Trusted answers for curious pet parents.

Canine parvovirus attacks rapidly reproducing cells in dogs and is most common in puppies between 6 and 20 weeks of age. There are two forms: the intestinal form (the most common — causing diarrhea, vomiting, appetite loss, and weight loss) and the cardiac form, which affects the heart and is usually fatal in very young puppies. Doberman Pinschers and Rottweilers are particularly susceptible.

How it spreads

• Direct or indirect fecal‑oral contact
• The virus is excreted heavily in infected stools
• It can survive in soil for up to one year
• Resistant to weather and most household cleaners
• Bleach is the only common disinfectant that kills it
• Cats can be carriers without contracting the disease

Symptoms to watch for

• Diarrhea — often with blood
• Depression, vomiting, bloodshot eyes
• Coughing, dry mouth, lethargy

Diagnosis & treatment

Diagnosis is made through physical exam, biochemical tests, urine analysis, X‑rays, and ultrasounds. There is no cure — treatment supports symptoms and prevents secondary infection. Hospitalization is often necessary due to severe dehydration. The survival rate is high in adult dogs and slightly lower in puppies.

FIV is the feline equivalent of HIV in humans. It's slow‑progressing, species‑specific (only cats can contract it), and often occurs alongside feline leukemia virus (FeLV). The virus lives in blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and saliva — but rarely transmits through saliva alone. The most common transmission is cat fights or pregnancy. Male cats are nearly twice as likely to acquire FIV because of roaming and fighting behaviour.

Common concurrent illnesses

• Diarrhea
• Eye disease
• Fever
• Neurological problems
• Pneumonia
• Sinus infection
• Skin disease
• Swollen lymph nodes

Diagnosis & treatment

A blood test detects FIV‑specific antibodies, and the Western Blot Test confirms diagnosis. There is no cure, but FIV‑positive cats can live full, normal lives when kept indoors, away from other cats, and monitored to prevent secondary infections. A non‑core vaccine exists but is controversial — vaccinated cats will test positive on standard antibody tests.

Rabies is an often‑fatal viral infection contracted from an infected animal. The most common exposures come from wildlife: bats, coyotes, foxes, and skunks. Transmission occurs through bites, wound contact, or saliva contact with eyes/mouth. Rabies is zoonotic — humans can contract it from pets. Vaccination is required by law, with boosters every 1–3 years.

The three phases

• Prodromal phase: irritability, fever, nervousness, shyness, solitude
• Furious phase (most common in cats): biting, disorientation, light/sound sensitivity, irritability, possible viciousness, restlessness, seizures
• Paralytic phase: facial paralysis, respiratory failure, inability to swallow, increased salivation, laboured breathing

Timeline & response

Symptoms can take up to 8 weeks to appear, and a pet can become contagious up to 10 days before showing symptoms. Rabies cannot be diagnosed in a living animal — it requires brain tissue examination. If exposure is suspected, call your veterinarian immediately, report to local health and animal control, and handle the pet cautiously (the virus lives on skin for several hours). Vaccinated pets receive immediate revaccination and 45 days of monitoring. Unvaccinated pets often require euthanasia.

Professional veterinary dental cleaning is the only way to remove tartar from teeth and below the gumline. With professional cleaning and follow‑up care at home, gingivitis is reversible. Periodontal disease is not reversible — but it can be slowed dramatically with diligent care and regular cleanings. Anesthesia is necessary to allow thorough cleaning and inspection while preventing aspiration of bacteria.

Common dental conditions

• Periodontal disease (infection between teeth and gums)
• Gingivitis (gum inflammation)
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Gingival hyperplasia (gum overgrowth)
• Oral tumors
• Tongue lesions

What causes it

• Daily plaque accumulation hardens into tartar
• Rough tartar attracts more plaque, accelerating the cycle
• Bacteria grow between teeth and from infected gums
• Inherited factors
• Failure of baby teeth to fall out

Common complaints owners notice

• Bad breath, poor appetite
• Dropping food while eating
• Pawing at the mouth
• Loose or missing teeth

Prevention

• Twice‑daily plaque control (brushing or dental chews)
• Regular professional dental exams and cleanings — once a year for large breeds, twice a year for small breeds
• Professional removal of accumulated plaque/calculus, especially on cheek teeth

The cost of prevention is minimal compared to the cost of treatment. Parasites pose serious health consequences if left untreated — and heartworm can be fatal. A pet's susceptibility depends on age, region, and lifestyle. Year‑round prevention is almost always the right answer in BC's climate.

Why prevention matters

• Far cheaper than treatment
• Parasites cause serious health problems for pets and owners (some are zoonotic)
• Untreated infestations lead to anemia, skin disease, organ damage
• Our team can build a custom prevention plan for your pet

In 2023, 4.5 million dog bites were reported across North America — and many more went unreported. Learning to read canine body language is the single best tool to prevent injury, especially for children and visitors.

