General and Preventive Medicine

Winter Tips & Advice

Posted on by Laurie Coronel

Some dogs will have a harder time tolerating the cold. The same is true for cats. Don't forget that major temperature changes are less well tolerated by younger and older dogs. To help them get through the cold season, there are a few precautions to take. Naturally, dogs with thicker coats will be less cold than short-haired dogs. However, it is important to remember that snow can freeze under the dog's paws or belly. If your dog has just been groomed, he must be protected from the cold for about ten days, because the wash has removed his natural protection. To help them enjoy their outings more, you can get them a jacket and boots. There is a wide selection of warm and waterproof coats that protect the chest and belly. The best thing to do is to bring your dog along for a shopping spree!

Did you know that de-icing salt can cause irritation between your dog's toes and paw pads?  To avoid injuries, you can apply a balm like Dermoscent Bio Balm or Pawguard. After a walk, it is recommended to rinse his paws well and dry them. This will prevent him from licking himself and aggravating the lesions. Additionally, for dogs with thick coats, remember to dry them well to avoid skin issues.

Note that it is possible to choose a salt- and chloride free de-icing product such as Windsor® Safe-T-PetTM. When using a de-icing salt, make sure your pet does not ingest it. This product could lead to poisoning.

If you practice winter sports, you should be aware of the sun's reflection on the snow. Over time, this can cause eye damage for your dog. Ideally, your dog should wear a pair of dog glasses. If your dog has never practiced winter sports with you, get him accustomed gradually.

If you let your cat go outside, it is imperative that he has a thick undercoat to protect him from the cold. Cats that don't go outside will shed less. Therefore, if you want to let your cat explore the outdoors during the winter, you'll have to get him used to it gradually and under supervision.

You should provide access for him to get warm. Using a cat flap might be a good option. Did you know that there are magnetic cat flaps on the market? Only your cat can use it. If a little door is new to him, don't force him. Use his favourite treat to make the experience enjoyable. Another option is to prepare a small shelter with a cushion or pillow, and place it where the snow can't get in. When he comes home, pay special attention to his paws and belly. Just like a dog, dry him off well!

Remember that your kitty's energy requirements will be greater. Leave a ration of kibble at their disposal. This way, he can come and have a little snack even if you are not present.

Happy winter, everyone!

Clinique Vétérinaire Saint-Sacrement

Your pet is a member of your family and ours; it is a best friend, and even a confidant!

That's why our dedicated team of veterinarians, technicians and support team is always there, ready to care for your pet and give you the most appropriate advice to ensure its well-being and health.

Clinique Vétérinaire Cimon • Vanier

Your pet is a member of your family and ours; it is a best friend, and even a confidant!

That's why our dedicated team of veterinarians, technicians and support team is always there, ready to care for your pet and give you the most appropriate advice to ensure its well-being and health.

Clinique Vétérinaire Cimon • Loretteville

Your pet is a member of your family and ours; it is a best friend, and even a confidant!

That's why our dedicated team of veterinarians, technicians and support team is always there, ready to care for your pet and give you the most appropriate advice to ensure its well-being and health.

Hôpital Vétérinaire des Laurentides

Your pet is a member of your family and ours; it is a best friend, and even a confidant!

That's why our dedicated team of veterinarians, technicians and support team is always there, ready to care for your pet and give you the most appropriate advice to ensure its well-being and health.

September is Animal Pain Awareness Month

Posted on by Laurie Coronel

Because our pets are such integral parts of our families, it is important to recognize some signs of pain that they may be experiencing.

In certain cases, the animal’s quality of life can be affected in a gradual and insidious way, such as with dental issues or arthritis in older animals.

It’s not always easy to identify the signs of animal pain. Some animals, like cats, show little to no signs of pain. Animals are incredibly adaptable and can easily hide their symptoms.

 

Here are some clues that your companion could present if they are in pain:

  • Decreasing activity levels;
  • Apathy following some physical effort;
  • Hesitation to jump on a surface (cat), or to go up or down stairs;
  • Difficulty getting up or settling down;
  • Decrease or cessation of grooming;
  • Excessive licking or chewing of a part of his body;
  • Decreased to no appetite;
  • Behavioural changes (less tolerant of handling, hiding, routine changes, irritability);
  • Increased sleep periods;
  • Visible nictitating (3rd eyelid);
  • Difficulty finding a comfortable position or frequent changes in position;
  • Increased vocalizations.

In small mammals, a slowing down or stopping of the digestive transit can also be observed. In birds, a swollen plumage and lowered wings may be noticed. For cats, the positioning of their eyes, head, whiskers and ears is a useful way to determine their condition. Their facial expression can tell us a lot! In dogs, their posture can tell us more: they will have a round back, low ears and low tail.

