Annual check-up
An annual veterinary exam is highly recommended for all, as it allows us to follow up on your animal’s global health, verify the stability of their weight, or monitor the evolution of illnesses or chronic conditions. Even if your animal is not due for vaccination, your veterinarian will take this opportunity to note any aspects that may require closer monitoring, ask you questions and try to screen certain issues before they get more serious. You will also be able to take time to discuss your concerns with your veterinarian and ask them any questions you may have regarding the maintenance of your companion’s health.
Vaccination
Just like with humans, vaccination during the first few months of life allows us to prevent several dangerous and even fatal illnesses. During your visit, whether it is with your brand new puppy/kitten or with your adult or aging pet, the technician will take the time to weigh your animal, review their diet type and daily intake and take their vital signs. The veterinarian will then do a general exam of your pet and establish a care and long term vaccination protocol personalized for your pet. While administering the vaccines, our staff will do everything possible to make this experience enjoyable for your pet and use positive reinforcement so that vaccination can become an opportunity to be loved and spoiled in the eyes of your precious companion!
Heartworm
During summer, the rising temperature may bring nice weather, but also many undesirable insects such as mosquitoes. These insects can transmit a dangerous parasite to our doggy companions. Heartworm, as you may have guessed, is transmitted via the bloodstream through the mosquito bite and the adult worm then settles and develops in the heart, causing threatening health and heart issues. Fortunately, this disease is easy to diagnose and prevent, and your veterinarian will be able to evaluate with you what the best prevention protocol is for your dog.
External Parasites
The increasingly warm temperatures in our region allow several other parasites to spread further in our environment. Despite our northern localisation, our pets are not sheltered from the risks associated with ticks, fleas, ear mites and skin mites. As soon as the earth thaws, it’s time to start thinking about prevention, because on top of being repulsive, these parasites can transmit dangerous diseases such as Lyme’s disease, which is transmitted by certain ticks. More and more effective and safe products are becoming available to protect your animal, and it will be our pleasure to guide you through selecting the right one for your dog.
Intestinal Worms
Intestinal worms are generally found in puppies and kittens, but can also be found in adult pets, as transmission from one animal to another is easy. Some of these parasites can even be transmitted by the mother to her newborns. A good deworming protocol starting from the first weeks of life and some stool analysis done every now and then can ensure your pet’s intestinal health remains optimal.
Bloodwork
During your annual visits, your veterinarian could recommend a complete bloodwork to allow us to screen certain illnesses in their early stages. Whether it is because your animal shows subtle symptoms or because it is aging, these analysis are a precious tool to help your veterinarian keep your animal healthy as long as possible and guide us towards finding an appropriate diet choice for your companion’s life stage.
