HPAI – Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

  Updated April 2025 AVIAN INFLUENZA (BIRD FLU) RISK TO CATS BEING FED RAW OR FREEZE-DRIED DIETS HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza), due to infection with the virus, H5N1, is a steadily increasing concern across the world. Since its discovery in the United States in February 2022, it has caused deaths in many wild birds, and has required the destruction of many commercial and backyard flocks to help limit spread. Infection in birds is usually caused by direct exposure to other infected birds and is often spread by migrating wild birds. Spread of H5N1 to other species is much less … Read more »

Recent Reports of Serious Upper Respiratory Infection in Dogs Outside of WA

Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital has become aware of a recent increase of serious upper respiratory infection cases in dogs in Oregon, California and Colorado, among other areas. Several concerned clients have contacted us for recommendations as we move into the holiday season and travel plans are being finalized. Thankfully, at FVH, we have not seen an increase in coughing dogs nor cases of unusually severe respiratory problems in dogs and we do not think there is an immediate threat locally. Contagious, upper-respiratory infections are always at greater risk in scenarios where dogs are in group settings, such as off leash dog parks, … Read more »

Hospital Reopening to Clients!!!

The Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital is truly excited to announce that we are ready to welcome you back into our hospital beginning Monday, 6/21! Here are the rules we are implementing to ensure the health and safety of clients and staff: All staff and clients are required to wear a properly-fitted mask at all times when in our building regardless of vaccination status. (1) client per household may accompany their pet(s) during a scheduled visit. Some of our exam rooms are small and have limited social distancing options. All exam rooms and high contact points will be sanitized after each visit. … Read more »

Important Hospital Update

Dear Client, To say this past year has been a challenge is truly an understatement! Through all the ups and downs this hospital has navigated during the pandemic, the one thing that we have been able to count on are the amazing veterinarians, nurses and support staff that keep our Fear Free delivery of patient care a top priority. For that, we are truly grateful! Unfortunately, forces out of our control are presenting some immediate obstacles for the hospital. Firstly, over the last few weeks, we have lost over 20% of our employees due to illness, injury, and maternity leave. … Read more »

COVID-19 Client Update 6-11-20

The past many months have provided no shortage of challenges as we have learned to adapt to the ever-changing landscape that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented. I cannot begin to say how thankful I have been for the veterinarians and team members that make FVH such a great place to work. Their dedication to maintaining patient care, while on the front lines as an essential business, has been inspiring. And I would be doing a disservice to our loyal client base if I were to not offer a big thank you! You all have been so gracious in working with … Read more »

COVID-19 Client Update 3-19-20

Our goal during this ongoing crisis is to make sure we can remain open to service our sick and chronically ill patients. In our continued effort to mitigate exposure to COVID-19 for you and our staff, we are implementing additional safety measures. The following policies will be in place beginning Monday, 3/23: It is very important that you complete the patient medical history form available on our website prior to your visit https://fairhavenvet.com/forms/patient-medical-history-form/ Be sure to bring a cell phone on the day of your visit. Arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. On arrival to our parking … Read more »

COVID-19 Client Update 3-16-2020

Dear FVH Client, COVID-19 continues to be a concern for us all. We are monitoring local, state and national authorities for the latest information. Please review our blog post published last week on ways we are working to protect you and our staff. Effective immediately, FVH will begin implementing changes to staffing levels and scheduling priorities. We will officially become a medical-only facility until May 1st to ensure continued care of sick dogs and cats in our community. Nursing appointments will still be available for vaccination needs based on specific qualifications, please contact the hospital for further information. All elective … Read more »

COVID-19 Client Update

Dear FVH Client, As many of you are already aware, the COVID-19 virus continues to be a topic of concern in WA state. With the first confirmed case of the virus in Bellingham diagnosed yesterday, local health authorities are encouraging vigilance in reducing additional transmission within our community and beyond. Our Veterinarians and veterinary nursing staff met this morning to discuss measures to protect ourselves and you, the clients we serve. The good news is that as a veterinary hospital we are already vigilant in preventing the spread of infectious disease in our cat and dog patients. Many of the … Read more »