Category: Dog Care

Hearing that your dog has a heart murmur can be unsettling, especially when they seem perfectly normal at home. Many pet owners immediately worry about heart failure, but a heart murmur is not a diagnosis by itself. It is a finding that tells your veterinarian that blood flow through the heart is not completely silent… Continue reading Heart Murmurs In Dogs: Causes And Next Steps

Dachshunds are lovable, bold, and full of personality, but their long backs and short legs put them at a higher risk for spinal issues than most other breeds. Back problems are not rare or extreme scenarios for Dachshunds. They are one of the most common medical concerns veterinarians see in this breed. The good news… Continue reading Dachshund Back Problems And How To Prevent Injury

The first three months of a puppy’s life are more than just cute milestones and training basics. During this short window, a puppy’s immune system, joints, digestive health, and emotional resilience are all being shaped. Many of the health issues we see later in life can be traced back to choices made during these early… Continue reading The First 90 Days Of Puppy Care That Shape Lifelong Health

At Norgate Animal Hospital, we often see pet owners focus on vaccinations, nutrition, and exercise while overlooking dental care. Skipping regular dental cleanings may seem harmless, but it can have serious consequences for your dog’s overall health. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can keep your dog happy, healthy, and pain-free. Why Dental Health… Continue reading The Hidden Dangers of Skipping Your Dog’s Dental Cleanings

Vaccinations are one of the most important aspects of preventive care for dogs. While puppy vaccinations get a lot of attention, adult dogs also require regular immunizations to stay protected against serious diseases. Understanding which vaccines are necessary and when to administer them helps keep your dog healthy throughout their life. Core Vaccines for Adult… Continue reading Vaccinations for Adult Dogs: What’s Necessary?

If your dog has ever experienced sudden vomiting, abdominal pain, or lethargy, you may have heard your veterinarian mention pancreatitis. This condition, which involves inflammation of the pancreas, has been appearing more frequently in dogs in recent years. One of the surprising culprits? Human food. At Norgate Animal Hospital, we often see cases where a… Continue reading Why Pancreatitis Is on the Rise in Dogs (and the Link to Human Foods)

As our pets age, we usually expect to see some physical changes—slower walks, longer naps, or perhaps a little stiffness in the mornings. But what many owners don’t realize is that pets, like people, can also experience cognitive decline as they grow older. This condition, often compared to dementia in humans, is more common than… Continue reading Signs of Cognitive Decline in Older Dogs and Cats (And What Can Help)

One of the hardest parts of being a pet parent is knowing our furry friends won’t live as long as we do. But here’s something that often surprises owners: a dog’s or cat’s size can play a big role in how long they live. You might expect a bigger body to mean a longer life,… Continue reading The Surprising Link Between Breed Size and Lifespan (What Owners Should Expect)

Some illnesses in dogs are loud and obvious. Addison’s disease is not one of them. Often called “The Great Pretender,”Addison’s disease can mimic a wide range of more common conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis and unnecessary suffering. At Norgate Animal Hospital, we’ve seen how tricky this condition can be to identify—especially because the symptoms are… Continue reading Addison’s Disease in Dogs: The Great Pretender of Pet Illnesses