Pet Health Blog

As availability of marijuana increases in the Portland area since legalization, so have the number of marijuana toxicity cases treated at DoveLewis. Our doctors warn pet owners of the potential risks to their dogs and cats if marijuana is ingested in any form.
Cigarettes, Cigars, Tobacco and Nicotine Are Toxic to Pets
Most people know that smoking is bad for your health, but how many of us think about the dangers of tobacco, cigarettes and smoking around pets?
Parvovirus: What You Need to Know
Parvovirus is a potentially life-threatening illness, most commonly affecting young dogs between the age of 8 weeks and 1 year old. Highly contagious, the virus is transmitted through contaminated dog feces and can live for long periods of time in the environment (sometimes several years).
FDA Warns of Xylitol Toxicity for Dogs
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a strong warning about the dangerous effects that can occur when dogs consume xylitol, an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free gum, toothpaste, mouthwash, candy, vitamins, medication and specialty nut butters.
Canine Flu Symptoms, Risk and Treatment
Canine influenza, or commonly referred to as “canine flu” or “dog flu,” is a relatively new respiratory infection affecting dogs of all ages and breeds. There are two known strains that can make your dog sick. The latest strain, H3N2, was first reported in Chicago in March 2015 and is currently on the rise.
Cat vomit: What’s normal and what’s not?
If you’re a cat owner, it’s possible you’ve seen your cat throw up a few times. An isolated incident or two is usually no great cause for alarm. Occasional vomiting is not severe, but also not necessarily normal. If your cat continues to eat regularly with normal bowel movements, it’s likely nothing serious. But it could signal a need for a change in diet, or a possible food allergy.