VCA Canada Willowdale Animal Hospital

VCA Canada Willowdale Animal Hospital At VCA Canada, we're pet people too. A healthy pet is a happy pet. That's why our team of trained professionals offer quality care for your companion.

We understand the importance of your morning snuggles and the tail-wagging excitement when you come through the door, even if you're only gone for five minutes. We know them inside and out, which means we know when things are good and when we need to pay more attention. Our hospital is here for you.

What if you could obtain the highest quality x-ray imagery possible, while maintaining calm and comfortable pet patients...
01/10/2025

What if you could obtain the highest quality x-ray imagery possible, while maintaining calm and comfortable pet patients.
All while improving overall caregiver safety?

🙌With Hands-Free Radiology, you can!🙌

's Director of Veterinary Technologist Learning and Development, Antonia Laoutaris, is leading the charge of the future in and teaching the ways of .

How awesome is it to see so many and students engaged and eager to learn how they can keep themselves safe by lowering their exposure while staying out of the room and away from hazardous radiation!

Hands free radiology is truly the future and VCA Canada is at the forefront, leading the way in and career longevity.

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for your pet's overall health and well-being. Weight can be influenced by fact...
01/09/2025

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for your pet's overall health and well-being.

Weight can be influenced by factors such as age, breed, health conditions, feeding routines, overfeeding, calorie-dense diets, inactivity, and genetics. To help your pet stay at a healthy weight, focus on these four simple steps.

🐕 Healthy Shape: Weighing them is not the only way to check if they're overweight. You can find out if your pet is a healthy weight by asking your veterinarian how to use the . The BCS is a 9-point system that evaluates physique, ranging from 1 (emaciated) to 9 (severely obese). An ideal score of 5 represents a healthy shape, where the ribs are easily felt, the waist is visible when viewed from above, and the abdomen tucks up behind the rib cage when viewed from the side.

🥎 Healthy Activity: Start by considering breed, as different breeds have unique energy levels and exercise needs. Likewise, your pet's age and health will play a key role in determining the right amount of activity for them. Regular exercise will ensure your pets keep fit, stay active and feel happy.

🥣 Healthy Portioning: They're smaller than you think! A good practice is to limit treats to less than 10% of your pet's daily calorie needs, which your veterinarian can help you determine. Then, reduce the amount of their regular food by an amount roughly equal to the calories contained in any treats given.

💗 Healthy Growth: As they grow, it’s essential to stay informed about changing needs at each stage of development. Consulting with your veterinarian and asking questions will ensure you feel confident in providing the care your pet requires as they mature.

Obesity may be the number one nutritional disorder of pets in North America, but it is also one that we can manage and monitor by utilizing systems like the BCS.

Together, we can make their life happier, healthier, and longer!

Peeking out to say… 2025, we’re ready for you!Here’s to a year full of new adventures and warm cuddles featuring the new...
01/07/2025

Peeking out to say… 2025, we’re ready for you!

Here’s to a year full of new adventures and warm cuddles featuring the newest member of the club, Macchiato. 💙

Did Santa bring you a new furry family-member over the holidays? Hit the link in our bio and head to the section to access all kinds of great tips, tricks and resources! Because, in the clurb, we all fam!

🎆🐾IT'S NEW YEARS EVE, FUR-GET THE STRESS WITH VCA CANADA🐾🎆Many pets experience "noise phobia," during firework displays ...
12/31/2024

🎆🐾IT'S NEW YEARS EVE, FUR-GET THE STRESS WITH VCA CANADA🐾🎆

Many pets experience "noise phobia," during firework displays or loud gatherings.

If your pet is easily affected, make sure doors and windows are shut/secured this , as well as think about setting up a quiet, safe space that they can retreat to during parties or any loud moments of commotion.

If you plan on using glow sticks for your celebrations, be careful they are not ingested as they contain chemicals that can cause skin irritation or GI upset.

Keep in mind that balloons, streamers, and confetti can also become choking hazards if chewed or swallowed.

From all of us at , we are so grateful to be able to be there for your moments, both big and small. May you and your pets continue to have , this season and beyond.

🥂Cheers to the journey ahead!💙

🎅🎁 Santa-Paws nose if you've been good or bad!🎁🎅But either way, all of us at  , wish you a very   and  .It's all about s...
12/25/2024

🎅🎁 Santa-Paws nose if you've been good or bad!🎁🎅

But either way, all of us at , wish you a very and .

