Grand Avenue Animal Hospital

04/21/2025

Happy Veterinary Receptionist Week!
The last full week of April is spent celebrating our Veterinary Receptionists for all their commitment and talent.

Grand Avenue Animal Hospital's receptionists are a vital part of our hospital. They provide invaluable communication and care for both our clients and their pets.

Please help us celebrate our astounding receptionists, Alethea and Kat this week and show them just how much they are appreciated!

04/20/2025

Happy easter Sunday from Grand Avenue Animal Hospital!
While celebrating the Easter Holiday, remember little paws can get into all sorts of mischief.

Make sure to follow these guidelines for a memorable and safe celebration!

Flowers
Easter Lilies are a leading cause of toxic poisoning to pets at this time of year, but they aren't the only type of plant that is toxic to your pet.
If you are not sure, you can look up the plant/flower in the ASPCA poison control plant library.

Easter Grass
Plastic easter grass popular in easter baskets can cause life-threatening situations that can require surgery to correct.

Chocolate
Little easter eggs are everywhere at this time of year. But if ingested, Chocolate can cause heart abnormalities and even seizures.

Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners such as Xylitol which is used more and more in candies and gums can cause dangerously low blood sugar and/or liver failure.
Pet Poison Helpline Link (888) 426-4435

04/19/2025

04/18/2025

Happy Birthday Mr. Beanz and Ladybug!

04/15/2025

How CUTE!!! These precious loves are ready for their new families!

04/12/2025

Happy Passover from Grand avenue Animal Hospital!

Make sure to follow these guidelines
for a memorable and safe celebration!

People Foods
People foods can cause severe digestive distress, especially fatty foods, onions, garlic, chives, and leeks.
Unless your pet has a medical condition, some homemade kosher foods you can add to your pet's diet are:
Unsweetened Yogurt, Pumpkin, Sweet Potatoes, Green Beans, Apples (no seeds please), deboned & boiled Salmon, or boiled Chicken & Rice.

Commercial Kosher Pet Foods
Kosher pet foods are available online and in kosher grocery stores. However, if you are thinking of utilizing these please call our office to be sure a change in diet is suitable, especially if your pet has a medical condition.

Even if your pet is healthy, a sudden change in your pet's regular diet can result in diarrhea or other digestive distress. You may wish to slowly transition your pet to a kosher diet over a period of several weeks ahead.

Chocolate
Chocolate in any form can be toxic to pets. If ingested, Chocolate can cause heart abnormalities and even seizures.

Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners such as Xylitol which is used more and more in candies and gums can cause dangerously low blood sugar and/or liver failure.



Additional Pet Safety Information:

Pet Poison Helpline Link (888) 426-4435

Friday - Monday Clarity Emergancy Hospital (406) 651-05615

All our best wishes for a safe and meaningful Passover!

04/05/2025

The longer days! The fresh smells! The excitement! Spring Fever is here!
As you start to get outdoors for fun activities make sure your pets stay safe.

Injuries
Take it slow. Spring is the season we see many animal injuries in their excitement to run and play. After spending a lot of time indoors over the winter, it takes time to build up stamina and muscles. It's best to work up to those long hikes and walks. Also, if your pet is older try to restrain them from running too hard, it may be too much for their joints.

Toxic Plants
Spring is filled with new plants coming to life!
However, many plant bulbs like Daffodils, Tulips, Hyacinths, and Iris or bushes like Azalea and Rhododendrons are toxic to dogs and cats! If you're unsure of a plant look up: ASPCA poison control plant library.

Fertilizers and Herbicides
As you encourage your newly budding plants, make sure you read the warnings on products. If you need more information call the product's company. Their contact information should be listed right on the packaging.
Beware of Cocoa mulch! It is made from the same plant as chocolate and can cause the same problems to your pet as eating chocolate candy would.

Mushrooms
With the spring come mushrooms of all shapes and sizes. And just like with humans, most of them are toxic. It is best to walk the property and remove the mushrooms before letting your pet run free.
If your pet does eat a wild mushroom, be sure to call the office or the PetPoison Helpline. Treating mushroom toxicity right away gives the pet the best possible outcome.

Car Ride Dangers
If your critter loves the car ride, make sure they are secure in a crate or wearing a seatbelt harness. Sticking their heads out of a moving car is not advised. Debris can hit them, they can fall out of a window or the bed of a truck, and stopping short can cause major injuries.

House Projects
This is the time of year we start to do home improvement projects. Just remember that cleaning products, paints, or other chemicals can be toxic. Keep your pet away from areas that you will be working in. Nails, falling objects, power tools, and even insulation and exposed drywall can harm your pet.

