Puppy Proofing Your Home by Frank Utchen, DVM

General

Puppies are like babies; they’re lively, they’re curious and they teethe. This can lead them into serious trouble unless you take preventive measures. 

Remember that a pup has a lower vantage point than your—like a baby who has begun to crawl—and may be attracted to things you cannot see when you are standing. 

It’s practically impossible to completely puppy proof your home against accidents, but for your puppy’s safety, here are some suggestions: 

Confine your puppy to a safe area inside and keep doors and windows closed and/or screened securely. Remember a puppy can chew through a screen door. Read More

Puppies as Part of the Family by Liesl Peterson, DVM

General

If you’re like most families searching for a puppy, you’ve spent hours researching reputable breeders and visiting local animal rescue groups and shelters until you’ve found the perfect match for your family.  Now that you have that little bundle of fur home, you will need to spend that same amount of energy and time – if not more -- integrating that puppy into your home. It’s not always easy and can take hours of time, consistency and patience.  Knowing beforehand what is involved in taking care of a puppy will set realistic expectations for both you and your children.  

Vomiting in Dogs

Gastrointestinal

What causes vomiting?

Vomiting is not a disease; rather, it is a symptom of many different diseases. Many cases of vomiting improve on their own without medical intervention within twenty-four hours. Less commonly, vomiting may result from a serious illness, such as cancer. Even when vomiting is caused by mild illnesses, it may lead to death or serious complications if treatment is not begun early enough to prevent severe fluid and nutrient losses.

How serious is vomiting in dogs?  

We attempt to determine how sick the dog has become as a consequence of the vomiti... Read More

Puppies: Recommendations for New Owners

General

We would like to congratulate you on the acquisition of your new puppy. Owning a dog can be an extremely rewarding experience, but it is also a large responsibility. We hope this handout will give you the information needed to make some good decisions regarding your puppy.

First, let us say that we are grateful that you have chosen us to help you with your puppy's health care. If you have questions concerning any subject related to your puppy's health, please feel free to call our hospital. Our entire professional staff is willing and happy to help you.

What type of play behavior should I expect from a healthy puppy?