It’s the 4th of July again, and that means increased risks for our pets. According to the ASPCA, nearly 1 in 5 pets go missing after being scared by loud noises such as fireworks. PetAmberAlert.com notes that 30% more pets become lost between July 4-6th than any other time of the year. Here are some tips to make the celebrations safe for everyone! Travel safely: If you are taking a road trip with your pet, get your pet used to carrier/crates, and seat belts/harnesses in advance. Do not leave your pet alone in a parked car, even if the windows are cracked. Stay cool: Dogs and cats can’t sweat, but panting can cause them to get dehydrated. Pets can get overheated quicker, so make sure there is access to plenty of fresh water and shade. Check asphalt with your hand before going for walks to ensure it’s not too hot, and take walks near dawn/dusk to avoid mid day heat. Avoid human foods: Barbecues and parties will often present many tempting foods to your pet. Some human foods are not safe for consumption-alcohol, chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, raisins, and the sugar substitute xylitol are all toxic to pets. Some foods can cause inflammation of the GI tract and pancreas, especially fatty foods. Other […]
Learn MoreSummer heat makes you and your dog want to jump in the lake to cool off, but wait! Are there hidden dangers lurking there? Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, are microscopic bacteria found in freshwater lakes, ponds, streams, and swamps. They “bloom” in mid to late summer months, especially in nutrient rich water. Not all of these blooms are toxic, but without biochemical testing it is impossible to tell which are. The toxins produced by the blooms can cause a variety of signs, depending on which toxins that particular bacteria produce. It can cause liver disease, which may cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, blood in feces, black, tar-like stool, weakness, pale gums, jaundice (yellowing of gums, eyes, and skin), seizures, disorientation, confusion, coma, or shock. Death can occur in a matter of days due to liver failure. Some blue-green algae can produce even nastier toxins called anatoxins. These cause issues with the neurologic system, and signs can include increased tear production, increased salivation, muscle tremors, muscle rigidity, paralysis, difficulty breathing, and/or blue gums and tongue. Death can occur in minutes to hours after exposure to this toxin from blue-green algae. There is not a specific antidote to the toxins from blue-green algae, but immediate veterinary care is very important. Anti-seizure medication, oxygen, IV […]
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.