Identification
Vacations, walks, and running off that extra energy!
Make sure your pet's identification is on and up to date with your contact information in case they get separated from you. A microchip, along with an imprinted tag, is the best combination to bring back a missing pet.

Fleas, Ticks & Mosquitos
Of course, we need to mention this. It is best to keep pets on a flea, tick, and heartworm preventative all year round, but if your pet's preventative has lapsed, make sure to get them back on it.
Heartworm Disease in dogs and cats is caused by mosquitos. Fleas & ticks cause many diseases, as well as anemia, itchy skin irritations, and even tapeworms!

When you're picking a product though, make sure it is appropriate for your pet. Call our office for more information on what product is safe and effective for your pet - 406-656-5622.

04/01/2025

Happy Birthday Bellamy!

03/26/2025

"DO I NEED TO BRING MY PET IN?"

This is a question we get asked daily. The rule of thumb is if your pet is sick or injured, you should seek veterinary care as soon as possible. If you are concerned enough to call, then yes....the pet should come in. However, some conditions are more urgent than others.

Grand Avenue Animal Hospital is a General Practice. We are not emergency. If you call and we can treat your pet in the time they need to be treated then we will get your pet in. If not, we will refer you out to emergency.

So...what constitutes a pet emergency?

Seek immediate care under the following conditions:

Rattlesnake Bite - a rattlesnake bite is considered an emergency, and you should seek veterinary care for your pet ASAP!

Heatstroke - heatstroke is considered an emergency, and you should seek veterinary care for your pet ASAP!

Hit by Car - even if the pet was "bumped" and appears ok, sometimes resulting internal injuries are a serious problem.

Trauma or Broken Bones - the best chance for recovery is immediate treatment.

Excessive Bleeding - seek immediate treatment.

Sudden onset of Bloated or Enlarged Abdomen - this can be caused by a condition where the stomach "flips", therefore not allowing anything to exit the stomach. This is a life-threatening condition, usually requiring surgical intervention.

Poison Ingestion - rodenticides (such as rat bait), some human prescription and over-the-counter medications, ma*****na, antifreeze, household products and cleansers, and even some household plants are toxic to pets. Chocolate could be added to this list as well, depending on the amount and type of chocolate ingested and the weight of the dog. In any event, call your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested something that he shouldn't have!

Labored Breathing - immediate care should be sought for a pet experiencing difficulty breathing or a cat with open mouth breathing. This condition could be considered an emergency, requiring immediate care if the pet is pale or blue (check the color of the pet's gums).

Seizures - a violent or prolonged seizure, lasting longer than 3 minutes.

Difficulty Urinating (male cats) - A male cat who has not urinated, or is experiencing difficulty urinating constitutes immediate medical care.

The following conditions warrant same-day care:
Eye Conditions - a foreign body in the eye (such as a foxtail), a sudden change in the appearance of the eye (cloudy or discolored), swelling around the eye, or the pet pawing at the eye are all conditions that warrant a same day appointment.

Excessive Vomiting - repeated vomiting, not able to keep down food/water for a period of 12 hours.

Bloody Diarrhea - ongoing diarrhea should not be prolonged past 24 hours. Bloody diarrhea warrants same day treatment. Please bring a stool sample to the appointment, if possible.

Difficulty Urinating - especially in cats. A male cat who has not urinated, or is experiencing difficulty urinating constitutes immediate medical care.

Hives - usually a pet exhibits hives if they are bit by an insect, and experience a reaction.

Otherwise:

Any abnormal behavior or symptom should not be prolonged longer than 72 hours without care. Unfortunately, with some conditions, the longer care is delayed the worse the condition becomes-sometimes requiring more extensive treatment. Call the clinic if you notice any of the following changes in your pet:
Unusual behavior, including lethargy or aggression
Unusual discharge from the nose, eyes, or other body openings
An increase or decrease in appetite that lasts more than a few days
Excessive head shaking, scratching, or licking
Swelling or abnormal lumps
Limping or difficulty getting up or lying down
Foul breath or excessive deposits on teeth
Changes in urination or drinking habits
Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Obvious injury or illness
Your pet's normal body temperature ranges from 100.5-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Although not all conditions or diseases are accompanied by a fever, it is a good idea to keep a digital thermometer at home to monitor your pet's temperature if you suspect a medical problem. If in doubt, please give us a call at 406-656-5622!
Emergancy Hospitals:
Clarity Animal Hospital Friday - Monday 406-651-5615
Animal Clinic of Billings 406-252-9499
Moore Lane 406-252-4159

03/23/2025

Puppies and Kittens oh my!🐱🐶


Snuggle up, because it's National Puppy and Kitten Day! We want to join in celebrating our puppies and kittens of all ages!

