As some of you may remember Wraith came to us out of the woods, covered with tics and fleas and about seven pounds underweight. After weeks of gaining his trust we finally got him into a carrier and to an appointment with John (Dr. Bates). John's initial assessment was a five to seven year old who was dumped, as testified by his lack of hunting skills. Further blood work determined FIV with John stating he could put him down that day. I started a search for a no kill facility but no one would take an FIV cat.

Earlier this year, Peanut, a 4-year-old male Beagle/Lab mix was diagnosed with a lifethreatening heart disease at our hospital. Peanut had been lethargic, not eating well, and occasionally coughing. The veterinary cardiologist seeing him asked what he was eating and found that his owner, in a desire to do the best thing for Peanut, was feeding a boutique, grainfree diet containing kangaroo and chickpeas. Peanut required several medications to treat his heart failure but the owner also changed his diet. And today, now 5 months later, Peanut’s heart is nearly normal!

I just wanted to share my story and raise awareness of the importance of preventative bloodwork. I always get bloodwork done on my dogs at their yearly check up.

Activity Enrichment creates mental stimulation for our pets which can help with maintaining their behavioral health! Here are a few things you can try with your fur friends!

Today I put my dog to sleep. It is March 8, 1976. I got her when I was 5 years old in 1961. She was so small and cute. The first time, when I brought her home mom was sick and lying in my bed. I set Spot down in my room and she ran over and licked mom in the face.

Our very own Dr. Jennifer Emo not only saves pet lives but is now credited for saving little 2 year old Paisley Ervin from a car engulfed in flames. Dr. Emo and her family were traveling on Hwy. 70 on Saturday when they saw a car on fire. The Emo family pulled over to see if there was anything they could do for anyone.

You can get the flu but did you know your dog can as well? It’s called canine influenza (CIV) – or dog flu – and cases of it have been popping up all over the country.