Is your pet unsettled by loud noises? Does the vacuum cleaner send them into deep seclusion? Do fireworks spark frantic pet behavior? Can a summer storm trigger a swath of destructive digging and chewing? If you answered “Yes” to these questions, your pet may be suffering from noise aversion, which is an anxiety disorder that [...]
In the spring and summer, ticks are abundant. They pose a huge problem for wildlife and livestock who spend all their time outdoors. Ticks aren’t picky about where they get their meals, gladly feeding on animals and humans. Each time a tick feeds, they can pick up and subsequently transmit multiple serious and life-threatening diseases [...]
You may think that since you live in Montana you don’t have to worry about heartworms, but the disease is increasingly problematic for pets across the country and can lead to life-threatening consequences for your four-legged friend. Our Billings Animal Family Hospital team wants to protect your pet’s heart and lungs from heartworms, and we [...]
Hip dysplasia commonly affects large-breed dogs, leading to joint dysfunction and pain. If you own or are considering adopting a large-breed dog, you should learn about this concerning condition. Read our Billings Animal Family Hospital team’s answers to frequently asked questions about canine hip dysplasia. Question: What is hip dysplasia in dogs? Answer: The term [...]
Dental disease is common in pets, affecting approximately 80% of dogs and 70% of cats by the time they are 3 years of age. The causative bacteria can result in significant health complications for your pet, and veterinary dental care is necessary to protect their health, and to help extend their life. Our Billings Animal [...]
Exotic pets appeal to many people, each for a different reason. Some people enjoy simply observing fish, reptiles, or birds, while others want to interact closely and form deep bonds with their interesting friends. Exotic pets are not domesticated like dogs and cats and retain many of their wild characteristics, but smaller species bred in [...]
Pets are a great addition to any family, but some display unwanted behaviors that disrupt your household. If your dog’s barking keeps you awake all night, or your cat refuses to use their litter box, you likely feel frustrated. Our Billings Animal Family Hospital team wants to help restore peace in your home with our [...]
With pets living longer than ever, they are experiencing an increased cancer risk in their golden years. Fortunately, the advancements in veterinary medicine that allow pets to live longer come with cancer diagnosis and treatment innovations. Cancer is more common in older dogs and cats, but pets of any age can develop cancer, so monitoring [...]
If you own a dachshund or other long-bodied breed, you likely are familiar with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which affects the spinal cord and can cause signs ranging from pain to hind-end paralysis. Read on for our Billings Animal Family Hospital team’s answers to your questions about IVDD. Question: What is the function of intervertebral [...]
Indoor cats live longer and healthier lives, but they need enrichment to keep them entertained and healthy. Without the appropriate environmental stimulation, cats are at risk for certain health and behavioral issues. Our Billings Animal Family Hospital team wants to help by offering do’s and don’ts that will help keep your indoor cat happy. DO [...]