A female dog in heat results in about 2-3 weeks of bleeding. For dogs kept indoors, this can be very messy and smelly. This heat period occurs about once every 6 months. Spaying your female dog early can limit health risks associated with intact females like Pyometra (infection of the Uterus) and Breast Cancer (more common among intact females).

A female Cat in heat results in 2-3 weeks of obnoxious behaviour. For indoor cats this can become very tiresome. The "heat period" occurs about every 2-3 weeks until spaying or breeding.

We recommend that females be spayed before their first heat at 6 months of age. Males can be neutered any time after 6 months of age.

Intact males are very attracted to females in heat. Male dogs are generally more aggressive and more likely to fight with other males, increasing the likelihood of injuries. Neutering can relieve future problems like enlargement of the prostate which can cause difficulty urinating and defecating.

We recommend that females be spayed before their first heat at 6 months of age. Males can be neutered any time after 6 months of age.

Optimal health requires that certain nutrients be present in precise balances and amounts tailored to the activity level and needs of each life stage.

We recommend feeding your new pet a premium pet food such as Hill's, Medical or Iams which chooses the highest quality ingredients in formulas that taste good to your pet. The food should be specially formulated for kittens/puppies. Food formulated for kittens should be fed until your kitten is about 12 months of age. Puppies should eat puppy formulated food until 12-18 months of age.

Table foods are not recommended. They are generally very tasty and dogs will often begin to hold out for these and may not eat their dog food. Often table scraps can upset stomachs and even lead to intestinal blockages and pancreatic issues. Do not feel guilty if your dog is happy to eat one type of food at all times. Some vegetables can be used as treats, but it is always best to consult with your vet first.

Feeding dry or canned is acceptable. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Dry food can be left out for longer periods of time. Canned foods tend to be more appealing to most pets. It is always best to consult with your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific nutritional needs.

Declawing is a surgical procedure performed to prevent injury to other cats, people and furniture damage. Generally only the front claws are removed, so that the animal can still climb and defend itself, although it is recommended that declawed cats remain indoors for added safety.

The surgery involves a general anaesthetic and the removal of the end of each toe at the first joint. The sites are closed using a glue or dissolvable suture and the paws bandaged for 24-48 hours. He/she will be in hospital for two nights and three days following the procedure for recovery. There are several potential complications that may occur afterwards. Ask your veterinarian to discuss them in detail prior to surgery and about alternative options.

With pet health insurance, you'll be able to provide your puppy, kitten, dog, or cat the best medical care possible. Many pet owners are choosing pet health insurance as a way to plan for and cover veterinary expenses, as veterinary technology advances and becomes more costly.

Depending on the insurance plan you choose, you'll be reimbursed for most veterinary expenses such as:

• X-rays
• Hospitalization
• Surgery
• Prescriptions
• Dental care
• Alternative treatments
• Behavioral therapy
• Medical devices

Visit our resource section for more information on Pet Insurance.

Heartworm disease is caused by a parasite or worm that lives in the right side of the heart and the adjacent blood vessels. It is transmitted from dog to dog by mosquitoes from Spring until Fall. The cycle begins when a mosquito bites a heartworm-infected dog and pick up microfilariae (immature heartworms) which circulate in the blood stream. The microfilariae develop to an infective stage in the mosquito and then transmitted to another dog through the mosquitoes bite. Once inside the dog's heart, the worms can grow up to 35cm long and can cause significant damage to the heart and lungs. If left untreated, heartworm disease can lead to death. We recommend having your dog tested for heartworm in the Spring. Once your dog has been found to be free of heartworm, he/she can begin taking preventative medication. Ask your veterinarian about preventative options.

Euthanasia refers to the practice of ending a life in a humane manner which relieves pain and suffering. The decision to euthanize a pet is one of the most-heartbreaking and difficult times that an owner experiences. The decision is a personal one that can be guided through the help of your veterinarian. This procedure is offered during regular business hours and on emergency. We offer various aftercare options including cremation and burial services.

Periodontal gum disease is one of the most common conditions seen by Veterinarians today. The problem begins when plaque and tartar are allowed to build up on your pet's teeth. Plaque harbours bacteria, which can infect gum tissue and roots of teeth resulting in disease and tooth loss. Recent studies have documented that certain heart, liver and kidney diseases may be associated with this bacteria. The first step is promoting oral health is to contact your Veterinarian for an oral examination. It may be necessary to have your pets teeth cleaned. Like people, animals need this professional attention on a routine basis. This cleaning will require your pet to be put under anaesthesia.

Tooth brushing is considered the most effective method of removing plaque. It is important to use a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for pets. Pet toothpastes have flavours that appeal to pets and need not be rinsed.

Visit our Services section for additional information on Dentistry.