It's all about slowing down, spending time with loved ones, and soaking in the magic of the season. Remember to take care of yourself, enjoy the little things, and know that we’re so grateful to have you as part of our community.

Have a wonderful holiday season!

As the   head into the home-stretch, be mindful that leftover trash can pose a serious threat to your furry friends if n...
12/23/2024

As the head into the home-stretch, be mindful that leftover trash can pose a serious threat to your furry friends if not handled carefully. While you may be cleaning up wrapping paper and food scraps, remember that what you leave behind can be dangerous for your pets.

Fatty meat scraps from your holiday dinners (like turkey skin or ham fat) can trigger pancreatitis in pets, which causes severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, it can be life-threatening.

, whether from turkey or other meats, can splinter and become a or cause damage to your pet’s digestive system.

Unwrapped presents—ribbons, wrapping paper, bows, and packaging—are fun for pets to play with but can quickly lead to choking or if ingested.
Plastic packaging or small objects from toys or other gifts can also pose choking risks or cause gastrointestinal issues if swallowed.

Pro Tip: Once the celebrations are over, make sure to dispose of trash immediately and store food scraps in a secure, pet-proof bin. You don’t want your curious pet getting into leftovers or discarded materials!

If you think your pet has ingested something harmful from the trash, don't hesitate to contact your nearest clinic for and care. It's always better to be safe than sorry!

A little extra attention to your cleanup routine can help ensure that everyone, including your pets, have a season. 🎄🎁🐾

🌿🌲Watch Out for Toxic Plants and Tree Water this Holiday Season🌲🌿The   bring beautiful plants and trees into our homes, ...
12/21/2024

🌿🌲Watch Out for Toxic Plants and Tree Water this Holiday Season🌲🌿

The bring beautiful plants and trees into our homes, but they also come with hidden dangers for our pets.

Tree water may seem harmless, but it can contain harmful bacteria, mold, or fertilizers that can make your pet sick. To keep them away from it, consider using a tree skirt or other barriers to block access.

Some are toxic to pets if ingested. Keep festive favorites like , , , and well out of reach to avoid stomach upset, drooling, or worse.

themselves are generally safe for pets, but be cautious of sharp needles that could irritate or injure your pet’s paws or mouth if they chew on them.

Fake plants may also pose a risk if they have small parts that can be ingested.

A quick check of your home to ensure hazardous plants are safely stored will help you enjoy the holidays with peace of mind.

If your pet ingests any plant material or tree water, don’t hesitate to contact your nearest clinic for immediate advice or treatment.

Let’s make this a , safe and fun for both you and your pets!

The holiday season is filled with joy, sparkling lights, and festive decorations, but these can pose a serious threat to...
12/18/2024

The holiday season is filled with joy, sparkling lights, and festive decorations, but these can pose a serious threat to our furry friends if we're not careful!

Curious pets are naturally drawn to shiny objects, which can lead them to chew or swallow tinsel, lights, ornaments, or other holiday decor. These can cause intestinal blockages or other health issues.

Here are some things to consider for a !

Candles add warmth and ambiance to your home, but they can also be a fire hazard if your pet knocks them over or gets too close. Always keep candles out of your pet’s reach, or better yet, give those flameless candles a try!

Salt-dough ornaments may look cute but are harmful if ingested. They can cause gastrointestinal issues and pose choking hazards. Shatterproof ornaments are a safer option and can help prevent broken glass from causing injury.

A little extra care in your decorating choices can make all the difference in keeping your pet safe. 🐾✨

Remember to secure decorations and choose pet-friendly alternatives to create a festive but worry-free environment for your four-legged companions.

If you're ever unsure whether a decoration is safe, contact your local clinic for expert advice.

🚫🍷Cheers to a Safe Holiday Season🍷🚫The   brings festive drinks, but it’s important to remember: alcohol and pets don’t m...
12/16/2024

🚫🍷Cheers to a Safe Holiday Season🍷🚫

The brings festive drinks, but it’s important to remember: alcohol and pets don’t mix! Even a small amount of alcohol can be dangerous for your furry friends, causing alcohol poisoning that may require immediate medical attention.

Here’s how you can keep your pets safe this holiday season:
✅ Store alcoholic beverages in secure, high places, out of reach from curious paws.
✅ Keep an eye on drinks guests may leave unattended.
✅ Clean up spills quickly to avoid accidental licks.

