Ankeny Vets Blog

Most Recent Blog

How to Live with a Clawed Cat (and Why We’re Not Declawing Anymore)
As of February 28, 2023, we will no longer be offering declaw services at our clinic. We wanted to take some time to explain scratching, the declaw procedure (and why it is no longer being recommended), and some tips to live a happy co-existence with a clawed cat. ...
Previous Blogs
Rewards Of Rescuing
It's not a secret that animal rescues/shelters nationwide are constantly full. This can make things overwhelming for the staff and many of the animals in the shelters. This overcrowding can often lead shelters to pursue euthanasia to make space, which can mean a very...
Winter Hazards for Your Pet
Winter can be a time of snowball fights, snuggling by the fire, and ice skating, both for you and for your pets. However, there are a few hazards that can also be found at this time of year and we want to make sure you and your pet have a safe snowy season! ...
Let’s Talk Food Sensitivities
The animal nutrition world has blown up and become quite overwhelming, particularly regarding food allergies and sensitivities. I would like to sort out some of the common questions surrounding this and how to navigate the wide variety of products available. A big...
How to Have a Safe Halloween with Your Pets
Halloween can be a wonderful time of the year: full of tricks, treats, and candy! However, this holiday can also be dangerous for our furry family members. Here are a handful of things to watch out for with this upcoming holiday. Chocolate. Out of all the candy that...
Loose Leash Walking: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
This adaptation of an ancient Chinese Proverb fits so perfectly when I think about teaching leash manners to our pets. There are so many adventures we can experience in life, from around the block to around the world; with a dog alongside us we are nigh unstoppable. ...
The Benefits of Using an Ultrasound in Small Animal Medicine
The veterinary staff at Ankeny Animal & Avian Clinic are always striving to provide the best diagnostics and care for your pet. One of our newer additions to our diagnostic tool options is the use of abdominal ultrasound. Often paired with x-rays, an ultrasound...