Reactivity in Dogs | Part III: Tips and Tricks

Reactivity in Dogs | Part III: Tips and Tricks

If you haven’t read Part I or Part II, please do so before proceeding. Part III, our final part of our Reactivity in Dogs blog series, provides specific tools that I have used to help reduce or manage my dog’s reactivity. Your mileage may vary. Positive Training Many of Polo’s behaviors can be managed by training with […]

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What to Expect for Your Pet’s First Ophthalmology Appointment

What to Expect for Your Pet’s First Ophthalmology Appointment

Like a human ophthalmologist, a veterinary ophthalmologist specializes in all things eye-related! Of course, veterinary ophthalmology is a bit different than human medicine – after all, pets can’t outright say if they have blurry vision or if they are experiencing pain, and they certainly can’t read letters off a chart for a lens prescription! Eye […]

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Reactivity in Dogs | Part I: The Myth of the Good Dog

Reactivity in Dogs | Part I: The Myth of the Good Dog

Meet Polo We didn’t know Polo was reactive and aggressive until we’d owned him about a week. We’d taken our family of four, plus our little dog Sally, to meet him at the adoption center. He’d loved everyone – wagging his tail happily, chasing and playing with Sally. I’ve worked in veterinary medicine for over […]

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Zante Currant Toxicity in Pets

Zante Currant Toxicity in Pets

If you witnessed or strongly suspect your pet ingested grapes, raisins, or Zante currants, this is considered an “ORANGE” – or urgent case – on our Fast Track Triage system. We recommend calling ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435 for help determining if your pet consumed a toxic amount and for guidance on what to […]

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Sand Impaction in Dogs: What Happens When Your Dog Eats Too Much Sand

Sand Impaction in Dogs: What Happens When Your Dog Eats Too Much Sand

It’s summer, and that means it’s time to hit the beach! For many dog parents, Fido comes along for some fun in the sun. But before you start packing your beach bag, it’s important to be aware of the risks that come with visiting sandy beaches and outdoor play areas. While many dog owners know the dangers of overheating, as well as water dangers such as blue-green algae, water […]

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Fireworks and Pets

Fireworks and Pets

If your pet is burned or wounded by fireworks and explosives or is experiencing seizures or tremors after ingesting explosive materials or debris, these are considered a “RED” – or true emergency – on our Fast Track Triage system. We advise you to seek immediate veterinary care. Please call ahead of your arrival so the […]

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Four Common Houseplants that are Toxic to Cats and Dogs

Four Common Houseplants that are Toxic to Cats and Dogs

If you witnessed or strongly suspect your pet ingested a toxic plant, this is considered an “ORANGE” – or urgent case – on our Fast Track Triage system. We recommend calling ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435 for help determining if your pet consumed a toxic amount and for guidance on what to do next. […]

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Managing the Cause of Your Pet’s Itch

Managing the Cause of Your Pet’s Itch

If your pet is experiencing an allergic reaction or a yeast or bacteria infection, their symptoms can range from mild to severe: Difficulty breathing is considered “RED” – or true emergency– on our Fast Track Triage system. We advise you seek immediate veterinary care. Please call ahead of your arrival so the veterinary team knows […]

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Insect Repellent Toxicity & Pets: What Pet Owners Need to Know

Insect Repellent Toxicity & Pets: What Pet Owners Need to Know

If you witnessed or strongly suspect your pet was exposed to DEET sprays and products with toxic essential oils or your cat ingested your dog’s preventatives that contain Permethrin, these are considered “ORANGE” – or urgent cases – on our Fast Track Triage system. We recommend calling ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435 for help determining […]

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Summer Heat & Outdoor Time for Exotic Pets

Summer Heat & Outdoor Time for Exotic Pets

Many pet owners know that the summer heat can be very dangerous for dogs and cats. But what about exotic pets? The warm summer weather in Minnesota can present a variety of risks; however, if done safely, there are often opportunities to enjoy some outdoor time. Back in July of 2020, Dr. Andrew Bean, who is […]

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