VCA Canada Western Veterinary Specialist & Emergency Centre

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Calgary, AB
VCA Canada Western Veterinary Specialist & Emergency Centre

At VCA Canada, we're pet people too. We understand the importance of your morning snuggles and the ta A healthy pet is a happy pet. Our hospital is here for you.

That's why our team of trained professionals offer quality care for your companion. We know them inside and out, which means we know when things are good and when we need to pay more attention.

07/25/2024

🔥 Important Message for Pet Parents Affected by Wildfires 🔥

At VCA Canada, we’re committed to caring for life’s greatest companions and we stand behind that proudly. Our hospitals are here to support you during these difficult times as continue to affect the communities in and around .

To assist you and your beloved pets, you can seek support at any Calgary or Edmonton VCA hospital location for basic first-aid care. In addition, the following locations are offering 24 hours of boarding (limited space available), as families work to secure a stable living situation.

❗Please give the centres a call prior to arriving to ensure adequate space.❗

📍 VCA Canada Western Veterinary Specialist & Emergency Centre
📞 (403) 770-1340
1802 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3C 0J8

📍 VCA Canada Calgary Animal Referral & Emergency Centre
📞 (403) 520-8387
7140 – 12th Street S.E. Calgary, AB T2H 2Y4

📍VCA Canada Guardian Veterinary Centre
📞 (780) 436-5880
5620 99 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 1V2

🔎 To find a VCA Canada hospital near you, please click the following link: https://bit.ly/3WkOSzS

and have also opened support terminals to provide assistance to evacuees for accommodations and pets. Hit the links for the evacuation spots.

🆘 Calgary: https://bit.ly/4deVuGP
🆘 Edmonton: https://bit.ly/3WhoJSK

For any questions or concerns, please call your chosen hospital for further information. Stay safe, and know that we’re here for you and your pets. 💞

07/01/2024

Wishing you, your families, and your furry friends a Happy Canada Day!

06/26/2024

🐶 What does normal growth and development look like?

Puppies grow quickly, maturing to adulthood by the time they are 10-12 months of age for small and medium sized breeds and 18-24 months for large and giant breeds.

Growth rates for puppies vary by breed and involve a complex process of interactions among genetics, nutrition, and the environment. Proper nutrition is critical to the health and development of puppies, regardless of breed, and it directly influences their immune system and body composition. The nutrient density of food and the amount of food fed can mean the difference between optimal growth and maximal growth.

06/18/2024

🎉 Happy Veterinary Appreciation Day! 🎉

Today, we celebrate and thank the amazing veterinarians who dedicate their lives to keeping our furry friends happy and healthy. 🐾❤️ From routine check-ups to life-saving surgeries, their expertise and compassion make a world of difference.
Let's show them some love! 💚

✨ Share your story: Tell us about a time when your vet went above and beyond for your pet. 🐶🐱 Use the hashtag to join the celebration and spread the appreciation!

Together, let's make this day special for those who make our pets' lives better every day. 🌟

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Feel free to share pictures or videos of your pets, too! Let's flood the feed with gratitude and love. ❤️📸

06/14/2024

💉 VCA Canada is proud to celebrate our partner, Canadian Animal Blood Bank this World Blood Donor Day!

The CABB is a not-for-profit, CRA-registered charity that saves the lives of dogs across Canada by leading education in transfusion medicine and providing the highest quality blood to veterinarians and dog owners.

This World Blood Donor Day, we want to highlight the critical work CABB does and encourage all dog owners to consider becoming part of this lifesaving initiative.

Throughout the year, CABB hosts donor clinics at various VCA Canada hospitals nationwide. Thinking of becoming a donor? The CABB ensure a stress-free environment for both you and your beloved companions (with plenty of treats included).

To all the pet parents who have registered their dogs as blood donors, we want to say a huge THANK YOU! ❤️ Together, you and your greatest companions are saving dogs' lives every day.

06/12/2024

🐱 What does normal growth and development look like?

Kittens grow quickly, maturing to adulthood by the time they are 10-12 months of age. Their growth rate slows as they approach 80% of adult size at about 30 weeks of age, and they reach adult body size at about 40 weeks of age.

Growth rates for kittens vary by breed and involve a complex process of interactions among genetics, nutrition, and the environment. Proper nutrition is critical to the health and development of kittens, regardless of breed, and it directly influences their immune system and body composition. The nutrient density of food and the amount of food fed can mean the difference between optimal growth and maximal growth.

