Animal Health

Animal care advice and information from our experts.

a close up of a brindled dog smiling at the camera, paws and chin resting on a tree with green grass in the background

Heartworm disease on the rise in Northern Colorado: What pet owners need to know

As spring settles in and outdoor activity picks up, there’s another seasonal shift to be aware of: mosquito season—and with it, an increased risk of heartworm disease. Recent trends show a growing number of heartworm cases in Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins and surrounding areas. This rise in cases highlights a crucial reminder for pet […]

X-ray of laminitic hoof with significant coffin bone rotation

Laminitis in horses

A painful foot condition, laminitis can be the result of various disease processes. Once a horse has had a bout of laminitis, they may be more susceptible to future episodes, which is why recognition and prompt treatment of laminitis is critical to achieving the best possible outcome.

a white horse grazes on grass

Equine spring wellness exams

Spring wellness exams are routine exams to make sure your horse is happy and healthy as they transition out of winter and gear up for summertime.

a small french bull dog gets a check up, two veterinary professionals holding him, listening to his lungs

What is cleft palate in dogs and cats?

Congenital cleft palates are a developmental abnormality where the two halves of the skull don’t fuse properly, leading to a defect in the middle of the skull.

a close up picture of a dogs mouth

When should I take my pet to the dentist?

By partnering with your primary care veterinarian, experts in the Small Animal Dentistry and Oral Surgery service at the CSU Veterinary Health System can provide comprehensive care to your dog or cat.

a basset hound sits in a brightly lit room in front of a Christmas tree

Tips to keep your pets safe during the holidays

Dr. Amanda Cavanagh, an assistant professor of small animal emergency and critical care and head of CSU’s Emergency and Urgent Care Service, shares tips to keep pets safe during the holidays.

a close up picture of a horse hoove

Winter hoof care for horses

Winter can mean some extra planning and care to keep your horse’s feet in their best condition. But if you manage him properly, you’ll be able to enjoy these fly-free months despite the ice and chill, and can help your horse put his best hoof forward come spring.

a veterinary professional in blue scrubs listens to the breathing of a brown dog

A comprehensive approach to improving mobility for pets

When a pet begins to have mobility problems, it can often feel frustrating and frightening. Common mobility limitations include difficulty getting up from the floor, refusing to go up steps, and limited ability to walk with the family. To alleviate concerns, pet owners may consider working with the CSU Orthopedic Medicine and Mobility service to […]

a bridled dog gets physical therapy by a person dressed in a black track suit

What to expect with rehabilitation and physical therapy for dogs

If you peek inside CSU’s Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy service, you might see Emma the Akita suspended in equipment to help her walk, Abby Gail the Labrador lounged out on the mat table receiving manual therapies, and Penny the dachshund practicing in her new wheelchair. The room is bright, filled with exercise balls and toys, […]

Veterinary man with his assistant treating a brown purebred horse, papillomas removal procedure using cryodestruction, in an outdoor ranch

Horse first aid checklist

Use the horse first aid kit checklist curated by our Equine Field Service team to ensure you have all the essentials!

a dramatic picture of four horses sticking their heads out of their stalls in a barn

How to prevent colic in horses: Avoiding a pain in the side

Preventing colic in horses starts with understanding what causes equine colic, then making adjustments to your horse’s dietary routine, introducing probiotics and prebiotics, avoiding equine obesity and parasites, and keeping up with regular dental care.