The Paw Print

Summer in Montana brings long days and plenty of outdoor activity, but our dry heat and sudden temperature spikes introduce significant medical risks for the animals in our care. In this article, Dr. Amber Herron explains the clinical realities of heat stress across species to help owners in our region better understand, identify, and prevent thermal emergencies before they become life-threatening.

Dr. Erika Cantamessa, DVM at Caring Hands Veterinary Hospital in Billings, is back with Part 2 of our feline travel series. Now that your cat accepts their carrier as a safe space, learn practical, step-by-step advice for lifting and moving it without causing panic—ensuring the journey to the car is just as stress-free as the destination.

When managing a pet’s health, recognizing the difference between a temporary behavioral quirk and a true physiological stress response is a critical part of their care. In this article, Dr. Amber Herron explains the clinical realities of pet stress to help owners in our region better understand, identify, and medically manage anxiety to protect their animals’ long-term well-being.

Dr. Erika Cantamessa, DVM at Caring Hands Veterinary Hospital in Billings, shares practical, step-by-step advice to help your cat stop dreading the carrier. Learn how to turn your cat’s carrier into a safe, happy place using positive reinforcement—so vet visits become routine instead of stressful ordeals for both of you and your feline friend.

Cold Montana winters can be tough on pets. From freezing temperatures and icy sidewalks to antifreeze spills and dry paws, seasonal hazards can put your dog, cat, or exotic pet at risk. In this guide, the veterinarians at Caring Hands Veterinary Hospital share practical winter safety tips to help you keep your pets warm, healthy, and protected all season long.