Call: 250-947-9364

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...

28 Jan

Posted at 07:38h in Uncategorized by
0 Likes

When your pet isn’t feeling well, it can be hard to know whether the situation is an emergency or something that can wait until your next regular vet appointment. In these stressful moments, having a clear understanding of the difference between urgent care and emergency care can make all the difference in getting your pet the help they need. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we provide urgent care services for pets, offering same-day appointments to address non-life-threatening but time-sensitive health issues. In this blog, we’ll help you understand what types of situations qualify as urgent care versus an emergency and what steps to take if you’re unsure. https://youtu.be/ypJhHq2IOa4 What is Urgent Care for Pets? Urgent care is designed for pets who need prompt attention but are not in immediate danger of losing their life. Think of it as the pet equivalent of visiting a walk-in clinic for humans. Common Urgent Care Cases Include: Minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, or limping. Vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration. Ear infections, itching, or rashes. Mild allergic reactions, including swelling or hives. Coughing, sneezing, or respiratory issues that are non-life-threatening. Eye discharge, redness, or irritation. Pain or difficulty moving without collapse. Urinary problems, including straining to urinate or accidents in the house. Why Urgent Care Matters: Many of these conditions may worsen if left untreated, but they don’t require the immediate life-saving intervention of an emergency. Urgent care appointments are typically faster and less costly than emergency services, making them a practical solution for common pet health issues. What is Emergency Care for Pets? Emergency care is for life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical attention to stabilize your pet. Examples of Emergency Cases Include: Severe trauma, such as being hit by a car or falling from a height. Seizures lasting more than 5 minutes or multiple seizures in a row. Difficulty breathing or choking. Severe bleeding that won’t stop. Collapse, unconsciousness, or sudden inability to stand. Suspected poisoning or toxin ingestion. Bloating with a hard, swollen abdomen (possible GDV in dogs). Inability to urinate, especially in male cats (could indicate a urinary blockage). Heatstroke or severe hypothermia. Uncontrollable vomiting or diarrhea, especially with blood. When in Doubt—Call Us! It’s not always easy to tell whether a situation requires urgent care or emergency care—and that’s okay! At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we encourage pet owners to call us immediately if they’re unsure. Our experienced team can guide you through the next steps and determine whether your pet should come in...

18 Jan

Posted at 09:15h in i-Care, Procedures by
0 Likes

Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in pets, yet it’s often overlooked because early symptoms can be subtle. Did you know that most dogs and cats show signs of dental disease by the age of three? Left untreated, dental problems can cause pain, infection, and even damage to vital organs like the heart and kidneys. The good news is that early detection and treatment can prevent complications and improve your pet’s quality of life. https://youtu.be/t4Yhs9ccAUk Here are seven signs that it’s time to schedule your pet’s dental check-up at i-Care Veterinary Hospital. 1. Bad Breath While “doggy breath” may seem normal, persistent bad breath can signal a problem. Bad breath is often caused by bacteria buildup in the mouth, which can lead to plaque, tartar, and infection. 2. Yellow or Brown Teeth Discolouration caused by plaque and tartar buildup is a sign that your pet needs a professional cleaning. Plaque hardens into tartar, which can’t be removed by brushing alone and requires a veterinary cleaning under anesthesia. 3. Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums Healthy gums should be pink and firm. If you notice redness, swelling, or bleeding, your pet may have gingivitis—the first stage of periodontal disease. Without treatment, this can lead to tooth loss and painful infections. 4. Drooling or Dropping Food If your pet is suddenly drooling more than usual or has difficulty chewing food, they may be experiencing oral pain caused by inflammation, loose teeth, or infection. Pets may also drop food while eating or refuse hard treats. 5. Pawing at the Mouth or Face Excessive pawing at the mouth, rubbing their face on furniture, or showing signs of discomfort when touched near the mouth may indicate dental pain. Pets may act out or become irritable when their mouths hurt. 6. Loose or Missing Teeth Loose teeth are often a sign of advanced dental disease caused by the breakdown of the periodontal ligaments. Missing teeth could mean that your pet has already suffered tooth loss due to infection or bone damage. 7. Visible Growths or Lumps in the Mouth Abnormal lumps, swelling, or growths inside the mouth should be evaluated as soon as possible. While some growths may be benign, others could indicate tumours or serious infections. What to Expect at a Veterinary Dental Exam At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we offer Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT) to evaluate your pet’s dental health. Our COHAT procedure includes: A detailed examination of each tooth. Intra-oral x-rays to evaluate the roots and jawbone for...

