Blog

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching. It is possible to have both a joyous, chocolate filled holiday and pets if the risks of chocolate toxicity are acknowledged and the proper precautions are taken to avoid it. Chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats. Chocolate is...

Poultry lice and mites are a natural part of life when it comes to chicken keeping. These ectoparasites, or external parasites, are typically carried by birds, rodents, and other wildlife, also known as hosts. If any hosts are regularly visiting your chicken coop and...

Birds have seven phases of development: egg, hatchling, nestling, fledgling, juvenile, sub-adult, and adult. Most birds in the United States are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, or MBTA. It is important to be able to identify the species and...

Heartworm disease is a chronic, life-threatening disease that affects dogs, cats, ferrets, as well as other wildlife species. Heartworm disease can cause heart failure, severe lung disease, other organ damage, and ultimately death. It is caused by a parasitic worm...

There are many different brands and types of pet food available on the market today. Because of this, it has become difficult for owners to navigate through the influx of information provided primarily through marketing strategies. It is important to understand how...

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most commonly used drugs in both human and veterinary medicine to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. It is likely that NSAIDS, over-the-counter (OTC) or prescribed, can be found in most homes for personal...

A grass awn is the dried seed pod produced by invasive annual grasses. The types of grasses that produce grass awns are commonly found and widespread throughout the United States. All pets and livestock are at risk if exposed to grass awns. Grass awns can make their...

The month of May, National Beef Month, is for celebrating farmers and ranchers, the beef cattle they raise, the future of the industry, and for raising awareness and educating beef consumers. American cattle ranchers work tirelessly year-round to provide a sustainable...

It is a joy and a privilege to be able to take our dogs for public outings. It is a great way to socialize our dog, provide enrichment, and spend quality time together. Some people require the assistance of a service dog, while others are out purely for leisure. It is...

Obesity is estimated to affect more than half of the population of dogs and cats in the United States. Pets that are overweight have a significantly shortened lifespan. Obesity is linked to an increased risk of many diseases and generally causes significant stress on...