VCA Canada Central Victoria Veterinary Hospital

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. ❤️🐾

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! ❤️

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).

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! 🐑🐐🐔

10/24/2024

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! 🐾

10/16/2024

🌍 Mars Ambassador Trip Update 🌍

Our associate Molly is checking in from her first day in !

There was an orientation with the Ghana Poultry Network (GAPNET), our partner organization for this placement, followed by a visit to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the Veterinary Services Directorate.

During the visit, they had the privilege of meeting with the Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Emmanuel Allegye Cudjoe, and the Registrar of the Veterinary Council of Ghana, Dr. Kigsley Mickey Aryee. The team also toured the Veterinary Laboratory, gaining valuable insights into local veterinary practices.

Check out a few photos from the day: 1️⃣ Meeting with Dr. Akunzule (Director of GAPNET), Dr. Emmanuel Allegye Cudjoe (CVO of Ghana), Dr. Katie McCullough (Mars Ambassador), and GAPNET volunteer Diana Asaname. 2️⃣ A glimpse of the Veterinary Laboratory. 3️⃣ Connecting with Dr. Akunzule and Diana at the GAPNET office.

Stay tuned for more updates as the journey continues!

10/11/2024

🎉🐾 : Celebrating Our Amazing RVTs! 🐾🎉

Did you know that and Technicians (RVTs) wear many hats in the world? 🐶✨ Let’s dive into some pawsitively fascinating roles they take on every day!

🔍 Triage Masters: RVTs are the first responders of our clinic! They obtain your pet’s history and check their vital signs, ensuring they’re healthy and ready for their visit.

💉 Anesthesia Experts: From placing IV catheters to monitoring vital signs during surgery, RVTs ensure our furry friends are safe and comfy while they snooze through procedures.

🛠️ Surgical Sidekicks: Whether it’s a spay or orthopedic surgery, RVTs are right there assisting veterinarians to make sure everything goes smoothly.

💊 Medication Maestros: Once the veterinarian prescribes medication, RVTs are the ones who dispense it and guide pet owners on what to expect—side effects included!

📚 Knowledge Nuggets: Passionate about animals, RVTs love to share their expertise, advocating for both pet welfare and owner success!

🧪 Lab Legends: From blood draws to analyzing samples, RVTs work behind the scenes to provide vital diagnostic information to your vet.

📸 Imaging Innovators: RVTs ensure that the diagnostic images taken are crystal clear, helping veterinarians make the best decisions for your pet's health.

📖 Lifelong Learners: To stay on top of the latest in veterinary science, RVTs commit to ongoing education—because there’s always something new to learn!

🧠 Quick Thinkers: In emergencies, RVTs are the cool-headed problem solvers, making swift decisions to help pets in need.

🤝 Team Players: Finally, RVTs are an essential part of the veterinary healthcare team, working collaboratively to provide the best care possible.

This month, let’s give a shoutout to our incredible RVTs who are dedicated to keeping your (slightly hairier) family members healthy and happy! 🥳❤️

10/08/2024

We are thrilled to announce that one of our amazing associates, Molly, has been selected for the prestigious Mars, Incorporated Ambassador Program! 🎉

She's headed off to to train Community Animal Health Workers, focusing on disease recognition and antibiotic use in sheep, goats, and poultry. This incredible opportunity aims to enhance food security in rural communities, and we couldn’t be more proud of her commitment to making a difference! 🙌

With her extensive background in large animals and her volunteer experience with Maasai tribes in Eastern Africa, she knew she was a perfect fit for the Animal Health Advisor role alongside Ghana Poultry Network (GAPNET) and Veterinarians without Borders.🐄

Molly is eager to learn about the unique challenges small-scale farmers face and how she can empower communities to improve animal health and food production. Plus, she can’t wait to soak in the rich culture of Ghana and explore its beautiful sights during her downtime!

As we say goodbye to Molly, let’s show her some love and support! ❤️ Keep an eye on her journey and the amazing work she’ll be doing through our socials.

You can also follow and for updates on their impactful initiatives.

Wishing you all the best, Molly! Go make a difference!

10/04/2024

If you’ve ever had a sick or injured pet, you probably have a very personal connection to the value that Registered Veterinary Technologists provide. You may be surprised, however, to learn that RVTs are vitally important to many other aspects of your life, whether you have pets or not. Here are just a few examples:

💙 RVTs specializing in herd health work towards a safe food supply for us by ensuring animal wellness, particularly for meat, dairy, and egg products.

💙 Medical research and testing for some of the worst human diseases begins with laboratory animals, and RVTs in this field ensure that animals receive excellent care.

