When it comes to keeping your dog healthy and protected, vaccines play a vital role. While core vaccines are essential for every dog, non-core vaccines can provide extra protection based on your pet’s unique needs. These additional vaccines aren’t one-size-fits-all;... read more
Blog
Core Canine Vaccines that Protect Your Dog from 6 Diseases
Dog ownership carries many responsibilities to ensure your four-legged friend stays happy and healthy. Along with feeding, grooming, walking, and training, your dog also needs regular veterinary care to maintain good physical health, and this includes vaccinations against dangerous diseases. Vaccines for... read more
Expert Soft-Tissue Surgery for Pets in Grand Forks, ND
When your furry family member needs specialized care, it can feel overwhelming to figure out which options are best for them. Our team at Grand Valley Animal Hospital (GVAH) is here to make that process easier by offering expert soft-tissue... read more
Professional Orthopedic Solutions for Pets in Grand Forks, ND
At Grand Valley Animal Hospital (GVAH), we believe your pets deserve the same level of care as any beloved family member. Their comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life are our top priorities. When orthopedic care issues arise, seeking help... read more
Important Advice to Protect Your Pet Against Tick Diseases and More
As excited as we are for the arrival of spring, we can’t forget about the hazards outside that can potentially harm our pets. Let’s learn about what we should be aware of when our four-legged friends are playing outside and... read more
What to Expect when You’re Expecting to Adopt a Puppy or Kitten
You’re getting your very first pet, and it’s beneficial to both you and your new pet to keep some key points in mind as your puppy or kitten grows. Read on to find out more about the different life stages... read more
Sit, Stay, Snap: Enter Our Holiday Pet Photo Contest
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, which means it’s time for our 11th annual Hoppy Howlidays & Meowy Catmas Pet Photo Contest! Enter a festive photo of your favorite furry, feathery, or scaly friend from December 13 –... read more
3 Ways to Help an Animal in Need This Holiday Season
’Tis the season of giving, and why not share the love with furry friends in need? We know there are endless ways to help others this holiday season and all year long, but here is a list of some that... read more
What Is the Difference Between Animal Welfare and Animal Rights?
When it comes to the health, well-being and care of animals, there are two main recognized concepts – animal welfare and animal rights. Regardless of which of these ideologies anyone’s personal values or beliefs align with most, it is important to... read more
Pre- and Post- Surgery Care for Your Pet
Whether it’s routine spaying and neutering, orthopedic services, exploratory, soft tissue procedures or other, when your pet needs surgery it can be an overwhelming process for pet owners. However, with the proper pre- and post-surgery care and a veterinarian that... read more
Service Animals – Are Fake Certifications Harming Others?
We all love our pets and wish they could always be by our side. Your pet is a sweetheart that wouldn’t hurt a fly and you want to take him everywhere. No harm in that, right? Just being around them... read more
Clinic Protocols: Improving Vet Visits for Your Pet
Everyone here at GVAH is happy to see that there is some normalcy returning to our lives and hopefully yours. Going through this pandemic has been stressful for everyone and we are proud that people have come together to help... read more
4 Tips for Traveling with Your Pet
Summer is a wonderful time to pack a bag and set out on an adventure by yourself or with a loved one. For many people, their go-to travel buddy is their dog, cat, or other beloved pet. Whether you’re flying... read more
Protect your Pet Against Heartworms, Fleas, and Ticks
As excited as we are for the arrival of spring, we can’t forget about the hazards outside that can potentially harm our pets. Let’s learn about what we should be aware of when our four-legged friends are playing on those green fields.... read more
Coronavirus Notice: What we’re doing to keep you and our staff safe.
