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04 May

Posted at 06:54h in i-Care, Procedures by
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When a beloved pet like Lilo suffers from a severe injury (in this case, Lilo was hit by a car), it's a traumatic experience for both the pet and their owners. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we understand the importance of making informed decisions regarding your pet's health and well-being. In this article, we'll delve into the considerations between fracture repair and amputation, as explained by our Medical Director, Dr. Mortenson. https://youtu.be/MlJyABBC7V8 Fracture Repair vs. Amputation: Lilo, a recent patient at i-Care Veterinary Hospital, faced a difficult situation after being hit by a car. Her left hind leg sustained significant damage, with both the tibia and fibula broken. Initially, the option of amputation was considered due to financial constraints. However, after consulting with Dr. Mortenson, a different approach was chosen – fracture repair. Benefits of Fracture Repair: Dr. Mortenson explains that fracture repair involves stabilizing the broken bones using surgical techniques. In Lilo's case, a plate and rod were utilized to immobilize the fractured bones, allowing for proper healing. This method aims to preserve the limb and restore its function, ultimately providing a better quality of life for the patient. Rehabilitation and Follow-up: Following the fracture repair surgery, Lilo will require careful rehabilitation and monitoring. Dr. Mortenson emphasizes the importance of restricting strenuous activities while encouraging gentle exercise to promote bone healing. Regular follow-up appointments, including X-rays, will assess the progress of Lilo's recovery and ensure optimal healing. Conclusion: The decision between fracture repair and amputation is a complex one, influenced by various factors such as the severity of the injury, the pet's age, and the owner's financial considerations. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized care tailored to each patient's needs. With expert guidance from veterinarians like Dr. Mortenson, pets like Lilo have the opportunity to regain mobility and lead fulfilling lives following traumatic injuries. If you're facing a similar situation with your pet, don't hesitate to reach out to us at i-Care Veterinary Hospital for compassionate and comprehensive veterinary care....

30 Apr

Posted at 02:17h in Procedures, Vet Tips by
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At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we understand that your pet is a cherished member of your family, and we are committed to providing the highest standard of care. One of the ways we ensure top-notch care is by offering in-house ultrasounds and echocardiograms, which play a critical role in diagnosing conditions like Cushing's disease efficiently and accurately. https://youtu.be/JBeFrN3PB1w Why In-House Imaging Matters: In-house diagnostic tools like ultrasound and echocardiogram equipment allow us to quickly assess your pet’s health without the need for referrals to other facilities. This capability not only saves crucial time but also reduces stress for your pet and anxiety for you. When conditions such as Cushing's disease are suspected, immediate action can be the key to effective management and treatment. Spotlight on Cushing's Disease: Cushing's disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, is a common condition in dogs that occurs when their bodies produce too much cortisol. The symptoms—ranging from increased thirst and hunger to hair loss and a swollen abdomen—can be distressing. Dr. Westcott, one of our skilled veterinarians, specializes in using ultrasound technology to diagnose this disease by checking for abnormalities in the adrenal or pituitary glands. Our Approach to Diagnosis: During an ultrasound examination, Dr. Westcott gently guides a small probe over your pet’s abdomen, creating images of the internal organs in real-time. This non-invasive technique allows for a detailed look at the adrenal glands, which are often affected by tumours in Cushing's disease cases. Similarly, echocardiograms are used to assess heart health, as Cushing’s can also impact cardiac function. Benefits for Your Pet and You: By conducting these critical diagnostics in-house: Speed of Diagnosis: We can diagnose conditions much faster than if your pet had to be referred elsewhere. Comfort: Your pet stays in a familiar environment, reducing stress and promoting more accurate diagnostic results. Convenience: You benefit from having all your pet’s healthcare needs managed under one roof, reducing travel and wait times. Comprehensive Care: Quick diagnosis leads to timely treatment. Our team can start managing conditions immediately, improving outcomes. Conclusion: At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, our priority is your pet's health and your peace of mind. Offering in-house ultrasounds and echocardiograms is just one of the many ways we maintain our commitment to comprehensive, compassionate care. Trust us to provide your pet with the best possible health management, starting with advanced diagnostic tools right at our facility. To learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation, contact us today....

