Hanford Veterinary Hospital Blog

Most dog owners either anticipate a life full of picking up dog hair, or simply make peace with it over the years. Sure, some breeds are famously low-shedders, but generally, shedding is a normal process. While it can definitely increase during certain seasons, dog shedding can also be related to underlying medical conditions. How are dog owners supposed to know what’s at stake when it comes to loose, fallen, or dead hair building up on their best bud’s coat?

Snorts, snoots, squishies, and “bat-ish” ears are just a few of cute features to love about French bulldogs. These playful, little but mighty pups are quiet and adaptable, which makes them a popular choice for California dwellers. But the breed faces a long road of health problems, with males being more susceptible to certain issues than females. Here are some of the most common issues to look for so you can get your pup quick treatment and ensure a return to good health:

Choosing between various lizard species can be daunting, especially if you’re new to herpetology. Each species has its own highly-specific set of care requirements, including diet, habitat size, light, and humidity. Due to its relative ease, the leopard gecko is a stand-out choice for most beginners. Hanford Veterinary Hospital recognizes the rising popularity of these interesting, exotic pets. We have a few tips to achieve basic leopard gecko care so you can maximize both their health and your enjoyment. 

Anyone who has spent time around cats can attest to the fact that they have a few strange behaviors. If you have ever wondered about cat zoomies, the magic of catnip, or why your cat has so much energy, read on to learn about Hanford Veterinary Hospital’s take on cat behavior mysteries. 

July is one of the hottest months in summer and has earned the badge of National Pet Hydration Awareness month. People take extra precautions during summertime to prevent sunburn and heat stroke in your pets. Our furry friends cannot always tell us when they are thirsty, and dehydration can lead to serious health issues.

Small animals have a rather long list of specialized requirements that promote their health, safety, and well-being. We can assure you that it’s well worth the extra effort, time, and money to provide everything they need, and our guide to kitten and puppy care makes it all within reach. 

On the Ground

Before you bring home your new fluffy, furry baby pet, take time to anticipate what kind of trouble your pet could get into inside and around your home. There are risks associated with power cords, electrical outlets, laundry, plants, window screens, and so much more. You may try to keep your kitten or puppy inside a certain room until they acclimate to their new surroundings. Gates and barriers are helpful when training a new pet. 

Pet microchipping has been around for quite a while, but it still holds an air of mystery for many. How does it work? What are the risks? Is it something I should consider for my furry family? Hanford Veterinary Hospital is here to answer all your burning questions about pet microchipping:

As a canine owner, it is important to be aware of dog behavioral changes that could indicate an undiagnosed health issue like Lyme disease. Without proper treatment, Lyme disease in dogs can lead to side effects that range from mild to severe, and in extreme cases, could be fatal. Your friends at Hanford Veterinary Hospital are here to help you spot Lyme disease in dogs early so we can work together on a successful treatment plan for your pup: 

In order to be the best pet owner possible, it’s important to understand the basics of caring for rabbits as pets. These hoppy little companions require special care, attention, and energy. Here are some quick rabbit facts to help get you on the right track. 

Dental care for dogs and cats is an often overlooked area of pet care. While pet dental disease can certainly cause that pesky dog breath, it is much more serious than just stinky kisses. Unfortunately, over half of pets will have some form of dental disease by the age of two. Learn why good pet dental care can extend an animal’s life expectancy by up to five years.