“Why does my dog need a heartworm test every year? Can’t I just buy the preventive from you without a prescription? – ER, Vermont”

“We have used SmartPak for our horses for years and are well aware of the power of supplements. Do you have any suggestions for a dog w/cancer? Thank you, GD”

“We just brought home our new great dane puppy about 2 months ago. She’s getting to the point now where she’s growing like a weed! I’m really concerned about the bloat that great danes get easily. She’s an extremely fast eater too! Do I need to get a bloat bowl and an elevated feeder because of her height or just bloat bowl or just the elevated feeder??…”

“My 5 lb dog has luxating patellas and is now having trouble with her front legs, as well. They seem to “lock up” on her and she doesn’t want to move. She is only 4 and I am considering the surgery, but would like to know if there is some supplemental therapy that might help.” – DM, Georgia

My dog’s breath is really bad, is there anything I can do to help? My vet suggested I schedule a dental, even though his teeth aren’t that bad, but I’m nervous to sedate him for such a quick procedure. LC, Massachusetts

If my dog is overweight, how do I determine if he should be on a weight-loss food or if cutting the current food is best? SM, North Carolina