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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...

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...

11 Feb

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

18 Jan

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

06 Jan

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