Dr. Lera’s Corner
Stay informed on your pet’s care with our blog from Dr. Lera of the Heron Lakes veterinary team.
Veterinary Blog
Check out the latest educational articles and tips recommended by Dr. Lera!
Blogs
Taking Your Dog to the Park: Safety and Fun Tips
Key Takeaways: Up-to-Date Preventative Care: Ensure your dog is vaccinated and protected against fleas, ticks, and parasites before visiting the park. Assess Your Dog’s Personality: Not all dogs enjoy dog parks—watch for signs of stress or aggression. Training Is...
Pets and Cancer: What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know
Key Takeaways: Common Pet Cancers: Lymphoma, mast cell tumors, bone cancer, and mammary tumors are among the most diagnosed types. Warning Signs: Weight loss, lumps, appetite changes, bleeding, and lethargy could indicate cancer in pets. Risk Factors: Genetics,...
Bulldog Care Tips: How to Keep Your Pooch Happy and Healthy
Key Takeaways: Prevent Overheating – Bulldogs are prone to heatstroke; keep them cool and hydrated. Clean Face Folds Daily – Wrinkles trap moisture, leading to infections. Water Safety Is a Must – Bulldogs cannot swim well and need supervision near water. Watch for...
5 Reasons to Consider Pet Insurance: Why It’s a Smart Investment
Key Takeaways: Covers Emergency Costs – Unexpected vet bills can reach thousands; pet insurance helps reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Access to Advanced Care – Some plans cover surgeries, rehab, and even dental treatments. Protects Mischievous Pets – Coverage for...
How to Keep Your Cat Happy: Simple Tips for a Purr-Filled Life
The Secret to Keeping Your Cat Happy and Content Cats may be independent, but they thrive on love, comfort, and engagement. Whether they’re curling up for a nap, playfully chasing a toy, or watching birds from a windowsill, keeping your cat happy involves more than...
Senior Dog Wellness: A Complete Guide to Keeping Your Aging Pet Healthy
Understanding Senior Dog Wellness As dogs enter their senior years, their needs change, requiring a different approach to care. Senior dog wellness focuses on maintaining their health, mobility, and overall quality of life. By being proactive with veterinary care,...
End-of-Life Care for Pets: Compassionate Support for Your Beloved Companion
Understanding End-of-Life Care for Pets Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest decisions a pet owner will ever face. End-of-life care for pets focuses on providing comfort, dignity, and the highest quality of life in their final days. Whether through...
Arthritis in Pets: Symptoms, Treatments & Regenerative Options
Understanding Arthritis in Pets Arthritis is one of the most common conditions affecting aging pets. This degenerative joint disease leads to inflammation, stiffness, and pain, significantly impacting a pet’s quality of life. Recognizing the symptoms early and...
How to Care for a Senior Dog: A Complete Guide
Understanding the Unique Needs of Senior Pets As our beloved pets age, their needs change, requiring a different approach to senior dog care. Older dogs may experience joint pain, slower metabolism, cognitive changes, and a weakened immune system. By recognizing these...
Cognitive Dysfunction in Senior Pets: Signs, Treatment & Care
Understanding Cognitive Dysfunction in Senior Pets As pets age, they may experience cognitive decline similar to dementia in humans. Cognitive dysfunction in senior pets affects memory, learning, awareness, and behavior, leading to confusion and anxiety. Recognizing...