06/11/2024

🐱 Hugging your cat isn't just a simple gesture; it's a heartwarming expression of love and affection that deepens the bond between you and your furry friend. 💕

Happy !

06/08/2024

🐱 Considering adopting a cat? It's a decision that's bound to bring endless love, laughter, and joy into your life! Adopting a cat isn't just about giving a furry friend a forever home; it's about welcoming a new member into your family and embarking on a heartwarming journey filled with purrs, cuddles, and unforgettable moments.

Happy

06/07/2024

We were thrilled to join the annual Calgary Humane Society Dog Jog! 🐾 This incredible event helps end animal cruelty by raising vital funds for life-saving programs focused on education, protection, and rehabilitation.

Our Associates had an amazing time connecting with fellow pet parents and were ready to assist at the pet first aid tent for any pups in need.

We're proud to announce that the Calgary Humane Society raised nearly $200,000, surpassing their $180,000 goal! 🎉 Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this fantastic cause. Together, we are making a difference in supporting life's greatest companions.

06/06/2024

🐾💖 One of the most beautiful things about pets is their unwavering loyalty and unconditional love. Whether you're coming home after a long day at work or simply lounging on the couch, pets are always there by your side, ready to offer comfort, companionship, and a listening ear. Their presence brings a sense of warmth and security to our lives, reminding us that we're never alone as long as we have our furry friends by our side.

Happy !

05/30/2024

🐾 Attention Pet Parents! 🐾

Planning a trip to the U.S. with your furry companion? 🐶✈️

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated their travel rules for dogs, effective August 1, 2024, and it might affect your plans. It is very important to make sure you’re up-to-date on these new regulations before you leave by checking out the full list of requirements on the CDC website.

Here's a quick look at the rules that have been updated:
• Dogs must be at least 6 months of age at the time of entry or return to the U.S.
• Dogs must have an implanted International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip.
• Dogs must appear healthy upon arrival, or they may be required to undergo isolation, veterinary examinations and additional testing, at the importer’s expense, to determine if the dog has a contagious disease.
• Owners must have a CDC Dog Import Form receipt that includes all current information, including the correct port of entry where the dog is arriving.

To learn more about the many specific details that accompany each new requirement, click the link below.

https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/dogs-entering-us-after-august-1.html

05/29/2024

🐶 Why are noses important to dogs?

The canine nose does more than smell the roses. While humans primarily depend on their vision, dogs use both sight and smell to assess their surroundings and communicate. People spend more time interpreting visual data than olfactory information. Dogs are just the opposite.

Dogs devote lots of brain power to interpreting smells. They have more than 100 million sensory receptor sites in the nasal cavity compared to 6 million in people, and the area of the canine brain devoted to analyzing odors is about 40 times larger than the comparable part of the human brain. In fact, it has been estimated that dogs can smell anywhere from 1,000 to 10,000 times better than people.

05/23/2024

🐢 Happy ! Let's celebrate these incredible creatures and the vital role they play in our ecosystem. Whether they're gliding through the water or basking in the sun, turtles remind us to take life at our own pace and appreciate the beauty of the world around us. 🌊

05/22/2024

🐶 Why do dogs have wet noses?

The canine nose works best when it is damp. The wet outer nose and mucus-covered nasal canal efficiently capture scent particles. Moisture is so important to the canine sense of smell, that dogs will lick their noses when they become dry. Smart canines do not want to miss out on important information due to a dry nose!

05/15/2024

🩺🐶 Why should I take my dog for wellness testing?

Dogs are very good at masking illness and disease. If a disease can be detected early, before a pet shows signs of illness, then steps can often be taken to manage or correct the problem before permanent damage occurs. Wellness testing is particularly important in senior and geriatric dogs, since there is a greater chance that an older dog will develop disease or have an ongoing but stable condition that needs to be monitored.

05/08/2024

🐱 How often do I need to clean the litter box?

Most cats are fastidious by nature. Cats spend a lot of time grooming themselves, and naturally prefer a tidy bathroom as well. Consider a human going into a public restroom: if someone has failed to flush, do you proceed and use the toilet? Doing our best to keep the litter clean and appealing to cats is one of the most important factors in maintaining good elimination habits.

Every day: Scoop out all clumps. Some cats prefer the litter to be scooped even more frequently.
Every week: Empty all litter and any residue from the box, refill with clean litter.
Every month: Empty all litter and thoroughly scrub the box with hot water and mild soap before refilling. Some cats prefer this to be done weekly.
Every year: Completely replace the litter box.

