Services

Greenwood Park Animal Hospital offers comprehensive pet care, including consultations, exams, vaccinations, surgery, dental care, diagnostics, and microchipping.

Parasite Detection & Prevention

Parasites pose a significant health risk to pets, and we often recommend year-round prevention. We offer a range of preventatives, including topical treatments and chewable tablets, to protect against ticks, heartworm, roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, and fleas. With parasite seasons shifting due to changing weather, we strongly advise continuous treatment for pets that spend time outdoors.

For more up-to-date information please visit our Flea/Tick Season Page!

Vaccinations

Vaccines are a crucial part of veterinary care and essential to your pet's overall health. We create customised vaccination plans, ensuring all legally required vaccines are given while also evaluating your pet's needs and lifestyle to recommend any additional vaccinations. Annual boosters are no longer required for all vaccines, so we will work with you to determine the best schedule for your pet.

Spaying/Neutering Services

Spaying or neutering pets prevents unwanted pregnancies and offers numerous health benefits. In females, spaying eliminates the risk of serious uterine infections and reduces the likelihood of mammary cancer. In males, neutering decreases the risk of testicular and prostate cancer and minimises the chances of injury from fighting or roaming. The ideal age for the procedure varies by species and breed but is generally around six months to a year.

Major Surgeries

At Greenwood Park Animal Hospital, we offer both elective and major surgeries for our patients. Our team of veterinarians and technicians is skilled and experienced, with a deep compassion for animals that drives us to provide exceptional care. We ensure that your pet remains as comfortable as possible before, during, and after their procedures. We are committed to answering all your questions and discussing your pet’s specific needs in detail. Your pet's well-being is our top priority.

Nutritional Counselling

During our annual physical examinations, we conduct a thorough body condition evaluation and provide you with detailed findings. Based on our assessment, we offer tailored nutritional recommendations to meet your pet's specific needs. Whether you're considering an over-the-counter or prescription diet, we’re here to help you make the best decisions for your pet’s health and well-being.

Behavioural Counselling

Behavioural issues in pets are often linked to underlying health problems, so it’s essential for pets experiencing these issues to be evaluated by a veterinarian first. Once health concerns are addressed, we can work with you to develop a detailed plan for behavioural modification and training. If needed, we can also refer you to a behavioural specialist for more targeted support.

We can assist with issues such as:

Inappropriate urination or defecation
Aggression
General or separation anxiety
Excessive chewing or barking
Conflict between household pets

Our aim is to address both health and behavioural concerns to enhance your pet's overall well-being and harmony in your home.

Anesthesia & Pain Management

At Greenwood Park Animal Hospital, we provide advanced anesthesia services and comprehensive surgical monitoring to ensure the highest level of safety for your pet. Before any procedure, each surgical patient undergoes a thorough physical examination and blood screening. This helps us assess potential risks and tailor anesthesia to each individual based on their health status and the type of surgery. During surgery, your pet will be closely monitored using both automated equipment and a specially trained veterinary technician.

We monitor:

Oxygen and carbon dioxide levels
Blood pressure
Heart rate and ECG
Respiratory rate
Body temperature

Additionally, each surgical patient receives an IV catheter to enhance safety, maintain hydration and blood pressure, and facilitate the swift administration of medications if needed.

We believe that comfort leads to faster healing. To ensure this, we implement an active pain management protocol for all medical and surgical patients. This includes administering pain medications before, during, and after procedures, and utilizing local anesthetics to reduce pain and minimize the need for other anesthetics. Our commitment to balanced, multi-modal anesthesia is a cornerstone of our care approach.

Dental Care

More than 85% of dogs and cats over four years old suffer from periodontal disease, a condition where bacteria attack the soft tissues in the mouth. Despite regular brushing, plaque and tartar can accumulate below the gum line, leading to gum inflammation, discomfort, and bad breath. This condition can also contribute to serious health issues, including heart, kidney, liver, and lung diseases. Additionally, periodontal disease can weaken the immune system, leading to joint problems and slow wound healing.

To help prevent these complications, we recommend a Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT) as part of your pet’s annual physical examination. This thorough evaluation and treatment plan is essential for maintaining your pet’s overall health and well-being.

