Environmental allergies, or atopy, can cause various health conditions in your cat or dog. From pollen to dust mites, grasses to weeds, your four-legged friend can develop allergic reactions to various triggers, leading to discomfort and health issues. Our Heartland Veterinary Hospital team describes environmental allergies' causes, signs, and treatment options to enhance your furry [...]

Your pet's food package label may seem ambiguous, but it provides important information about nutrition and other factors you should consider when evaluating your four-legged friend's diet. By understanding the information provided on pet food labels, you can decipher your pet’s food components. Our Heartland Veterinary Hospital team explains pet food label information so you [...]

Sometimes we forget that what’s safe for people to consume or use can be deadly to pets. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) reminds us of this important fact every March during National Poison Prevention Week.  Over-the-counter (OTC) medications intended for people led the recently [...]

When bacteria enter a dog’s or cat’s urethra and bladder, a urinary tract infection (UTI) can result. The bacteria may remain in the lower urinary tract or spread to infect the kidneys as well. E. coli is the most common culprit. UTIs typically respond well to antibiotics, but if left untreated, they can cause serious [...]

When you are cuddling on the couch and your four-legged friend’s breath knocks you back, you may think that all they need is a good toothbrushing to banish their bad breath. However, halitosis is often one of the first signs of dental issues in pets. By learning to identify your pet’s periodontal disease early, you [...]

Although you may not think about your four-legged friend’s oral health unless they obviously have a problem, pets require as much dental care as people, from daily toothbrushing to professional dental cleanings. Without regular dental care, pets can suffer from dental issues that can lead to discomfort, pain, and more severe health problems if left [...]

When it comes to footing the bill for your pet’s care, you may have never considered health insurance. Or, you may have wished your pet had health insurance similar to your own. While you will still likely have to pay for your pet’s care at the time of service, a health insurance policy can reimburse [...]

When everyone you know seems to be carrying pockets full of tissues because the common cold is making its rounds, you may worry about your furry friend when they have the sniffles. Fortunately for pets and their owners, colds are generally species-specific, meaning they don’t jump from people to cats and dogs and vice [...]

A great deal of controversy surrounds the topic of spaying and neutering pets, and decisions are often influenced by the pet owner’s emotions. However, making a decision on when to spay or neuter your pet is a choice best made when you have all the facts.  Reproductive hormones can lead to serious health and behavior [...]

Bringing home a new pet is a huge decision that requires a great deal of thought and planning to ensure you choose the best match. While any pet is sure to bring your family joy, finding the right fit can smooth out potential issues down the road. Before diving into your new pet search, asking [...]