Keep in mind that some medications may not be appropriate for your pet’s problem and may actually make it worse. In addition, several human medications are toxic to our pets. Therefore, before starting any treatment, check with our team!

 

 

Kennel Cough

Posted on by Laurie Coronel

What is kennel cough?

Kennel cough in dogs is very similar to the common cold in humans; it’s an infection of the upper respiratory tract. The main symptom is a dry, hacking cough that produces phlegm. This disease is highly contagious between dogs.

What does kennel cough sound like? It is very similar to the sound your dog makes when he is coughing and about to throw up. The cough is also very common and can be almost constant in severe cases. Your dog may also have extra secretions in the nose or eyes, or sneeze more often. Most dogs live quite well with kennel cough and would maintain their usual activities and appetite throughout their recovery.

Kennel cough can be caused by several types of viruses and bacteria. The most common cause is the Bordetella bronchiseptica strain of bacteria. However, kennel cough can be caused by other microorganisms, and your dog is more likely to be infected by the bacteria when his immune system is weakened by an existing viral infection.

Kennel cough has an incubation period of 2 to 14 days, during which time the dog will not show any obvious symptoms but will still be contagious and can spread it to other dogs. Once symptoms begin, kennel cough usually lasts 2 to 3 weeks, although some dogs with medical conditions or older dogs may take up to 6 weeks to recover. There are rare cases where kennel cough can develop into pneumonia, which can be very serious.

 

How did my dog catch kennel cough?  

Dogs can catch kennel cough anytime they are exposed to viruses or bacteria. However, because of its highly contagious nature, it is especially prevalent in kennels, which is why it is commonly called kennel cough.

Kennel cough is airborne, just like the human cold. When an infected dog coughs, droplets containing the bacteria or virus are dispersed into the air and spread to other animals nearby. The disease can also be spread by sharing toys, bowls or other objects with an infected dog. This is one of the reasons why it is so important to keep your dog quarantined if you think that he’s showing signs of kennel cough.

 

What should I do if my dog has kennel cough symptoms?

In most cases, kennel cough gets better with time, just like the common cold! No specific treatment is needed. You can take steps to make your dog more comfortable, such as removing his collar and using a humidifier to relieve the cough. The cough is usually more of an annoyance to the family than the dog itself.

Her are a few guidelines:

  • If your dog is in good overall condition and eating well, treatments are often not necessary. Before taking your dog to your veterinarian, assess the severity of his symptoms and contact the clinic if required. Your veterinarian will decide if your dog needs to be examined or not.
  • If your dog shows signs of breathing difficulties, is not eating normally, is elderly or immunosuppressed, a visit to the veterinarian may be necessary. Chest X-rays are often recommended, and an antibiotic may be prescribed.
  • Your dog should be considered contagious for 2 weeks after the end of symptoms. He should not go to dog parks or dog daycare centres during that time.

 

Preventing kennel cough

Make sure your dog is up to date on all vaccinations. If your dog is not properly vaccinated or if you are unsure, contact your veterinarian today.

 

Vaccine prevention remains your best choice!  

 

 

 

Parasite Prevention

Posted on by Laurie Coronel

Your pet is at risk of being infected with various parasites such as ticks, heartworms, intestinal worms, fleas, lice and mites. Our veterinarians will be able to establish a safe and effective parasite prevention protocol adapted to your animal’s needs.

What is heartworm?

Unfortunately, heartworms are as disgusting as their name suggests – long worms that live in your dog's heart! The disease caused by heartworm, called dirofilariasis, can be fatal. Fortunately, it is easy to prevent.

How do animals become infected with heartworm?

Mosquitoes transmit the parasite by injecting heartworm larvae into the animal's skin. The larvae develop in the tissues and migrate to the heart, where they reach the adult stage. The adults live in the heart and the large blood vessels around the heart. They reproduce and release larvae into the bloodstream. These larvae are then ingested by a mosquito and transmitted to another animal.

What are the signs of heartworm infection?

Due to the stress exerted on the heart by adult worms, infected animals often show clinical signs of heart disease or heart failure, such as:

  • Lethargy
  • Intolerance to exercise
  • Cough
  • Loss of appetite
  • Abdominal volume segmentation

How do veterinarians diagnose heartworm infection?

  • Blood test to check for adult heartworms or larvae
  • Cardiac X-ray or ultrasound

Can heartworm infection be treated?

Heartworm infection can be treated, but this treatment carries risks and its outcome is not guaranteed. Your dog will need to receive a series of arsenic injections and possibly even undergo surgery to remove the adult worms present in his heart. As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure.

When should I start administering preventive treatment to my animal?

Start preventive treatment against heartworm in the first months of life. There is a wide range of products available in the form of tablets, chewable cubes and solutions to apply to the skin. Your veterinarian will recommend the best product for your pet.