Common Signs of Dental Disease Include:

Yellow or brown buildup (tartar) on the teeth
Bad breath
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Excessive drooling
Loose teeth
Pawing at the face
Changes in eating or chewing habits

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your pet evaluated by a veterinarian to address potential dental issues promptly.

At-Home Dental Care

We strongly recommend brushing your pet's teeth, though we understand it can be challenging if your pet wasn't accustomed to it from a young age. Thankfully, there are many high-quality at-home dental care products that are both safe and effective. Our team is here to help: we can teach you about at-home oral care, demonstrate proper brushing techniques, and recommend the best dental products to keep your pet's mouth healthy and clean.

We use products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). The VOHC's mission is to evaluate and approve products that meet their standards for effective plaque and tartar control in animals when used as directed. The VOHC reviews submitted data to ensure it meets clinical requirements before awarding the Seal of Acceptance. This seal indicates that the product is effective in controlling plaque, calculus, or both. Please note that the VOHC does not conduct testing but reviews data provided by manufacturers.

For more information, visit the VOHC website: https://vohc.org/

Digital Radiology

Digital radiology (x-rays) allows us to visualize the inside of your pet’s body, including the lungs, heart, bones, oral cavity, and abdominal cavity. This technology helps us detect fractures, growths, obstructions, foreign bodies, and other issues. With digital x-ray systems, images appear on a computer screen almost instantly, facilitating rapid diagnosis and immediate discussion with you. Digital radiology is increasingly preferred in veterinary practice due to its high accuracy, detail, and the ability to quickly share images with specialists, including Board Certified Radiologists, for expert consultation.

Laboratory Analysis

Our in-house laboratory is equipped to perform a wide range of diagnostic tests, including blood glucose and chemistry profiles, urine analysis, and ear cytology. We utilize advanced instruments to provide fast and accurate results. For more comprehensive diagnostics, we partner with IDEXX, North America's largest laboratory, based in Toronto, to access a wide array of state-of-the-art testing services.

Oral and Otic Video Endoscopy

Endoscopy involves using a long, thin tube with a camera to examine deeper tissues. The camera transmits images to a screen for our veterinarians to analyze. This minimally invasive technique is particularly useful for visual examinations of the oral cavity in herbivores like rabbits, guinea pigs, and smaller mammals. It enables us to perform internal assessments with minimal discomfort and quicker recovery times, especially useful before oral or dental surgeries.

Senior Pet Care

As pets age more rapidly than humans—approximately two years for every six months of human life—regular veterinary check-ups become increasingly important. Senior pets often face a weakened immune system, a higher susceptibility to illness, and common age-related issues such as arthritis and other physical changes. We recommend biannual visits for senior pets to detect and address health problems early, ensuring timely and effective treatment.

It is crucial for us to be aware of any changes in your senior pet's behaviour, as these changes can indicate underlying health issues. Our team will perform thorough physical exams, assess changes in weight, and conduct routine diagnostic tests to identify and address potential health concerns. By catching and treating issues early, we can help make your pet's golden years as comfortable and joyful as possible for both of you.

Let us help you provide the best care for your senior pet and ensure their well-being during their later years.

Microchipping

Microchipping is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and security of your new pet. A microchip, registered to you, greatly increases the chances of a happy reunion if your pet ever becomes lost. Losing a pet can be heart-wrenching, and we strongly recommend microchipping to help prevent such a tragedy from occurring. This simple procedure provides peace of mind and a reliable way to track and recover your pet if they go missing.

Prescription Diets

Prescription diets are an effective alternative for delivering medication and managing specific health conditions in pets. We offer high-quality brands such as Royal Canin, Hill’s Prescription Diets, Purina, and Rayne, each designed to address a range of healthcare needs, including allergies. Unlike many retail pet foods that may be produced on shared equipment, leading to potential allergen exposure, the prescription diets we recommend provide proven ingredient sources and rigorous quality control. Trust these reputable brands to ensure your pet’s health, safety, and vitality.

