VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists

10/16/2025

Scooting can be a way that dogs communicate to us that they need some extra care! Regular 💩 testing helps you and your veterinarian know what's going on inside our 4-legged friends. Find your local VCA at the link in bio!

10/16/2025

Today’s Veterinary Nurse interviewed Dolores Stantorf, LVT, from VCA Eagle River Animal Hospital, to celebrate 50 years in veterinary medicine. She shares insights on changes in the field and memorable experiences from her career. We’re proud to celebrate her during National Veterinary Technician Week. Read the full article: https://todaysveterinarynurse.com/personal-professional-development/a-beautiful-ride-dolores-stantorf-lvt-reflects-on-the-past-5-decades-from-sunny-california-to-snowy-alaska/

10/15/2025

At VCA, there are endless pathways for veterinary technicians to power up their careers; whether that means more advanced training or more flexibility - you can find it here. Hear advice from Maria, Brittany and Amanda, and their career journeys.

10/14/2025

It's the month of 🍬 TREATS 🍬 ... and we've got some low calorie options for our pets!

10/14/2025

This week, we’re proud to recognize the incredible veterinary technicians who are essential members of our care teams across Banfield, BluePearl and VCA. From preventive care to specialty and emergency support, our vet techs play an important role in every step of a pet’s journey.

Follow along at Banfield Pet Hospital, BluePearl Pet Hospital and VCA Animal Hospitals as we highlight their stories and celebrate their impact.

10/14/2025

HAPPY VET TECH WEEK TO ALL OUR AMAZING TECHNICIANS!!! YOUR DEDICATION TO PATIENT CARE TRULY SHINES. THANK YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU DO FOR OUR PATIENTS EVERY DAY!!

10/13/2025

This , we’re celebrating the passion and perseverance of veterinary technicians who go above and beyond—like Danielle, a VCA technician pursuing her Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) designation.

In our latest blog, Danielle shares what it’s really like to study for a VTS: the long hours, the learning curve, and the incredible sense of purpose that comes with advancing your skills. At VCA, we’re Powering Up Our Technicians—supporting career growth and specialty training every step of the way. Read Danielle’s story: https://www.vcacareers.com/global/en/blogarticle/what-it%E2%80%99s-like-to-study-for-a-veterinary-technician-specialist-designation

10/10/2025

And we love them right back!

10/09/2025

We are grateful to work with Lionbridge year-round to uplift access to care for all through language translation support!

10/08/2025

We love a sploot... but why does your pet do it? Learn why now!

10/07/2025

Because pets have skin care needs too 💁‍♀️

10/06/2025

Veterinary students - welcome to your VCA era: unlock up to $60k in student loan contributions over 3 years—on top of a full-time job offer with incredible benefits after graduation. Take your career to new heights and build experience with VCA while significantly reducing the burden of your student loan debt.

Learn more about VCA Bright Futures from Karli Morrill, DVM at https://www.vcacareers.com/global/en/blogarticle/vca-bright-futures-repays-veterinarians%E2%80%99-student-loan-debt

10/01/2025

10/01/2025

Love Is Blind season 8 meets Dog Day Out... and we're ready to say, "I do!"

Thanks to VCA Charities' amazing partners at Minneapolis Animal Care & Control, in collaboration with their Dog Day Out initiative, we are grateful for the success of the Fido Field Trip Program! Back in the Spring, the shelter dogs got their own “Love is Blind” adventure when the fabulous ladies of Season 8 joined the fun, taking some shelter pups out for unforgettable field trips filled with smiles.

Did you know that research shows that dogs who experience a single day outside the shelter are 10x more likely to be adopted?! These outings give shelter dogs a break from the kennel, which reduces stress while increasing community volunteerism.

Want to learn more about our Dog Day Out program or take a dog on a field trip with a local shelter? Visit !

09/08/2025

We will be supporting Oregon Dog Rescue at this fun event. Stop by and say hi!

08/11/2025

NWVS is currently offering 25% off Specialty Consult Exams! We are here for you if your pet needs to see a specialist.

06/26/2025

Kick off summer with peace of mind. Claim your coupon today and be prepared in case of an emergency: https://bit.ly/4n8qCNX

06/25/2025

SURGERY, 7 DAYS A WEEK? YES, REALLY. At VCA NWVS our expert surgical team is available every day, including Sundays, to provide the care your pet needs when they need it.

03/28/2025

It was a bittersweet winter as our VCA NWVS critical care blood bank celebrated the “second” retirements of many longtime beloved donors from our program. While we will miss seeing their gorgeous faces coming through our door, we are eternally grateful for their many years of donations that translated into saving hundreds (yes, hundreds!) of dog’s lives.

After having to say “happy second retirement” to so many, it was wonderful to usher in springtime with a Greyhound First Aid event. The first weekend of March we had a great time seeing new and old faces alike as we snacked on cinnamon rolls and discussed how to prevent and treat common injuries and illnesses in these elegant creatures.

The Portland Community is so very thankful for the wonderful, generous group of Greyts and their Families!

03/25/2025

The President’s Award is given to an individual or group who has made an exceptional contribution to the OVMA and the field of veterinary medicine.

Dr. Heidi Houchen, a member of the ER/CC department at VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists, serves as Extern Director and has led the VCA NWVS Critical Care Blood Bank for the past 18 years.

As OVMA President during 2020–2021, she was a vocal advocate for the profession, representing veterinarians in both media and government during the challenging early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

She also launched a statewide emergency care training program for EMS personnel and K9 handlers, enhancing collaboration between veterinary professionals and first responders.

Dr. Houchen continues to serve the profession as a Regional Director on the OVMA Board of Directors.