It has been a record-breaking February! What a deep freeze we have had. It’s hard to believe that in a few short weeks, the temperature will be above the freezing mark and we will have to think about things like ticks. Every spring there is a “bloom” or increase in tick numbers seen in Ontario. We saw an incredible number of ticks on dogs in the spring of 2013 and 2014, and expect to see more … Read More
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Hot cars can be deadly…
Summer is almost officially here! Please be careful with furry friends in vehicles: Never leave your pet in a parked car on a warm summer day. Within minutes, the temperature inside the car can reach a scorching 120 degrees. Extreme temperatures can cause heatstroke, which may kill or seriously injure your dog or cat. Signs of heatstroke include: Hard panting and difficulty breathing Vomiting Rapid heart rate If you suspect that your pet has heatstroke, see your … Read More
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Heartworm Season is Here!
We are excited about the warmer weather and all the opportunities for outdoor activity that spring and summer bring. We would like to remind our clients that dogs should start on heartworm prevention on June 1 and get their monthly dose of prevention right up until November 1. While you are in the clinic, speak to one of our friendly staff about tick and flea prevention as well. Clients with cats who go outside should … Read More
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Spring is Here!
After a long and icy winter, it seems that spring is finally here! Many of our dogs have gained weight since it was quite difficult to get them out regularly for walks this winter. Make a spring resolution – call the clinic and come in for a weigh-in and personalized diet recommendation! In some cases, careful attention to the amount of food and treats being offered is sufficient to achieve weight loss and in other cases a … Read More
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How to give your Pet a Pill
Some dogs and cats will eat anything and everything—including their medications. However, most cats and many dogs are reluctant to gobble down pills and capsules, especially if they’re large, require chewing, or taste/smell bad to them. Sometimes your veterinarian will prescribe flavoured chewable medications, but that is not always available. The following are a few tricks on how to give your dog his or her medication: Try mixing your pet’s medication into his meal. If … Read More
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Hot Spots
A hot spot is a localized area of skin inflammation and infection. The infection can be superficial or deep. Hot spots can be caused by anything that creates irritation to the skin. Insect bites, allergies, excess skin, surface moisture (commonly from swimming or moisture left after bathing), heavy/dense hair coat and matted hair are all common reasons for hot spots to develop. Hot spots can enlarge rapidly, so early diagnosis – before your pet’s hot … Read More
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What is a Reverse Sneeze?
When a dog has a reverse sneezing episode, it can sound like they are dying! This article will give you some more information so that you better understand what is happening with your dog. Reverse sneezing is usually due to an irritation of the soft palate and throat that results in a spasm. The dog’s neck extends and the chest expands as the dog tries to inhale. Anything that irritates the throat can cause this … Read More
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It’s Heartworm Season!
Heartworm is a serious condition caused by worms that live in the heart and blood vessels of infected animals (mainly dogs). The parasite is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. The worms can grow to a length of 15 – 30 cm and produce thousands of larva that can be picked up by mosquitoes and carried to other dogs. The presence of worms in the dog can cause damage to the heart, lungs and liver. The OntarioVeterinaryCollege’s … Read More
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Why Spay and Neuter your Pet?
Puppies and kittens are quite adorable – how can we resist them? There are so many out there and it is our responsibility to make sure those puppies and kittens grow up and live their life to the fullest in a loving home. Although your dog and cat is cute and you want more of her/him there are a lot of cute puppies/kittens that are sitting in shelters right now that don’t have a loving … Read More
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Wellness Testing: Why it’s important to do routine laboratory tests on your Pet
Your cat and dog can’t tell you how they are feeling. You play an important role in helping your Veterinary Team at Golf Glen Veterinary Clinic uncover disease early, to help your pet live a long and healthy life. In many cases (especially with cats), it can be difficult to recognize signs of illness at home. Annual checkups allow us to examine your pet and ask you questions that help us determine if your pet … Read More