Harborview Animal Hospital

04/11/2025

Today is National Pet Day!

Please celebrate this day by sharing a picture of your furry friend(s)!

04/11/2025

With Easter fast approaching, it's time for our yearly reminder that ducklings, chicks, and bunnies do NOT make good basket fillers!

Every year, shortly after Easter, we get several calls from people who bought ducklings, chicks, and bunnies as Easter props. Unfortunately, Back To The Wild does not take in domestic animals that need rehoming. These animals often require many years of care, attention, and dedicated living spaces.

Before getting any unique little pet, always make sure to do your research to make sure they are a good fit for your home! 🐇🪻

04/10/2025

Today is National Hug Your Dog Day!

Our dogs are special and deserve all the love and affection that we can give!

04/09/2025

Wednesday Blog –

10 Fun and Easy Ways to Keep Your Dog Active This Active Dog Month

As we celebrate Active Dog Month, it’s the perfect time to give our furry friends a little extra love and attention when it comes to staying active. Just like humans, dogs need regular exercise to maintain their physical health, mental stimulation, and emotional well-being. Active dogs are happy dogs, and when we engage them in regular activities, we not only improve their fitness but also strengthen the bond we share with them.

Whether you’re new to dog ownership or a seasoned pet parent, here are 10 fun and easy ways to keep your dog moving, exploring, and having fun all month long!

1. Tail-Wagging Walks
One of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to keep your dog active is by taking them for walks. But don’t settle for the same old neighborhood route—explore new areas and make your walks more exciting! Try morning or evening walks when the weather is cooler, or venture out to parks, trails, or even beaches where your dog can enjoy new sights and smells. If your dog loves to sniff, let them lead the way for a truly engaging walk.

Pro Tip: Vary the route often to keep it fresh and exciting for your dog. A walk in the woods or along a scenic route is a great way to stimulate their senses!

2. Interactive Toys for Mental and Physical Stimulation
Physical activity isn’t the only thing that keeps a dog healthy. Interactive toys help engage your dog’s mind while encouraging them to move. Toys like tug-of-war ropes, frisbees, and balls for fetch are great for outdoor play, while puzzle toys can provide mental stimulation indoors.

You can even try food-dispensing toys that challenge your dog to figure out how to get their treat—perfect for rainy days or when you’re short on time.

Pro Tip: If your dog loves fetch, switch it up with a frisbee or a ball launcher to keep them moving and engaged.

3. Fun Backyard Agility Course
No need to sign up for an expensive dog training class to have fun and exercise your dog. Set up a simple DIY agility course right in your own backyard! Use cones, tunnels, and even household items like broomsticks and chairs to create obstacles for your dog to navigate. This will challenge both their mind and body, and you’ll have a blast watching them learn new skills.

Pro Tip: Keep the obstacles simple at first and gradually increase the difficulty as your dog gets more confident.

4. Try Canine Sports
Have you ever thought about enrolling your dog in a canine sport? There are plenty of dog-friendly sports like agility, flyball, and dock diving that will not only keep your dog active but also provide them with the opportunity to socialize and learn new skills.

Whether you choose to join a dog agility group or try out a new sport on a whim, your dog will enjoy the mental and physical challenge. Plus, it’s a great way for both of you to get involved in something fun and exciting!

Pro Tip: Look for a canine sport classes or events to get started. Many parks and dog clubs offer beginner-friendly classes.

5. Doggy Playdates and Socialization
Dogs love to socialize, and what better way to keep them active than with a playdate? Set up a meet-up with other dog owners in your area, and let your dog run, play, and interact with their new furry friends. Not only will your dog burn off some energy, but they’ll also learn valuable social skills.

Pro Tip: Be sure to choose doggy playmates with similar energy levels and temperaments to ensure a fun and safe playdate.

6. Take a Run Together
If you’re an active person yourself, why not take your dog on a run? Running alongside you is an excellent way to help your dog build stamina and stay in shape. Start slow with shorter runs and gradually increase the distance as your dog builds endurance. This is a great option for high-energy breeds that need more intense physical activity.

Pro Tip: Keep your dog on a leash to prevent them from darting into traffic or getting distracted by squirrels or other animals. Make sure they’re well-hydrated during and after the run.

7. Swimming: The Ultimate Low-Impact Exercise
Keep in mind that these are recommendations for warmer weather - For older dogs or those with joint issues, swimming is the perfect low-impact exercise. Swimming provides an excellent full-body workout that’s easy on the joints but still builds strength and endurance. Many dog-friendly beaches or pools offer spaces where your dog can swim safely.

Pro Tip: Always supervise your dog in the water and make sure they have a proper doggy life jacket if necessary.

8. Mental Challenges: Training Sessions
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Training sessions, where you teach your dog new tricks or work on basic commands, help keep their brain sharp while providing them with some exercise. Try practicing sit, stay, or roll over, or get creative with more advanced tricks.

