Radiographs are the technical name for X-rays. They are used to examine the anatomy of the internal structures of horses, either for diagnosis of a disease or before purchasing a horse to confirm that it is sound.

Mobile X-ray services can be provided for horses needing X- rays.

Full lameness work ups are also provided to our equine clients.

A final act of kindness

Our pets bring joy and enrichment to our lives. The responsibility of a pet owner starts with adoption, vaccines, food, water, proper housing, exercise, love and attention, but often ends in a difficult and emotional end of life decision. We see this as the final act of kindness for our pets in allowing a pain-free, loving, and compassionate environment where they can pass surrounded by people who care for them.

Things to ponder over:

• Would you like your pet’s ashes returned back to you? We offer several cremation options.
• Would you rather prepay for everything, prior to this appointment, over the phone?
• Do you prefer an exam room you do not normally use?
• Would you rather have a house-call for this service? (Distance away and urgency may determine if this option is possible. Additional house call and mileage fees will apply)
• Would you or your children benefit from written materials on grieving and loss?  (We have materials in our hospital, free of charge)

Pet Identification is important

Our mission is to increase the number of pets with identification so that when they are lost or stolen, they may be reunited with their owners.

Permanent

The microchip is permanent which means it will not require replacing, nor will it require a battery and/or maintenance. The microchip is placed underneath the skin between the shoulder blades using a special needle.

Proper Nutrition

There is much debate on which diet is best, which ingredients are acceptable, and what form is syuperior to the other. Raw versus commercial versus home cooked, ‘all natural’ versus grain free versus ‘no by-products’.

• What do these actually mean in regards to pet food?
• Are the claims made by pet food companies able to be substantiated as fact?

Proper adequate nutrition leads to healthier, happier canine and feline companions.

A diet recommendation is not about selling food. Nutritional consultation is about ensuring your pet receives an individualized take on what diet would best suit the conditions and lifestyle of the individual. Whether it is to support an active growing dog, the senior years of a feline friend, weight loss, a skin condition, dental health, gastrointestinal issues, or kidney disease for instance, we can help choose the right diet for your friend.

About

Prevention of Dental Disease

Many dental problems can be prevented by instituting a preventative health program from an early age. At Van Wijk Street Animal Hospital we recommend starting this preventative health program as early as 3-4 months of age for your kitten or puppy. As “babies” we want to gain their acceptance of examining the mouth and teeth. Simply lifting the lips and touching the teeth is all that is required prior to 6 months of age when they have only their deciduous (baby) teeth.

annual examinations

A key component of maintaining good oral health for your cat and dog is a annual physical examination by your veterinarian. This annual examination not only evaluates the status of your furry friends oral health but also all other body components such as ears, eyes, skin, heart, lungs, abdominal  organs as well as many joints. If your pet has significant tartar build up and or gingivitis, your veterinarian will recommend a proper dental cleaning (above and below the gum line) and evaluation of all their teeth while under a general anesthetic. At Van Wijk Street Animal Hospital we try to encourage a dental cleaning before significant periodontal disease occurs which is often a stage where your pet will require tooth extractions to remove sore and/or abscessed teeth.

Clinical signs indicating severe dental/oral disease in cats and dogs may include:

• Bad breath
• Loose teeth or teeth significantly covered in tartar
• Bleeding from the gums or mouth
• Drooling or dropping food from their mouth
• Shying away from you when you touch particular mouth areas
• Loss of appetite or loss of weight

Please note that these signs can be an indication of other serious health problems as well. If you see any one of the above signs in your pet, you should seek the immediate attention of your veterinarian. 

About Endoscopy

We are equipped with a rigid and flexible endoscope which enables us to achieve the precision needed for advanced diagnostic and and surgical procedures and treatments.