While you may think your dog’s socialization period ended during puppyhood, socialization should last your pet’s entire life. Without ongoing socialization, your dog can develop anxiety and become uncomfortable in new situations. So, although a puppy’s prime socialization period is from 3 to 12 weeks of age, socialization is a lifelong concept for dogs. This [...]
When you think about your pet’s health care, you likely consider their annual wellness exam at Livingston Veterinary Hospital, nutritious food, parasite prevention, regular grooming, and daily exercise. But, are you missing something that is right under their nose? If so, it’s time to lift the lip on dental health and incorporate oral care into [...]
Bringing home a puppy is exciting, but can be overwhelming, too. Where do you start, with so much to think about? Your Livingston Veterinary Hospital team is a great resource for all things puppy. Here are five tips for the best possible start with your new pal. #1: Gather puppy supplies Before your puppy comes [...]
Dangerous holiday foods aren’t the only cause for pet owner concern this holiday season—many traditional decorations are also hazardous. If the fir (tree) has been flying at your home, it’s time for a decoration intervention. Use this guide from Livingston Veterinary Hospital to identify common but unexpected dangers in your holiday home and take extra [...]
Before we know it, winter will be descending on Livingston again. And while every snowy season looks the same to us, aging pets experience new challenges from year to year that require special attention and preparation. As you stock up on supplies, test the generator, and prepare to settle in for some short days and [...]
One in three pets goes missing in their lifetime. What if that one pet is yours? While no pet owner wants to think about this possibility, knowing that a pet’s microchip will greatly improve the chances for a happy ending is priceless. Pet microchips provide safe, effective, and permanent identification for dogs and cats—and give [...]
Is your cat a creature of habit by choice or necessity? While dogs can explore the world, go to training classes, and enjoy a wide selection of chew toys and games, cats are often left to their own devices for entertainment and personal satisfaction. Unfortunately, the indoor cat’s restricted lifestyle limits their options to engage [...]
Vaccination is a life-saving gift for your pet. Let’s be honest. Pet vaccines can feel unimportant—they are simply something you do annually, because you received a reminder, and you love your pet. However, a deceptively simple vaccination can have an extraordinary impact, saving innumerable cats and dogs around the world, and improving public health. Livingston [...]
The excessive temperatures in Montana have everyone searching for ways to keep cool. Your pet is feeling the heat too, and they cannot thermoregulate their body temperature when subjected to extremely hot weather. Our team at Livingston Veterinary Hospital wants to suggest steps you can take to keep your pet from overheating. Air conditioning [...]
A 2013 Bayer Healthcare study showed that 58% of cat owners reported that their cats hated going to the veterinarian. While angry cats are never pleasant, regular visits increase the likelihood of a long and healthy life. Keeping a cat away from the exam room may decrease short-term stress, but shorten their lifespan. Why are [...]