Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital

03/08/2025

Today, on International Women’s Day, we honor the incredible women who dedicate their lives to caring for animals and advancing veterinary medicine. At Boundary Bay Veterinary Hospital, we are proud to work alongside compassionate, skilled, and resilient women who play an integral role in the well-being of our patients and the future of veterinary care.

From emergency medicine to specialized surgery, patient care to research, their expertise and dedication make a profound impact every day. We celebrate their leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to both animals and the communities we serve.

To all the women in veterinary medicine—thank you for your tireless efforts and for inspiring the next generation. Your work is invaluable, and today, we recognize and appreciate you! 💙🐾

03/07/2025

Content Warning: Signs of Cat Abuse

Meet Tomball! 🐈

Tomball was brought to BBVSH by Tiny Kittens to receive medical care after living among a feral cat colony.

Unlike many of his furry colony friends, this brave little guy needed much more specialized treatment than initially thought after being examined on arrival at BBVSH by our diagnostic imaging specialists.

Tomball's care soon became a collaborative effort between our Dr. Rochette (board-certified dentist) and Dr. Alvarez (board-certified surgeon).

Watch our video for Tomball's full story with photos and videos courtesy of Tiny Kittens.

Learn how you can support Tiny Kittens and stay updated on Tomball's progress by following them on Facebook: Tinykittens

03/05/2025

With Easter and springtime around the corner, Easter lilies (Lilium longiflorum) are a common sight in homes and floral arrangements. However, while beautiful, these flowers pose a deadly threat to cats.

Every part of the lily, including flowers, leaves, stems, and pollen, is toxic. Even drinking water from a vase can poison your cat.

Symptoms include:
🐾 Hiding or depression
🐾 Diarrhea
🐾 Dehydration or not drinking
🐾 Vomiting
🐾 Changes in urination indicate kidney failure.
🐾 Ingesting large amounts can lead to a digestive blockage.

If untreated, poisoning from Easter lilies can lead to severe kidney failure and death within 72 hours. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

Prevention Tip: Avoid having Easter lilies in your home if you have a cat. Instead, opt for pet-safe flowers such as roses, orchids, or sunflowers.

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Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital is a veterinary specialty, emergency and critical care hospital in Surrey, BC. We offer specialized veterinary care and 24/7/365 emergency and critical care services to provide peace-of-mind to pet owners and to support primary care veterinarians.

As a VECCS Level 1 certified hospital, we are capable of handling even the most critical, life-threatening emergencies and trauma, with specialists on staff and on-call to handle any medical or surgical issue your pet may be experiencing.

No referral is required. Should your pet experience a life-threatening emergency, come directly to our hospital.

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03/04/2025

This fluffy sweetheart is Dottie, one of our regular blood donors at Boundary Bay.

Dottie is 6 years old, and she really is the perfect donor - she is so calm and unphased while she donates blood. Dottie has been a donor since August 2020, and has given 8 donations, and most of those have been emergencies. She and her owners are very willing to come in for those critical donations.

We can't thank Dottie and her owners enough for being such superheroes and helping us save lives.😍

We always need blood! If you are interested in finding out if your pet is eligible to be a donor, please visit our website at bbvsh.com/about/blood-donation.

03/03/2025

March is recognized as Poison Prevention & Awareness Month, and it is a great time for pet owners to educate themselves about the various household hazards that can pose serious risks to our furry family members.

Many everyday items—flowers and houseplants, human foods, over-the-counter pain medications, household cleaners and chemicals, and recreational drugs—can be highly toxic to pets.

At Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital, we are committed to the safety and well-being of your furry friends. Understanding potential toxins and making sure these items are avoided or safely out of reach are crucial steps in safeguarding their health and can help avoid a trip to an emergency hospital.

Note: If you suspect your pet has ingested any toxic substance, they will require immediate treatment – time is critical in a poisoning emergency.

We are open 24/7/365 for emergencies and are capable of handling even the most critical, life-threatening emergencies and trauma, including poisoning.

02/28/2025

At BBVSH, animal rehabilitation starts with an individualized assessment to determine your pet’s specific needs.

Depending on the condition, the following therapies may be recommended:

🐾 Hydrotherapy (Underwater Treadmill)

🐾 Laser Therapy

🐾 Canine Massage Therapy

🐾 Custom Exercise Programs

🐾 Heat and Cold Therapy

🐾 Electrical Stimulation for Dogs

🐾 Therapeutic Ultrasound

🐾 Weight Management Support

Therapists might also provide exercises you can do at home to help your pet continue progressing between sessions.

Learn more in our guide to pet physiotherapy: https://bbvsh.com/blog/dog-and-cat-physiotherapy-what-pet-owners-need-to-know/

02/26/2025

🐾💕 Today, the team at Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital proudly wore pink in support of Pink Shirt Day! 💖👚

Together, we stand against bullying and promote kindness, respect, and inclusivity—both in our workplace and in our community. A big thank you to our dedicated staff for showing their support and making a difference!

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02/26/2025

At Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital, we aim to provide comprehensive dental health solutions that prioritize your pet’s comfort and long-term well-being.

Our board-certified veterinary dental specialist is trained to diagnose and treat both genetic and acquired dental problems. Using specialized diagnostics, including dental radiology, laboratory evaluations, and advanced imaging like CT scans, we can accurately diagnose oral health issues and related medical problems before planning treatment.

BBVSH also offers a wide range of specialized dental treatment options, including surgical solutions, ensuring that your pet receives the care they need for optimal oral health. Our advanced capabilities mean we can address even complex dental problems effectively.