Pharmacy

Our in-house pharmacy offers a convenient and efficient way to access your pet’s medications, all priced competitively to provide the best value. Having an on-site pharmacy allows us to start treatments immediately and maintain up-to-date treatment records for your pet. Our pharmacy services are exclusively for our clients and patients. If you need a medication refill, please contact us with your request. Kindly note that we require approximately 48 business hours to process refill requests.

Leaving Your Pet While You Travel

If your pet requires medical attention while you are away and they are being cared for by a sitter or kennel, it can create challenges for both the caretaker and our team at Greenwood Park Animal Hospital.

To avoid complications, please:

Provide Contact Information: Leave your sitter with a primary contact number where you can be reached and an alternate number for someone you trust who can assist in making decisions for your pet.
Communicate Your Wishes: Send us an email detailing your preferences for your pet’s care in case of hospitalisation or further medical treatment. Indicate the level of decision-making authority granted to your sitter or trusted person so we can proceed with necessary care while attempting to reach you.
Discuss Financial Arrangements: Inform your sitter about potential costs associated with hospitalisation, medications, and diagnostics, as some sitters may hesitate to make financial commitments if you are unreachable.

Additional Tips:

Check Kennel Procedures: Confirm with the kennel how they handle sick pets and their procedures for medical emergencies.
Bring Your Own Food: If your pet has a sensitive stomach, consider supplying their regular food when staying at a boarding facility.
Prepare for Extended Stays: Ensure the sitter or kennel has enough food and supplies in case your trip is unexpectedly extended.
Pet-Proof Your Home: Secure cleaning products and remove items like shoes, laces, rawhides, and bones to prevent potential hazards.
Discuss Expectations: Have a detailed conversation with your pet sitter about any rules or special needs while you are away.

Travelling with Your Pet

Travelling with pets, especially internationally, requires careful planning. Here’s how to prepare:

International Health Certificate: If travelling to another country, you’ll likely need an International Health Certificate. Check with the destination country’s consulate or embassy for specific requirements. The Government of Canada offers helpful information on this topic.
Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Guidelines: The CFIA regulates the safe and humane treatment of pets travelling by air. Ensure you complete all required forms and tests, which may need to be signed by an accredited veterinarian. We can assist with this paperwork, but thorough preparation is crucial.
Travel Carrier: Use a kennel that meets your airline’s standards for size, strength, sanitation, and ventilation.

Additional Tips:

Crate Acclimatization: Familiarize your pet with the travel crate well in advance. Place their bedding inside to make the crate more comfortable.
Puppy Pee Pads: Consider placing a puppy pee pad under the bedding to manage any accidents.
Comfort Items: Include a blanket and a safe toy to help alleviate boredom and stress during travel.
Water Bottle: For long journeys, use a hamster-cage type water bottle that clips inside the crate, ensuring it’s secure and does not interfere with your pet’s movement.
Feeding and Potty Breaks: Feed and water your pet about an hour before placing them in the crate. Provide a walk and potty break immediately before and after the trip.
Zip Ties: Secure the crate door with zip ties and ensure the water bottle stays attached.
Carry-On Essentials: Pack pet food, collapsible bowls, water from their usual source, a leash, treats, and poop bags. Keep a cutter or knife for zip ties in your checked baggage.
Medication: Only use medications that have been tested on your pet well in advance of travel.

Please contact us to discuss your pet’s specific travel needs and ensure a smooth and safe journey for your furry friend.

End-of-Life Services

At Greenwood Park Animal Hospital, we strive to make the end-of-life experience as peaceful and compassionate as possible for both you and your pet. We offer euthanasia services in our clinic, allowing your beloved pet to pass quietly and comfortably, surrounded by loved ones. We understand that saying goodbye is a deeply emotional experience, and we consider it a privilege to support you through this challenging time with kindness and empathy.

To help you honour your pet’s memory, we offer a range of options, including:

Private Cremation: Ensures that your pet’s remains are individually cremated, and you receive the ashes for keepsake or memorial purposes.
Communal Cremation: Your pet is cremated alongside others, and the ashes are scattered or handled in a communal manner.
At-Home Burial: If preferred, you may choose to arrange a burial in your own yard or a designated pet cemetery.
Ashes Dispersal: We can assist with the instructions on the dispersal of ashes in a location of your choosing, as a final tribute.

Please let us know how we can best support you during this time.