Our Services
We take a great deal of pride in ensuring that we are there for our patients, no matter how minor or complicated the concern may be.
We are fully staffed Monday to Friday throughout the year and provide a wide array of veterinary services. Our commitment is to provide your pet with the highest level of veterinary care and to be by your side in their time of need.
Comprehensive Physical Exams
As with your own health, the key to maintaining your pet’s health lies in preventive medicine. The most basic – and perhaps most important – of aspect is regular physical exams to identify risk factors and early signs of illness. During routine examinations, an immunization program appropriate to your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors will be implemented. Other important health factors such as nutrition, oral health, and behaviour will be assessed. If the veterinary team has any concerns with your pet’s health, a plan will be formulated to ensure your pet can receive the care and treatment they need.
Dental Care
Dental care is a little recognized, yet necessary part of caring for your pet. By the age of three, 80% of all dogs and 70% of all cats show signs of periodental disease. This condition is preventable and treatable through at home oral care and periodontics procedures.
As plaque and tartar form on teeth and under gums, bacteria collect and multiply. This causes foul mouth odor and gum disease such as gingivitis will develop. Over time, dental disease can lead to other serious health problems, such as heart and kidney disease.
An annual dental prophylaxis (ultrasonic cleaning, polishing, and fluoride treatment) included in your pet’s regular healthcare program will help maintain good oral hygiene and prevent complications from dental disease. For the comfort and safety of your pet, this procedure requires anaesthesia to properly clean and evaluate all areas of your pets mouth, including under the gumline.
Parasite Control
One area of pet health that is frequently neglected is parasite control. Many common parasites go unseen by pet owners or are considered a minor or inconsequential problem. However, the impact that parasites have on an animal’s and even our own health can be considerable.
Internal and external parasites can affect both animals and humans, this makes it doubly important to keep your pet parasite free. Some parasites can be avoided by diligent routine prevention programs.
Fecal parasite tests can detect if your pet currently harbours intestinal parasites. If organisms or their eggs are detected upon this microscopic examination, appropriate medications can be dispensed to treat the infection.
Fleas and ticks are a common problem in the Vancouver area. Through routine screening and the use of safe, effective preventive products, parasites can be kept at bay!
Puppy and Kitten Care
The best all-around source of information for pets and their care is your veterinarian. Consult your veterinarian about the proper diet for your new pet. Get off to the right start. Make your veterinarian a member of your pet care team. We realize that new dog and cat owners have many concerns and we would love to help you get to know your new friend’s needs best.
Additional important information on puppy care and kitten care is available on our website.
Senior Care
As your pet ages, nutritional needs and physical abilities change. Subtle, sometimes undetected, changes begin to occur. Your aging pet may become more susceptible to kidney disease, heart problems, hormonal imbalances such as thyroid conditions, or diabetes, and even cancer. Dental disease may occur and predispose your pet to a host of other problems. Arthritic conditions cause pain and immobility and change the way your pet is able to interact in the family. Behavioural changes and unexpected bad habits such as house soiling can suddenly make your beloved friend a difficult housemate. Adult pets are examined at least once every twelve months. As one pet year is equal to about seven human years we like to check older pets more frequently; at least once every six months. Early detection and treatment of illnesses can often add years to your pet’s life. Current screening tests frequently detect disease before symptoms are even apparent. Ask your veterinarian what screening tests are appropriate for your pet.
Surgery
We are equipped with the latest in anaesthetic and monitoring equipment. We also call in veterinarians for specialty surgeries whenever needed.
More Services
Ask us about the above services or any other services offered at Hastings Veterinary Hospital:
- Dentistry
- Digital x-rays
- Eye care
- Rabbit medicine
- General surgery (including spay and neuter)
- Health and travel certificates
- Laboratory diagnostics (including blood and urine testing)
- Orthopaedic surgery
- Pharmacy
- Prescription diets
- Ultrasound
- Vaccinations