Warning signs every owner should recognize

• Growling
• Teeth showing
• Raised hackles
• Tense body
• Slow, stiff wagging tail

Note: some dogs that have been punished for growling provide little to no warning before attacking. Always be cautious around unfamiliar dogs.

Recommendations

• Research any breed you're considering — and attend puppy socialization classes
• Obedience training is essential for responsible ownership
• Teach children never to approach a strange dog
• If a dog seems unusual: stand still, eyes downcast, stay quiet
• Children should never run toward an unknown dog
• Always ask the owner's permission before petting a new dog
• Veterinarians are trained to read body language quickly — we can help assess your dog

Pets have sensitive gastrointestinal tracts. Many human foods cause severe stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting — and several can be fatal. Treats should never be given to show affection if they cause a medical reaction.

Foods to keep far from pets

• Alcohol
• Almonds
• Avocados
• Baby food
• Chives
• Chicken bones
• Chocolate
• Citrus
• Coffee
• Cocoa powder
• Yeast dough
• Eggs (raw)
• Fat trimmings
• Fish bones
• Fruit seeds / pits
• Garlic
• Grapes
• Liver (excess)
• Macadamia nuts
• Milk
• Mushrooms
• Nutmeg
• Onions
• Pistachios
• Raisins
• Raw / undercooked meat
• Rhubarb
• Salt
• Tea
• Tomato
• Tuna
• Walnuts
• Xylitol (sweetener)

We want all our clients to be educated on common household and garden plants that are toxic to dogs and cats. Avoid these — and if your pet ingests any, call us right away.

The complete chart of toxic plants

• Arum Lily
• Australian Flame Tree
• Autumn Crocus
• Avocado
• Azalea
• Baneberry
• Bird of Paradise
• Bishop's Weed
• Black Laurel
• Black Locust
• Bleeding Heart
• Bloodroot
• Bluebonnet
• Blue‑Green Algae
• Boxwood
• Bracken Fern
• Buckthorn
• Bulb Flowers
• Burdock
• Cacao
• Caladium
• Calla Lily
• Camel Bush
• Cardinal Flower
• Chalice
• Cherry Tree
• Chinaberry Tree
• Clematis
• Cocklebur
• Coffee
• Coral Plant
• Coriander
• Dieffenbachia
• Easter Lily
• Elderberry
• Elephant Ear (Taro)
• English Ivy
• Eucalyptus
• Euonymus
• False Hellebore
• Felt Plant
• Firethorn
• Flame Tree
• Four O'Clock
• Foxglove
• Glottidium
• Golden Chain
• Ground Cherry
• Heaths
• Heliotrope
• Hemlock
• Henbane
• Holly
• Honeysuckle
• Horse Chestnut
• Horsetail
• Hydrangea
• Jasmine
• Jimsonweed
• Lantana
• Larkspur
• Lily of the Valley
• Lupine
• Mandrake
• Marijuana
• Mexican Poppy
• Milkweed
• Mistletoe
• Mock Orange
• Monkshood
• Moonseed
• Morning Glory
• Mountain Laurel
• Mushrooms
• Nightshades
• Oak
• Oleander
• Periwinkle
• Philodendron
• Pigweed
• Poinciana
• Poinsettia
• Poison Ivy
• Poison Oak
• Pokeweed
• Potato Shoots
• Privet
• Pyracantha
• Rain Tree
• Ranunculus (Buttercup)
• Red Maple
• Snowdrop
• Spurges
• Sweet Pea
• Tansy
• Tobacco
• Vetch
• Wisteria
• Yellow Jasmine
• Yews

Marijuana intoxication in pets can occur from chewing plants, dried portions, or food containing cannabis. While serious long‑term consequences are extremely rare, newer concentrated strains and synthetic drugs pose a much greater threat. Most pets recover within 3–12 hours with supportive care. Intoxicated pets are prone to "bad trips" and lack the coordination to eat or drink safely.

Symptoms

• Anxiety, panting, heavy breathing
• Agitation
• Profound lethargy bordering on unconsciousness
• Impaired balance — staggering, stumbling, falling
• Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling
• Loss of bladder/bowel control
• Extreme responses to noise or movement (jerking, seizure‑like)

What we do

Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms plus exposure history. Goals: nurse the pet through it and prevent anxiety until intoxication ends. We minimize noise and sensory input. Some pets need sedatives or IV fluids. If a large quantity was eaten, we may induce vomiting. Most cases resolve in 3–12 hours.

Vaccinations are one of the most important parts of pet health care. A variety of diseases can affect dogs and cats — many serious or fatal — and the right vaccination protocol prevents them. Talk to our team about the unique risks in our area and your pet's lifestyle.