09 Jan

Posted at 22:55h in Uncategorized by
0 Likes

At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we understand that your furry family members deserve the best. That’s why we’re thrilled to bring you exclusive promotions on premium pet nutrition products. Whether you’re looking to save on recurring AutoOrders or want to try out top-quality formulas, we’ve got you covered. Check out these exciting offers available now through our online store! 1. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Promo ???? Get $15 OFF your first AutoOrder of Purina® Pro Plan Veterinary Diets®, including DH Dental®, EN Gastroenteric®, and EssentialCare® formulas. ???? Use promo code: 15off to redeem this exclusive offer! ???? Available from January 1 to February 28, 2025, this promotion makes it easy to give your pet top-notch nutrition while enjoying big savings. Why Choose Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets®? These specialized formulas are designed to support your pet’s unique dietary needs, from dental health to digestive care. Give your pet the best with this unbeatable deal! 2. Royal Canin Bundle Up Flash Sale ???? Save up to 40% on Royal Canin® Veterinary Exclusive formulas! From January 13 to January 17, 2025, stock up and enjoy: 40% OFF your first AutoOrder 30% OFF single orders Why Choose Royal Canin®? With a variety of formulas tailored for your pet’s specific needs, Royal Canin® offers targeted nutrition for healthier, happier pets. Don’t miss this limited-time winter sale—shop online now! 3. Royal Canin Savings Made Simple ???? Get 25% OFF your first AutoOrder of Royal Canin® Veterinary Exclusive formulas with promo code: ROYALCANIN25. Available from January 1 to April 30, 2025, this offer is perfect for first-time AutoOrder customers. Plus, subscribing ensures you never run out of your pet’s favourite food again! Benefits of AutoOrder: Exclusive savings Hassle-free automatic deliveries Access to members-only promotions Start saving today and keep your pet’s nutrition on track! 4. Hill’s Dental Promotion ???? 30% OFF your first AutoOrder of Hill’s Prescription Diet® t/d Dental Care formulas! Use promo code: HILLSTD30 and enjoy 25% savings, plus an additional 5% recurring discount on subsequent AutoOrders. This offer is available from January 1 to March 31, 2025. Why Hill’s Prescription Diet® t/d? Recommended by veterinarians, this formula is scientifically designed to support your pet’s dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup. Give your pets a healthier smile while saving big! Why Shop with i-Care Veterinary Hospital? When you shop with us, you’re choosing: ✅ Convenience: Browse and order from the comfort of your home. ✅ Savings: Enjoy exclusive deals and discounts. ✅ Quality: Access trusted veterinary-exclusive formulas. Plus, our AutoOrder subscription service makes it easier than ever to stay...

06 Jan

Posted at 05:00h in i-Care, Procedures by
0 Likes

The new year is the perfect time to set fresh goals—not just for yourself but for your furry companions, too! While we often focus on exercise and diet, dental health is one area of pet care that’s frequently overlooked. Did you know that over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by age three? At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we’re gearing up for Dental Health Month in February to help pet parents tackle this often-hidden issue. One of the best ways to keep your pet’s teeth healthy is through a Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT)—a thorough evaluation and cleaning that goes far beyond what can be achieved at home. https://youtu.be/EtJ8W_s4HQw What is a Dental COHAT? A Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT) is a complete dental service that addresses both prevention and treatment of dental disease. This procedure involves: A full dental probing and evaluation of each tooth. Intra-oral x-rays to assess the tooth roots and surrounding bone structure. Hand and ultrasonic scaling to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. Extractions of damaged or infected teeth to prevent chronic pain and infection. Because pets require general anesthesia for a COHAT, we’re able to provide thorough cleaning and treatment—something that cannot be achieved with an awake animal. Why Does Dental Health Matter? Dental health affects more than just your pet’s teeth and gums—it’s closely linked to their overall health. Prevents Infection and Pain. Bacteria from untreated dental disease can enter the bloodstream and spread to vital organs like the heart and kidneys, leading to serious health complications. Reduces the Risk of Tooth Loss. Tartar buildup leads to gingivitis, which breaks down the periodontal ligaments holding teeth in place, eventually causing tooth loss. Protects Against Bone Damage. Left untreated, infection can spread to the jawbone, resulting in abscesses or even jaw fractures, especially in smaller pets. Improves Quality of Life. Healthy teeth allow pets to eat comfortably, stay active, and avoid the pain of fractured teeth or infected gums. How Dental Disease Develops Without daily brushing, plaque forms when bacteria, saliva, and food particles mix. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which causes gum inflammation (gingivitis). If untreated, this can: Damage the periodontal ligaments, leading to tooth mobility. Cause infection and abscesses at the tooth roots. Allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, impacting organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. Result in broken teeth that expose the pulp cavity, creating a direct...

