The Bellingham BBVSH Blog

Lifelines & Second Chances: Celebrating Shelter & Rescue Partners
Every year, the first full week of November is National Animal Shelter & Rescue Appreciation Week—a chance to honor the compassion, hard work, and heart of rescue organizations, humane societies, foster networks, and volunteers everywhere. At Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty
Howl-oween Safety: Protecting Pets from Spooky Season Hazards
The spooky season is here—pumpkins are glowing, costumes are ready, and candy bowls are full. Halloween can be a lot of fun for families, but it also brings hidden dangers for our pets. From tempting candy to eerie decorations, this
Kidney Disease in Pets: What You Should Know
Recognizing the signs. Understanding the risks. Supporting your pet. Just like in people, your pet’s kidneys perform essential tasks that help regulate their entire body. These two small but powerful organs help remove waste, manage hydration and electrolyte levels, regulate
Canine Mast Cell Tumors: What Every Dog Owner Needs to Know
You’re petting your dog and feel a lump. It might seem harmless—or it might be something more. One of the most common skin cancers in dogs is the mast cell tumor (MCT), a diagnosis that can be overwhelming without clear

Every Patient, Every Day: Celebrating LVT Week at Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital
Every October, veterinary teams across the United States celebrate Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) Week, and at Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital (BBVSH) Bellingham we’re celebrating the whole team that makes specialty medicine work. What sets our hospital apart is collaborative

Obesity in pets – why it’s important to manage your pet’s weight
Pet obesity continues to be one of the most serious health challenges facing dogs and cats across the United States and worldwide. National surveys suggest that more than half of pets are overweight or obese, making this the most common

The Hidden Danger: Why Rat Poison is a Serious Threat to Your Pet
As the crisp air of fall sweeps across the Pacific Northwest, many of us welcome the cozy season. Unfortunately, rodents are also seeking warmth and shelter indoors during the colder months. To combat the problem, many homeowners turn to rat
Preventing Rabies in Your Pets – World Rabies Day, September 28, 2025
September 28 is World Rabies Day, a global day of action and awareness focused on preventing rabies in both animals and humans. While rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, it is also 100% preventable—which is why vaccination and
Can My Dog Get Salmon Poisoning Disease?
If you live along the Pacific Northwest coast—or enjoy outdoor adventures with your dog—there’s an important health risk you should be aware of: salmon poisoning disease (SPD). This potentially fatal condition can affect dogs that eat certain types of raw
What to Do in a Pet Emergency: Be Prepared, Stay Calm, Act Quickly
Adapted from original presentation by Sarah Charney, DVM, DACVIM, DACVR Emergencies can happen anytime, and as pet owners, we need to be prepared. Whether it’s a cut paw, choking, a seizure, or a sudden collapse, knowing basic pet first aid can make all