Why do I need to spay or neuter my pet?

Dog spay or neuter.
Cat spay or neuter.

Why does my dog need a heartworm test every year?

Caledonia is definitely a "hot spot" for heartworm. There are also A LOT of animals in the area that are NOT on a monthly heartworm preventive.This fact alone, allows the spread of heartworm disease in our area. Mosquitoes are being seen more and more "out of season" (i.e. outside the months of May - November), due to strange climate changes. This means that our animals could be infected with the parasite while not on prevention...yet another reason to have your dog on year-round heartworm prevention. As well, we all know how hard it is to remember to give the heartworm preventives on time. A missed dose could mean risk of infection, and one infection with heartworm could take your dogs life. This is why your dog needs to be tested yearly for heartworm disease!

Can my pet get fleas in the winter?

Your pet can definitely get fleas in the winter. Fleas can overwinter as adults, living on your pet! They can also survive as pupae in cocoons, left in areas of your home that are protected from freezing (i.e carpet). Fleas usually thrive at temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees (21C - 29C), but can also survive at temperatures as low as 37 degrees (3C). Yikes!

Why does my dog eat grass?

Your dog may be eating grass for several reasons. It is not likely that your dog eats grass because he is not feeling well. It is likely that the fact he has eaten grass is what actually makes him vomit..like any other plant material would. Some research shows that eating grass may be a way for dogs to supplement their diet, which may be lacking in things such as fibre. It may also be that your dog just likes grass!