05/07/2024

🐾 Kindness is the language that animals understand best! Whether it's a gentle scratch behind the ears, a cozy cuddle on the couch, or a tasty treat as a reward, every act of kindness makes a world of difference in the lives of our furry friends. Let's remember to treat them with the love, respect, and compassion they deserve, not just today, but every day. After all, the love they give us is unconditional – let's make sure our kindness to them is too! 🐶💕

Happy !

05/06/2024

🐾 Pets are truly amazing creatures who enrich our lives in countless ways. Whether they're curling up in our laps, chasing after toys, or simply being their adorable selves, pets bring endless love, laughter, and happiness into our homes. So here's to our beloved furry friends – thank you for being such wonderful companions and for making our lives brighter every day!

Happy !

05/03/2024

🌟Defying the odds and stealing our hearts every day! From wheelchair zoomies to fearless adventures, these furry heroes remind us that nothing can dim their spirit or determination. They may have challenges, but they're living proof that love knows no bounds and that every pet deserves a chance to shine. Let's celebrate their resilience, courage, and unwavering spirit, and show the world that being different is what makes them truly extraordinary! 💖

Happy !

05/01/2024

😺 Should I feed my cat at specific times or should I leave food in the bowl all the time?

Unlimited food available all of the time (free feeding or ad lib feeding) can contribute to obesity, especially in sedentary cats. Free-roaming cats are active and burn calories while hunting. Indoor cats burn some calories when engaging with toys or with their food puzzles. One way to provide extra exercise is to divide your cat’s daily meal serving into several dishes and distribute the dishes around the house.

04/30/2024

🐾 Happy !

Shelter dogs are unsung heroes, waiting patiently for their chance to shine and show the world their incredible spirit and resilience. Despite facing adversity, these remarkable dogs possess boundless love, loyalty, and potential, making them truly extraordinary companions for those who open their hearts and homes to them.

04/28/2024

🐾 April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. This week, we are bringing awareness to tail docking and the removal of articulated dewclaws, procedures which VCA Canada proudly bans across all hospitals.

Tail docking (literally removing most of the tail) is a purely cosmetic procedure. This surgery is typically performed at a very young age with no, or minimal analgesia. Infections at the site of the surgery are not uncommon with this procedure as well. Removing articulated dewclaws along with the attached bone is very painful, and is unnecessary. This procedure is also prone to secondary infections at the surgical site.

04/27/2024

🩺 Happy !

Veterinary staff are the unsung heroes of animal care, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the health and well-being of our beloved pets. From skilled veterinarians to compassionate veterinary technicians and dedicated support staff, each member of the veterinary team plays a vital role in providing high-quality care and support to animals and their families.

One of the most remarkable things about veterinary staff is their unwavering dedication and commitment to their patients. Day in and day out, they go above and beyond to provide compassionate care and support to animals in need, often working long hours and sacrificing their own comfort for the well-being of their patients. Whether it's performing lifesaving surgeries, administering medications, or providing comfort to anxious pets and their families, veterinary staff are always there when they are needed most.

04/26/2024

🐾❤️ Happy !

The bond between kids and pets is truly special and holds a unique place in our hearts. From the moment they meet, children and pets form a deep connection that is built on love, trust, and companionship. Whether it's a playful pup, a cuddly cat, or a curious hamster, pets have a magical way of bringing joy, laughter, and endless adventures into the lives of children.

04/24/2024

🐾🕶️ Happy !

Guide dogs are more than just loyal companions; they are incredible partners who empower individuals with visual impairments to live full and independent lives. These remarkable dogs undergo rigorous training to become expert guides, providing invaluable assistance and support to their human handlers every step of the way.

04/22/2024

💖 Step into the heartbeat of compassionate care – the front lines where our exceptional Client Care team brings their talent and dedication to life.

At every VCA Canada Animal Hospital, you're welcomed with open arms by the members of our Client Care team. Serving as the first and final touchpoint on your journey, they are an indispensable part of our daily operations. With their diverse skill set and unwavering commitment to service excellence, they ensure that you and your cherished companions receive the utmost care and attention.

From offering warm smiles to providing valuable information and support, our Client Care team goes above and beyond to make your experience seamless and stress-free. Whether it's scheduling appointments, answering questions, or simply lending a listening ear, they are always here to assist you every step of the way.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of our clients for entrusting us with the care of their furry family members. Your dedication to your pets and your community is truly inspiring, and we are honored to be a part of your journey. Together, we eagerly anticipate the endless possibilities that the future holds, united in our commitment to the well-being of our beloved pets.

