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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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