Call: 250-947-9364

22 Feb

Posted at 10:36h in Procedures by
0 Likes

If your small dog is skipping, limping, or holding up one leg while walking, they may have a luxating patella. This condition, where the kneecap slips out of place, is especially common in small breeds like: Maltese Yorkshire Terriers Pomeranians Poodles (Toy & Miniature) Boston Terriers Cavalier King Charles Spaniels At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we recently performed sulcoplasty surgery on Stella, a Maltese, to correct her luxating patella and restore her mobility. https://youtu.be/Fg9rik3dDdU What Is Sulcoplasty? Sulcoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the groove of the knee joint to prevent the kneecap from slipping out of place. Without treatment, luxating patella can lead to chronic pain and arthritis. Stella’s Surgery – Step by Step Pre-Surgical Evaluation Before surgery, Dr. Alastair Westcott performed a full orthopedic exam and X-rays to confirm Stella’s diagnosis and plan her procedure. Advanced Surgery with Laser Scalpel To start the surgery, Dr. Westcott used a laser scalpel, which offers: Less bleeding Reduced swelling Faster healing During the sulcoplasty, the groove in Stella’s knee joint was reshaped to keep her kneecap in place. Post-Surgical X-Rays & Recovery After surgery, X-rays confirmed that Stella’s kneecap was properly aligned. She was monitored closely and given pain relief to keep her comfortable. When Will Stella Walk Again? Most dogs start walking within a few days after surgery and make a full recovery in about eight to twelve weeks. Signs Your Dog May Need Surgery If your dog is experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to schedule a veterinary consultation: Skipping or hopping on one leg while walking Sudden limping or difficulty bearing weight Holding up one leg for long periods Difficulty jumping or climbing stairs Does Your Dog Need Help? Call i-Care Veterinary Hospital If your dog is showing signs of a luxating patella, sulcoplasty may be the best solution to keep them pain-free and active. Call us today at 250-947-9364 to schedule a consultation. Book online at https://icarevet.com/contact/. Helping pets move pain-free is our priority....

17 Feb

Posted at 05:59h in i-Care by
0 Likes

Family Day is on Monday, February 17, 2025, here in British Columbia. It’s a perfect occasion to honour the bonds we share with all our loved ones, including our cherished pets. To make this day memorable and safe for your furry companions, consider the following suggestions: 1. Enjoy the Outdoors Together With the forecast predicting increasing sunshine and temperatures around 8°C in Coombs, it’s an ideal day for outdoor activities. Take your dog for a scenic walk along local trails or visit a nearby dog-friendly park. Remember to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of any local wildlife. For cats who enjoy the outdoors, a supervised session in a secure yard or a stroll with a harness can be delightful. https://youtube.com/shorts/wkiTXoNknrU?feature=share 2. Maintain Regular Feeding and Exercise Routines Pets thrive on consistency. Even during special occasions, try to stick to their regular feeding and exercise schedules. This helps reduce stress and keeps them comfortable amidst any changes in household activity.  3. Create a Safe Space During Gatherings If you’re hosting a Family Day gathering, provide a quiet area where your pet can retreat if the festivities become overwhelming. This is especially important for pets that are sensitive to noise or unfamiliar faces. Ensure this space has their bed, favourite toys, and access to fresh water.  4. Be Cautious with Human Food While it might be tempting to share your meal with your pet, many human foods can be harmful to them. Avoid giving pets fatty, sweet, or spicy foods, as well as bones from meat, which can splinter and cause injuries. Stick to pet-friendly treats to keep them safe and healthy.  5. Monitor Decorations and Small Items If your Family Day celebrations include decorations, be mindful of items like ribbons, small toys, or other objects that pets might ingest. Such items can pose choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages. Keep them out of your pet’s reach to ensure their safety. In Case of Emergencies Despite our best efforts, emergencies can occur. If your pet experiences any health issues during Family Day, don’t hesitate to contact us at i-Care Veterinary Hospital. We offer urgent care services, including exams, diagnostics, and surgeries, to address a variety of health concerns. Our dedicated team is here to provide compassionate and prompt care to ensure your pet’s well-being. Contact Information: •Phone: 250-947-9364 •Email: info@icarevet.com •Address: 2450 Alberni Hwy, Coombs, BC V0R 1M0, Canada Wishing you and your furry family members a joyful and safe Family Day!...

14 Feb

Posted at 19:00h in i-Care by
0 Likes

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to show affection not only to our human loved ones but also to our cherished pets. While it’s delightful to include our furry friends in the celebrations, it’s essential to be mindful of potential hazards that this holiday can present. https://youtube.com/shorts/QDoUkMNAEa0 Here are some tips to safely spoil your pets this Valentine’s Day: 1. Treats Made for Tails Instead of sharing human sweets, which can be harmful to pets, opt for pet-friendly treats. Many local pet stores on Vancouver Island offer special Valentine’s goodies crafted specifically for dogs and cats. These treats ensure your pet enjoys the festivities without health risks. You can also check out our online store for pet treats. 2. Choose Safe Bouquets If you’re bringing flowers into your home, be cautious about the types you select. Lilies, for instance, are extremely toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure if ingested. Even a small exposure, like licking pollen off their fur, can be deadly. Other flowers, such as tulips and daffodils, can also be harmful. Opt for pet-friendly flowers like sunflowers, roses (with the thorns removed), or orchids.  3. Secure Decorations Valentine’s decorations like ribbons, balloons, and candles can pose risks. Cats, in particular, may be tempted to play with ribbons, which can lead to choking or intestinal blockages if swallowed. Candles can be easily knocked over, posing a fire hazard. Ensure decorations are out of your pet’s reach, and consider using flameless candles for ambiance.  4. Plan a Pet-Friendly Date Celebrate the day by spending quality time with your pet. Take your dog for a scenic walk along one of Vancouver Island’s beautiful trails, or engage in an extended play session with your cat using their favourite toys. This not only strengthens your bond but also provides them with physical and mental stimulation. 5. Be Cautious with Human Food Many human foods are unsafe for pets. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, and in severe cases, seizures. Darker chocolates and baking chocolate contain higher levels of theobromine, making them even more toxic. Keep all Valentine’s Day chocolates well out of your pet’s reach, and if they do ingest any, contact your vet immediately.  In Case of Emergencies Despite our best efforts, accidents can happen. If your pet encounters any health issues during the Valentine’s Day celebrations, please contact us at i-Care Veterinary Hospital. We offer...

