. Care should be used to avoid adopting from a puppy mill and rescues should be considered. Many states also keep records of breeding facilities that they inspect. Puppies usually can only hold their bladder for about 1-2 hours when they first come home. It gradually increases as they get bigger (a rule of thumb is 1 hour per month of age), but some dogs are not able to go 8 hours until adulthood! It is important to consider your lifestyle and schedule for this reason. Puppies also require frequent visits to the vet in the first year for a number of reasons including to get booster vaccines, check weights, to make sure they are growing appropriately, and to be spayed or neutered. Adopting from a shelter may alter some of these visits, but there is […]
Read PostDoes your pet’s skin mimic the weather outside this time of year with white flakes? Winter causes many issues for pets and people alike. One of the more common issues we see in pets during this time of year is dandruff, or dry, flaky, and sometimes itchy skin. The dry air outside combined with the dry air of heat systems in most houses leads to dandruff, cracking, chapped, and flaking skin. Harsh chemical ice melt and salt along with extreme temperatures can cause paw pads to develop sores and crack as well. There are things we can do to help however. First of all, it should be noted that not all dry, flaky skin issues are caused by “dry skin”. Ringworm, mites, fleas, allergies, and other skin infections can all cause similar symptoms. Low thyroid levels, Cushing’s disease, and other autoimmune diseases can also cause changes in haircoat and skin. A visit to the veterinarian to rule out these things should be considered before implementing any of the below suggestions. Please call us if you have concerns with your pet’s skin. One of the first things that can help with dry skin is an omega fatty acid or fish oil supplement. Omega fatty acids help decrease inflammation in the body, and can decrease […]
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.