Today we encourage all pet owners to cuddle a little harder, give that extra treat, and have a photoshoot!

As always, we want to see all your cute fur babies! Feel free to share photos with us by messaging us here or emailing us at [email protected]!

03/20/2025

With it being poison prevention week, here is a great chart from a great pet isurance! Pumpkin

03/18/2025

We had a Birthday yesterday! Happy Birthday Froggy!

03/17/2025

Our team at Grand Avenue Animal Hospital thanks you for being an important part of our family!

Be sure to keep pets safe while you celebrate.

Food Dangers: While we all know people food can often be harmful for our pets; it is especially important to remember this around the holidays. Avoid sharing any sweets or leftovers with your furry best friend. By keeping these potentially toxic foods out of your pet’s reach, you will not only ensure the safety of your pet, but it will help keep the extra pounds off your pet during the holidays.

If your pet needs immediate care over the holiday, please contact : Friday - Monday Clarity Animal Hospital 406-651-5615
Tuesday - Thursday Moore Lane 406-252-4159

Here is a great list of Do's and Dont's!

Leave the Beer to the Humans!
Alcohol is extremely toxic to cats and dogs. Alcohol poisoning happens fast in animals and can cause diarrhea/vomiting, lethargy, lack of coordination, trouble breathing, coma, seizures, or even death. Typically, signs of depression and drunkenness in dogs appear within an hour of ingestion.

If you or members of your party are drinking, be mindful, and make sure it stays out of reach of your pets. If you are concerned you pet may have gotten into alcohol, give your veterinarian or closest veterinary emergency room a call immediately.

Shamrocks: Not So Lucky for Pets
The Oxalis species of shamrock plant, sometimes given as gifts on St. Paddy’s Day, can be toxic to dogs and cats. Luckily they taste bitter and are seldom the snack of choice, but if eaten in large amounts it can cause low blood calcium and kidney damage. Symptoms of Oxalis poisoning include stomach upset, drooling, head shaking, and decreased appetite.

St. Patrick’s Day Foods: Do’s & Don’ts for Pets
don’t: Salty/fatty foods
Traditional foods like corned beef and mashed potatoes, can be very high in salt and fat. Salt toxicity in pets is dangerous and giving your pet too much fatty food scraps can cause acute pancreatitis.

Don’t: Raisins
Currants & raisins, often found in Irish soda bread, can can cause severe kidney damage leading to acute kidney failure in dogs.

Don’t: Foods containing onion & garlic
Don’t feed your pet foods that contain onion & garlic, such as pot roast or shepherd’s pie. When onions and garlic are ingested in large amounts, it can cause anemia, with resultant weakness, lethargy and pale mucous membranes. Cats are more sensitive than dogs to Allium (leeks) toxicosis.

Do’s:
Here are some snacks you can give to your pets on this festive holiday:

Raw veggies (cabbage, carrots, green beans)
Cooked plain potato
And always remember to keep trash cans secure; that corned beef fat can smell irresistible to a hungry pup.

Pet Safety in Crowds and Parades
We always recommend leaving your pet at home. Holiday celebrations are the most common time dogs go missing. Even the most confident dogs can get spooked in large crowds with lots of noises (and unruly people).

If you must take your dog with you to a parade or event, be sure they have ID tags, a secure harness they cannot slip out of, and a good leash.

Check out our tips for dog etiquette at breweries!

If you’re having people over your house, make sure your pets have a safe space or room they can retreat to and let people know to leave them alone. Be mindful of doors opening as people come and go; a scared cat or excited dog may take advantage of a busy room with people not paying attention.

Dressing Up
If your pet likes dressing up, and you like dying his/her fur – make sure any dyes you use are non-toxic to pets, read the labels, or contact a local groomer for recommendations.

Wishing you and your family a Happy St. Patrick's Day!🍀

03/16/2025

March 16th - 22nd is
National Poison Prevention Week

Established in 1961 by Congress, National Poison Prevention Week (NPPW) was originated to raise awareness of poison prevention and safety. Likewise, Grand Avenue Animal Hospital takes this opportunity to encourage all of our pet owners to learn about potential dangers to their pets and what to do if they are exposed.

Remember, pets are not tiny humans! Things that are not poisonous to humans, can be deadly to pets.

