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08 Apr

Posted at 05:00h in Procedures, Vet Tips by
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Has your dog been limping, avoiding stairs, or slowing down during walks? These could be more than just signs of aging. Many dogs experience orthopedic conditions that affect their joints, bones, or soft tissue, leading to pain and reduced mobility. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs, BC, we regularly see dogs with orthopedic issues ranging from injuries to chronic joint conditions. The good news is that early diagnosis and proper treatment can help your pet stay active, comfortable, and happy. https://youtube.com/shorts/5Zbm45IkWLQ?feature=share Common Orthopedic Problems in Dogs Orthopedic conditions can affect dogs of all breeds and sizes, although some are more common in certain types of dogs. Here are a few of the most frequently diagnosed issues: 1. Arthritis (Osteoarthritis) Arthritis is a degenerative joint condition that causes inflammation, stiffness, and pain. It’s most common in senior dogs but can also develop in younger dogs, especially those with prior injuries or joint abnormalities. 2. Hip Dysplasia This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to joint instability, pain, and arthritis over time. Large breeds like Labradors, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers are most commonly affected. 3. Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Tears Comparable to an ACL tear in humans, a CCL tear is a rupture of a major stabilizing ligament in the dog’s knee. It often causes sudden limping and pain, especially after activity. At i-Care, we offer TPLO surgery (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) as a surgical treatment for CCL injuries. TPLO is one of the most effective procedures for returning dogs to an active, pain-free lifestyle. 4. Luxating Patella Most common in small breeds such as Maltese, Pomeranians, and Chihuahuas, a luxating patella happens when the kneecap slides out of place. You may notice your dog occasionally skipping or lifting a leg while walking. Signs Your Dog May Have an Orthopedic Issue Some signs of orthopedic pain or injury are easy to miss, especially if your dog is good at hiding discomfort. Watch for: Limping or favouring one leg Reluctance to go up stairs or jump Stiffness when getting up or lying down Decreased activity or enthusiasm for play Muscle loss in the affected limb Sensitivity when touched near a joint These signs may appear gradually or suddenly. When to Seek Urgent Care If your dog is suddenly unable to bear weight on a leg, is in visible pain, yelps when moving, or has swelling in a limb or joint, this may be an urgent issue that requires prompt attention. Injuries such as...

05 Apr

Posted at 17:32h in Vet Tips by
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If you have a French Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier, or another flat-faced breed, you may have noticed snorting, snoring, or labored breathing. While these sounds are often considered typical for these breeds, they can actually be signs of a medical condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, or BOAS. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs, we regularly assess and treat dogs with BOAS. It is a condition that can seriously affect your pet’s comfort and, in some cases, may require urgent veterinary attention. https://youtube.com/shorts/gPhyOctqPd4?feature=share What Is BOAS? Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome is a condition that affects dogs with short, flat faces. These breeds are often born with narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palates, and other anatomical traits that make breathing more difficult. BOAS is most common in: French Bulldogs Pugs Boston Terriers English Bulldogs Shih Tzus Boxers Pekingese Lhasa Apsos Japanese Chins Brussels Griffons These airway issues can interfere with oxygen intake, especially during excitement, exercise, or warm weather. Signs Your Dog May Have BOAS Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Dogs may show signs gradually or have sudden episodes that become urgent. Look for: Snoring or noisy breathing at rest Gagging or retching Difficulty breathing during or after walks Heat intolerance or collapse on hot days Blue or pale gums, which may indicate low oxygen Fainting after excitement or play When Is It Urgent or an Emergency? Some dogs with BOAS may need urgent care if symptoms appear suddenly or worsen quickly. Call your veterinarian right away if your dog is: Gasping for air Struggling to breathe after light activity Overheating and unable to cool down Collapsing or showing signs of distress Keep your dog cool and calm and seek veterinary guidance immediately. BOAS can escalate quickly and prompt action is important. How Is BOAS Treated? Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, lifestyle changes such as weight management and limited exercise may help. In moderate to severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we provide full airway assessments and can discuss surgical options to help improve your dog’s breathing. Surgical treatment may include: Widening the nostrils Trimming the elongated soft palate Removing excess tissue that may obstruct the airway These procedures can significantly improve airflow and your dog’s quality of life. How to Support Your Dog at Home If your dog is a flat-faced breed, here are a few ways to reduce the risk of breathing issues: Keep them cool in warm weather Use a harness instead of a...

