With the prevalence of online shopping and the everyday consumer looking for the best deal, it's no wonder cat and dog medications are the latest product to be sold on marketplace sites. But did you know that not all websites are created equal? As veterinarians, we must make you aware of this disturbing trend. When it comes to buying your pet's medications and preventions there is a good reason we try to sell you them in the clinic.

There are many veterinary issues that we can easily relate to human ones. For example, just as discussing weight problems with people is uncomfortable, we veterinarians often dread having to bring up pet obesity with our clients. The truth is, though, it’s time to get uncomfortable in order to nip this growing epidemic in the bud and keep our pets as healthy as possible.

As veterinarians, what we’d love to talk about all day is puppy breath, good nutrition, and pet toys we recommend. Unfortunately, we have to also talk about the tough stuff to keep our pet and human clients safe, and one of those topics is heartworm disease. April is Heartworm Awareness Month.

One positive side effect of the pandemic is that many shelters across the U.S. were cleared, as families decided that more time at home meant that they could finally pull the trigger on the pet that they’d long wanted to make part of their brood.

Ahhh, Spring. With the scent of flowers lingering in the air, the temperatures beginning to rise, and wildlife beginning to emerge from their winter dens, this season is full of promise. But you know what else spring is full of? Fleas and ticks. Just like everything else, fleas and ticks thrive in the warmer weather. The ideal temperature for these pesky parasites is about 70-85 degrees, although they can survive in cooler climates. For most states, flea and tick season runs from about May through September, so it’s best to get a handle on how to prepare now.

Many clients come to our veterinary clinics, heads held low, as they are embarrassed about their dog's dental care. Look, we're veterinarians—not robots! We understand that taking care of your dog's dental care isn't always a priority, and life happens. However, we're also here to tell you that waiting because you're embarrassed can only cause more harm. It's best to get your dog's dental care under control sooner rather than later to avoid a painful mouth and possibly big vet bills down the line if the dental disease gets too far advanced.

So your pet’s been diagnosed with diabetes. Don’t panic! As veterinarians, we understand how distressing this diagnosis can be but, with proper treatment, exercise, nutrition, and monitoring, your pet can still lead a long, happy, and primarily healthy life.

Pet Poison Prevention Week is approaching, running from March 20th - 26th. This week focuses on educating pet parents on some of the common things poisonous to pets. Pet poison prevention week ties into National Poison Prevention Week and the many dangers that spring, although a lovely season, brings with it. As veterinarians, we are grateful to have this opportunity to remind everyone about the hazards found in spring, such as cleaners, plants, fertilizer, pesticides, and so much more.