At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we believe that your pets deserve the best of both worlds: advanced technology and compassionate care. One of the remarkable technologies we employ to achieve this balance is endoscopy, a versatile diagnostic tool that allows us to peek inside your pet's body without invasive surgery. The Magic of Endoscopy Endoscopy involves the use of a slender, flexible tube equipped with a high-resolution camera. This device can be gently inserted into your pet's body through a natural opening, such as the mouth, nose, or rectum, to visualize internal structures in real-time. While it might not sound like magic, it's certainly a game-changer in veterinary medicine. https://youtu.be/KgU2MUECKxk The Benefits of Endoscopy at i-Care Veterinary Hospital Here's how endoscopy benefits your pets and why i-Care Veterinary Hospital stands out in its use: Accurate Diagnosis: Endoscopy allows us to pinpoint the root cause of your pet's health concerns with precision. Whether it's a gastrointestinal issue, respiratory problem, or other internal condition, we can quickly and accurately diagnose the problem. Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional surgical procedures that require large incisions, endoscopy is minimally invasive. This means less pain, reduced risk of complications, and faster recovery times for your furry companions. Customized Treatment: Armed with the detailed information obtained through endoscopy, our skilled veterinarians can tailor treatment plans to your pet's specific needs, ensuring the best possible outcome. Reduced Stress: We understand that visiting the vet can be stressful for both pets and owners. With the minimally invasive nature of endoscopy, we aim to minimize stress and discomfort during the diagnostic process. Cutting-Edge Care: At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we are committed to staying at the forefront of veterinary medicine. Endoscopy is just one example of the innovative tools and techniques we employ to provide top-tier care to your pets. Common Uses of Endoscopy Endoscopy can be utilized for various purposes in veterinary medicine, including: Gastrointestinal Evaluation: Detecting and treating issues like ulcers, foreign objects, and inflammation in the stomach and intestines. Respiratory Assessment: Examining the nasal passages and airways for obstructions or infections. Urinary Tract Inspection: Identifying bladder stones, tumours, or infections without invasive surgery. Biopsy and Sampling: Collecting tissue samples for further analysis and diagnosis. Choose i-Care for Comprehensive, Compassionate Care At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, our commitment to your pet's well-being is unwavering. Our use of advanced technology like endoscopy, combined with our compassionate approach, ensures that your pets receive the highest standard of care. When you entrust your pet's...

At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, the well-being of your furry family members is our top priority, even in unexpected situations. We'd like to share a recent success story involving our clinic owner and Medical Director, Dr. Rhett Mortenson, who performed a critical C-section to ensure the safety of a momma dog and her pups. A Preemptive Approach to Pet Care A client reached out to us at the end of August, not because she was a current client, but because she wanted to be well-prepared for a potential urgent care situation for her pregnant pup, Bugs. Understanding that her regular vet clinic wasn't open on weekends, she pre-booked with us, just in case. As fate would have it, Bugs was brought in on Saturday to see Dr. Mortenson. https://youtu.be/MRvr82KZiLU The Importance of Hormone Level Checks Upon arriving at our hospital on Saturday, the concerned pet owner met with Dr. Mortenson. He conducted thorough bloodwork to assess hormone levels in the expectant momma dog. This step was essential to ensure a safe delivery for both the mother and her puppies. A Delicate Decision: Opting for a C-Section After careful evaluation of the bloodwork results, Dr. Mortenson made the decision to proceed with a C-section. Bugs, the momma dog, although petite for her breed, was expecting larger puppies due to the size of the stud. This decision was made with the utmost concern for the well-being of both the momma and her precious pups. Prioritizing Safety and Well-Being By choosing a C-section, we prioritized the safety and health of all involved. This decision greatly reduced the risk of complications during the delivery, ensuring a smooth birthing process. Our commitment to the well-being of pets and their owners is unwavering, and we always strive for the best possible outcomes. Your Partner in Pet Care At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we understand that urgent situations can happen at any time. Whether you need routine check-ups, specialized care, or assistance in delicate situations like this one, we're here to help. We can work in collaboration with your current veterinarian to provide the best care for your furry family member. Conclusion The recent C-section performed by Dr. Mortenson at i-Care Veterinary Hospital exemplifies our commitment to providing exceptional care for pets and their owners, even in challenging circumstances. We are here to support you and your furry family members, ensuring their health and happiness at all times. For all your pet care needs, trust i-Care Veterinary Hospital, your partner in pet health....

