Grass Awns Explained: What Makes Them So Dangerous for Pets A warm afternoon walk through tall grass might seem harmless, but hidden within those golden stalks is a serious threat to your pet’s health: grass awns. These sharp, barbed seeds may appear small, but they can cause painful wounds, deep infections, or even life-threatening complications. [...]
Senior Pet Wellness: How to Identify and Treat Chronic Pain Getting older is part of life- and our pets, just like us, feel the aches and pains that come with age. But unlike us, they can’t tell you what hurts. That’s why chronic pain in senior pets often goes unnoticed. It creeps in gradually, sometimes [...]
At Krichel Animal Hospital in Keokuk, Iowa, we know that the idea of your pet needing surgery can be unsettling. As a pet owner, you’re likely balancing a deep concern for your pet’s well-being with the uncertainty that comes with medical decisions. Our role is to support and guide you through the process—clearly, compassionately, and [...]
Summer in Keokuk, Iowa brings longer days, sunny skies, and more time spent outdoors—but for our pets, the rising temperatures can also bring serious health risks. Dogs and cats are more vulnerable to heat than people, and they rely on us to help them stay safe during the warmest months of the year. At Krichel [...]
Thyroid disorders are among the most frequently diagnosed hormonal conditions in dogs and cats—yet they’re often misunderstood. Whether your pet is slowing down unexpectedly or losing weight despite eating well, thyroid function could be the underlying issue. At Krichel Animal Hospital in Keokuk, Iowa, we know how important early diagnosis and proper treatment are for [...]
Understanding Hair Loss in Pets At Krichel Animal Hospital, we understand that hair loss (alopecia) in dogs and cats can be concerning for pet owners. While shedding is normal, excessive or patchy hair loss may indicate an underlying health issue that requires attention. Causes range from parasites, allergies, and infections to hormonal imbalances and stress-related [...]
Foreign Body Risks in Pets At Krichel Animal Hospital, we frequently treat pets that have swallowed objects they shouldn’t. Some of the most commonly ingested items include: Toys (small or broken pieces) Bones, food scraps, or corn cobs Fabric, string, or thread Coins, rubber bands, and household objects Small electronics such as earbuds or batteries [...]
Common Causes of Vomiting in Cats and When to Call the Vet Understanding Vomiting in Cats Vomiting in cats is a common issue that pet owners encounter, but determining when it's normal and when it's a cause for concern can be challenging. Occasional vomiting—such as expelling a hairball—is usually harmless, but frequent, persistent, or [...]
Emergency DIY Physical Exam for Pets: Signs Your Dog or Cat Is in Trouble Why a DIY Physical Exam Matters Being able to assess your pet’s health at home is essential, especially in an emergency. While routine vet visits are crucial for maintaining overall health, knowing how to perform a basic physical exam can [...]
How to Prevent Common Pet Emergencies: A Guide for Pet Owners Emergencies can happen at any time, and when it comes to our pets, being prepared and proactive can make all the difference. Many pet emergencies, from poisoning to injuries, are preventable with proper care, awareness, and routine veterinary visits. At Krichel Animal Hospital, we [...]