11 Feb

Posted at 22:15h in i-Care, Vet Tips by
0 Likes

Pets are naturally curious, playful, and sometimes a little too adventurous for their own good. Whether it is a minor cut, a fall, or a more serious accident, knowing how to respond quickly can make all the difference in your pet’s recovery. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we provide same-day urgent care services for injuries that need prompt attention but are not life-threatening emergencies. If you are unsure whether your pet needs urgent or emergency care, give us a call, and we will guide you on the best next steps. Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Injury In any pet emergency, your calmness is key. Before rushing to help, take a deep breath and observe your pet’s condition. Look for: ✔ Bleeding or open wounds ✔ Limping or reluctance to move ✔ Whining, shaking, or signs of pain ✔ Swelling or bruising ✔ Difficulty breathing or signs of distress If your pet is alert and mobile, proceed to first aid steps. If they are unresponsive, struggling to breathe, or unable to move, seek emergency care immediately. Step 2: Control Bleeding For minor wounds, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to slow the bleeding. If the bleeding is severe or does not stop within five to ten minutes, seek veterinary care right away. Do not use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol on deep wounds, as these can delay healing. Stick to clean, dry pressure and let your veterinarian handle the rest. Step 3: Keep Your Pet Still If your pet is limping, has a swollen limb, or appears to have a fracture, limit their movement as much as possible. For small pets, place them in a carrier or box lined with blankets to keep them secure. For larger pets, use a makeshift stretcher such as a sturdy blanket or board to move them without worsening the injury. Step 4: Avoid DIY Treatments It is tempting to treat injuries at home, but many human medications and home remedies can be dangerous for pets. Do not give human painkillers like ibuprofen or Tylenol, as these are toxic to pets. Also, do not attempt to set broken bones or dislocated joints. Improper handling can cause further damage. Step 5: Seek Urgent or Emergency Care Some injuries require immediate veterinary attention. Contact i-Care Veterinary Hospital for urgent care or to determine if emergency care is needed if your pet has: ✔ Deep cuts, wounds, or excessive bleeding ✔ Lameness, limping, or suspected fractures ✔ Swelling or bruising that worsens ✔ Head trauma from falls or being hit...

07 Feb

Posted at 08:35h in i-Care by
0 Likes

Vomiting and diarrhea are some of the most common reasons pet owners seek veterinary care. While an occasional upset stomach may not be cause for concern, persistent symptoms can signal a serious underlying issue. In some cases, dehydration or internal complications can develop quickly, making emergency or urgent care necessary. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we offer same-day urgent care services to diagnose and treat pets experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, and other sudden health concerns. Here’s how to determine whether your pet’s symptoms require immediate veterinary attention. https://youtu.be/DA9m9E1YIYM Common Causes of Vomiting and Diarrhea in Pets There are many reasons pets may experience vomiting or diarrhea, ranging from mild digestive upset to serious medical conditions. Some common causes include: ???? Dietary Indiscretion – Eating spoiled food, garbage, or non-food items. ???? Sudden Diet Changes – Switching foods too quickly can cause stomach upset. ???? Parasites – Intestinal worms and protozoa can lead to chronic diarrhea. ???? Infections – Viral or bacterial infections like parvovirus or salmonella. ???? Toxins – Ingesting human medications, toxic plants, or household chemicals. ???? Food Allergies or Sensitivities – Some pets react poorly to specific ingredients. ???? Foreign Objects – Swallowing toys, bones, or fabric can lead to an obstruction. ???? Organ Disease – Kidney disease, liver disease, or pancreatitis can cause GI symptoms. When to Seek Emergency or Urgent Care for Vomiting or Diarrhea A single episode of vomiting or diarrhea may not be an emergency, but multiple episodes or additional symptoms could indicate a more serious problem. Contact i-Care Veterinary Hospital if your pet is experiencing: ???? Frequent vomiting or diarrhea – Multiple episodes in a short period can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. ???? Blood in vomit or stool – Bright red blood or dark, tarry stools could signal internal bleeding or infection. ???? Severe lethargy or weakness – If your pet is unresponsive, disoriented, or unable to stand, seek immediate care. ???? Signs of dehydration – Dry gums, sunken eyes, excessive panting, or reluctance to drink water. ???? Abdominal pain or bloating – Crying, restlessness, a hunched posture, or a hard, swollen abdomen could indicate an emergency. ???? Vomiting or diarrhea after toxin ingestion – If your pet may have eaten chocolate, xylitol, medications, or household chemicals, seek urgent care immediately. ???? Inability to keep food or water down – If vomiting continues even after withholding food, your pet may need medical intervention. ???? Pre-existing conditions – Pets with...