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31 Oct

Posted at 05:55h in i-Care by
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Working in the banner, industry is not an easy task. In fact, it is one of the most stressful industries to work in. We also know how important our work is as veterinary professionals. Therefore, when it comes to looking after our patients, we do our best to ensure that i-Care Veterinary Hospital provides a positive environment for patients as well as our team. Have a look behind the scenes to get a glimpse into how we have a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for our veterinary team as well as for your fur family members. https://youtu.be/69Vjw0ngK3k We are proud to serve your furry family members in the Coombs, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Port Hardy, and northern Nanaimo. Contact us today for more information about our veterinary services on Vancouver Island....

27 Oct

Posted at 19:46h in Vet Tips by
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Poodles are renowned for their intelligence, elegance, and playful demeanour. As a Poodle parent, ensuring that your furry companion receives the best care is paramount. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we've curated essential tips to guide you on this rewarding journey of Poodle parenting. https://youtu.be/xk3NAuIat2Y Curly Coat Chronicles The hallmark curls of a Poodle require regular grooming to prevent matting and to keep their skin healthy. A professional grooming session every 3-6 weeks is advisable, along with weekly brushing to maintain a tangle-free coat. Brainy Buddies Poodles are highly intelligent and thrive on mental stimulation. Engage them with puzzle toys, obedience training, and agility courses. This not only keeps them mentally sharp but also strengthens the bond between you and your fur buddy. Nutritious Nibbles A well-balanced, high-quality diet is crucial for your Poodle's overall health. Their dietary needs may vary based on their age, size, and health conditions. Consult with our veterinarians at i-Care Veterinary Hospital for personalized nutrition advice to keep your Poodle's tummy happy and fur shiny. Exercise Euphoria Keeping active is key to a hale and hearty Poodle. Daily walks, play sessions, and even doggy sports like fetching frisbees or agility training can help burn off energy and maintain a healthy weight. Socialization Soiree Early socialization is a passport to a well-behaved adult Poodle. Enroll your puppy in socialization classes to expose them to various people, pets, and experiences. This will help them grow into well-adjusted, friendly adults. Vet Visit Virtues Regular check-ins at i-Care Veterinary Hospital ensure your Poodle's health is in pawfect condition. From vaccinations to routine check-ups, timely veterinary care can help catch and address health issues early. Embarking on the journey of Poodle parenting is a rewarding experience filled with #PoodleLove and endless discoveries. i-Care Veterinary Hospital proudly serves the areas of Coombs, Parksville, Port Hardy and northern Nanaimo for all your animal care needs....

21 Oct

Posted at 02:20h in i-Care by
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In the heart of our beloved i-Care Veterinary Hospital lies a team of highly dedicated individuals whose expertise and compassion drive the heartbeat of animal care—our Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs). As we commemorate National Registered Veterinary Technician Week, it's only fitting to shine a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of our RVTs, the unsung heroes in the realm of veterinary medicine. https://youtu.be/fWlb_f6S3hk 1. Expert Nursing and Specialized Care: Our RVTs embody the epitome of professional animal nursing. Their adeptness at providing specialized care ensures the comfort and well-being of every furry friend who comes through our doors. 2. Diagnostic and Medical Support: The technical skill and knowledge exhibited by our RVTs in assisting with diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedures are unparalleled. They play a crucial role in everything from collecting specimens and performing laboratory tests, to preparing our animal patients and the surgical suite for operations. 3. Education and Advisement: Empowering pet parents with the right information and advice is a forte of our RVTs. They diligently educate animal owners on proper care and maintenance, promoting a ripple effect of animal health and welfare across our community. 4. Radiology and Phlebotomy Expertise: Their expertise doesn’t stop at nursing. Our RVTs are proficient in radiology and phlebotomy, performing vital tasks like taking and developing radiographs (X-rays) and drawing blood samples which are indispensable for accurate diagnosis and treatment. 5. Meticulous Record Keeping: The importance of accurate and timely record-keeping can never be overstated. Our RVTs excel in documenting the health history of our animal patients, ensuring a seamless continuum of care. 6. Professional Healthcare Provision: Working hand-in-paw with our veterinarians, the RVTs at i-Care Veterinary Hospital exemplify the highest standards of professional healthcare provision, always in adherence to federal, provincial, and local regulations. 7. Laboratory Wizardry: The laboratory work conducted by our RVTs, be it urinalysis or blood counts, is instrumental in the early detection and treatment of diseases, ensuring our furry clientele enjoy a high quality of life. This National Registered Veterinary Technician Week, let’s extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to our RVTs, whose unwavering dedication and love for animals resonate through the halls of i-Care Veterinary Hospital. Their daily endeavours not only save lives but also foster a sanctuary of healing, trust, and love for all our animal companions. Our hats off to these remarkable individuals whose selfless service makes a world of difference in the veterinary realm. Thank you, our cherished RVTs, for being the heartbeat of...

18 Oct

Posted at 06:33h in i-Care by
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We do our best to ensure that your cat has a safe and comfortable experience when they come for veterinary care. Here's one way that we help a feline patient stay relaxed during a check for her blood sugar levels. This method of helping your cat stay calm and relaxed during their visit to the veterinary clinic also keeps our team safe from getting scratched :) https://youtu.be/uUcwI5AgJr8 Contact us today to book an appointment for your cat....

