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05 Jul

Posted at 22:08h in i-Care, Procedures by
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At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we are dedicated to providing top-notch care for our furry friends, no matter how challenging their medical conditions may be. Recently, we had the opportunity to treat Lily, a 2.3 kg Chihuahua, for a condition known as a luxating patella. This blog post delves into Lily's journey through orthopedic surgery, aiming to educate and engage pet owners who might be facing similar challenges with their pets. Understanding Luxating Patella A luxating patella, commonly referred to as a "floating kneecap," occurs when the patella (kneecap) dislocates or moves out of its normal position. This condition is particularly prevalent in smaller dog breeds like Chihuahuas and can cause significant discomfort and mobility issues for the affected pet. For Lily, surgery was necessary to realign her patella and restore her quality of life. https://youtu.be/Jldn-l8ATzQ?si=UbSEOL9_m2DSgMEi The Surgical Procedure Lily's orthopedic surgery was a meticulous process involving several steps to ensure the successful realignment and stabilization of her patella. Here’s a breakdown of the procedure: Deepening the Sulcus Groove: The first step involved deepening the sulcus groove. This groove is where the patella normally sits, and by making it deeper, surgeons can help ensure that the kneecap stays in place more reliably. Transposing the Tibial Tuberosity: Next, the tibial tuberosity (a bony prominence where the patellar ligament attaches) was transposed. This adjustment helps in realigning the patella and improving its functional position. Tension Band Fixation: To stabilize the bone post-surgery, tension band fixation using K wires was employed. This technique is crucial in ensuring that the bones remain in their proper place as Lily begins the healing process. Post-Surgery Care Post-operative care is crucial for the successful recovery of pets undergoing orthopedic surgeries. For Lily, this included diligent monitoring and potential hardware removal typically performed 8-12 weeks after the initial surgery. This step is essential to remove any surgical materials used during the fixation process, ensuring that they do not cause any long-term issues. Alternative Surgical Options In cases involving more severe deformities, options such as cranial wedge osteotomy exist. This procedure, while effective, involves a longer recovery time and is considered based on the severity of the condition. Compassionate Care at i-Care Vet Hospital Lily's journey exemplifies our commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for pets with orthopedic conditions. Through meticulous surgical techniques and dedicated post-operative care, we aim to restore comfort and mobility to our furry companions. If your pet is experiencing similar issues, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation....

28 Jun

Posted at 06:54h in i-Care by
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As a loving pet owner, seeing your dog suffer from allergies and ear infections can be distressing. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, Dr. Erynn Buhr offers her expertise on how to identify and manage these common issues to ensure your furry friend stays healthy and comfortable. Understanding Dog Allergies Dogs can develop allergies to various environmental factors or specific foods. Dr. Buhr explains that distinguishing between these two types of allergies is crucial for effective treatment. https://youtu.be/Q0ngi0Khxac?si=seuv24zPRG9rdlvN Environmental Allergies Environmental allergies can be tricky to manage due to the multitude of external factors like pollen, dust, and mould. These allergies often manifest as itchy skin, red eyes, and recurrent ear infections. While controlling the environment is challenging, there are ways to minimize your dog's exposure to allergens. Food Allergies Food allergies, on the other hand, are more manageable once identified. Symptoms may include gastrointestinal issues, skin problems, and ear infections. Dr. Buhr recommends switching your dog to a hypoallergenic diet to pinpoint and manage food allergies effectively. Managing Ear Infections Recurring ear infections are often a sign of underlying allergies. Regular ear cleaning with appropriate solutions can prevent infections and manage existing conditions. Treatment Options Dr. Buhr emphasizes a tailored approach to treatment: Hypoallergenic Diets: Switching to novel proteins, such as kangaroo, can help identify food allergies. These proteins are less likely to trigger allergic reactions. Specialized Ear Cleaners: Using ear cleaners designed for dogs with allergies can help maintain ear health and prevent infections. By following Dr. Buhr’s advice, you can help your dog overcome allergies and enjoy a healthier, happier life. For personalized advice and treatment, consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Erynn Buhr at i-Care Veterinary Hospital. Your pet’s well-being is their top priority....