In this time of COVID-19 (coronavirus), we hold ourselves to the highest cleaning standards and continue to take all precautions in order to keep you and our staff safe. UPDATE: As of April 26th, 2021, the COVID protocols listed below... read more
The Birds, the Bees, and Spaying or Neutering your Pet
If you’ve ever thought about adding a pet to your family, spaying or neutering should definitely be on your to-do list. During this procedure, reproductive organs are removed from your pet to prevent reproduction, disease, and behavior issues. The following... read more
The Basics of Bird Care
Looking for an outgoing, quirky, lifelong friend that is the life of the party but also a great listener? Then you may want to consider coming home to a pet bird! From their low-maintenance lifestyle to their intelligence, calling a... read more
Feline Wellness Protocol: Cat Vaccinations and Schedule
Whether you’re a first-time kitten owner or a seasoned pet owner, staying on top of your vaccination and wellness routines can be challenging but is extremely important. We’re here to help make it as easy as possible for you and... read more
Pet Safety for the Cold Weather Blues
When the snow is falling along with the temperature, that combination can bring problems that those of us in cold-weather climates know all too well. Your furry friends are no exception. When the cold winds blow, follow some of these... read more
Certified Vet Technician/Veterinary Assistant Position Available
Available Position: Certified Vet Technician/Vet Assistant Grand Valley Animal Hospital is looking to expand our team! A hospital with rapid growth, we are located in Grand Forks, ND, and open Monday—Friday from 8AM to 5PM. We are looking to add a... read more
What Are Pocket Pets?
Are you one of the four million homes in the U.S. that own a pocket pet, or are thinking about adding one to your family? We’re here to help you learn how to care for these little critters. Pocket Pet refers... read more
6 Essentials for Responsible Dog Ownership
While there are endless charms to owning a dog, there are also some very important responsibilities to know before taking on such a big commitment. Whether you are searching for that forever friend or adding a dog to your existing... read more
A Guide to Pet Loss & Handling Grief
When it comes to losing a pet, there is no right or wrong way for someone to grieve. All of us at Grand Valley Animal Hospital hope this guide will help you find closure and peace after the loss of... read more
Pet Emergencies & First Aid Preparedness
In a pet emergency, those first few minutes are crucial and may require advanced care and know-how on your part to protect your pet and maybe even keep them alive. Let’s review what classifies as a pet emergency and some... read more
How to Protect Your Pet from Heatstroke
We all know that during this time of year the temperature can get much hotter than what we are used to. When we are playing and having fun outside, we forget that our pets are more susceptible to dehydration, overheating,... read more
Is Your Pet Protected from Heartworms?
Did you know more than one million pets in the U.S. have heartworm disease? To shed some light on this serious, potentially fatal disease, we have put together some basic data to keep you informed. Let’s take a look at who transmits... read more
What Does a Veterinary Dermatologist Do?
Skin conditions in dogs and some cats is a common concern for many pet parents. From behavioral signs like excessive licking or scratching to physical symptoms such as hair loss, red skin and scabbing, there is a wide range of... read more
Seasonal Pet Allergies – Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Allergy season is upon us, and we can’t forget that our pets develop allergies, too. Pets can develop seasonal allergies towards plants, dust, dander, and more. If untreated, allergies can leave your pet in severe discomfort and pain. Let’s learn... read more
Emergency Care: Why We Refer to Red River Animal Emergency Hospital
At Grand Valley Animal Hospital, our first priority is the health and wellness of your pet. In the event that your pet has a late-night or extensive emergency, our protocol is to refer you to our highly trusted resource, Red... read more
The Do’s and Don’ts of Dental Care
What daily rituals do you have with your pet? Giving them fresh food and water each morning and lots of love, maybe going for a daily walk or giving them a good brushing? If maintaining dental health isn’t on the... read more
Pet Care to Consider Before Getting a New Puppy or Kitten
A puppy or kitten can be an exciting addition to the family, but before you surprise your family with a new little furry friend, be sure you are prepared. In this pet care starter information, we have included some ways... read more
Indoor Pet Hazards
While many of us are aware of the most common dangers for our pets, such as chocolate for dogs, there are a wide variety of toxic items your pet could stumble upon in your home that are easy to overlook.... read more
Meet the GVAH Veterinarians
At Grand Valley Animal Hospital, our doctors are the heart and mind of our practice. Our pet care professionals provide outstanding veterinary care, help foster great relationships, and offer customized care for you and your pets. If you haven’t had... read more
3 Tips for Choosing a Good Trainer
Choosing the right trainer for your dog is just as important as the food you feed them and the veterinary care they receive. A good trainer not only helps with your dog’s behavior, he or she builds a bond... read more
The Fat Facts About Pet Obesity
Size continues to rise in the United States, not just for humans, but for our furry friends as well. With an estimated 60% of cats and 56% of dogs being overweight in the U.S., it is more important than ever to... read more
Don’t Panic – Examining Pet Separation Anxiety
We all do the best we can for our pets, creating a life that allows them to be healthy, comfortable, and happy. Despite these efforts, many owners still find themselves encountering disruptive and destructive behaviors from their pets when they... read more
CBD Oil: What Pet Owners Need to Know
Now that you know about the hidden dangers of essential oils for your pet(s), you may be wondering about the common household product’s big and notorious brother – CBD oil. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been sweeping the market for both humans and... read more
The Hidden Dangers of Essential Oils
If you don’t have your own diffuser and essential oil set, chances are you know someone who does. You may have personally experienced or overheard someone talking about their lemongrass scented kitchen, relaxed lavender dreams, or their cold that was... read more
Pet Cancer Awareness
May is Pet Cancer Awareness Month. While the topic of cancer can often be overwhelming for pet owners, open discussion surrounding the disease (and how best to handle a diagnosis) helps everyone in the pet community to give the best... read more
Grain-Free Diets for Pets: Helpful or Harmful?
