Are you aware of the 7 signs of Arthritis that can present in your pet? https://www.petmd.com/dog/slideshows/care/7-signs-of-arthritis-in-dogs-cats?icn=HP-Hero&icl=signs-arthritis-pets

March 13 is a day dedicated to our veterans of the Canine varaitey. https://www.dogtipper.com/blog/2016/03/k9-veterans-day-march-13.html

Debra Lewis Spera

Sometimes x-rays just aren't enough, so your veterinarian may recommend sending your beloved dog for an MRI. Yes that's right, you can get an MRI done on your dog to help their Doctors better understand what is going on. https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/how-mri-can-help-your-dog?icn=HP-HEALTH&icl=How%20an%20MRI%20Can%20Help%20Your%20Dog

Coughing, sneezing, runny nose and watering eyes, fever, lethargy... this may sound like we are describing a flu. Well in fact we are! These are just some of the symptoms a dog can show when they have come down with the Canine Flu! Canine Influenza, more commonly known as Canine Flu, has become a big concern in southern Ontario and has even reached as far north as Barrie now. There are two strains of the virus and both are highly contagious to dogs, it does not effect humans. If you feel your dog may have come down with this virus we ask that you call your veterinarian and let them know that you are on your way and that you are concerned your dog has canine influenza. This will give your veterinarian time to get their staff ready to handle the case due to how transmissible the virus is. We ask that you do not drive directly to your veterinary clinic before calling in. To learn more here are some links to informative videos/ sites: https://youtu.be/EItJbx5Rc9w https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/respiratory/c_dg_canine_influenza https://youtu.be/97csZ2OxDYU

Here is a little tip for all our wild bird fans, especially since our pets will be starting to shed their winter coats soon. Remember: when you brush your pets, keep the hair and peg it to your washing line or tree branches. It'll help keep the little birds extra warm when they make their nests...

The Parasites Are Coming! Well that certainly sounds like it could be the title of a horror movie, in truth this statement is not to be taken lightly. With the weather warming up, the parasites will be starting to become more active again. Tick, for example, are active at temperatures as low as 4 degrees Celsius! Best be prepared by starting to consider what parasite prevention is best suited for you, your pet and your families life styles/hobbies. You can call your veterinary clinic to make an appointment to discuss the options with your veterinarian at any time. Also remember that when using over the counter flea/tick products to read labels completely, as some products are highly toxic to cats, and should not be used on any dogs that live with cats!

We ask clients to take a moment to observe our reception desk, either while you are entering our building or waiting in our reception area for your appointment. On the desk you may notice we have placed a candle. This candle is called the Candle of Remembrance. If the candle is lit we ask you, as our clients, to be respectful and to keep hushed voices during this time, as a person or family is in one of our exam rooms taking this sad and trying time to say their farewells to a beloved family member. We kindly thank you for your cooperation.

This week is dedicated to all the special talented and trained people that look after our pets and love them when we can't. Happy National Pet Sitters Week!

This tidbit is big advice that can help your pet get help faster! If your pet has gotten into something you think may be poisonous and you are taking him/her to vet, bring along the packaging of the item they ate! This can help the vet identify the exact ingredient that may be harming your pet and how to treat it properly immediately after ingestion and for the next few days or even weeks.

March is Poison Prevention Awareness Month! Did you know that there are helplines and Poison Control centers to call that deal with Pets? http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control