Pet Ownership | Grand Valley Animal Hospital

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

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

Graphic that reads ‘Pet Pain’ with a photo of a girl checking her dog.

Pet Pain – Why Animals Hide It and What You Can Do to Help

Would you know if your pet was in pain? Most of us would like to think so, but sometimes pets are exceptionally good at hiding their discomfort. Apparent signs of illness such as bloody stool, seizures or extreme weight loss... read more

Two Rottweiler puppies poking their head between a wood fence.

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

Group of dogs sitting patiently in a field looking at a female dog trainer.

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

Ashamed Boston Terrier puppy standing next to a chewed-up door

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 Spaying & Neutering." A puppy and kitten cuddling.

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