We also collaborate closely with your primary veterinarian to tailor treatments to your pet’s unique needs. Our advanced diagnostics, including dental radiology, laboratory evaluations, and CT imaging, allow us to provide precise and effective care.

If you’re concerned about your pet’s dental health or need professional cleaning services, Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital is here to help.

Learn more about our dentistry services: https://bbvsh.com/service/dentistry/ 🦷

02/25/2025

How does physiotherapy aid post-surgical recovery?

Physiotherapy plays a vital role in helping pets regain strength, mobility, and function after surgery. At BBVSH, we recognize that post-surgical recovery requires a tailored approach to ensure optimal healing and long-term outcomes.

Our rehabilitation team collaborates closely with pet owners to create individualized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each pet. These plans often include a combination of hydrotherapy, laser therapy, range-of-motion exercises, and other supportive modalities to reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent complications.

During recovery from orthopedic surgery, pets may struggle to achieve a full range of motion or rebuild strength through land-based activities alone. Hydrotherapy (underwater treadmill) is particularly beneficial in this stage, as the buoyancy of water reduces stress on healing joints while encouraging movement and muscle rebuilding.

By incorporating physiotherapy into a pet’s post-surgical care, we aim to speed recovery, minimize discomfort, and help them return to their normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.

Learn more in our guide to pet physiotherapy: https://bbvsh.com/blog/dog-and-cat-physiotherapy-what-pet-owners-need-to-know/

02/24/2025

We're almost all the way through Pet Dental Health Month, but don't wait for next year to prioritize your pet's oral care! 🦷

While professional dental cleanings are essential, regular at-home care can make a big difference in preventing dental disease.

Here’s how you can help:

🦷 Brushing: Brush your pet’s teeth daily with pet-safe toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.

🦷 Dental Chews and Toys: Provide dental treats or toys designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

🦷 Healthy Diet: Feeding a diet that promotes oral health can support clean teeth and gums.

🦷 Routine Inspections: Check your pet’s mouth regularly for signs of dental disease.

Find our full Pet Dental Health Month guide on our blog: https://bbvsh.com/blog/february-is-pet-dental-health-month-what-you-need-to-know/

02/22/2025

In the spirit of Pet Dental Health Month, let's talk about those pearly whites! 🦷✨

Pet owners should watch for these warning signs of dental disease:

🦷 Bad breath (halitosis)
🦷 Red or swollen gums
🦷 Difficulty eating or loss of appetite
🦷 Excessive drooling
🦷 Loose or missing teeth
🦷 Yellow or brown tartar buildup on teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a veterinary checkup as soon as possible.

Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital is a veterinary specialty, emergency and critical care hospital in Surrey, BC. We offer specialized veterinary care and 24/7/365 emergency and critical care services to provide peace-of-mind to pet owners and to support primary care veterinarians.

For more information, visit our blog: https://bbvsh.com/blog/february-is-pet-dental-health-month-what-you-need-to-know/

02/21/2025

At BBVSH, we often get questions from pet owners about our animal rehabilitation service.

Visit our blog for a helpful guide to some of the most common inquiries and curiosities including how dog and cat physiotherapy can make a difference for your furry friend: https://bbvsh.com/blog/dog-and-cat-physiotherapy-what-pet-owners-need-to-know/

02/19/2025

Heart Month is a perfect time to think about your pet's heart health! ❤️

At BBVSH, we provide specialized cardiology care throughout the year, with a wide range of diagnostic and treatment options to keep their hearts strong.

For a full list, plus heart disease prevention tips and more, visit our Heart Month blog: https://bbvsh.com/blog/understanding-heart-health-in-cats-and-dogs/

02/18/2025

What is physiotherapy for pets, and does my dog or cat need it?�

Animal physiotherapy is similar to human physiotherapy—it involves tailored exercises and treatments designed to relieve pain, improve mobility, and speed up recovery from injuries or surgeries. Pets with arthritis, back pain, joint issues, or those recovering from orthopedic or neurologic surgery are often good candidates for rehabilitation.

Even pets that are aging or dealing with chronic conditions like hip dysplasia can benefit from physiotherapy. It’s all about giving them the best chance to stay active and comfortable.

At BBVSH, we understand that each pet is unique. Our animal rehabilitation team provides comprehensive and individualized treatment plans tailored to your pet’s specific needs.

After a thorough assessment, our team collaborates closely with you to provide education, guidance, and unwavering support throughout your pet’s healing process.

Learn more in our guide to pet physiotherapy: https://bbvsh.com/blog/dog-and-cat-physiotherapy-what-pet-owners-need-to-know/

02/17/2025

Happy Family Day from all of us at Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital!

We hope you enjoy a relaxing day with your furry family members.

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Should your pet require immediate medical assistance, we are available 24/7/365, including statutory holidays. Walk-ins welcome.

As a VECCS Level 1 certified hospital, we are capable of handling even the most critical, life-threatening emergencies and trauma, with specialists on staff and on call to handle any medical or surgical issue your pet may be experiencing.

For more information, visit https://bbvsh.com/

02/14/2025

02/13/2025

Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs and cats, affecting over 80% of pets by the age of three.

Here’s why it’s essential to prioritize your pet’s oral hygiene:

🦷 Prevention of Pain and Discomfort: Pets with dental disease often experience painful conditions such as gingivitis, abscesses, or tooth fractures.

🦷 Avoiding Systemic Health Issues: Bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.

🦷 Improved Quality of Life: Healthy teeth and gums make it easier for pets to eat, play, and interact without discomfort.

Learn more on our Pet Dental Health Month blog: https://bbvsh.com/blog/february-is-pet-dental-health-month-what-you-need-to-know/