If you suspect your pet has ingested alcohol, contact a right away for and care.

Let’s toast to a safe and season for you and your pets! 🐾Download the Holiday Hazards Playbook to learn more. https://bit.ly/3ZEh0jh

We know it’s hard to resist those cute, begging eyes, (especially during the  ) but your pet’s health will thank you for...
12/11/2024

We know it’s hard to resist those cute, begging eyes, (especially during the ) but your pet’s health will thank you for your restraint! These common festive foods should not be part of their diet:

Chocolate, candy and desserts, grapes, raisins, xylitol (found in most baked goods), and fatty meat scraps and bones.🥓 🍰🍷

They can be harmful or even life-threatening to pets if ingested. Problems can quickly arise like Pancreatitis, digestive issues, or poisoning from too much salt. It's best to avoid the pleading puppy-eyes and keep your trimmings to your plate.

🍫❌ Keep holiday treats out of reach and be sure to let guests know not to share their holiday snacks with your pets.

⚠️ If your pet ingests anything toxic, contact your nearest clinic or an immediately!

Let's keep this a season for everyone, furry friends included. 🐾

Celebrating Animal Rights, Every Day.Today,  , we join the global community in recognizing the importance of   and advoc...
12/10/2024

Celebrating Animal Rights, Every Day.

Today, , we join the global community in recognizing the importance of and advocating for the fair treatment of all creatures, great and small.

Every animal deserves respect, compassion, and protection from harm. Whether they're our beloved pets, wildlife, or farm animals, we have a responsibility to ensure their rights and welfare are upheld. Everyday.

How does VCA Canada make a difference?🤔

💙 Promoting and providing preventive care programs like regular vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and wellness exams to improve the quality of life for animals.

💙 Partnering with local shelters and rescue groups to sponsor adoption events and advocate for rescue pets to find loving homes, as well as providing free-vaccine clinics and food pantries to fill the bellies of more pets.

💙 Upholding the highest standards of veterinary ethics, including advocating for humane treatment of all animals, whether companion animals or wildlife.

💙 Speaking out against unethical practices such as declawing (except when medically necessary) and supporting bans on animal cruelty.

Together, we can create a world where all animals are treated with dignity and respect.

Drop a 🐾 in the comments to show your commitment to animal rights!

🖤🛍️ BARK-FRIDAY SAVINGS ARE HERE 🛍️🖤Starting today,   clients can fetch   deals on top pet food brands like Royal Canin,...
11/28/2024

🖤🛍️ BARK-FRIDAY SAVINGS ARE HERE 🛍️🖤

Starting today, clients can fetch deals on top pet food brands like Royal Canin, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, and Purina through Mollies.ca!*

*Offers vary by food brand. Limited time offer. Terms and conditions apply. See mollies.ca for more details.

🐾💛 The Golden Years Are the Best Years! 💛🐾It's  , and we're celebrating the wisdom, love, and personality of our senior ...
11/25/2024

🐾💛 The Golden Years Are the Best Years! 💛🐾

It's , and we're celebrating the wisdom, love, and personality of our senior pets! 🐶🐱 While they may move a little slower and take more naps, their hearts are just as full as ever—and often, they have even more love to give. 💖

At , we believe every pet deserves the best care, no matter their age. Whether your furry friend is 7 or 17, our team is here to support them through their golden years with regular wellness checks, expert advice, and gentle care.

Signs your senior pet might need extra TLC:

🦴 Changes in eating habits or weight
💧 Increased thirst or urination
🐾 Joint stiffness or difficulty jumping
😴 Reduced activity levels or more time spent resting

If you notice any of these changes, don’t wait! Regular check-ups can help catch issues like arthritis, dental disease, or vision loss early, so your senior pet stays happy and comfortable for years to come. 🩺

Let’s celebrate our senior companions! Share a photo of your senior pet in the comments and tell us what makes them so special.

At  , we believe that a strong VCPR (Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship) is at the heart of compassionate care for y...
11/14/2024

At , we believe that a strong VCPR (Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship) is at the heart of compassionate care for your pets. 🐶🐱🐴 It’s the bond between you, your pet, and your veterinarian, and it’s what helps us provide the best possible care tailored just for your animal.