COMMON HOUSEHOLD ITEMS THAT CAN POISON YOUR PETS

Foods and Food Additives:

Human Foods can cause everything from nausea and vomiting to tremors and liver failure. Here are some of the more common items:

Xylitol artificial sweetener ♦ Chocolate ♦ Coffee & other caffeinated items ♦ Avocado ♦ Citrus ♦ Coconut & Coconut Oil ♦ Grapes & Raisins ♦ Nuts ♦ Onions ♦ Garlic ♦ Dairy products ♦ Bones ♦ Raw or Undercooked meat or eggs ♦ Salt/Salty snacks ♦ Yeast dough

Human Drugs:

Common pain relievers like Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen as well as Anti-depressants, and so many more medicines, can harm your pet!

Common human drugs can cause serious harm to your pets when ingested. Everything from intestinal ulcers to kidney disease, and neurological problems.

If your pet has ingested any human medications call our office or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately to determine if your pet needs emergency help.

Plants and Flowers:

So many plants can cause severe toxicity in pets!

Daffodils, Tulips, Hyacinths, and Iris or bushes like Azaleas and Rhododendrons are toxic to dogs and cats!
If you're unsure of a plant look it up : ASPCA poison control plant library.

Fertilizers, Pest Control & Chemicals:

As you encourage your plants to grow, make sure you read the warnings on all plant products. If you need more information call the product's company. Their contact information should be listed right on the packaging.

Beware of Cocoa mulch! It is made from the same plant as chocolate and can cause the same problems to your pet as eating chocolate candy would.

Also, pest baits for rodents, slugs, or snails are also severely toxic to pets and can cause death.
If you think your pet has ingested something poisonous, it is always best to get help immediately, rather than waiting until your pet is showing severe symptoms.

Contact Grand Avenue Animal Hospital at 406-656-5622 or a Pet Poison Helpline immediately (numbers below).

Additional Pet Poison Safety Information:

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435

Pet Poison Helpline's Poison List (855) 764-7661

03/12/2025

Happy Birthday Kelli!

03/06/2025

Disaster Preparedness for Pets

Hurricane Tornado Fire Flood Earthquake

While no one wants to experience a disaster, we can still learn how to best prepare to keep our furry loved ones safe. Pets will depend on you during a crisis and being prepared can reduce the effects a disaster can place on your family.

Plan

Create a plan for individual scenarios and have a list of relatives, friends, shelters, and hotels that can house a pet. Securely fastened collars with up-to-date identification should be placed on each animal. Keeping vaccinations current for all pets can reduce stress when attempting to find temporary shelter during an emergency. Many locations may require proof of current vaccinations to reduce the spread of diseases. If you aren't sure of your pet's current vaccine status, please call us at 406-656-5622.

Placing a rescue alert sticker on the outside of your home can help rescue workers know how many and what types of pets may be in the house. Typically these stickers will include the type of pet, number of pets, and an emergency contact number. These stickers can be purchased online, or you may find one at your local shelter or emergency response group.
https://www.billingsmt.gov/3178/Crisis-Response-Team

Emergency Kit

It's important to keep a pet emergency supply kit ready for a variety of potential disaster situations.

Items to consider:

Three or more day supply of food stored in an airtight and waterproof container. Bowls and can opener. Be mindful of expiration dates.
Drinking water
Current photos/description of pets
Vaccine records, Medical/Dietary instructions, and Veterinarian Contact Info
Medications
Toys, blankets, treats
Collar, leash, ID tags
Sturdy carrier
Cats: Litterbox and litter
First aid kit:
Gloves
Gauze sponges/rolls
Small Scissors
Tweezers
Sterile Pads (Non-Adherent)
Topical Antibiotic Ointment
Rubbing Alcohol
Hydrogen Peroxide
Sterile Saline
Tongue depressors
Adhesive tape
Elastic Cling Bandage
Cotton tipped swabs
Muzzle
Towel

Identification

Ensuring your pet has proper identification is crucial to get them back to you if separated. Grand Avenue Animal Hospital highly recommends microchipping your pet and keeping your contact information up to date with us and the microchip company. Please call us at 406-656-5622 to schedule a microchip placement.

Additional Information

For more tips please visit:

https://www.ready.gov/pets

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/disaster-preparedness

02/17/2025

❄️❄️❄️CLOSING EARLY TODAY❄️❄️❄️
Due to most of our staff living out of town and the condition of the roads today, we will be closing between 4 and 4:40 today in order for everyone to get home safely before dark.
Call ahead to make sure we are still here if its after 4.
We appologize for any inconviennce.
We will reopen on Tuesday at 7:30a.
Everyone be safe out there!

02/07/2025

❄️❄️❄️CLOSING EARLY TODAY❄️❄️❄️
Due to most of our staff living out of town, we will be closing at 4pm today in order for everyone to get home safely before dark.
We appologize for any inconviennce.
We will reopen on Monday at 7:30a.
Everyone be safe out there!