Indian Hammer Veterinary Service

05/22/2026

As of this morning (5/22), we are having issues with our internet and phones. We ask for your patience as we work to get this resolved. Thank you!

05/21/2026

🦷 Why Do We Pull Teeth in Dogs & Cats? 🐶🐱
(Spoiler: It’s never because we “just want to.”)

One of the hardest conversations we have in veterinary medicine is recommending tooth extractions during a dental procedure. We understand hearing “your pet needs teeth removed” can feel scary, surprising, or even frustrating.

But here’s the truth: we do not remove teeth unless there is a medical reason.

Unlike humans, our pets can’t tell us when their mouth hurts. Many dogs and cats continue eating, playing, and acting “normal” even with significant dental pain—because instinct tells them to hide discomfort.

So why would a tooth need to be removed?

🦷 Severe periodontal disease – Infection below the gumline can destroy the structures holding the tooth in place.

🦷 Broken or fractured teeth – Exposed nerves are painful and can lead to infection.

🦷 Tooth root abscesses – Infection at the root can cause swelling, pain, and systemic illness.

🦷 Tooth resorption (especially in cats!) – A painful condition where the tooth essentially begins to break down from within.

🦷 Loose, infected, or non-viable teeth – Teeth that are beyond saving can become a constant source of pain.

A painful tooth is like living with a constant toothache… except your pet can’t tell you.

If you think your pet needs a dental, please give us a call to schedule an appointment!

12/25/2025

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas from the staff at Indian Hammer. We will be closed until Monday.

11/28/2025

In observance of the Thanksgiving holiday we will be closed thru Sunday. Hope everyone has a very happy Thanksgiving!

08/09/2025

📣WE ARE HIRING!!!!📣
Due to the increase in four-legged patients, we are looking for an experienced veterinary technician to join our team!

What exactly are we looking for?
🐾 Having experience is required, however being certified is not
🐾 Someone that is willing to learn and loves animals as much as we do!
🐾 Has excellent communication skills

🗓️Full-time position available (Monday-Friday with the occasional Saturday shift)

💵Will be discussed upon interview

If you or someone you know would be a good fit to our team, please send a resume to the email listed below! Don’t be afraid to share this post or tag people.

If you have any questions about the open position, feel free to give us a call!

📍576 US Hwy 89 - Vaughn, MT 59487
📞 (406) 965-3232
📧 [email protected]

04/11/2025

04/11/2025

Bonqat is an oral medication designed specifically to alleviate acute anxiety and fear in cats during transportation and veterinary visits. This is the first FDA- approved treatment containing pregabalin for feline use. It can be administered 1.5 hour prior to travel or veterinary visit. Bonqat comes in an easy-to-dose oral solution and can be given with food.

Benefits of Bonqat:
Effective Anxiety Reduction
Non-Sedative
Easy to Administer
This medication needs to be refrigerated.

01/16/2025

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease ( FLUTD)
Charlie is a friendly and sociable cat that recently came to the clinic with symptoms of straining to use the bathroom and abdominal discomfort. After physical exam and further diagnostics it was concluded that Charlie had a urethral obstruction, a true medical emergency. Luckily, we were able to place a urinary catheter, and relieve the obstruction. After multiple days of fluid therapy, flushing the urinary catheter, Charlie was stabilized and was finally able to go home. Urethral obstruction is just one of the many urinary issues feline patients experience. Due to the diligence of the owner and dedicated staff Charlie is now continuing care at home on a prescription urinary diet.

10/18/2024

Happy Veterinarian Technician week to our awesome group of techs!

07/03/2024

Friendly reminder. We require payment in full at time of service. We do not accept payment plans or post dated checks. We take all major credit cards, checks, cash and Care Credit. We will also take donations. 

Due to our overbooked schedule we will be implementing an emergency fee. Please call before arrival. Thank you for your understanding. 

We will be closed July 4  through July 6th. 

03/25/2024

Does my dog need a dental? Dental plaque and tartar buildup are common causes of dental disease which can cause oral pain. A few of our clients ask about oral care products for their furry friends. Here is a website with tested oral products we recommend.

vohc.org/accepted-products/