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20 Nov

Posted at 06:43h in i-Care by
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When our furry friends show signs of discomfort, it can be worrying and stressful. Recently, Sadie, a sweet senior dog, visited us at i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs, BC, with symptoms her owner had noticed, including blood during a bowel movement and vomiting. Dr. Shaelyn Vallotton led Sadie’s care, highlighting the importance of early diagnostics and careful veterinary attention. Let’s walk through Sadie’s story to learn more about managing digestive issues in dogs. https://youtu.be/Mon76dQOsdU Spotting the Signs: Sadie’s Symptoms Sadie’s owner brought her in after noticing: Blood in her stool: This can be alarming and may indicate anything from minor irritation to more serious issues like infection or inflammation. Vomiting: Sadie had vomited bile recently, which can point to gastrointestinal upset or other internal issues. Lack of appetite: A dog skipping meals can be a red flag, especially for senior pets. Though Sadie appeared hunched at the clinic, her owner clarified this was due to her being nervous, not a usual behaviour at home. This detail helped Dr. Vallotton better assess her condition. The Importance of Diagnostics To understand what was causing Sadie’s symptoms, Dr. Vallotton started with a physical examination. She carefully checked Sadie for pain, abnormalities, and any signs of distress. While Sadie’s hunched posture was likely anxiety-related, the team remained thorough in their assessment. Blood tests were performed to evaluate Sadie’s organ function, check for inflammation, and rule out systemic issues like infections or metabolic disorders. Given the reported blood during bowel movements, Dr. Vallotton also conducted a rectal exam to check for abnormalities such as inflammation, infection, or growths. If Sadie’s symptoms persist, abdominal X-rays would be the next step to rule out blockages, foreign objects, or other internal concerns. How We Helped Sadie Feel Better While waiting for her test results, Dr. Vallotton focused on relieving Sadie’s symptoms. Medication was prescribed to manage nausea and any gastrointestinal irritation. Sadie’s owner was sent home with clear instructions and advice on monitoring her condition, including watching for any changes in behaviour, appetite, or symptoms. When to See a Vet for Digestive Issues Digestive issues like Sadie’s can have many causes, from minor irritation to more serious conditions like pancreatitis or infections. If your dog shows any of the following signs, it’s time to see a vet: Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours Blood in stool or vomit Loss of appetite for more than a day A hunched posture or signs of abdominal discomfort Lethargy or unusual behaviour Caring for...

06 Nov

Posted at 15:35h in i-Care by
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See how Dr. Alastair Westcott helps to calm down a nervous pup the day before her spay. This is another example of how our team's passion, experience and expertise are passed onto every patient we see. https://youtu.be/p7gVSz_WUrI?feature=shared Click here to learn more about the veterinary services we offer here at i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs, right by Parksville....

01 Nov

Posted at 07:00h in i-Care, Procedures by
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As pet parents, we all want our dogs to live comfortably and be as healthy as possible. But for some female dogs, a recessed vulva can cause a range of health issues, from recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs) to skin irritation. Thankfully, there’s a surgical procedure called vulvoplasty that can help. At i-Care Veterinary Hospital in Coombs, BC, our experienced veterinarian Dr. Alastair Westcott recently performed a vulvoplasty on a canine patient, giving her a fresh start toward better health and comfort. Here, we’ll explain what a vulvoplasty is, why it’s recommended, and how it can improve a dog’s quality of life. https://youtu.be/gEJpDaBocdU What is a Vulvoplasty? Vulvoplasty, also known as an episioplasty, is a corrective surgical procedure that’s performed on dogs with a recessed vulva. This condition, where skin folds partially cover the vulva, can lead to health problems due to trapped moisture and bacteria. These issues often result in UTIs, skin infections, and ongoing discomfort. During a vulvoplasty, a veterinarian carefully removes excess skin folds around the vulva. This reshaping process improves airflow and hygiene in the area, reducing the chance of infection and making life more comfortable for the dog. Signs Your Dog May Need a Vulvoplasty How do you know if your dog could benefit from vulvoplasty surgery? Here are some common signs to look out for: Recurring Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Dogs with a recessed vulva are more likely to develop UTIs due to trapped bacteria. Chronic Skin Irritation: The folds around the vulva can cause constant skin irritation, leading to discomfort and inflammation. Excessive Licking: If your dog is frequently licking her vulva, it could indicate discomfort or infection in the area. Foul Odour: An unpleasant smell around your dog’s back end can suggest a bacterial infection. Moist or Infected Skin Folds: If you notice redness, swelling, or discharge in the area, it’s time to see your veterinarian. If your dog shows any of these signs, a veterinarian can help determine if vulvoplasty is the right solution. The Vulvoplasty Procedure: What to Expect At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we take every step to ensure a safe, smooth vulvoplasty experience for your pet. Here’s what happens during the procedure: Sedation and Preparation: The dog is gently sedated, and our veterinary team monitors her vitals throughout the surgery to ensure she’s comfortable and safe. Surgical Site Preparation: We shave the area around the vulva to create a sterile environment and reduce any risk of infection. Surgical Precision:...

13 Jan

Posted at 08:22h in i-Care by
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Welcome to the heartwarming world of i-Care Veterinary Hospital. Nestled in the picturesque town of Coombs, BC, our dedicated team combines passion for animals with the latest in veterinary science. We provide unparalleled care for your furry family members and serve as a beacon of hope and healing not just in Coombs, but also in Parksville, Port Hardy, northern Nanaimo, and across Vancouver Island. https://youtu.be/men0rVMZJWA A Day in the Life at i-Care Veterinary Hospital Join us for an exclusive glimpse into the life-saving work we do every day. i-Care is more than just a veterinary hospital – it's where compassion meets technology, and where each pet is treated as a beloved family member. Our Services We offer a wide range of services, including preventive care, emergency services, advanced diagnostics, surgical procedures, and holistic treatments. Our state-of-the-art facility ensures your pet receives the best possible care. Community Impact We're proud to serve communities from Parksville to Port Hardy and northern Nanaimo. Our commitment extends beyond treating pets; it's about building lasting relationships with pet owners and contributing to the health and well-being of the larger Vancouver Island community. Innovative Care Innovation is key at i-Care. We continuously evolve our techniques and equipment to stay at the cutting edge of veterinary medicine. Our blog features stories of how these innovations make a difference in the lives of pets and their families. Why Choose i-Care Veterinary Hospital Choosing the right veterinary hospital is crucial. At i-Care, we offer not just medical care, but emotional support for our patients and their families. Our team's expertise and compassionate approach make us a preferred choice for pet owners across Vancouver Island. Thank you for exploring the world of i-Care Veterinary Hospital. We invite you to visit us in Coombs, BC, to experience the difference our care can make. Stay tuned to our blog for more stories, tips, and insights into veterinary medicine. Learn more about our services, book an appointment, or take a virtual tour of our facility on our website. Follow us on social media for daily updates and stories from i-Care Veterinary Hospital, where every pet is treated like family....