💙 RVTs often volunteer their time to participate in spay/neuter clinics, thereby decreasing feral animal populations and the associated risks to the public.

💙 In the wildlife sector, RVTs work with animals to mitigate the spread of Rabies, Avian Influenza, Lyme Disease, and many other illnesses that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

💙 In addition to these direct benefits to people, RVTs provide comfort and care to animals of all kinds which we believe has deep value and importance on its own.

October is RVT month, and we take this opportunity to celebrate all Registered Veterinary Technologists working across British Columbia for their skill, knowledge, passion, and high standards of professional competence.

To learn more about our vitally important profession, visit bcvta.com/vitally-important.

And next time you’re at your vet clinic, consider telling the RVTs how much you appreciate them! 🙂

10/03/2024

✅ SKILLS CHECK!✅
Hands-free

Check out Amanda, extraordinaire at Central Island Veterinary Emergency Hospital, learning some hands free tips and tricks!

There is such a positive impact these techniques have on both staff AND patients because you’re lowering the exposure to harmful radiation while incorporating fear free techniques with the benefit of less stressed patients!

Kudos for being leaders in the industry and promoting change within your hospital! 🙌

10/01/2024

Happy RVT Month to our amazing group of RVTs! 🎉🥳🦄

RVTs wear many hats and we’re very proud of the many talented people we have on our team!

10/01/2024

🎉 WE'VE GOT OUR EYES ON RVTS THIS MONTH🎉

October is here, and that means it's time to celebrate and honour the incredible work of - a vital role in the world.

From being triage nurses who record your pet’s history and perform vital checks, to anesthesiologists who expertly manage anesthesia and monitor vital signs during surgery, play a crucial role in your pet's care.

They ensure that our furry, feathered, and scaled companions are happy and healthy, contributing greatly to the wellbeing of our communities.
🐶🐱🦜🐢

They also help safeguard the health and safety of animals (and all Canadians) through their expertise in biosecurity and infectious disease control! Talk about cool!

Stay tuned to our socials all to see our wonderful RVT's and all the work they do here at and !

Happy !

09/30/2024

Today, as we observe , we reflect on the importance of healing, understanding, and unity in our nation. This day reminds us of the ongoing journey toward reconciliation with indigenous communities. It's a day to acknowledge the past, learn from it, and work together to create a better future.

actively supports reconciliation through our Paw It Forward events, which this past year included one in , and two others held at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society, where our Associates offered free rabies vaccinations, pet food, and essential wellness care with the goal of building trust and collaboration with the local Indigenous communities.

Our Associates are also encouraged to volunteer at external events, which included a in Siksika Nation in partnership with the Canadian Animal Task Force in May.

This past summer, VCA Canada was also proud to be the sole sponsor at the first-ever at Atlantic Veterinary College - AVC. The camp presented 40 in the area with an immersive weeklong experience that hopefully ignited a passion for .

While VCA Canada has been actively engaged in the Indigenous communities where our Associates live and work, we are also working internally to educate ourselves by commemorating the truth of the history of , , and knowledge keepers is an important part of the path of reconciliation.

VCA Canada hopes to continue working in indigenous communities nationwide for many years to come and will continue building understanding and trust between our Associates, these communities, and their beloved pets.
🧡

09/27/2024

Meet Rory Langelier.

Not only is she a first-year veterinary student at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, she also just happens to be following in the footsteps of her grandfather Dr. Ken Langelier - DVM class of ’81! Talk about a !

Rory’s journey began at just 12 years old when she started volunteering with a wildlife rehabilitation center, and she has continued to cultivate her passion for animals through hands-on experiences.

With her grandfather's guidance and support, Rory is no-doubt poised to make a significant impact in the veterinary field! We can't wait to watch Rory's white coat journey unfold.

09/26/2024

🐕🫶It's so let's raise the woof and celebrate our furry friends!🫶🐕

First celebrated in 1928, National Dog Week was created to honor our loyal companions and improve their lives. It's a week to educate on proper care, advocate for shelter dogs, and promote better living conditions for all pups—whether they’re snuggled up at home or waiting for their forever family in a shelter. 🏡❤️

So spend extra time with your dog this week, volunteer at a local shelter, or consider adopting a new best friend!

Together, we can unleash the love for life's greatest companions and make a difference in the lives of dogs everywhere.

09/26/2024

We are so excited to officially announce that Dr. Jo Anne Au Yong has joined our team and will be booking surgical procedures starting next week!

Dr. Au Yong completes our surgical care team with Dr. Seguin, as we will now be able to offer general/soft tissue, oncology and orthopedic surgery services to our patients.

As with all of our specialty services, a referral through a regular veterinarian or emergency service is required. 🐾🐶🐱