04/19/2024

🐾 April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. This week, we are bringing awareness to ear cropping - a procedure which VCA Canada proudly bans across all hospitals.

Ear cropping is a purely cosmetic surgery meant to have the ears stand up and not “flop” down. The procedure is very painful for the pet, and secondary infections of the surgery sites are common.

04/17/2024

🐕 Teaching Your Puppy Recall

Hide a treat or toy in your pocket while you walk around the house or yard with your puppy. Your puppy will likely follow you closely as you are his new special person! Wait for a moment when your puppy looks away from you and quietly move just a few steps away. Your puppy will undoubtedly head toward you; reward him by playing with him and/or treating him. Don’t give a cue yet - this first step teaches your puppy that moving close to you brings wonderful things.

Next, take a few more steps away and this time squeak the toy or shake the treat bag to get his attention. Your puppy is certain to come - which means that she is doing a recall! Soon your puppy rush to you whenever she hears the toy or treat. Now, you can introduce the verbal cue. As soon as your puppy starts moving toward you for the reward, say “come”. Keep your tone very cheerful, not stern, and say the word just once.

Continue to practice every day: quietly wait for your puppy to notice you, then say “come”, and reward. As your puppy succeeds with the recall at several feet away, try calling from a further distance. Try from around the corner or, if outside in the fenced yard, hide behind a tree. This game should be very fun. If your puppy is busy playing on her own, capture her attention with a toy or treat before calling her - that will ensure her success.

Over time you can add more distractions, but keep your expectations reasonable. If your puppy does not respond, go back to some of the easier steps. It can take many weeks or months of practice before your dog is ready to respond to a recall cue in the face of distractions.

04/15/2024

🐾 April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. This week, we are bringing awareness to declawing - a procedure which VCA Canada proudly bans across all hospitals.

Declawing is a very painful procedure in which the third bone of the toe (literally the last digit in each person’s finger) is cut off with the attached nail. Some pet parents that have cats want declawing performed, as they suspect that it will result in less damage to furniture and other potential scratching surfaces in the home. It has been proven though that cats that are declawed can still cause significant destruction of home items.

Many cats that cannot scratch end up biting clients and other animals in the home out of frustration. Most importantly, multiple studies have documented that declawing leads to increased aggression, increased litter box aversion with urination around the house instead of in the box, increased inter-cat aggression in the home, and back pain that can be debilitating.

Significant back pain can lead to litter box aversion, leading to the cat urinating outside of the litter box. Feline pet parents are often concerned that not allowing declawing would lead to more cats being surrendered to shelter facilities.

Further research has proven that declawed cats are much more likely to be surrendered to a shelter than are cats that have intact digits. That is, all of the predicted poor outcomes expected when declawing was banned did not occur; cats that were not declawed were significantly less likely to be surrendered to a shelter or to be rehomed.

04/13/2024

To conclude we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Katie O'hanley.

Offering support and ensuring each question is answered has the ability to propel the confidence of any young professional. Thank you for continuing to be a leader - we appreciate it more than you know!

Address

1802 10 Avenue SW
Calgary, AB
T3C0J8

Telephone

+14037701340

Website

http://www.vcacanada.com/western

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Videos

We are excited to announce that VCA Canada has been named one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2024, which recognizes Alberta employers whose head offices are located within the province and lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. At VCA Canada, we are proud of the Associate experience we’ve built that prioritizes employee well-being, professional development, and community engagement. Being recognized for this award is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication not only in Alberta but across the country in each of our hospitals. Thank you to all our Associates for the support and care they provide life’s greatest companions on a daily basis and for making VCA Canada an excellent place for Associates to work and grow. For the full story: https://bit.ly/3HJmkck #ABTopEmployers #TopEmployers2024