Grain-free, or not grain-free – that is the question. With the abundance of information surrounding grain-free pet food, it can seem difficult to discern the best option when it comes to your pet’s nutrition and, ultimately, their health. ... read more
Keeping your Pet Healthy for Life
Keeping up with your pet’s routine care helps keep your furry friends in tip-top shape. This includes taking them in for their annual wellness exam. Our pets depend on us to take care of their health. After all, they can’t... read more
Pet Dental Care
In celebration of the upcoming National Pet Dental Awareness Month in February, brush up on the best practices for keeping your pet’s mouth healthy and happy. Did you know that over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs... read more
Is Blood Work Really Necessary?
Pets communicate their health through their behavior and their appearance, and as their pet parent you play an important part in keeping them happy and healthy. Regular wellness exams, at least once a year, that include blood work are the... read more
Pet Care 101: Why and When to Spay or Neuter Your Puppy or Kitten
The topic of pet spay/neuter procedures continually creates buzz. What are the benefits of spaying or neutering your pet? When is the optimal age to spay/neuter? Is the procedure the right choice for my pet? There are numerous... read more
Rabies Miasm – Fact or Fiction?
Vaccines for children and their possible long- and short-term side effects are a hot topic among parents. Did you know this conversation is also popular among the veterinary community and pet parents? One specific vaccine that has been called... read more
3 Safety Tips for a Summer of Fun in the Sun
There is nothing quite like relaxing on a lounge chair with a cool beverage in the summer sun! The warmer weather also provides wonderful opportunities for your dog to exercise and play in the great outdoors by your side but... read more
5 Ways to be a Great Pet Owner
Know What You Are Getting Into When you adopt a pet, you need to know you’re making no small commitment. Pet ownership is a life-changing commitment, and can even be a lifelong one if adopting certain pets,... read more
Lyme Disease: Protecting Pets in the Midwest
When things warm up and our pets begin to play in the sun, remember they are not alone. Depending on temperatures, ticks begin to come out as early as mid-March and are in search of a host to latch onto.... read more
3 Tips for Keeping Pets Safe in Spring
From weekends filled with cleaning to hearing the call of the great outdoors as the sun glistens, spring is full of revitalizing activities. Make sure your pet is safe, healthy and happy by keeping some of the top spring hazards... read more
Pet Theft Prevention – 6 Ways to Keep Your Pet Safe
Pet theft is a serious problem that continues to rise. Did you know an estimated 2 million animals are stolen each year? Thieves will steal pets for a variety of unpleasant reasons, including selling them to research facilities, dog fighting,... read more
The Pain of Losing a Pet – Tips for Coping and Healing
Pets bring an immense amount of joy to our lives and are often more present in our daily routines than most of our relatives. Losing one can leave us feeling empty, numb and at a loss for how to move... read more
Sit, Stay, Snap – Holiday Pet Photo Contest
Brush the coat and fluff the fur – our 7th Annual Hoppy Howlidays & Meowy Catmas Pet Photo contest has arrived! Get your camera and companion ready for their chance to win our pawsome bag full of goodies sure... read more
Pet Safety Tips: Happy Holiday Edition
Holidays are an exciting time of year for everyone, whether two or four-legged. Sometimes things can be a bit stressful and overwhelming for our pets from extra traffic in the house and holiday travel to tempting fatty foods that can... read more
Better with Age – A Spotlight on Senior Pets
Senior pets are paw-sitively wonderful! They bring exceptional joy to our homes and tons of benefits to our lives, which is why as pet owners we want to give them the best possible care for a healthy, happy life. Just... read more