At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we've always been dedicated to providing top-notch care for your beloved pets. Today, we are excited to unveil a game-changing addition to our services: our brand-new dental suite. This cutting-edge facility not only offers a quieter and more relaxing environment for your furry friends but also proudly houses Canada's first panoramic dental X-ray machine, the MyVet Pan i2D. Capturing Dental Health in Every Angle We understand that your pet's dental health is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being. That's why we've invested in the latest technology to ensure the best possible care for your furry family members. Our MyVet Pan i2D machine is a true game-changer in pet dentistry. As the first veterinary hospital in Canada to feature this digital panoramic system, we're excited to revolutionize the way we diagnose and treat dental issues in your pets. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c46MJb4DS7s 360-Degree Clarity in 30 Seconds or Less The MyVet Pan i2D machine enables us to capture a full 360-degree x-ray of your pet's mouth in a mere 30 seconds or less. This state-of-the-art technology allows us to obtain comprehensive images of every tooth, ensuring no detail is missed during your pet's dental examination. With each dental Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT) procedure at i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we include a set of full-mouth dental X-rays using this advanced system. Saving Time and Reducing Anesthesia Exposure Traditionally, obtaining full-mouth dental X-rays could be a time-consuming process. However, with the MyVet Pan i2D machine, we can complete the entire mouth imaging over seven times faster. This translates to reduced time spent under anesthesia for your pet, minimizing their stress and discomfort during the procedure. Rest assured, our primary concern is the safety and well-being of your furry companion. Tracking Dental Health Throughout a Lifetime But the advantages of this groundbreaking technology don't end there. The comprehensive X-rays obtained with the MyVet Pan i2D machine allow us to track your pet's dental health over time. By monitoring changes and identifying issues early, we can provide proactive care to maintain your pet's beautiful smile throughout their lifetime. Join Us in Pioneering Pet Dental Care We're thrilled to introduce this remarkable technology to our clinic and take a giant leap forward in ensuring your pet's dental health. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we remain committed to providing the highest standard of care, and our new dental suite is a testament to that commitment. When it comes to your furry family members, they deserve nothing...

In this article, we'll delve into the heartwarming journey of Maggie, a beloved middle-aged Chesapeake Bay Retriever who underwent TPLO surgery and made an incredible comeback to a pain-free and active life. We'll explore the challenges faced during her recovery, the crucial decision-making process, and the importance of prioritizing your pet's quality of life. We caught up with Maggie's owner 8 weeks after surgery when Maggie came in for her follow-up in the following video...

Welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your home is an exciting occasion, but it also comes with great responsibility. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we understand the significance of these new family members and offer a range of services to ensure their well-being and longevity. From puppy and kitten exams to geriatric care, vaccinations to parasite control, our team of dedicated professionals is here to provide the highest quality care tailored to your pet's individual needs. Puppy and Kitten Exams: Identifying Health from the Start Welcoming a new furry friend is an exciting time, and our puppy and kitten exams are designed to set a strong foundation for their lifelong health. These initial consultations allow us to identify any congenital abnormalities that might pose future challenges. We believe in proactive care, creating a preventive medicine plan that aligns with your pet's unique requirements and your household dynamics. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uo2AlUzIZ7A Balanced Vaccinations: Safeguarding Your Pet and Community At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we prioritize balanced vaccinations that not only protect your pet's health but also contribute to the safety of your human family and community. Our approach involves "Core" vaccines that offer comprehensive coverage, supplemented by optional vaccines based on your pet's lifestyle. This ensures a well-rounded protection strategy without over-vaccination concerns. Spays and Neuters: Safe and Compassionate Procedures Spaying and neutering are significant milestones in your pet's life, and we treat them as such. While these procedures are routine, they still require full General Anesthesia, and we handle them with the utmost care and compassion. Our commitment to safety ensures that each operation is performed to the highest standards, keeping your pet's well-being at the forefront. Geriatric Care: Nurturing Our Ageing Companions As pets age, their needs change. Our geriatric care services acknowledge the unique challenges that come with ageing, offering increased attention and tailored care for senior pets. Regular vet visits and diagnostics, including blood work, become even more crucial in this stage of life, enabling us to manage and address common chronic conditions effectively. Annual Wellness Exams: A Vital Part of Preventive Care Prevention is better than cure, and our annual wellness exams exemplify this philosophy. These comprehensive check-ups allow us to promote healthy habits, discuss preventive care measures, and catch early signs of disease before they become major concerns. From nose to tail, every aspect of your pet's health is evaluated during these important visits. Parasite Control: Safeguarding Against Pests Living on Vancouver Island comes with its unique challenges, including year-round flea...