In addition to mental engagement, training builds a stronger bond between you and your dog, while also reinforcing good behavior.

Pro Tip: Keep training sessions short and positive, and always reward your dog with treats or praise for a job well done!

9. Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, take your dog on a hiking adventure! Many hiking trails are dog-friendly, and the varied terrain will provide both a physical and mental workout for your dog. Whether you’re hiking a mountain, wandering through forests, or walking along a scenic trail, your dog will love exploring the great outdoors with you.

Pro Tip: Always check ahead to make sure the trail is dog-friendly and keep your dog on a leash for safety.

10. Active Indoor Play for Rainy Days
What happens when the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor activities? No problem! There are plenty of fun and active indoor games you can play with your dog. Try playing tug-of-war, fetch down a hallway, or hide and seek. You can also set up an indoor obstacle course with furniture or soft objects to keep them moving.

Pro Tip: Make sure the indoor space is safe and free of any obstacles that could cause your dog to get hurt during play.

Conclusion:
Active Dog Month is all about celebrating the joy of keeping our dogs active and healthy. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or cozy indoor activities, there are countless ways to ensure your dog stays fit, happy, and engaged. By incorporating a mix of physical and mental exercises into your routine, you’ll have a dog that’s not only physically strong but emotionally balanced too.

So, get outside, try something new, and enjoy every moment with your active, four-legged friend! What are your favorite ways to keep your dog active? Share your ideas and adventures with us throughout Active Dog Month! 🐾🐕

04/08/2025

We are running an Easter special! When you buy two doses of Bravecto, you will receive a free gift and a $10 rebate. When you buy four, you will receive two gifts and a $25 rebate. While supplies last. Rebates are good though 12/31/25.
Online store purchases are included with this special! 😁

04/08/2025

Today is also National Dog Fighting Awareness Day.
It's hard to believe that this still goes on, but unfortunately it does.
https://shorturl.at/l6GOy

It’s hard to take a stand for something if you don’t have all the facts. That’s why we’re answering the most commonly asked questions about dogfighting and sharing how you can help stop this form of animal cruelty!

04/08/2025

Today is Catahoula Leopard Dog Day!

04/03/2025

You want your dog to stay happy and healthy, but you're unsure of how often you should be visiting the vet. That's okay. We've made it easy. Learn more: bit.ly/vet_visits

03/31/2025

You're asking the right questions. We've got some answers. Check out the blog to learn more about how often you should pay your vet a visit. Learn more: bit.ly/vet_visits

03/28/2025

Just a reminder that the office is closed today. See you Monday! Have a great weekend everyone!!!

03/27/2025

Today is National Terrier Day!

National Terrier Day was created in the UK by Scruffy Little Terrier, this holiday celebrates all terriers. Please feel free to share your photos with us!

03/27/2025

FYI - The office will be closed tomorrow. We will return to normal business hours on Monday, 3/31.

03/26/2025

Welcome To Our Inaugural Wednesday Weekly Blog!

Planning a Trip with Your Cat: The Hilarious (Or Not So Hilarious!) Struggle of Getting Them into Their Carrier
(Click the picture or the link at the end for great tips & tricks!)

As much as we love our feline friends, taking them on trips isn’t always as simple as packing our bags and heading out the door. For cat owners, the first and possibly most frustrating step of any trip is getting your cat into their carrier. We’ve all been there—chasing your cat around the house, trying to trick them into the carrier, only to find yourself questioning your sanity. But don't worry, you're not alone. Let’s talk about the reality of traveling with your cat and the hilarious struggle that is getting them in their carrier.

The Journey Begins: Planning a Trip with Your Cat
The idea of taking your cat with you on vacation sounds great in theory. Maybe you're heading to a pet-friendly hotel or visiting family and you don’t want to leave your feline behind. You can picture your cat lounging in a sunny spot, looking out the window at the scenery as you both enjoy a change of pace. In your mind, it's all peaceful and relaxing.

But then, the planning phase starts. You have to figure out how to transport your cat, and suddenly, you realize... you need a carrier. And that’s when the trouble begins.

Step 1: The Great Carrier Debate
When you first bought that carrier, it seemed like a solid purchase. Sturdy, possibly stylish, and roomy enough for your cat to move around in, but now? It might as well be an ancient torture device in your cat’s eyes. The moment you even think about pulling it out of the closet, your cat goes into full-on "I’m a stealthy ninja" mode.

Suddenly, your cat is nowhere to be found. They’ve vanished into the depths of your home, possibly hiding under the couch, inside the closet, or behind a stack of pillows. It’s as if they have a sixth sense and can detect the faintest mention of “carrier” from miles away.

