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.
Support When They Need It Most: Why We Recommend the Help ‘Em Up® Harness
Whether your dog is recovering from a TPLO surgery, dealing with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), or simply feeling the effects of age, the Help ‘Em Up® Harness is built to offer the right kind of assistance. Here’s why we love it.
Why Does My Dog Have Diarrhea? Common Causes and What You Can Do
At Two Rivers Veterinary Hospital, we see dogs with diarrhea nearly every day—and while it’s rarely fun, it can be manageable. Let’s take a look at the most common causes and what you can do to help your dog at home.
Cushing’s Disease in Dogs, Part 3: Treatment and Long-Term Management
Most dogs with Cushing’s are treated with a daily oral medication that suppresses the overproduction of cortisol. The most commonly prescribed medication is Trilostane (brand name: Vetoryl®). It works by inhibiting the enzymes that produce cortisol in the adrenal glands.
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.