27 Apr

Posted at 10:51h in i-Care, Vet Tips by
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At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we prioritize your dog's health and well-being. Pancreatitis in dogs is an inflammation of the pancreas that can disrupt their normal functions, which include aiding digestion and regulating blood sugar. Here's a video about a patient with pancreatitis: https://youtu.be/jEOR3Z2jdN8 What Causes Pancreatitis? While the specific cause can be complex, high-fat diets and certain medications are known triggers. Recognizing the signs early can help prevent complications. Symptoms to Observe Symptoms include vomiting, abdominal pain, and lethargy. If you notice these signs, it's important to seek immediate veterinary care. Diagnosis and Treatment Our team uses the latest diagnostic tools, including blood tests and ultrasounds, to determine if your pet has pancreatitis. Treatment may involve hydration, pain relief, and dietary adjustments. Prevention and Management Understanding the dietary needs of your dog and avoiding high-fat foods can help prevent pancreatitis. Regular check-ups allow for early detection and management of health issues. Conclusion At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we're here to support your pet's health. If you suspect your dog might have pancreatitis, please contact us immediately for comprehensive care....

24 Apr

Posted at 03:51h in i-Care, Vet Tips by
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When your beloved pet swallows something they shouldn't, it can be a frightening experience. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we often encounter pets that have ingested a variety of foreign objects, ranging from household items to toys. Understanding the risks associated with these incidents and knowing what steps to take can help prevent serious health issues. In this blog post, we'll explore the dangers of pets ingesting foreign objects, how to recognize the signs, and the treatment options available at our facility. In the following video, you'll hear about Leo, a feline patient who ate some Easter grass...

20 Apr

Posted at 07:02h in Vet Tips by
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This is part of a longer video about a feline patient named Leo who had ingested some Easter grass. We wanted to share this part of the video because Lead Veterinary Technician Lindsey gives some sound advice about NEVER pulling something from this part of your pet. https://youtu.be/XyYzvlp9UFU Located in Coombs and proudly serving Parksville, Port Alberni, northern Nanaimo, and all areas of Vancouver Island, we’re here to provide top-notch care that turns challenges into heartwarming success stories. Whether it’s through innovative treatments or the simple power of a caring touch, i-Care Veterinary Hospital is your trusted partner in pet health. Join our community of pet lovers and experience veterinary care that goes beyond expectations. Visit us in Coombs, BC, and see firsthand how we’re revolutionizing animal care on Vancouver Island....

19 Apr

Posted at 23:17h in i-Care by
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At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, your pet's long-term health is critical to their overall happiness, as well as your peace of mind. That's why we take pride in providing excellence in care to help patient's now and as they progress through their lives. An example of this is with Pickles, a sweet patient of yours that has been having some tummy and pancreas issues. See how Dr. Mortenson helps Pickles' owner to understand his condition and how to maintain a healthy weight. https://youtu.be/CMANiZ6FaLo...

13 Apr

Posted at 05:45h in i-Care, Procedures by
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In the realm of veterinary medicine, technological advancements are not just improving the way we treat our furry friends but also revolutionizing the speed and comfort with which they recover. One such innovation at the forefront of veterinary surgery is the use of laser scalpels. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we recently had the opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of this technology with a lumpectomy procedure on a dog, showcasing not just our commitment to cutting-edge care but also to our patients' well-being and comfort. https://youtu.be/DvL7zqLJNcg Understanding Lumpectomy in Dogs Before delving into the specifics of the laser scalpel technique, let's unpack what a lumpectomy entails. A lumpectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at removing lumps or tumours from a dog's body. These lumps can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and their removal is crucial for both diagnostic and therapeutic reasons. The goal is to excise the mass completely, with minimal impact on the surrounding healthy tissue, to ensure a swift and comprehensive recovery. The Laser Scalpel Advantage Traditional surgical methods, while effective, come with their set of challenges, including significant blood loss, pain, and a longer recovery period. The introduction of laser scalpels has addressed many of these issues head-on. Precision and Preservation: The laser scalpel allows for extremely precise cuts, which means only the targeted lump and minimal surrounding tissue are affected. This precision preserves the healthy tissue around the tumour, which is especially crucial in sensitive areas. Reduced Pain and Infection Risk: As the laser cuts, it also seals nerve endings and blood vessels. This sealing action not only reduces bleeding but also significantly lowers the pain experienced post-surgery. Moreover, the high-energy beam sterilizes the area, decreasing the risk of post-operative infections. Faster Recovery: With less trauma to the body and reduced pain, dogs recover from laser scalpel surgeries much quicker. The reduced recovery time means less stress for both the pet and the pet owner and a quicker return to normal activities. Our Commitment to Advanced Care At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, adopting the laser scalpel technique for lumpectomies and other surgical procedures is part of our broader commitment to providing the most advanced and compassionate care possible. Our team of veterinary professionals is trained in the latest technologies, ensuring that your pet receives the best possible treatment and care. The Future of Veterinary Surgery The success of laser scalpel surgeries at our hospital represents just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what's possible with veterinary...

