February is National Responsible Pet Owners Month. Pets are a joy to own, but they are also a commitment. Dogs and cats can live 10-20 years, and some pets such as birds can live even longer. They depend upon us fully to care for them, but in return they give us unconditional love. So what are some ways to be a responsible pet owner? Spay or neuter your pet. Unfortunately in the U.S., there is an overpopulation of companion animals, with many dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, and other pets living in shelters and rescues. Spaying and neutering helps prevent further overpopulation, and has some health benefits as well. Get pets from reputable sources. On a similar note, when looking to add to your family, consider rescues and shelters. There are many pure bred rescues if you want a pure bred, and mixed breed animals often have the benefit of fewer health issues. Go to the vet annually. While your pet may not require yearly vaccinations, the physical examination is the most important part of your visit. Pets are very good at hiding pain and problems, and going to the vet regularly may help catch issues earlier, when they are easier to prevent or treat. Microchip or otherwise identify your pet. Tags with phone […]
Learn MoreA neuter, or castration, is a surgical procedure in male pets where both testicles are removed. A spay, or ovariohysterectomy (OHE), is a surgical procedure in female pets where both ovaries and the uterus are removed. There are many benefits to having your pet spayed or neutered including both health and behavior benefits. These include: Neutered and spayed pets are less territorial and are less likely to roam. Research indicates that 80% of dogs hit by cars are non-neutered males. Spayed females typically stay healthier and live longer. They have a lower incidence of mammary tumors (breast cancer) and no uterine or ovarian cancers. Neutered pets can’t develop testicular tumors, which are the second most common cancer in males, and they also have a lower incidence of prostate cancer. Dogs spayed before their first heat cycle have a less than 1% risk of developing mammary tumors, dogs spayed after 1 heat cycle have an 8% risk (or about 1 in 10 will develop a tumor), and dogs spayed after 2 heat cycles have a 26% risk of developing mammary tumors (or about 1 in 4). Unspayed females have a 7 times higher risk of developing mammary tumors than their spayed counterparts. Mammary tumors are the most common tumors in female dogs, and are […]
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.