Cancer is a disease that touches many of our lives. Unfortunately, our four legged furry friends are not immune to it either. According to www.petcancerawareness.org, about 1 in 4 dogs will develop cancer in it’s lifetime, and being the number 1 natural cause of death in older pets, about 50% of dogs over the age of 10 will die of cancer. Just like in humans, early detection is key. Symptoms of cancer can vary widely, as cancer can affect almost any system or area of the body. Things such as vomiting, diarrhea, straining to defecate, weight loss, swelling or weight gain, non-healing sores, pale gums, limping, weakness, lethargy, lumps or bumps, bleeding, or coughing could all indicate a tumor. It should be noted that many of these signs are very non specific however and may indicate many other illness or issues as well. For this reason, we recommend yearly to semi-annual examinations in all pets, regardless of whether they are “due for shots”. A yearly to twice yearly exam allows us to look in your pet’s mouth, feel the skin and subcutaneous layers for masses, check lymph node size, weigh your pet, perform a rectal examination, and palpate the abdomen for internal changes. We also recommend yearly to semi-annual bloodwork. Lab tests can […]
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.