What Is the Difference Between TPLO and Traditional Dog Knee Surgery
By Maplewood Veterinary Center | June 9, 2026
A torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), often compared to an ACL tear in humans, is one of the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs. When this injury occurs, many pet owners face an important question: should their dog undergo TPLO surgery or a more traditional dog knee surgery? Understanding the differences between these surgical options can help you make a
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Small Dogs, Big Injuries: Common Bone and Joint Problems in Toy Breeds
By Maplewood Veterinary Center | September 25, 2026
Toy breeds may be small in size, but their bones and joints can still face significant stress. A short jump from a couch, an awkward landing, or a slip on a smooth floor can sometimes result in an injury that requires veterinary attention. Because small dogs have delicate limbs and relatively fine bones, pet owners should take changes in movement
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How Your Pet’s Nutritional Needs Change With Age
By Maplewood Veterinary Center | September 16, 2026
A pet’s nutritional needs are not the same throughout life. Puppies and kittens need nutrients that support rapid growth, while adult pets generally need balanced nutrition that helps maintain healthy body condition and activity levels. As pets enter their senior years, changes in metabolism, muscle mass, activity, and health may require adjustments to their diet. At Maplewood Veterinary Center, nutrition
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Rescue Cat Dental Care: When and How to Start Brushing
By Maplewood Veterinary Center | September 11, 2026
Bringing a rescue cat home is an exciting experience, but it can also come with unknowns about their previous health and daily care. Dental health is one area that deserves early attention because cats can develop plaque, tartar, gum inflammation, and other oral problems without showing obvious signs. Starting a consistent cat dental care routine can help support better oral
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Effective Rehabilitation Exercises for Large Dogs Recovering From Fractures
By Maplewood Veterinary Center | September 4, 2026
Recovering from a fracture can be a gradual process, especially for large dogs. After a bone injury or procedure, controlled rehabilitation can help restore strength, flexibility, balance, and normal movement. However, exercise should be introduced carefully because doing too much too soon may interfere with healing. At Maplewood Veterinary Center, rehabilitation can be an important part of a comprehensive recovery
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One Cat or Two? How to Choose the Right Number of Cats
By Maplewood Veterinary Center | August 26, 2026
Deciding whether to have one cat or two is an important choice for any potential cat owner. While some cats thrive as the only pet in a household, others enjoy the companionship, play, and social interaction that another cat can provide. Therefore, there is no universal answer to the question of how many cats you should have. The right choice
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The First 72 Hours After TPLO Surgery: Pain Control, Rest, and Care
By Maplewood Veterinary Center | August 19, 2026
The first 72 hours after TPLO surgery can feel overwhelming for pet owners. Your dog may be sleepy, uncomfortable, hesitant to walk, or reluctant to eat. At the same time, you may worry about whether every movement is safe and whether the surgical incision is healing properly. Knowing what to expect can make this early recovery period more manageable. Tibial
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Is Hip Replacement Surgery Worth It for Dogs? Risks and Benefits
By Maplewood Veterinary Center | August 12, 2026
Hip problems can significantly affect a dog’s comfort, mobility, and quality of life. A dog with severe hip dysplasia or advanced hip joint disease may struggle to walk, climb stairs, exercise, or even stand comfortably. When medications, weight management, physical rehabilitation, and other conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief, total hip replacement may become an option. But is hip
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Your Guide to an At-Home Cat Health Assessment
By Maplewood Veterinary Center | August 5, 2026
Cats are remarkably good at hiding signs of illness. A cat that appears normal may still be experiencing early changes in weight, appetite, mobility, digestion, or behavior. That is why regular at-home health checks can be valuable between veterinary visits. An at-home assessment is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Instead, it gives cat owners a simple way to
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Fracture Repair in Pets: What to Expect From Diagnosis to Recovery
By Maplewood Veterinary Center | July 30, 2026
Pets can suffer fractures unexpectedly due to accidents, falls, or other traumatic events. Seeing your dog or cat with a broken bone can be stressful, but understanding the treatment process can help you feel more prepared. Fracture repair involves much more than simply fixing a broken bone. It includes a thorough examination, diagnostic imaging, treatment planning, pain management, surgery when
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25 Smartest Dog Breeds Ranked by Intelligence
By Maplewood Veterinary Center | July 27, 2026
Choosing the right dog involves much more than finding a breed with an attractive appearance. Intelligence plays an important role in how quickly a dog learns commands, adapts to new situations, and responds to training. While every dog is capable of learning and forming strong bonds with its family, some breeds consistently stand out for their remarkable problem-solving abilities, memory,
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