08 Apr

Posted at 07:05h in Procedures by
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Embracing Precision: Laser Surgery at i-Care Veterinary Hospital At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we're pioneering the use of advanced laser surgery to offer our patients and their families the highest standard of veterinary care. Our recent success story, under the skilled hands of Dr. Mortenson, highlights the transformative power of this technology. Here’s how we’re incorporating the latest technology into your pet's care. https://youtu.be/L_BUxB6O8HY Unmatched Accuracy with Laser Scalpel The Power of Precision Laser surgery stands out for its precision. The recent procedure to remove a mass from a dog's neck showcased how the laser scalpel's accuracy significantly reduces the impact on surrounding tissues, ensuring a safer and more efficient surgery. Enhancing Post-operative Recovery Faster Recovery, Less Pain One of the key benefits of laser surgery is the promotion of quicker healing. By sealing nerve endings and lymphatics, the laser reduces post-operative swelling and discomfort, allowing pets to enjoy a faster and more comfortable recovery. In the case of Oakley, he went home the same day after surgery. Minimizing Surgical Risks Reducing the Risks Shorter surgical times mean less time under anesthesia, lowering the risk of anesthesia-related complications. This aspect was crucial in our recent procedure, emphasizing the safety benefits of laser surgery for our furry patients. Broadening the Scope of Treatments Beyond the Scalpel Laser surgery opens up new possibilities for treating conditions previously considered challenging. Its sanitizing effect also reduces the risk of infections, making it a game-changer for veterinary care. Looking Towards the Future Embracing the Future of Veterinary Care At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we're committed to incorporating the latest technologies to provide excellence in care for your pets. Dr. Mortenson's successful surgery is a testament to our dedication to excellence and innovation in veterinary medicine. Join Us on the Journey to Advanced Pet Care Discover more about our laser surgery services and how we can help your pet live a healthier, happier life. Contact i-Care Veterinary Hospital today to learn more or to schedule a consultation. Your pet’s well-being is our top priority, and we’re here to ensure they receive the best possible care....

03 Apr

Posted at 21:14h in i-Care by
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Welcome to the future of veterinary care, where advanced technology meets compassionate treatment to provide your beloved pets with the best possible medical care. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we're proud to offer laser scalpel surgery, a cutting-edge alternative to traditional surgical methods. This innovative technique offers numerous benefits for both pets and pet owners alike, ensuring a smoother, quicker recovery process. Let's dive into the remarkable advantages of opting for laser scalpel surgery for your furry friends. https://youtu.be/6Tv1VJ6UlFM Decreased Post-Operative Pain One of the most significant benefits of laser scalpel surgery is the remarkable reduction in post-operative pain. Unlike traditional surgery, which can leave pets in discomfort for days, the laser scalpel technique seals nerve endings as it cuts. This action dramatically reduces pain impulses from the surgery site, allowing pets to enjoy a more comfortable recovery period. Furthermore, this method often requires only local anesthesia for minor procedures, reducing the risks associated with general anesthesia and making it a safer option for removing small skin tumours. Reduced Bleeding and Blood Loss Blood loss during surgery can be a concern for pet owners and veterinarians alike. However, laser scalpel surgery minimizes this risk through the precise cauterization of blood vessels. As the laser beam vaporizes tissues, it also seals blood vessels, significantly reducing bleeding and blood loss. This not only makes the surgery safer but also reduces the duration of the procedure, allowing for a quicker return to normal activities. Reduced Risk of Surgical Infection Surgical infections can complicate recovery and pose significant health risks to pets. Fortunately, the laser scalpel technique offers a substantial reduction in the risk of infection. The laser superheats the tissues at the incision site, effectively destroying any bacteria present during the surgery. This sterile environment promotes a cleaner healing process, giving pet owners peace of mind and helping pets recover without complications. Reduced Inflammation Traditional surgical methods can cause tissue irritation, leading to inflammation and swelling during the recovery process. In contrast, laser scalpel surgery involves minimal tissue contact, as the only thing touching the tissue is the laser beam itself. This results in significantly less irritation and inflammation, ensuring a more comfortable recovery for your pet. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care for your pets. By incorporating laser scalpel surgery into our treatment options, we offer a safer, more comfortable, and more efficient surgical experience. Whether your pet needs a minor procedure or a more...