27 Mar

Posted at 17:38h in i-Care by
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When our canine companions start limping, it’s natural for pet owners to be concerned. Lameness in dogs can stem from various causes, ranging from minor injuries to more complex conditions. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs, BC, we recently encountered a case that underscores the importance of advanced diagnostic tools in pinpointing the root cause of lameness. A Mysterious Case of Lameness A few weeks ago, a dog visited our clinic exhibiting lameness in her left front leg. Initial examinations, including x-rays, did not reveal any abnormalities. To alleviate potential inflammation, we prescribed Metacam (Meloxicam). However, when the dog returned with worsening symptoms and noticeable swelling over her shoulder, it was clear that a more in-depth investigation was necessary. https://youtu.be/7IYGjDImyRg The Role of Ultrasound in Diagnosing Lameness While x-rays are invaluable for assessing bone structures, they can sometimes miss issues related to soft tissues, muscles, and tendons. This is where musculoskeletal ultrasound becomes a game-changer. Ultrasound allows veterinarians to visualize soft tissue structures in real-time, providing insights that x-rays might overlook. In our patient’s case, Dr. Alastair Westcott performed an ultrasound examination of the swollen shoulder. The imaging revealed tissue changes suggestive of a possible tumour affecting both soft tissue and bone. To confirm the diagnosis, Dr. Westcott used ultrasound guidance to perform a fine-needle aspiration, collecting fluid samples for microscopic analysis. Why Choose Ultrasound? Non-Invasive and Safe: Ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure that doesn’t expose pets to radiation, making it a safe diagnostic option. Real-Time Imaging: It provides immediate visuals of soft tissues, aiding in the prompt identification of issues. Guided Procedures: Ultrasound can assist in guiding needle aspirations or biopsies, ensuring accurate sampling from specific areas. Studies have demonstrated the accuracy of ultrasound in diagnosing various musculoskeletal conditions in dogs. For instance, research has shown that ultrasound can effectively detect hip luxation and associated soft tissue injuries, highlighting its utility in comprehensive musculoskeletal assessments.  Conclusion Lameness in dogs can be perplexing, but with advanced diagnostic tools like ultrasound, veterinarians can delve deeper into the underlying causes. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we are committed to employing the latest technologies to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatments for our furry friends. If your pet is experiencing unexplained lameness or mobility issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Early intervention and comprehensive diagnostics can make all the difference in your pet’s health and well-being....

22 Mar

Posted at 04:14h in i-Care by
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Has your perfectly house-trained dog suddenly started having accidents indoors? Before frustration sets in, consider that your furry friend might be dealing with a urinary tract infection (UTI). These painful infections can affect dogs of all ages and breeds, causing distress for both pets and their owners. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs, BC, we regularly treat dogs with UTIs. This guide will help you understand the signs, diagnosis process, and treatment options available for this common condition. https://youtu.be/7a5cNEkw_as?feature=shared Warning Signs: How to Recognize a Potential UTI Watch for these common symptoms that may indicate your dog has a UTI: Urinating inside the house despite being house-trained Dribbling small amounts of urine throughout the day More frequent urination than normal Darker yellow or blood-tinged urine Strong-smelling urine Straining or crying during urination Excessive licking of the genital area Scooting behaviour Occasional vomiting or reduced appetite While some of these symptoms (like vomiting and scooting) aren't directly related to UTIs, they can be important clues that something isn't right with your dog's health. What Causes UTIs in Dogs? UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, typically through the urethra, and begin multiplying in the bladder. Female dogs are more susceptible due to their shorter urethras, but male dogs can also develop these infections. Risk factors include: Previous UTI history Underlying health conditions like diabetes or bladder stones Hormonal imbalances Anatomical abnormalities Weakened immune system Improper hygiene The Veterinary Visit: What to Expect When you bring your dog to our clinic with suspected UTI symptoms, our veterinarians will conduct a thorough examination and ask detailed questions about your pet's behaviour changes. Diagnostic Process Our team follows these steps to diagnose UTIs: Sterile urine collection using ultrasound guidance to extract urine directly from the bladder In-house urinalysis checking for white blood cells, bacteria, crystals, and protein Microscopic examination for detailed analysis Urine culture submission to an external laboratory in cases of recurring infections This comprehensive approach helps us identify not only the presence of infection but also any underlying causes that might contribute to recurring UTIs. Treatment Plan: Quick Relief and Long-Term Solutions Based on diagnostic results, our veterinarians develop a personalized treatment plan that typically includes: Appropriate antibiotic therapy based on urinalysis findings or culture results Pain management if your dog is experiencing discomfort Medication for incontinence if needed, particularly for spayed females Treatment of any underlying conditions contributing to the UTI Follow-up testing to ensure the infection has cleared When to Call Your Vet: Don't Wait...