When we get to know your pet with regular check-ups—whether it’s a shy dog, a curious cat, or a hardworking farm animal—we can spot health issues early, prevent bigger problems, and create a relationship built on trust. Plus, if your pet ever needs emergency care, having an established VCPR means we already know their health history, so we can act quickly and provide the most effective treatment.

When we work together as a team, we can help your family member live a long, healthy life. ❤️🐾

🦴 Bone Appetit? 🦴While it might be tempting to share bones with your furry friends, it’s important to know that there ar...
11/06/2024

🦴 Bone Appetit? 🦴

While it might be tempting to share bones with your furry friends, it’s important to know that there are no truly safe options for dogs (or cats). Both cooked and raw bones can lead to serious issues, including broken teeth and digestive problems.

In fact, raw diets containing bones can not only result in tooth fractures but also pose risks of bacterial contamination. A recent case highlighted the dangers of raw food diets, emphasizing that we need to be cautious.

Though dogs love bones--the bones don't love the dogs and can lead to dental fractures, perforation of the bowel as well as obstruction of the intestinal tract, necessitating emergency surgery.

Let’s prioritize our pets’ health and explore safer alternatives together! ❤️

🎃 NO TRICKS, ALL TREAT 🎃 ! Why not treat your furry friend to some  ? It's a superfood packed with nutrients!Pumpkin is ...
10/31/2024

🎃 NO TRICKS, ALL TREAT 🎃

! Why not treat your furry friend to some ? It's a superfood packed with nutrients!

Pumpkin is low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, helping support and . It also moisturizes skin promoting a shiny coat and reducing dryness. Plus, pumpkin is great for digestion—its natural fiber can help with upset stomachs and even support urinary health.

Some say it even helps keep pesky parasites at bay! (Pumpkin has high amounts of the amino acid cucurbitacin, which is actually toxic to many common and has been used to expel worms in ruminating animals).❗Grinding up a teaspoon of ground pumpkin seeds and mixing them into canned food (or a little canned pumpkin!) is a good preventative measure, but don't use this to replace your pet's usual parasite treatments, as they are very important.

Add a scoop of pumpkin to top your dog’s meals for a tasty, healthy treat this ...just make sure to not confuse it with pumpkin pie filling. (That stuff's full of sugar and no-good for doggos).

Update on Associate Molly's Mars, Incorporated Ambassador Trip to Ghana!It was an exciting week of learning and collabor...
10/28/2024

Update on Associate Molly's Mars, Incorporated Ambassador Trip to Ghana!

It was an exciting week of learning and collaboration.

There was a seminar in Obodan focused on the health of sheep, goats, and poultry, bringing together a fantastic group of women dedicated to animal welfare.

Following that, were the farms in Noka, where we engaged directly with local farmers to share knowledge and practices. The camaraderie was evident in our post-seminar group photo!

A special highlight was receiving a beautiful hand-woven Kente cloth from the Ghana Poultry Network (GAPNET) director and volunteers—what a thoughtful gift!

In Nsawam, we had the pleasure of working alongside local veterinarians and vet students, collaborating on cases and sharing insights. The experience has truly enriched our understanding of veterinary practices in the region.

From taking histories on sheep farms to fostering connections, this week has been filled with valuable experiences and new friendships.

We're looking forward to seeing more impactful work ahead! 🐑🐐🐔

It’s Still Tick O’Clock! Did you know that ticks can remain active well into the fall? As long as temperatures are above...
10/23/2024

It’s Still Tick O’Clock!

Did you know that ticks can remain active well into the fall? As long as temperatures are above 0-2°C, these little critters can survive even our cold winters!

🔍 Here’s some important info: Adult start searching for hosts to feed on when temperatures rise above that threshold. In fact, they tend to be most active during the fall when the cooler weather is just right for them.

💡 Did You Know? Ticks active during fluctuating winter temperatures and in spring can pose the greatest risk! Blacklegged ticks carrying the bacteria that cause are particularly resilient and are often the first to emerge on warmer days.

Whether you're enjoying a hike or relaxing by the campfire, it’s crucial to check your pets and have a first aid plan in place. Check out our guide for tips on staying prepared!

Stay safe out there! 🐾

Address

256 Sheppard Avenue West
Toronto, ON
M2N1N3

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 7pm
Tuesday 8am - 7pm
Wednesday 8am - 7pm
Thursday 8am - 7pm
Friday 8am - 7pm
Saturday 8am - 2pm

Telephone

+14162225409

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