Smile, Pup! Why We Love National Dog Photography Day
At Two Rivers Vet Hospital, we’re big fans of dogs (obviously), and we absolutely love when you share your favorite photos of your canine companions with us—whether it's a glamour shot, a mud-splattered grin, or the proud face of a dog who just destroyed a squeaky toy.
But did you know your camera can also be one of the most valuable tools in keeping your dog healthy?
Feline Tooth Resorption: What Every Cat Owner Should Know
FORLs, also known as tooth resorption, occur when a cat’s own body begins to break down a tooth, starting at the enamel and working inward. Over time, this painful process leads to exposure of the sensitive inner parts of the tooth. Unfortunately, most cats show little to no obvious symptoms until the lesion is severe.
Why Dental Care for Cats Matters More Than You Think
It’s not just tartar buildup we worry about. We’ve found foreign objects stuck under the tongue, fractured teeth, and even the occasional needle lodged in the roof of a cat’s mouth (true story—from a routine neuter appointment!). These issues may cause chronic pain, infection, and difficulty eating, but your cat may simply go on like nothing’s wrong.
Why We Recommend Year-Round Heartworm Prevention—Even in North Dakota
As veterinarians in North Dakota, we’re often asked: “Do I really need to keep my dog on heartworm prevention year-round?” After all, our winters are long and cold, and mosquitoes—the carriers of heartworm—seem to disappear for months at a time.
The short answer: Yes, absolutely.
Why Neutering Your Dog or Cat Matters: A Proactive Step for Better Health and Behavior
Neutering offers many benefits beyond preventing unwanted litters. For male pets, the procedure can help reduce hormone-driven behaviors like roaming, urine marking, and aggression. This means fewer fights with other animals, fewer escapes from the backyard, and a calmer pet at home.
When Should You Spay Your Pet?
One of the most common questions we hear from pet owners is: When is the best time to spay my dog or cat? The truth is, there’s not a single perfect answer—but at Two Rivers Vet Hospital, we typically recommend spaying before the first heat cycle.
5 Signs It’s Time to Call the Vet
If you’ve searched “how to know when to take your cat to the vet Fargo ND” or you’re just worried something isn’t right, you don’t have to wait until it’s an emergency. We’re here to help — with same-week appointments, honest guidance, and compassionate care.
What to Do If You Find Live Fleas on Your Pet
Here’s a step-by-step guide from your trusted Fargo veterinarian team to help you eliminate fleas and prevent future infestations.
Easing Fireworks Fears
For many pets, the Fourth of July is not a celebration—it’s a source of intense anxiety. Fireworks can trigger panic in even the calmest of dogs or cats, and every year veterinarians see a spike in calls from concerned pet owners. At Two Rivers Veterinary Hospital, we want to help you plan ahead so your pet can stay calm and safe during the holiday.
Why We Don’t Recommend Raw Diets for Dogs and Cats
One trend that continues to gain popularity is raw feeding, often with the belief that it's more “natural” or closer to what wild animals eat. But the truth is, raw diets—whether fresh, frozen, or freeze-dried—carry risks that can impact both your pet’s health and your family’s safety.
Why Do Pets Need Vaccine Boosters?
If you’ve ever wondered why your veterinarian recommends a series of vaccines for your new puppy or kitten—or why your adult pet needs periodic booster shots—you’re not alone! Many pet owners ask this question, and it’s a great one. The answer lies in how the immune system works, especially in growing animals.
Tick Prevention: Why It Matters Year-Round in Fargo
In our region, Lyme disease and anaplasmosis are among the most common threats, but ticks can also carry other harmful bacteria and parasites. Some of these diseases don’t show symptoms right away, which is why routine testing and prevention are so important.
Top 5 Houseplants to Avoid (and 5 Safer Alternatives) for Pet Owners
Houseplants add beauty and calm to our living spaces—but for pet owners, some plants can pose serious risks. Whether your furry friend is a curious chewer or just likes to nap near your greenery, knowing which plants are dangerous (and which are safe) can make all the difference.
Fresh Breath, Healthy Pet: How to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth
Brushing daily is ideal, but even a few times a week is better than none. If your pet already has significant tartar or inflammation, let us help—professional dental cleanings are the safest way to start with a clean slate.
No More Tap-Dancing Toes: A Guide to Trimming Your Pet’s Nails
Keeping your pet’s nails trimmed isn’t just for aesthetics or saving your hardwood floors. Overgrown nails can lead to painful paws, joint strain, and even long-term mobility problems—especially in senior pets.
How to Give Your Cat a Pill Without the Drama
If you’ve ever tried giving a cat a pill, you already know it can be... an adventure. Unlike dogs, who often gobble up treats (and the pills hidden inside them), cats tend to be more suspicious. But don’t worry—there are several techniques that can make medicating your cat much easier.
Leptospirosis in Dogs: What It Is and Why It Matters
Leptospirosis, often shortened to “lepto,” is a serious bacterial infection that affects both pets and people. At our vet clinic in Fargo ND, we’ve seen a growing number of cases in recent years, and it’s important for pet owners to know what to watch for—and how to protect their dogs.
Why Weight Management Matters for Your Pet’s Health
Studies show that overweight pets live up to two years less than their healthy-weight counterparts.
Why the rabies vaccination?
At Two Rivers Veterinary Hospital, we take the safety of our staff, patients, and community seriously. That’s why we require all dogs and cats in our care to be vaccinated against rabies.
Dog Bite Prevention Week
Biting is a dog’s natural form of defense, especially when they feel scared, threatened, or cornered. And while some nips may seem minor, dog bites can cause serious soft tissue injuries and dangerous infections. That’s why bite prevention is everyone’s responsibility, and it starts with understanding a few key things.