Cushing’s Disease in Dogs, Part 2: How We Diagnose It
It’s important to note that no single test is perfect. Your veterinarian may recommend multiple tests or repeated monitoring, especially if your dog has other medical conditions that could affect the results.
Cushing’s Disease in Dogs, Part 1: What It Is and What to Watch For
One of the first—and most telling—symptoms pet owners often notice is increased thirst and urination. A dog with Cushing’s may begin emptying the water bowl faster than usual and needing to go outside much more frequently, even having accidents in the house. This change is often what prompts owners to schedule a veterinary exam.
Heart Murmurs in Cats: What You Should Know About Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the muscular walls of the left ventricle (the main pumping chamber of the heart) become abnormally thick. This reduces the heart’s ability to fill with blood and, over time, can lead to heart failure or dangerous blood clots. HCM is the most common form of heart disease in cats, particularly in breeds like Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and American Shorthairs, but it can affect any cat—purebred or mixed.
Understanding Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease in Dogs
If your dog has been diagnosed with a heart murmur, there’s a good chance it’s due to myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD)—the most common type of acquired heart disease in adult dogs. This condition is especially prevalent in small-breed dogs like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and Toy Poodles.
Understanding Heart Murmurs in Dogs and Cats
Hearing that your dog or cat has a heart murmur can be unsettling—but it doesn’t always mean something serious is going on. A heart murmur is an abnormal sound heard during a physical exam with a stethoscope. Instead of the usual “lub-dub” of a healthy heartbeat, a murmur may sound like a whooshing or swishing noise. This happens when there’s turbulent blood flow within the heart.
Introducing Specialized Ultrasound Appointments for Pets Who Need a Little Extra Care
At Two Rivers Vet Hospital, we understand that sometimes pets need a closer look—especially when something just isn’t adding up. That’s why we’re proud to offer abdominal ultrasound appointments, designed specifically for patients who need a little extra diagnostic attention.
Unlike radiographs (X-rays), which provide an excellent overview of the size and shape of organs, ultrasound allows us to see inside the tissue of those organs. This detailed, real-time imaging helps us evaluate subtle changes that may not be visible with other forms of imaging. It’s an invaluable tool for diagnosing conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, intestines, bladder, spleen, and more.
Why Is My Cat Throwing Up?
At Two Rivers Veterinary Hospital, one of the most common questions we hear from cat owners is, “Why is my cat throwing up?” While an occasional hairball might not be cause for concern, frequent vomiting is a sign that something deeper could be going on—and it’s worth investigating.
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.
So You Want to Be a Vet Tech? An Interview with Megan, Vet Tech in Training
If you’ve ever dreamed of working hands-on with animals every day, a career as a veterinary technician might be the perfect fit. Vet techs are the heart of any veterinary clinic—they perform blood draws, assist in surgeries, take x-rays, monitor anesthesia, educate pet parents, and offer compassionate care to pets in every stage of life.
To get an inside look at the journey, we sat down with Megan, one of our team members who’s currently working through the Penn Foster Veterinary Technician Program, an accredited online degree that allows her to study and gain clinical hours at the same time.
Anaplasmosis in Dogs: A Lesser-Known but Serious Tick-Borne Disease
You may have heard of Lyme disease, but there’s another tick-borne illness we see frequently in the Fargo-Moorhead area: Anaplasmosis. Caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum, this disease is carried by the same black-legged ticks that transmit Lyme—meaning your dog can be at risk for both. As your local veterinarian Fargo ND, we want you to be aware of the signs of this disease and how to protect your pet.
Lyme Disease in Dogs: What Every Pet Owner in Fargo Needs to Know
Lyme disease is one of the most common tick-borne illnesses in dogs, and it’s a growing concern in the Fargo-Moorhead area. As our climate changes and ticks expand their range, we’re seeing more cases of Lyme disease each year—sometimes in dogs that rarely leave the backyard.
Tick Talk: Why You Should Care About Tick-Borne Diseases in the Fargo-Moorhead Area
Ticks are blood-sucking parasites that thrive in tall grasses, wooded areas, and even well-manicured backyards. They’re most active from early spring through late fall, but mild winters have extended their season. As a vet clinic in Fargo ND, we diagnose tick-related illnesses every year—many of which are preventable.
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.
Stem Cell Therapy in Pets: A Promising Frontier in Regenerative Medicine
Stem cell therapy is one of the most exciting advances in veterinary medicine, offering new hope for pets suffering from chronic pain, orthopedic injuries, and degenerative diseases. While it may feel like a recent development, stem cells have actually been studied for decades.
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.
Helping Pets Move Better, Feel Better: Canine Rehab
At Two Rivers Vet Hospital, we see firsthand how rehabilitation can transform a pet’s life. Today, we sat down with Emily, whose 5-year-old Labrador Retriever, Moose, came to us for post-operative rehabilitation after undergoing TPLO surgery to repair a torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL).
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.
7 Ways to Celebrate National Pet Week
Whether your pet is a couch-loving cat, a frisbee-catching dog, or a wise old senior, this week is all about them. It’s also a chance to promote responsible pet care and ensure our furry friends live the healthiest, happiest lives possible.
Here are seven fun and meaningful ways to celebrate National Pet Week!
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.