Pet Columns

cows stand in a flooded pen next to a barn

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Include Farm Animals in Disaster Preparedness Plan
June 19, 2025

When tornado sirens become frequent and sudden storms appear out of thin air, it becomes apparent there is a need for a disaster preparedness plan for farmers and large animal owners alike. What happens when…
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cat and dog lying on kitchen floor

What Are Nutraceuticals and How Can They Help My Pet?

October 26, 2022

Veterinarians routinely recommend nutraceuticals for their patients, with one survey finding that half or more do so. But what are nutraceuticals? Dr. Alex Gochenauer, a veterinary pharmacist at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital…
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spooky dog on Halloween

Protect Pets from Halloween Hazards

October 13, 2022

You may love Halloween tricks and treats, but your furry friend most likely needs extra oversight during the celebration. Dr. Canaan Shores, a veterinarian at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital, sees dogs and…
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[bearded dragon looks at night sky]

Lightning Bugs Toxic to Bearded Dragons

August 16, 2022

It’s fun to spend a summer night catching and releasing lightning bugs, right? Well, not if you are a bearded dragon. Dr. Krista Keller, a board-certified specialist in zoological medicine at the University of Illinois…
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horse eating grass

Spring Grass and Laminitis in Horses

March 12, 2022

Every year, once winter is over and the snow has receded, the grass starts its yearly explosion of growth. The spring helps bring hay and fresher forage for our horses. However, with the fresh forage…
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Dr. Suma Rao (left) and veterinary student Natalie examine a dog.

Brushing Is Best for Pet Dental Health

January 31, 2022

Every February, the veterinary community celebrates National Pet Dental Health Month. It’s a chance to call attention to the link between your pet’s oral health and its overall health. Did you know that gum disease…
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[red-footed tortoise]

The Tortoise and Its Care

January 11, 2022

If you’ve got the time—and the space—we may have a lifelong animal companion for you: a tortoise. Here with a primer on pet tortoises is Dr. Amanda Wong, a veterinarian completing a three-year residency in…
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[tabby lying in front of holiday lights]

How to Prevent Holiday Mishaps for Pets

December 02, 2021

Make sure your holiday preparations keep pet safety in mind. Dr. Ashley Mitek, a veterinarian at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, offers tips to prevent accidents and injuries that could dampen the…
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[dog in vampire cape before full moon]

Prevent Halloween Hazards for Pets

October 26, 2021

Halloween may be the spookiest night of the year, but there’s no reason it needs to be the scariest. The emergency medicine team at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital offers advice for avoiding…
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[pet hedgehog]

How to Care for Your Hedgehog

March 17, 2021

Advice on Housing, Feeding, Protecting Hedgehogs are not tiny cats or spiny hamsters. Before getting a hedgehog as a pet, you need to understand their unique needs so you can keep it healthy and happy….
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