For The Love of Dog, Train Your Dog!
Dogs

For The Love of Dog, Train Your Dog!

Dog owners, I say this from the most loving place in my heart: for the love of dog, train your dog.

Can My Dog or Cat Take Human Medication?
Other

Can My Dog or Cat Take Human Medication?

As a veterinarian, I often hear questions from concerned pet parents about whether they can give their dog or cat human medications. It’s understandable—when a pet seems uncomfortable, we naturally want to help them feel better as fast as possible. However, reaching for a common over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever or allergy medication could do more harm than good. Many medications formulated for humans can be toxic, even fatal, to pets.

The Cost of Pet Ownership: Understanding How to Budget for a Dog or Cat’s Lifetime Expenses
Other

The Cost of Pet Ownership: Understanding How to Budget for a Dog or Cat’s Lifetime Expenses

We all love the smell of puppy breath or watching a new kitten play. Some of our happiest moments as pet owners come when we finally choose to bring a new puppy or kitten into our home. This special time is filled with snuggles, purrs, eating, and toys. Whether your pet is a long-awaited breed-specific dog that you preselected or a stray you obtained at no charge, the initial expense is only a small part of the total cost of pet ownership.

Can My Dog Eat That? A Veterinarian's Take on the Internet's Most Asked Foods for Dogs
Dogs

Can My Dog Eat That? A Veterinarian's Take on the Internet's Most Asked Foods for Dogs

As a dog owner, it's natural to wonder about the safety of sharing your favorite foods with your furry friend. The internet is full of questions about what dogs can and cannot eat. To help clear up the confusion, we've compiled a list of the top foods people frequently ask about and whether they are safe for your dog.

Why Indoor Cats Need Vaccines and Preventative Care, Too!
Cats

Why Indoor Cats Need Vaccines and Preventative Care, Too!

As a cat owner, you might believe that keeping your feline friend indoors shields them from all dangers and health issues. While indoor cats are generally safer from many outdoor hazards, they still require vaccines and preventative care to ensure a long, healthy life. Let's dive into why vaccines and regular veterinary check-ups are essential for indoor cats and explore the core and optional vaccines recommended for our indoor companions.

Feline Baselines & Blood Work: How Knowing Your Cat’s “Normal” Can Lead to Better Health Outcomes
Cats

Feline Baselines & Blood Work: How Knowing Your Cat’s “Normal” Can Lead to Better Health Outcomes

Despite the misconception of cats being aloof and solitary, owners often have a deep bond with their cats, and prioritize their health, happiness, and well-being above all else. One essential aspect of prioritizing your cat’s health is understanding what constitutes a healthy baseline for your cat and how regular blood work can provide invaluable insights into their current health status, as well as what’s on the horizon for their health. 

Maximizing Canine Health: The Importance of Lab Work Through Your Dog's Life
Dogs

Maximizing Canine Health: The Importance of Lab Work Through Your Dog's Life

From the playful puppy years to the golden senior moments, dogs, like us, go through various life stages, each with its unique health needs and challenges. As a veterinarian, I tell my clients that we have to look at lab work as a window into the intricate workings of their dog's health, offering insights that can guide preventative care, early detection of diseases, and tailored treatment strategies.

Serving the pets of Carbondale since 1970.

At Alpine Animal Hospital, we treat your pets like the valued family members they are.