When it comes to the well-being of our furry companions, staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in veterinary care is crucial. We're excited that i-Care Veterinary Hospital is currently the only laparoscopic spay service provider on Vancouver Island. As your trusted partner in pet health, we're committed to delivering the highest quality care and ensuring the comfort and safety of your beloved pets. The Advantages of Laparoscopic Spay for Dogs Laparoscopic spaying is a cutting-edge technique that offers numerous benefits over traditional spaying methods. This minimally invasive procedure involves the use of small incisions and a specialized camera to perform the surgery. The result? Reduced pain, quicker recovery times, and improved overall well-being for your furry friend. https://youtu.be/toBh7q4G4Cc Faster Recovery One of the most significant advantages of laparoscopic spay is the remarkably faster recovery period compared to a traditional spay. The smaller incisions lead to less tissue trauma, meaning your dog can get back on their paws and resume their regular activities sooner. Minimal Discomfort At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we understand that your pet's comfort is a top priority. Laparoscopic spay minimizes post-operative discomfort, allowing your pet to experience less pain during the recovery phase. This advancement in surgical technique enhances their overall experience and contributes to a smoother healing process. Expertise and Innovation Meet i-Care Veterinary Hospital takes pride in being at the forefront of veterinary innovation. Our team of experienced veterinarians is skilled in performing laparoscopic spay procedures with precision and care. Our commitment to staying updated with the latest techniques ensures that your pet receives the treatment they need with care and compassion. Why Choose i-Care Veterinary Hospital As the only veterinary clinic on Vancouver Island to currently offer laparoscopic spay services, we are dedicated to elevating the standard of care for your dog. Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology, and our compassionate staff members are always ready to provide individualized attention to both you and your pet. When it comes to your pet's health and well-being, choosing the right veterinary care is paramount. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we are proud to bring the benefits of laparoscopic spay to Vancouver Island. Our commitment to innovation, combined with our passion for animal welfare, brings you peace of mind knowing your pet will be well cared for by our team. Experience the difference with i-Care Veterinary Hospital - where expertise, innovation, and compassion converge for your pet's health and well-being. Contact us today to learn more about our laparoscopic spay services...

When our beloved canine companions experience mobility issues due to cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries, it can be a concerning and distressing time for both the pet and the owner. Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery has emerged as a groundbreaking orthopedic procedure that can significantly improve a dog's quality of life. In this informative blog post, i-Care Veterinary Hospital's owner, Medical Director, and senior veterinarian and surgeon, Dr. Rhett Mortenson, provides a comprehensive guide to TPLO surgery for dogs, including why it's needed, the predisposed breeds, diagnosis, and the surgical process. https://youtu.be/d9N02oJabVE Understanding the Need for TPLO Surgery:The CCL plays a crucial role in stabilizing a dog's knee joint, but when it becomes injured or ruptured, it can lead to lameness, pain, and reduced mobility. TPLO surgery is recommended in cases where conservative treatments may not be sufficient in restoring joint stability. This surgical procedure aims to restructure the tibial plateau, thereby altering the dynamics of the knee joint to eliminate the need for the CCL's stabilizing function. Breeds Predisposed to TPLO Surgery:Certain dog breeds are genetically predisposed to CCL injuries, making them more susceptible to needing TPLO surgery. Breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Bulldogs are commonly affected due to their anatomy and genetics. Recognizing these predispositions can help dog owners be proactive in monitoring their pet's health and seeking timely veterinary care if needed. Diagnosing the Need for TPLO Surgery:Early diagnosis is critical for successful TPLO surgery outcomes. Veterinarians employ a combination of physical examinations and diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to assess the extent of CCL injury and joint damage. Pet owners are encouraged to look out for signs of lameness, difficulty in standing, or reduced activity levels as potential indicators of a CCL issue. The TPLO Surgery Procedure:i-Care Veterinary Hospital's skilled team of veterinarians utilizes state-of-the-art facilities to perform TPLO surgery with precision and care. During the procedure, the tibial plateau is cut and repositioned to create a stable surface that reduces the joint's reliance on the damaged CCL. This surgical technique provides long-term relief and improved joint function, allowing dogs to regain their active and happy lifestyles. Conclusion: TPLO surgery is a game-changer in the world of canine orthopedics, offering hope and relief to dogs suffering from CCL injuries. If your furry friend is experiencing mobility issues or has been diagnosed with a CCL injury, i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs (and serving Parksville and Central Vancouver Island)...

We’re thrilled to share that we recently performed a successful laser surgery to remove a mass from an adorable furry friend! Laser surgery has revolutionized veterinary medicine, and here are a few reasons why it’s pawsitively amazing: Precision: The laser allows our skilled veterinarians to target specific tissues with incredible accuracy, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Reduced Bleeding: Laser surgery seals blood vessels as it cuts, reducing bleeding during and after the procedure. This helps to enhance the safety of the surgery and promotes a quicker recovery for your beloved pets. Reduced Risk of Surgical Infection: Superheating of the tissues destroys any bacteria present at the time of surgery. Minimized Pain: The laser’s precision and cauterizing effect help to reduce pain and swelling during and after surgery, leading to a more comfortable experience for your pets. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality care for your four-legged family members. Serving the Coombs and Parksville areas, our experienced veterinarians and compassionate staff are here to ensure your pets receive the best possible treatment. If your furry friend is in need of veterinary care, whether it’s routine check-ups or advanced procedures like laser surgery, trust i-Care Veterinary Hospital to provide the care they deserve. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let us take care of your pet’s health and well-being. https://youtu.be/wkqLoAaFSyw ...