17 Mar

Posted at 11:07h in i-Care by
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Hey there pet parents! With St. Patrick's Day just around the corner, we wanted to share some quick tips to keep your furry friends safe while you celebrate. Trust me, I've seen what happens when celebrations go wrong for our four-legged family members! St. Patrick's Day brings all the fun, festivities, and green everything! But while we're enjoying the celebrations, some holiday traditions can actually put our pets at risk. Here's what you need to know to keep your furry friend safe when the shamrocks come out. 1. Keep Alcohol Away from Pets Let's be real, many of us enjoy a beer (or several) on St. Patrick's Day! But alcohol is seriously toxic to pets. Even small amounts can cause: ❌ Vomiting and diarrhea ❌ Difficulty breathing ❌ Loss of coordination ❌ In severe cases, coma or death Quick Tip: Want your pet to join the celebration? Give them fresh water in a festive green bowl or a pet-safe treat instead! 2. Say No to Green-Dyed Foods & Treats Those green pancakes and cupcakes might look Instagram-worthy, but they're not for your pets! Many artificial food dyes can upset your pet's stomach, and some green treats (like anything matcha-flavored) contain ingredients that are straight-up toxic to pets. Quick Tip: If you want to treat your pet, stick to natural green snacks like: ✔️ Cucumbers ✔️ Green beans ✔️ Zucchini ✔️ Spinach (just a little bit) 3. Beware of Loud Parties & Fireworks Nothing stresses pets out like noisy celebrations, especially with fireworks or a house full of party people. Watch for signs of pet anxiety including: ❌ Hiding or cowering ❌ Excessive barking or meowing ❌ Pacing or restlessness ❌ Trying to escape How to Help: ✔️ Create a quiet, cozy hideaway away from the noise ✔️ Try a calming pheromone diffuser or some soft background music ✔️ Double-check that doors and gates are secure in case your pet panics 4. Keep Chocolate & Irish Dishes Out of Reach St. Patrick's Day brings delicious Irish food, but many dishes can harm your pets. Watch out for: ❌  Chocolate desserts (toxic to both dogs and cats) ❌  Onion and garlic-heavy foods (like Irish stew which can be dangerous) ❌  Soda bread with raisins (raisins can cause kidney failure in pets!) Quick Tip: Give your pet their own St. Paddy's treat like a pet-store green dog biscuit or homemade pet-friendly snack. 5. Dress-Up? Only If Your Pet Likes It! We all love seeing pets in cute St. Patrick's Day gear, but not all animals enjoy playing dress-up. If you want your pet to rock some...

