As colder weather sets in, our pets may feel it in their joints too. According to the Arthritis Foundation 1 in 5 dogs in the United States is estimated to have arthritis. So what is arthritis? Arthritis is a chronic, degenerative disease of the joints which occurs when the cartilage of the joint is damaged by trauma or injury, wear and tear, or congenital abnormalities such as hip dysplasia. Signs that your pet may be suffering from arthritis include: Reluctance to take walks of usual length Decreased interest in play Stiffness, which may disappear as pet “warms up” Difficulty climbing stairs, getting into the vehicle, or jumping on the bed or other furniture Difficulty rising from rest Limping or abnormal gait or posture Licking a single joint Acting withdrawn and spending less time with the family Soreness to touch, which can in some instances lead to aggression Decreased range of motion “Slowing down” If your pet is exhibiting any of the above signs, they may be suffering from arthritis. While there is not a cure for arthritis, there are many treatment options aimed at preventing the disease from progressing and minimizing the impact of the changes that have already occurred. In other words, we want to help keep your pet comfortable and acting […]
Learn MoreAs the calendars turn to August, one thought enters my mind-food on a stick! August brings the state fair, and while I know a deep fried candy bar on a stick is not healthy for me, as an occasional, once a year treat, it is okay to indulge. While many people realize watching what we eat is important for a number of health reasons, these same people may not realize watching what our pets eat is just as important. You may think an extra pound or two can’t hurt that much, but a pound is not just a pound. While two or three additional pounds may have very little effect on you or me, they can be quite serious for your pet. Three extra pounds on a 15 pound dog is equivalent to a 150 pound person gaining 30 extra pounds, and 3 extra pounds on a 10 pound cat is equal to 45 extra pounds on a 150 pound person! Obesity and overweightness is the #1 health condition affecting American pets today. Purina estimates that 58% of cats and 45% of dogs are overweight or obese. This equals 35 million dogs and 54 million cats! This is a serious epidemic as being overweight has been linked with a higher incidence of a number […]
Learn MoreHeritage 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.