Idaho Veterinary Hospital

06/23/2026

🌾 Foxtail Season Is Here, Protect Your Pets! 🐾

Those dry, grassy seed heads you see along trails, roadsides, fields, and even in your backyard may seem harmless, but foxtails and cheatgrass awns can pose a serious danger to pets.

Their sharp, barbed seeds can attach to your pet's fur and work their way into the:
👂 Ears
👃 Nose
👁 Eyes
🐾 Paws
🦴 Skin

Unlike a splinter, foxtails can continue to move deeper into the body, causing painful infections, abscesses, and in some cases requiring surgery to remove.

Signs your pet may have a foxtail include:
⚠️ Excessive sneezing
⚠️ Head shaking or pawing at the ears
⚠️ Squinting or eye discharge
⚠️ Limping or licking at the feet
⚠️ Swelling, redness, or draining wounds

To help keep your pet safe:
✔️ Avoid areas with tall, dry grasses whenever possible
✔️ Check your pet's paws, ears, eyes, and coat after outdoor adventures
✔️ Brush and groom regularly, especially long-haired pets
✔️ Contact your veterinarian if you notice any concerning signs
✔️ Especially check between the pads and toes of the feet

A quick post-walk inspection can prevent a painful and potentially serious problem. Stay safe and enjoy the outdoors! 🐶🐱❤️

06/21/2026

Happy First Day of Summer 2026!

06/20/2026

Happy Summertime!

06/20/2026

06/16/2026

Idaho has issued orders that any animals that are originating in a state with a documented case New World Screwworm will require Veterinary Exams and Health Certificate documentation within 5 days of coming to, or returning to, Idaho. ISDA strongly recommends not traveling with your pets to any states that have been listed. To find an up-to-date list of states affected by this parasite, please visit https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animals/animal-health/livestock-and-poultry-disease/current-status/us-confirmed-cases-new-world

06/16/2026

🦷 What's the Difference Between a Groomer's Teeth Cleaning and a Veterinary Dental Procedure? 🐾

Many pet owners are surprised to learn that there is a big difference between cosmetic teeth cleaning and a professional dental procedure performed by a veterinarian.

A groomer may be able to remove some visible tartar from the surface of your pet's teeth, helping them look cleaner. However, groomers cannot clean below the gumline, where dental disease often begins and progresses. The tools that veterinarians use will also help protect your pet's healthy teeth from damage caused by improper tools/usage.

During a veterinary dental procedure, your pet is placed under anesthesia so the veterinary team can:
✔️ Thoroughly clean above and below the gumline
✔️ Take dental X-rays to identify hidden problems
✔️ Evaluate each tooth for disease or damage
✔️ Treat infections, painful teeth, and other oral health issues

In fact, much of dental disease occurs below the gumline where it cannot be seen with the naked eye. A pet's teeth may look clean on the surface while significant disease is developing underneath.

Regular veterinary dental care helps prevent pain, infection, tooth loss, and can even improve your pet's overall health and quality of life.

If you're concerned about your pet's dental health, give us a call at 208-466-4614 to talk about the best options for keeping their smile healthy and pain-free. 🐶🐱❤️

06/14/2026

🌞🐾 Hot weather can be tough on our furry friends! As temperatures rise, it's important to help keep pets safe and comfortable.

✅ Provide plenty of fresh, cool water at all times.
✅ Make sure your pet has access to shade or air conditioning.
✅ Walk dogs during the cooler morning or evening hours.
✅ Avoid hot pavement, it can burn sensitive paw pads.
✅ Consider cooling mats, frozen treats, or a kiddie pool for extra relief.

⚠️ Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, including:
• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Lethargy or weakness
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Bright red gums
• Difficulty breathing
• Collapse or loss of consciousness

If you notice any of these symptoms, move your pet to a cool area, offer small amounts of water, and contact your veterinarian immediately 208-466-4614.

Remember: If it's too hot for you, it's probably too hot for your pet. Stay cool and keep those tails wagging this summer! 🐶🐱❤️

06/12/2026

🎆 Fireworks season is almost here! While we may enjoy the celebrations, fireworks and thunderstorms can be terrifying for many dogs, cats, and other pets.

Loud noises, flashing lights, and vibrations can trigger intense fear and anxiety, causing some pets to panic, hide, destroy property, or even try to escape. In fact, this is one of the busiest times of year for lost pets.

Here are some ways to help keep your pets safe and comfortable:

🐾 Make sure your pet's microchip information is current and that they are wearing an ID tag.

🐾 Create a safe, quiet space indoors where they can retreat during storms or fireworks.

🐾 Close windows, curtains, and blinds to reduce noise and flashes of light.

🐾 Provide calming distractions such as favorite toys, treats, or soothing music.

🐾 Keep pets indoors, even if they normally spend time outside.

🐾 If your pet has a history of noise anxiety, talk to us about medication options. There are safe and effective treatments that can make a huge difference in your pet's comfort and well-being.

⏰ Don't wait until the week before the Fourth of July! Many anxiety medications work best when we have time to discuss your pet's needs and develop a plan before the fireworks begin.

If your pet struggles with thunderstorms, fireworks, or other loud noises, contact us today. We're here to help them stay calm, safe, and stress-free this summer. ❤️🐶🐱

06/11/2026

🐄 New World Screwworm: Low Risk in Idaho, But Travelers Should Stay Aware

There has been increased discussion about the New World Screwworm, a parasite that can infest livestock, wildlife, pets, and in rare cases, people. The good news is that Idaho currently remains at very low risk because the parasite is not established in the United States.

However, Idahoans who travel with animals, or who visit areas where New World Screwworm has been detected, should stay informed and take precautions. Animals returning from affected regions may require additional exams or health certifications.

If you're traveling with pets or other animals:
✅ Follow all animal health requirements before crossing borders.
✅ Inspect animals regularly for unusual wounds or signs of infection.
✅ Report suspicious cases to your veterinarian immediately.
✅ Know before you go - research what may be required of you to bring your pet back to Idaho.

While there is no reason for alarm here in Idaho, awareness and prevention are key to protecting our animals, agricultural industry, and wildlife.

Stay informed, travel responsibly, and help keep Idaho's creatures healthy and safe.

https://www.cdc.gov/new-world-screwworm/about/index.html

06/10/2026

Happy Birthday Dr. Mueller! Help us send her birthday wishes below!