12 Mar

Posted at 19:16h in i-Care by
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Lucy, a small but mighty Shih Tzu, arrived at i-Care Veterinary Hospital with a severely bloated belly and laboured breathing. Her concerned family had watched her abdomen gradually swell over time, prompting them to seek urgent veterinary care. Our team quickly identified that Lucy was suffering from ascites, an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, caused by portal hypertension related to her chronic liver disease. To provide immediate relief, Dr. Alastair Westcott performed an abdominocentesis, a procedure to safely drain the excess fluid. The results were dramatic and instantaneous: Lucy shed two litres of fluid, equivalent to 4.4 pounds, allowing her to breathe and move with newfound ease. https://youtu.be/mWBIgVfMNq4 Understanding Ascites in Dogs Ascites is not a disease itself but rather a symptom of an underlying health condition. The buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity can be caused by several factors: Portal hypertension from chronic liver disease, which increases pressure in the portal vein system and leads to fluid leakage into the abdomen Heart failure, which can cause fluid accumulation throughout the body when the heart cannot efficiently pump blood Malignancies, where tumors may obstruct lymphatic or blood flow, disrupting normal fluid balance Hypoproteinemia (low protein levels in the blood), which reduces the blood's ability to hold fluid, causing it to seep into tissues and cavities In Lucy's case, her ascites stemmed primarily from portal hypertension associated with her chronic liver disease. Diagnosing Lucy's Condition A comprehensive ultrasound revealed that while Lucy had a liver tumour, the primary cause of her fluid accumulation was portal hypertension. Since she was already receiving appropriate medication to manage her underlying condition, our immediate priority was to alleviate her discomfort by removing the excess abdominal fluid. The Procedure: Abdominocentesis Explained To address Lucy's distended abdomen, Dr. Westcott performed an abdominocentesis, a delicate procedure requiring precision and care. This involved: Carefully preparing and sterilizing the abdominal area Inserting a specialized sterile needle into Lucy's abdomen Using a syringe and tubing system to extract the fluid gradually This methodical approach was crucial, as removing too much fluid too rapidly can trigger a dangerous drop in blood pressure. The procedure was conducted in controlled stages to ensure Lucy's safety and comfort throughout. After several careful extraction rounds, the final tally came to exactly two litres, an impressive volume for a dog of Lucy's size. Results: A Rejuvenated Lucy The transformation was remarkable. Post-procedure, Lucy's abdomen returned to a normal size, and she had shed 4.4 pounds of...

07 Mar

Posted at 10:02h in i-Care by
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When your pet needs a cast, keeping it clean and dry is crucial for a smooth recovery. But what happens if the cast gets wet? At i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs, BC, our experienced team recently treated a large dog with a wet, smelly cast that led to an infection. Here’s what we learned and what every pet owner should know. Why Keeping a Pet’s Cast Dry is So Important A wet cast isn’t just uncomfortable. It can lead to skin irritation, infections, and even slow the healing process. Moisture trapped inside the cast creates a warm, damp environment where bacteria thrive. This can result in a foul smell, as well as health risks for your pet. What Should You Do If Your Pet’s Cast Gets Wet If you notice your pet’s cast is damp or smells bad: Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately. Your vet may recommend bringing your pet in for an evaluation. Avoid DIY Fixes. Don’t try to dry the cast with heat or remove it yourself. This could hurt your pet or worsen the situation. Watch for Signs of Infection. Redness, swelling, foul odour, and your pet licking or chewing at the cast are all red flags. Real-Life Example: How We Handled a Wet Cast Case https://youtu.be/TFUyc2ZR1H8 When a large dog came to us with a wet and smelly cast, Dr. Erynn Buhr removed the cast using a rotary saw. We discovered an infection above the wound, likely due to trapped moisture. After cleaning the wound thoroughly, Dr. Alastair Westcott suggested a smart solution: reuse part of the cleaned cast as a splint, as traditional splints wouldn’t hold up for this big patient. Our team, including Veterinary Technician-in-Training Emily and Veterinary Assistant Hannah, worked together to clean, bandage, and safely support the dog’s injured paw. Thanks to quick action and creative thinking, the dog was set on a better path to recovery. Tips for Pet Owners: How to Care for Your Pet’s Cast Keep the Cast Dry. Use a waterproof covering when your pet goes outside, but remove it indoors to avoid trapping moisture. Check the Cast Daily. Look for any signs of dampness, dirt, or damage. Prevent Licking or Chewing. Use an e-collar (cone) if necessary to stop your pet from disturbing the cast. When to Call Your Vet If you notice any unusual smells, signs of infection, or if the cast becomes wet or damaged, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian. Early intervention can prevent...

22 Feb

Posted at 10:36h in Procedures by
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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
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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
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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...