Celebrating Veterinary Heroes: Our Beloved RVTs In the world of animal care and well-being, there is a special group of unsung heroes, often working quietly in the background, ensuring our beloved pets receive the best care possible. They are Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs), and it's time to shine a spotlight on these dedicated professionals who play a pivotal role in veterinary medicine. 🐾 The Backbone of Veterinary Care 🐾 RVTs are the backbone of veterinary practices, providing invaluable support to veterinarians, animals, and pet owners. They possess a wealth of knowledge and skills, and their contributions are immeasurable. 💡 Incredible Versatility 💡 One of the most remarkable aspects of RVTs is their versatility. They wear multiple hats, handling an impressive range of responsibilities. From surgical assistance and laboratory diagnostics to radiology, patient care, and client education, they do it all. They often act as the bridge between veterinary teams, ensuring seamless communication and care. 🎓 Continuous Learning 🎓 RVTs are committed to their profession's growth and development. They pursue ongoing education to stay updated on the latest advancements in veterinary medicine, enabling them to provide the best care possible. 👩‍⚕️ Client Education 👨‍⚕️ RVTs play a vital role in educating pet owners. They patiently explain medical conditions, treatment options, and preventive care, empowering pet parents to make informed decisions about their furry family members' well-being. 🙌 The Unsung Heroes 🙌 Despite their vital role, RVTs often work behind the scenes. Many pet owners may not even realize the extent of their contribution. It's time to acknowledge the immense difference they make in the lives of our pets and the support they provide to veterinary teams. 🌟 Expressing Our Gratitude 🌟 To all RVTs, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude. Your dedication, hard work, and compassion do not

With our last individual video of the month, we have Sarah! Sarah comes with 12 years of experience and is eager to share her VCAC experience. #RVTMonth #RVT

To begin the final week of RVT Month, we would like to introduce Melissa and her daughter who have decided to partner up for this message! #RVTMonth #RVT

Today, Marlayna is back to tell us what it means to be an RVT! #RVTMonth #RVT

As a veteran in the industry, Emily explains how VCA Canada has helped her find success and use her skills to the fullest extent. #RVTMonth #RVT

This is Chelsie. Chelsie loves her team. Please listen along to learn more about what Chelsie loves about her role and her fellow RVTs! #RVTMonth #RVT

At VCA Canada, we understand the importance of having a team that supports you and pushes you to grow within your role and as an individual. Please say hello to Jesse as she talks about the importance of team! #RVTMonth #RVT

Emily makes her first appearance in which she shares her advice as a seasoned RVT! #RVTMonth #RVT

Today, Jesse is back to share her advice for continued success as an RVT. #RVTMonth #RVT

Coming back with her second informational piece, Marlayna shares her advice for current and incoming RVTs! #RVTMonth #RVT

Tracey, a veteran in the RVT space shares her journey as an RVT with VCA Canada. #RVTMonth #RVT

"While some kids were playing Doctor, I was playing Vet" Today to discuss her path to becoming an RVT, we would like to introduce Marlayna! #RVTMonth #RVT

Today to discuss her journey as an RVT and current Hospital Manager, we have Cynthia! #RVTMonth #RVT

This week, we will be focusing on the individual journey of some of our leading RVTs. Today, we have Jesse of VCA Canada Frontier Animal Hospital where she has quickly achieved the title of Lead RVT. #RVTMonth #RVT

Please welcome Becky! She is one of VCA Canada's most passionate RVTs, and a veteran of 14 years within the industry and 10 years at VCA Canada. In this video, Becky offers her biggest piece of advice which applies to all RVTs - new or seasoned. #RVTMonth #RVT

To kick off RVT Appreciation Month, we have Antonia! Antonia is VCA Canada's Director of Veterinary Technologist Learning and Development. Since joining VCA Canada 7 years ago, she has made leaps and strides to create an impactful and valuable experience for our RVTs. #RVTMonth #RVT

October is RVT Appreciation Month and we could not be more excited! The unsung heroes of our veterinary world are none other than Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs), who stand as the primary pillar of support for our Veterinarians. The continued operation of our hospitals would be an impossibility without their dedicated service. RVTs undertake a multifaceted role, engaging with clients to address various concerns, including nutrition, behavior, and post-operative care. They skillfully wear the hats of hygienists, nurses, and x-ray experts, seamlessly merging these roles into one. Whether assisting in major surgeries or caring for our most critically ill patients, RVTs are the adhesive that binds our practices together, wielding an extensive reservoir of knowledge, expertise, and an unwavering passion for their profession. This month, you, our extended family, will be given the opportunity to hear from some of VCA Canada's leading RVTs. Please give a warm welcome to Antonia, Jesse, Emily, Marlayna, Tracey, Cynthia, Chelsie, and Rebecca! #RVTMonth #RVT

RVT Appreciation Month 2022

This month was RVT Appreciation Month and we couldn’t be more excited about the participation across the country. An RVT is a skilled, passionate and dedicated individual that wears many hats and is crucial to the day-to-day operations of any animal hospital. Below, you will find a compilation of how we celebrated our RVTs this month.