12 Oct

Posted at 15:27h in i-Care by
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At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, our dedicated squad of animal care experts is ready and eager to assist your beloved animal companions in their moments of vulnerability. While our skilled veterinary team stands poised to provide critical aid, it's your active involvement that holds the key to your pet's well-being. Feel free to connect with us whenever your furry family member seems a bit off or if you detect any unusual signs, like swelling in their gums. In a recent case captured on video, our patient underwent a surgical procedure to address a concerning mass, possibly accompanied by gingival hyperplasia. We are fully equipped, not only with compassionate professionals but also with state-of-the-art tools, ensuring that we're at your service seven days a week. https://youtu.be/TvtX3jsy51Q Your pet's health is our top priority, and together, we can navigate any challenges that come their way. We here to serve patients in the Parksville, Lantzville, Port Alberni and Nanaimo areas of Central Vancouver Island. We also offer urgent and emergency veterinary care....

06 Oct

Posted at 22:10h in i-Care by
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Welcome to i-Care Veterinary Hospital, where passion for animals meets the highest standards of veterinary care. As we dive into Animal Health Week (AHW) 2023, organized by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of our hospital—the dedicated veterinary team. This year's theme, "It Takes a Team… To Protect Your Animal’s Health and You," resonates deeply with our commitment to safeguarding the well-being of your beloved pets. https://youtu.be/mZMuslwkHqI Meet Your Extraordinary Team Veterinarians: At the heart of i-Care Veterinary Hospital are our skilled veterinarians, such as Clinic Owner, Dr. Rhett Mortenson, true medical professionals with a doctorate in veterinary medicine (DVM). They go beyond the ordinary, working with large and small animals to ensure optimal health. Whether it's routine preventive care, complex surgeries, or researching animal health, our veterinarians are the guardians of your pets' well-being. Veterinary Technologists/Technicians: Our invaluable technologists and technicians undergo rigorous training to assist veterinarians in various medical and non-medical services. From surgery and laboratory procedures to radiography and client education, they play a pivotal role in the comprehensive care your pets receive. Veterinary Assistants: Supporting the core team, our assistants perform essential daily tasks. From kennel work to aiding in animal restraint and handling, they contribute to the smooth operation of our hospital, ensuring your pets feel at ease during their visits. Hospital Managers: The efficiency maestros of i-Care, our hospital managers oversee the business operations. From personnel management to budget control, marketing, and business standards development, they ensure our hospital runs seamlessly, providing top-notch care. Receptionists: Your first and last point of contact at i-Care, our skilled receptionists greet you with warmth and organize front desk tasks efficiently. They handle client queries, coordinate appointments, and make sure your experience at i-Care is as comforting as it is professional. Celebrating Animal Health Week As Dr. Louis Kwantes, CVMA Past-President, aptly puts it, "Animal Health Week is an opportunity to showcase the importance of veterinary medicine to our clients." It's a chance for our stellar healthcare team to feel the significance of being part of a larger profession, where every individual contributes to the collective impact of the veterinary profession. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we believe in the power of teamwork and are proud to celebrate Animal Health Week 2023 by recognizing the incredible individuals who form the backbone of our veterinary care. Join us in honouring our dedicated team, whose passion and expertise come together...

02 Oct

Posted at 20:26h in Vet Tips by
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Hello, feline enthusiasts! The team at i-Care Veterinary Hospital is dedicated to the well-being of our whiskered friends. Today, we're diving into the captivating world of cat enrichment. Just like us, our kitties need mental stimulation to keep those little brains engaged. Let's explore some paws-itively purrfect tips to keep your furball entertained and mentally sharp. 1. The Puzzle Palace: Transform your home into a puzzle paradise! Invest in interactive toys that dispense treats when your cat figures them out. This engages their natural hunting instincts and rewards their cleverness. Puzzle feeders not only stimulate their minds but also slow down speedy eaters. 2. Windows to the Soul: Cats are curious creatures, and a window seat can be a front-row ticket to the outside world. Set up a cozy perch by a window where your cat can watch birds, leaves rustling, or passersby. It's like kitty TV, providing endless entertainment and mental stimulation. 3. DIY Feline Forts: Get crafty and create a cat-friendly oasis! Cardboard boxes make excellent forts, and you can cut out windows and doors to pique your cat's interest. Throw in some comfy blankets and toys, and watch your kitty's imagination run wild as they explore their new kingdom. 4. Nature-Inspired Toys: Bring the great outdoors inside with nature-inspired toys. Feathers, crinkly leaves, and toys that mimic the movements of small prey can captivate your cat's attention. These toys tap into their instinctual desire to stalk and capture, providing both mental and physical exercise. 5. High-Rise Havens: Cats love to climb and perch on high vantage points. Invest in a cat tree or strategically place shelves and platforms around your home. This not only satisfies their climbing instincts but also gives them a commanding view of their territory. Cats love to be on top of the world! 6. Rotating Toy Selection: Keep things interesting by rotating your cat's toy selection. Introduce new toys periodically to prevent boredom. Cats can quickly lose interest in stagnant surroundings, so spice things up with a variety of toys, textures, and shapes. 7. The Power of Catnip: Catnip can be a magical tool for mental stimulation. Use it in moderation, as not all cats are affected by it, and too much can desensitize them. Sprinkle a pinch on their toys, scratching posts, or in a catnip-filled pillow for a mood-boosting, playful experience. 8. Interactive Playtime: Set aside dedicated playtime for you and your cat. Engage in interactive play using toys like feather wands or laser pointers. This not...