30 Dec

Posted at 05:00h in i-Care by
0 Likes

Introduction: Wren’s Scary Encounter with String Cats are curious by nature, and sometimes their curiosity can lead to serious trouble. Meet Wren, a sweet and affectionate cat who found herself in a dangerous situation after swallowing a piece of string. When Wren arrived at i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs, BC, she was vomiting, lethargic, and in pain. Her case highlights the dangers of string ingestion in cats—and serves as a reminder to cat owners about what to do in emergencies like this. https://youtu.be/VFECpFZMrn0 Why Is String Dangerous for Cats? Cats love to chase and chew on string, yarn, ribbons, and shoelaces. But if swallowed, these items can quickly become life-threatening. The Risks Include: Intestinal Blockages – Strings can become stuck under the tongue or in the stomach, pulling tightly through the intestines and causing them to bunch up like an accordion. Tears and Perforations – A taut string can saw through the delicate walls of the intestines, leading to internal infections (peritonitis) or sepsis. Emergency Surgery – If the string can’t pass naturally, surgery may be required to remove it, which can be expensive and risky. Wren’s Story: Diagnosis and Treatment Wren’s case highlights how quickly string ingestion can escalate—and how prompt veterinary care can make all the difference. Day 1: Emergency Visit Wren came in vomiting and showing signs of severe distress. Upon examination, Dr. Alastair Westcott found a string looped around her tongue, pulling tightly through her intestines and causing painful bunching. Dr. Westcott immediately cut the string under her tongue to relieve tension, which improved her comfort and stabilized her condition. Wren was then sent home overnight with instructions for careful monitoring. Day 2: Follow-Up Ultrasound The next morning, Wren returned for an ultrasound exam with Dr. Alastair Westcott, a veterinary ultrasonographer at i-Care. Why Ultrasound? Ultrasound provides a non-invasive, real-time view of a pet’s internal organs. It allows us to: Detect blockages, inflammation, or intestinal bunching. Decide whether surgery is necessary—or whether it can be safely avoided. Monitor changes without exploratory surgery, reducing stress and costs. The ultrasound revealed that Wren’s intestines were no longer tightly bunched, and the string appeared to be moving through safely. We opted to continue monitoring her carefully rather than rush into surgery. What to Do If Your Cat Eats String 1. Don’t Pull the String! If string is visible in your cat’s mouth or rectum, never pull on it. This could cause internal damage, including intestinal tears or rectal prolapse. Instead, trim the visible portion and call your veterinarian...

