The Bellingham BBVSH Blog
When a Minor Injury Becomes a Major Concern: Tetanus in Dogs and Cats
When most people think about tetanus, they think about human medicine. Few pet owners realize that dogs and cats can develop tetanus as well. Although the disease is uncommon in companion animals, it remains an important condition for veterinarians to recognize
Swimmer’s Tail in Dogs: What Pacific Northwest Pet Owners Should Know
Few places are better for active dogs than the Pacific Northwest. From swimming in Lake Whatcom to exploring local trails, spending weekends at the beach, or joining family camping trips, dogs in northwest Washington enjoy no shortage of outdoor adventures. Unfortunately,
Beyond the Itch: Understanding Chronic Skin Disease in Dogs and Cats
August is Itchy Pet Awareness Month, making it a good time to talk about one of the most common reasons pets are brought to veterinarians: persistent itching. Most owners recognize the outward signs. A dog chews at their paws, scratches
Fish Hooks, Fishing Line, and Dogs: A Hidden Hazard of Pacific Northwest Adventures
Life in the Pacific Northwest offers no shortage of opportunities to get outside with your dog. From shoreline walks around Bellingham Bay and Lake Whatcom to fishing trips, camping weekends, and days spent exploring local waterways, many dogs spend their
When the Air Turns Smoky: Understanding Smoke Inhalation Risks in Dogs and Cats
In the Pacific Northwest, smoke exposure has become an increasingly familiar concern for pet owners. Wildfires, structure fires, vehicle fires, and prolonged periods of poor air quality can all expose dogs and cats to smoke and airborne irritants. While some
Heatstroke in Dogs and Cats: Why a Parked Car Can Become a Life-Threatening Emergency
Most pet owners know that leaving a dog or cat in a parked vehicle is dangerous. What many don’t realize is that heatstroke is far more than simply becoming overheated. From an emergency medicine perspective, heatstroke is a complex, multisystem
National Pet Hydration Awareness Month: When Dehydration Becomes a Medical Emergency
Summer in northwest Washington brings longer days, warmer weather, and more opportunities for dogs and cats to spend time with their families outdoors. From walks near Bellingham Bay and hikes around local trails to lake days, camping trips, and backyard
Hidden Dangers for Pets: Understanding Drug Exposure Risks
Hidden Dangers for Pets: Understanding Drug Exposure Risks June 2026 | BBVSH Bellingham June 26 marks the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, a global initiative focused on raising awareness about substance use and its effects on people
More Than Just Mischief: What Happens When Pets Swallow the Wrong Things
Most pets are curious by nature—and that curiosity often leads them to investigate the world with their mouths. Unfortunately, that can sometimes mean swallowing things that aren’t meant to be eaten. At Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital, Bellingham, treating pets
