Here at Cascade Hospital for Animals, we're dedicated to keeping your beloved companions happy and healthy. That's why we want to talk about a serious, yet preventable, bacterial infection called Leptospirosis.

Think of leptospirosis as a "waterborne" bacterial infection, as Dr. Dana Isard, one of our skilled veterinarians, explains. "The bacteria like to hang out in water, especially stagnant or slow-moving water, and in the soil that's been contaminated by infected animal urine." When a dog encounters these bacteria, they can enter the bloodstream and wreak havoc on vital organs like the kidneys and liver, leading to life-threatening symptoms.

This year marks a significant milestone for Cascade Hospital for Animals (CHFA) – our 70th anniversary! It's a moment to reflect on the enduring bonds we've forged with our community, the rich history that has shaped us, and the family legacy that continues to guide our practice. More than a veterinary hospital, CHFA has become a cornerstone of our community, a testament to unwavering dedication, and a living legacy carried through three generations of the Siegle family.

As the weather warms and our lawns beckon us outdoors, many of us turn our attention to achieving soft, beautiful grass and a yard rid of mosquitos. However, for pet owners, this endeavor requires extra caution. At Cascade Hospital for Animals, we frequently see concerned pet parents whose beloved companions have had adverse reactions to lawn care treatments and chemicals. To help you keep your pets safe while maintaining a beautiful yard, Dr. Holly Mincks, one of our experienced veterinarians here at CHFA, educates on the potential risks and how to minimize them.

As pet owners, we cherish the happy wags and playful purrs our companions bring into our lives. However, when that joy is interrupted by constant scratching, licking, or head shaking, it can be concerning. Allergies are a common culprit behind these uncomfortable symptoms in both dogs and cats. At Cascade Hospitals for Animals (CHFA), we understand how frustrating pet allergies can be, and we're here to help.

As your partners in pet health at Cascade Hospital for Animals, we want to share important information about a common but serious condition that can affect our beloved pets: pancreatitis. Dr. Justine Rasche shares what you need to know to keep your pet safe.

Proactive pet healthcare that helps your companions live their longest, healthiest lives is our top priority at Cascade Hospital for Animals. One of the most valuable tools in our preventive care arsenal is comprehensive bloodwork. Dr. Becky Schaffer offers her expertise to explain how routine blood panels can help keep your furry family members healthy and thriving through every stage of life.

Vomiting in cats can be a perplexing and concerning issue for pet owners. Dr. Dhaliwal, a veterinarian here at Cascade Hospital for Animals, offers her professional advice, emphasizing the importance of understanding the various types of vomiting, potential causes, and available treatments to help pet owners gauge when to act and seek veterinary assistance.

"I've seen countless cases of feline vomiting," says Dr. Dhaliwal. "Each situation is unique, and context is key to understanding what's happening with your cat's health."

Header Photo: Dr. Clayton Siegle and Rhys getting into the Holiday spirit!

The winter holidays are a time to celebrate and create joyful memories—and your pets can be part of the fun! However, holiday gatherings and decorations also bring potential hazards. At Cascade Hospital for Animals and Breton Village Animal Clinic, our priority is to help include your pets in the festivities while keeping them safe.

Photo: Dr. Isard and Jones at his recent appointment unrelated to a dog bite.

A dog bite is a frightening experience for any pet parent, and knowing the right steps to take can make a huge difference in your dog’s recovery. Dr. Dana Isard of Cascade Animal Hospital shares key actions you should take if your dog is bitten, along with how to determine when professional care is needed, and tips for monitoring the healing process.

At Cascade Hospital for Animals, we know your pets are family, and they deserve to be included in the holiday celebrations. As your trusted veterinary team, we're excited to share our guide to selecting safe and enjoyable gifts for your four-legged family members this holiday season.