20 Dec

Posted at 18:08h in i-Care by
0 Likes

Welcoming a new kitten into your home is an exciting time! Those tiny paws and playful pounces bring so much joy. But as a responsible pet owner, one of the most important steps in your kitten’s care is their first visit to the veterinarian. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we recently met Phoebe, a sweet kitten with Siamese-like colouring, for her first vet visit. Let’s explore what happens during this crucial appointment and why it’s so important. Why is the First Vet Visit So Important? Early veterinary care lays the foundation for a lifetime of health. This visit helps ensure your kitten is developing normally, identifies any early health concerns, and provides necessary preventative care. It’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions about your kitten’s care, such as feeding, spaying or neutering, and vaccinations. What to Expect During the First Visit https://youtu.be/dLle-Z5VgpI A Warm Welcome At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we know how special your first visit can be. Your kitten will be greeted with lots of smiles and gentle handling to help them feel comfortable. Our team loves meeting kittens, just like Phoebe, who quickly became the star of the clinic during her visit! Thorough Physical Examination During the first appointment, your vet will conduct a full physical exam to check your kitten’s overall health. This includes examining their: Eyes, ears, and mouth Coat and skin Body condition (weight, size, and muscle tone) Heart and lungs Abdomen for any unusual lumps or signs of pain For Phoebe, Dr. Chris Milligan reassured her owner that she was the right size and weight for her age, despite her small appearance. This is a common concern for new pet parents! Preventative Care: Deworming and Vaccinations Kittens are vulnerable to parasites and infectious diseases, so their first visit usually includes: Deworming treatment: Intestinal worms are common in kittens, and deworming ensures these pests don’t cause health issues. Core vaccinations: Phoebe received her first vaccines to protect against panleukopenia, calicivirus, and feline herpesvirus. Dr. Milligan also discussed vaccinating Phoebe against rabies, which is especially relevant for cats on Vancouver Island. While Phoebe is an indoor cat, Dr. Milligan explained that bats—common in the area—can sometimes find their way inside homes. Indoor cats may occasionally catch bats, posing a potential rabies risk. Follow-Up Instructions Lindsey, our Lead Technician, returned Phoebe to the exam room to reunite her with her owner after the treatments. Following Dr. Milligan’s instructions, Lindsey informed Phoebe’s owner that her next round of vaccines should be...

04 Dec

Posted at 02:27h in i-Care, Procedures by
0 Likes

At i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs, BC, we understand that your pets are family. That’s why we offer Vet Tech Appointments—a convenient, stress-free way for your furry friends to receive routine care. In this post, we’re taking you behind the scenes of a typical day, following Emily, our technician in training, as she provides personalized care for four special patients. https://youtu.be/dL5A3Dyireo?si=m3NfTLOeHFUaclcS What Are Vet Tech Appointments? Vet Tech Appointments are visits handled by trained veterinary technicians for routine care that doesn’t require a veterinarian’s direct intervention. These appointments can include: Vaccines Arthritis injections (like Librela) Post-operative or dental follow-ups Nail trims, ear cleaning, and more They’re quick, effective, and help ensure your pet’s ongoing health while giving vets more time to focus on complex cases. A Day in the Life of Vet Tech Appointments at i-Care On this particular day, Emily cared for: A Golden Retriever who received a Librela injection to manage arthritis pain, making those golden years a little more comfortable. Bandit, a dog attending a follow-up appointment one month after having several incisors and molars extracted. Follow-ups like these ensure pets heal properly and are back to their happy selves. Bambi and Winston, two adorable kittens getting their second round of vaccines. Their owners also left with flea, tick, and worm medications to administer at home. Teddy the Pug, who stopped by for a quick Librela injection in the reception area. Why Choose Vet Tech Appointments? Vet Tech Appointments are perfect for pet parents looking for convenient, compassionate care for their pets. They also help pets feel more comfortable by minimizing the time spent in the clinic for routine treatments. If you’d like to learn more or schedule a Vet Tech Appointment for your pet, call us at 250-947-9364 or visit us online at https://icarevet.com. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to keep your furry family members happy and healthy!...

27 Nov

Posted at 05:51h in i-Care by
0 Likes

Treat Your Pets While Saving Big This Holiday Season! Black Friday and Cyber Monday are just around the corner, and i-Care Veterinary Hospital is excited to offer incredible savings for pet owners. From November 29 to December 2, 2024, you can save up to 40% on Royal Canin® Veterinary Exclusive formulas through our online store. Here’s what you can look forward to: 40% OFF Recurring Orders: Never run out of your pet’s favourite food again while enjoying maximum savings. 35% OFF Single Orders: Perfect for stocking up on essentials for your furry friends. Why Choose Royal Canin®? Royal Canin® Veterinary formulas are tailored to meet the unique dietary needs of your pets, promoting health and vitality. Whether you have a playful kitten, a loyal senior dog, or a furry friend with special dietary needs, this is the perfect opportunity to provide them with premium nutrition at a fraction of the cost. How to Take Advantage of This Deal Visit our online store. Choose your preferred Royal Canin® products. Use promo code BIGGESTSALE35 at checkout. But hurry—this offer is only valid while supplies last! Keep the Savings Going Love saving money? Sign up for recurring orders and enjoy 5% OFF all year round! With this convenient option, you’ll never have to worry about running out of your pet’s food again. Shop now and give your pets the care they deserve—without breaking the bank. Click here to start shopping and save big this Black Friday & Cyber Monday!...