21 Jun

Posted at 07:00h in i-Care by
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We are excited to share some fantastic news! After a thorough facility inspection by the College of Veterinarians of British Columbia, we have successfully met all the required standards to open our much-anticipated Urgent Care Department and treatment area. This achievement is not just a milestone for us—it’s a leap forward in our commitment to providing top-notch medical services for your cherished pets. Why This Milestone Matters The establishment of our Urgent Care Department marks a significant chapter in our journey. We understand how crucial timely and efficient medical attention is, especially during urgent situations. Our new department is designed to meet these needs, ensuring that your furry friends receive the care they need when they need it the most. Our Promise to You As we embark on this new venture, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering high-quality care. Our goal is to serve you with the utmost compassion, expertise, and efficiency. We acknowledge that a seamless operation of our new treatment area is essential, which is why we are diligently training our staff and making necessary adjustments to optimize our services. What to Expect While we are eager to welcome you to our new Urgent Care Department, we ask for your patience and understanding during this transition period. We are working hard to ensure that every aspect of our facility is in prime condition to provide exceptional care. Stay tuned for regular updates as we progress, and rest assured that your beloved pets are in capable and caring hands. We are deeply grateful for your ongoing support and trust in our services. Looking Ahead This launch is just the beginning. We are dedicated to continuous improvement and innovation to serve our community better. Your health and safety—and that of your pets—remain our top priority. https://youtu.be/Jb3lAt9cl8I Thank you for being a part of our journey. We can’t wait to see you at our new Urgent Care Department soon! Keep an eye out for more updates, and feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns. Together, we are building a healthier, happier future for our beloved pets. Stay tuned, and thank you for your unwavering support!...

18 Jun

Posted at 22:27h in i-Care by
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Veterinary Appreciation Day is a special occasion to recognize and celebrate the incredible dedication and compassion of veterinary professionals everywhere. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we are proud to be part of a community that puts the health and happiness of animals first. In this blog post, we honour our amazing team and all veterinary professionals who tirelessly care for our beloved pets. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcUwG6iDADc The Importance of Veterinary Professionals Veterinarians and their support staff play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of animals. From routine health check-ups to complex surgeries, their expertise and care are vital in maintaining the health and happiness of pets. They work long hours, often under stressful conditions, to provide the best possible care for animals in need. A Day in the Life of a Veterinary Professional At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, our veterinary team may encounter a range of cases from routine vaccinations to emergency surgeries. Despite the challenges, their passion for animal care keeps them motivated and dedicated. Why We Celebrate Veterinary Appreciation Day Veterinary Appreciation Day is not just about recognizing the hard work of veterinary professionals; it’s also about acknowledging the emotional strength and compassion they bring to their work. The bond between veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants and veterinary receptionists and their patients is unique and special. Each wagging tail, purring cat, and grateful pet owner is a testament to their dedication. Shoutout to the i-Care Team We are incredibly proud of our team at i-Care Veterinary Hospital. Their continuous dedication and care make a significant difference in the lives of the furry friends here in our Island community. From our veterinarians to our vet techs and support staff, each member plays a crucial role in providing top-notch care. As we celebrate Veterinary Appreciation Day, we encourage everyone to take a moment to thank the veterinary professionals in their lives. Their hard work and love for animals make the world a better place for pets and their families. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we are grateful for our incredible team and all the veterinary heroes out there....

13 Jun

Posted at 03:38h in i-Care by
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At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we are dedicated to ensuring the comfort and well-being of every pet that walks through our doors. Our furry patients deserve the best care, and you can help make their stay more comfortable. We're calling on our wonderful community to donate clean, gently used towels and blankets to help us provide a cozy environment for the dogs and cats in our care...

