Our Blog
Firehouse is committed to keeping your pet happy and healthy while preventing disease.
Pets and Diabetes: Prevent, Recognize, and React
New med make this disease more manageable than ever
7.5 min read Charlie, an 11-year-old beagle, began to urinate all the time. This raised concern for his family, who brought him to Firehouse Belterra. We did lab work and found out that Charlie had diabetes. In the last few months, Charlie’s family has embraced...
How to keep a deaf dog safe
Safety tips for owners of deaf and hard-of-hearing pets
Franklin’s family realized he was hard of hearing soon after they adopted him. “We learned he might have hearing issues when he was just a puppy,” says Katie, Franklin’s mom. “The only way we’d know for certain was to put him under general anesthesia and monitor his brain function. We declined this option, as it really wasn’t a big deal for us,” Katie continues.
Why do dogs eat grass?
7 reasons your pet may be eating your landscaping
3 min read Milo is a 6-month-old mini Bernadoodle who really likes to chew on grass in his mom’s lawn. “I think Milo eats grass for...
When should you spay or neuter your kitten?
Research shows cats stay healthiest when procedure is completed by 5 months
We first reported new recommendations for spaying and neutering cats by 5 months in January 2021. We continue to support these guidelines from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Research shows the...
Be Wary of Dr Google. Even in 2023.
Why You Should Consult with Your Vet
2 min read “One of our clients found an article on Google that said dogs can eat grapes, if it’s not too often,” says Michael Hernandez, a Vet Tech at Firehouse Belterra. “This statement is false. Grapes are always potentially toxic to dogs. We were able to help the...
Lost pet? Find them with 4 simple steps
Quick tips to find your lost cat or dog
2 min read More pets go missing during July 4th fireworks celebrations than at any other time of the year. The loud bangs and pops scare both dogs and cats. We’ve written tips to help pets feel safe and secure during Independence Day festivities. In this blog,...
Top 5 Safety Tips for Pets on Boats and Lakes
Avoiding accidents with effective planning
2 min read “Bull Creek is our favorite spot in Austin!” says Aubrie at Firehouse Belterra. “It's a leash-required trail and that makes us feel safe! “We usually swim after our hike and then enjoy the view from our hammock. Waffles loves to run up hills and steps!...
How Stress Affects Cats
Call your vet if your cat does these things
4 min read Sometimes, what seems like a minor change in your household could feel like a major one for your cat. “Gus is a relaxed and sweet cat,” says DeAndra, a vet tech at Firehouse Belterra. “So, you wouldn’t think a new pet in the house would stress him. Yet,...
2023 Travel with your cat or dog
Tips for the jet-set pet
3 min read Ali Alcantra recommends waterproof seat covers for older pets on car trips and disposable diapers older pets on planes. Above, Lito smiles for the camera. “My advice,” says Ali Alcantra, “is to try new things, like meds and toys, BEFORE you travel so...