Step 2: The Chase
You’ve finally located your cat, and now you must employ all your sneakiest tactics to get them into the carrier. Maybe you’ve tried to lure them in with treats, but they’re too smart for that. Maybe I should try some food – then suddenly, your cat’s not interested in food, at all. It’s like they’re saying, "You think I’ll fall for that? I’ve watched you pull this trick before."

Then you try the "open the door and hope they wander in" method. You sit there, waiting, holding your breath and praying they’ll just walk in like an obedient little angel. And for a moment, you believe this might work… but no. Your cat does anything but walk into the carrier. They might walk past it, take one look, and dart off into a different room. It's like they’re playing a game of "catch me if you can," and you’re losing!

Step 3: The Surrender
After about 30 minutes of sweating, bending, and twisting your body into positions you never thought possible, you’ve reached the point of no return. You realize this isn’t going to be a simple in-and-out process. The carrier is now the enemy. And you’re caught in an epic battle of wits, brawn, and willpower.

There’s a moment of calm when you both stare at each other—your cat perched on top of the couch like they just won the Olympics, and you standing there, exhausted and questioning every decision that led you to this moment.

But then, in one desperate move, you lunge. The chase is on! Somehow, you’ve caught your cat (maybe by the scruff of their neck or the tail), and you wrestle them into the carrier. It’s not graceful. It’s not pretty, but you’ve won. The carrier door clicks shut, and you hear that sigh of relief.

Step 4: The Trip Itself
Now, you’re both in the car, your cat silently judging you from inside the carrier. There’s an eerie calm as they sit there, probably plotting their revenge. But you know what? You did it. You got them in the carrier. And while it wasn’t the easiest or most graceful thing, you’re one step closer to your trip.

Maybe the trip will be great. Maybe your cat will calm down once they realize you're heading to a new adventure, with new places to explore and new spots to nap in. But that carrier? That will always be the adversary. And next time, when you even think about going on another trip, you’ll know exactly what you're in for.

Final Thoughts: The Art of Traveling with Your Cat
Traveling with a cat isn’t always easy, and the carrier is an undeniable obstacle, but once it’s all said and done, there’s nothing quite like seeing your cat enjoy a new environment or just being with you on an adventure. So, the next time you find yourself trying to wrangle your cat into their carrier, just remember: you’re not alone. And yes, it’s all worth it in the end—even if the process does feel like a never-ending wrestling match.

Planning a trip to the vet or possibly a vacation? Here is a link to help you plan ahead - https://shorturl.at/tpKBg. There are tips for prep, training, what to do in a pinch and much more!

Good luck out there, fellow cat owners. Your next great adventure awaits!

Often the only time cats get into a carrier is when they’re whisked off to the vet. It's not surprising they don't like it. Here's how to help your cat.

03/25/2025

I am sure that by now, everyone knows the dangers of xylitol, but there are quite a few more names for it. Here is a list of other names for xylitol that are on ingredient labels along with a link to the FDA's website:

Xylitol
Birch sugar
Wood sugar
Birch bark extract
E967: (European code)
Meso-Xylitol
Sucre de Bouleau: (French for birch sugar)
Xylite
Xylit
Xylo-pentane-1,2,3,4,5-pentol
Pentane-1,2,3,4,5-pentol
1,4-anhydro-d-xylitol
Anhydroxylitol
d-xylitol
xylitylglucoside
Zylatol

FDA Website for more information about xylitol - https://shorturl.at/rzeGu

03/24/2025

So important! 🐝🦋🐞🐛❤️💚

A friendly reminder that insects and pollinators are still sleeping off winter. We don't want to wake them too early if we want them to stay around.

03/24/2025

With Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital – We just got recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉

03/24/2025

French Bull dogs have done it again! They are #1 on the AKC's Top 10 breeds for 2024. We really love them here at Harborview! So you think you might want one? Please think long and hard before you make your decision. While they are adorable and sweet, they can come with a laundry list of issues. Here is an excellent article and a must read for those who are considering this breed.
https://shorturl.at/T2y7x

Overbreeding is causing French Bulldogs to fill shelters. Here’s what to know about the health risks and behaviors of French Bulldogs before you adopt.

03/23/2025

Today is National Puppy Day!

National Puppy Day was created to raise awareness of puppy mills and encourage people to adopt shelter dogs instead of buying puppies from breeders.

Why it was created?
- To educate the public about the cruel practices of puppy mills
- To encourage people to adopt shelter dogs instead of buying puppies from breeders
- To save orphaned puppies across the globe

Who created it?
Animal advocate and behaviorist Colleen Paige, who also founded National Dog Day and National Cat Day.

How to celebrate?
- Consider adopting a puppy from a shelter or rescue organization
- Research different breeds and their needs
- Consider the cost of food, medical care, and other expenses
- Make sure your puppy's vet check-ups are up to date
- Take your puppy for a walk in the park
- Post pictures of your puppy on social media
- Brush your dog