06 Jun

Posted at 20:37h in i-Care by
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We recently had a brave canine patient who came to us with severe injuries from a pellet gun and a shovel strike to the head. This case highlighted the resilience of our furry friends and the critical importance of prompt and comprehensive veterinary care. https://youtu.be/wbnCIDDH_1U?feature=shared Initial Assessment and Immediate Action Our journey began with an initial assessment of the dog's injuries. The pellet had caused air to accumulate in the lung, a condition known as pneumothorax. Additionally, the dog had suffered a traumatic blow to the head with a shovel. As the air pressure built up in the lung, it became crucial to release this excess air to prevent further complications. With careful precision, we tapped the dog's chest to alleviate the pressure before transferring him to an emergency veterinary clinic for further treatment. Despite concerns about potential nerve damage, initial examinations showed that the skull and facial bones were intact, albeit with noticeable swelling from the shovel strike. In-Depth Chest Examination and Diagnosis At the emergency veterinary clinic, the team conducted a thorough chest examination. X-rays revealed the pellet lodged in the chest area, confirming the presence of a pneumothorax on the left side. This had led to a collapsed lung lobe. The immediate priority was to insert a chest tube to resolve the pneumothorax and ensure the dog could breathe comfortably again. Considering Surgical Intervention The next step in the treatment plan involved evaluating the extent of the lung injury. If the lung was torn and not sealing properly, a lobectomy—surgical removal of the affected lung lobe—might be necessary. To make an informed decision, a CT scan was planned to get a detailed view of the injury. Depending on the scan results, a thoracotomy, a surgical procedure to address any lung damage and prevent further complications, might be needed. A Comprehensive Approach to Treatment During our initial assessment, we noted that the skull appeared intact with no evidence of fractures, which was a relief. However, the dog had significant swelling on the right side of his head and some issues on the left side. His neck looked okay, with no fragmented bones. The chest X-rays showed the pellet within the chest, leading to increased opacity on the left side due to the pneumothorax. This condition was visible through the reflection of the collapsed lung lobe. By inserting a chest tube, the pneumothorax was resolved, but there was a risk of continuous air buildup if the lung was torn and not sealing properly. In such cases, a lobectomy...

25 May

Posted at 19:25h in i-Care by
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At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we witness countless stories of courage and resilience every day. Today, we want to share the incredible journey of Magic, a brave canine who recently faced an unimaginable ordeal and triumphed, thanks to the support of our community and the dedicated care of our team. Magic's Story Magic was simply minding his own business when a stranger attacked him with a machete. The incident left Magic with a severe wound, and his owner, devastated and worried, didn’t know where to turn. Fortunately, the police responded swiftly, bringing Magic and his owner to i-Care Veterinary Hospital for immediate treatment. https://youtu.be/MwndwY1qPtc Upon arrival, Magic was assessed by Dr. Alastair Westcott, who knew that urgent care was essential. Magic was placed under general anesthesia to ensure he felt no pain during the procedure. The area around the wound was carefully shaved and cleaned. Dr. Westcott meticulously inspected the injury, removing any hair and debris to prevent infection. The cut was so deep that it even marked Magic's skull. With precision and care, Dr. Westcott stitched the wound, repairing the layers of tissue to promote optimal healing. Thanks to this thorough treatment, Magic's prognosis is good, and he will return in 10 days to have his sutures removed. Despite the physical trauma, Magic's spirit remained unbroken, a testament to his incredible resilience. Community Support Through the HEART Fund While Magic's medical care was expertly handled, the financial burden was overwhelming for his owner. This is where our HEART (Help Every Animal Receive Treatment) Fund made a significant impact. Thanks to the generous donations from compassionate individuals to build up the fund, Magic's medical expenses were fully covered, allowing his owner to focus on his recovery without the added stress of financial strain. The HEART Fund is a vital part of our mission at i-Care. It enables us to provide necessary treatment to animals in need for clients faced with financial challenges. This fund is our way of giving back to the community, but it relies on ongoing donations to continue its essential work. How You Can Help We invite you to consider supporting the HEART Fund. Your donation, no matter the size, can make a life-saving difference for pets like Magic. Together, we can ensure that every animal receives the care and compassion they deserve, even in the face of adversity. To donate to the HEART Fund and help us continue our mission of providing critical veterinary care to animals in...