Preventive Pet Care Essentials
Happy, healthy pets are a trademark top priority for all good pet owners. How can you help make sure your dogs and cats are best cared for? From frequent walks and claw trims to vaccines and wellness exams, preventative care... read more
Immunization and Your Pet: A Look at Why to Vaccinate
We all love our pets dearly and want the best for them, which is why we take those trips to the vet, splurge on the best toys, and find ourselves at the store debating which treats they’ll find more delicious... read more
Pet Hydration – 3 Need-to-Knows
Keeping your pet properly hydrated is vital to their health, especially during summer months, when we can experience potentially dangerous levels of heat. Water is vital to the body’s internal processes, including circulation, digestion, and waste. Your pet’s body is... read more
Be In the Know for Pets on the Go
Planning a summer road trip or moving to a new home with your pet this summer? While these new adventures can be a mixture of anxiety and excitement for us humans, they can prove to be plain stressful for our... read more
Pesky Parasite Prevention Starts Here
As you and your furry friends begin to enjoy the lovely warmer weather, be extremely cautious of the fleas and ticks lurking outdoors that can be dangerous to your pet’s health. At Grand Valley Animal Hospital, we’ve seen a dramatic... read more
Pointers to Pick the Perfect Pet Food
Walk into any pet store or pet-food aisle in the grocery store, and you may be overwhelmed with the myriad of options available to help feed and provide proper nutrition for your pet. There are options for ‘weight loss,’... read more
How to Get Your Pet Howliday Photo Contest Ready
It’s that time of year again – Christmas lights, plenty of snow, and of course the family photos. That makes this the perfect time of year for our 6th Annual Hoppy Howlidays and Meowy Catmas Pet Photo Contest! You’ll definitely... read more
The Secret Life of Pocket Pets
The smallest furry friends sometimes make the largest impact, and nothing could be more true of the variety-filled class of animals known as pocket pets. From gerbils to hamsters to rabbits and everything in between, these tiny pets have unique... read more
4 Tips for Hunting Dog Success
The days are becoming shorter and the air is a little more crisp as fall sets in, and with that comes a season many people and furry friends alike look forward to – hunting season! Before hitting the great outdoors,... read more
The Secret Life of Potbellied Pigs
A rarity in the pet world, but just as friendly and cute as any other, the potbellied pig is a wonderful pet to call a family member! Learn how this charming, unique animal went from the barnyard to the living... read more
The Secret Life of Cats
Have you ever wondered what your favorite feline was feeling, or what’s going on inside their curious mind? This month in ‘Pet Talk’ we delve into what makes these majestic and sometimes mysterious pets who they are! Cats were believed... read more
A Home Away from Home
Summer vacation planning mode is back in swing, and while deciding how to include your pet in your vacation plans, some families may be considering the option to board their furry friend. In this edition of ‘Pet Talk,’ we’ll discuss... read more
Welcome to Pet Talk
Welcome to Grand Valley Animal Hospital’s new blog, Pet Talk! We are filled with excitement as we continue to help guide you further as informed and loving pet parents. This blog is to help educate pet owners, as well as... read more
Welcome Dr. Dan Burchill
We are thrilled to announce the addition of our new veterinarian, Dr. Dan Burchill, who brings his special interest in orthopedic and soft tissue procedures along with his 16 years of experience in a private veterinary practice. Orthopedic procedures will... read more
Welcome Dr. Erika MacKinnon
We are thrilled to welcome our new veterinarian, Dr. Erika MacKinnon, to our growing team. Dr. MacKinnon will bring to GVAH not only her veterinary clinic experience, but also a deep passion for working with animals, as well as cutting-edge... read more