Key points

• Essential for protecting your pet's health and the broader community
• Part of every wellness visit at Murrayville Animal Hospital
• Discuss specific risks with our veterinarian team — we tailor the schedule
• We'll educate you on what is required vs. recommended for your pet

Choosing a spay procedure is an individual decision made between owner and veterinarian, taking into account your pet's age, breed, sex, health status, intended use, environment, and temperament. Weigh the health benefits of removing the reproductive organs against the benefits of retaining the natural sex hormones. Each patient is considered individually.

The two options compared

Ovary Sparing Spay (OSS):

• Removes the uterus and some of the cervix
• Leaves at least one ovary (often both)
• Hormones are maintained
• Heat cycle continues; may have a small bloody discharge
• Will be attractive to males but not fertile

Ovariohysterectomy (Traditional Spay):

• Removes ovaries and part of the uterus
• Leaves part of the uterus and cervix
• Hormones are not maintained
• No heat cycle
• Not fertile

Health advantages of retaining ovaries

• Lower hemangiosarcoma (spleen/heart cancer)
• Lower osteosarcoma (bone cancer)
• Lower transitional cell carcinoma (bladder)
• Lower obesity incidence
• Lower urinary incontinence
• Lower urinary tract infections
• Lower autoimmune thyroiditis & hypothyroidism
• Reduced cranial cruciate rupture
• Reduced hip dysplasia (if not spayed before 5 mo)
• Fewer vaccine adverse reactions
• Evidence of increased lifespan (female Rottweilers keeping ovaries 6+ years are 4× more likely to reach exceptional longevity)

Behavioural advantages of retaining ovaries

• Less aggression toward people and animals
• Decreased cognitive dysfunction with age
• Less fearfulness, noise phobias, undesirable sexual behaviours

Health disadvantages

• Increased mammary (breast) cancer risk
• Increased ovarian cancer risk
• Rare possibility of pyometra

Behavioural disadvantages

• Inter‑dog aggression possible
• Ongoing sexual behaviours and heat cycles

Our team has successfully performed neuters on dogs of all breeds and ages. Neutering (castration) removes the testicles. Vasectomy preserves the testicles while preventing fertility. Both are performed with the same gentle approach and modern anesthesia.

The two procedures compared

Vasectomy:

• Removes part of the vas deferens (the cord from the testicles)
• Leaves the testicles intact
• Hormones are maintained
• Not fertile (may still impregnate a female for up to 2 months post‑procedure)

Castration:

• Removes the testicles
• Hormones are not maintained
• Not fertile

Advantages of retaining testicles

• Lower hemangiosarcoma incidence
• Lower osteosarcoma incidence
• Lower transitional cell carcinoma risk
• Lower prostatic adenocarcinoma risk (vs neutered)
• Lower obesity incidence
• Lower autoimmune thyroiditis & hypothyroidism
• Reduced cranial cruciate rupture
• Reduced hip dysplasia (not neutered before 5 mo)
• Fewer vaccine adverse reactions
• Decreased cognitive dysfunction with age
• Less fearfulness and phobias

Disadvantages of retaining testicles

• Increased testicular cancer risk (low malignancy / mortality)
• Risk of unwanted pregnancies if a vasectomy fails
• Increased prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, cysts
• Increased perineal/inguinal hernia risk
• Possible inter‑dog aggression
• Increased wandering / risk of being hit by a car
• Increased urinary marking
• Ongoing sexual behaviours

Surgery is only as successful as the aftercare. Proper homecare after a spay or neuter is critical — and four things matter most.

1 · The Cone (E‑collar)

• Must be worn for 10–14 days
• Prevents licking of the surgical incision
• Licking causes infection or irritation, requiring antibiotics
• Keep the cone on even when your pet looks sad — it's protecting them

2 · Food & Water the First Night

• Give only half their normal diet
• Small amounts of water
• Start regular diet the next day
• Eating or drinking too much after sedation causes vomiting (common — not a surgical problem)
• Clients sometimes rush to emergency thinking something's wrong — usually it's just normal post‑anesthesia nausea

3 · Activity Restriction

• Avoid rough activity and limit jumping
• Prevents the incision from opening or swelling
• Especially important for large breed dogs
• Always check the incision for pus, discharge, or smell
• Return to clinic or call (604) 532‑1121 if you see any warning signs

4 · Follow‑Up Appointment

• A 10–14 day follow‑up is done for all surgeries
• Ensures proper healing
• Book the appointment to verify recovery progress
• Aftercare is thoroughly discussed at pick‑up

Breeding is a large commitment of time, money, and work. Each breed has unique health, genetic, and temperament considerations. Regular veterinary care, genetic screening, pre‑breeding health tests, exercise, and nutrition are standard. It's a serious responsibility requiring careful, thoughtful decision‑making.

Canadian Kennel Club Code of Practice — guiding principles

• A serious commitment of time and financial resources
• Provide for the well‑being of dogs during care and placement
• Preserve and maintain the breed through judicious stock selection
• Share knowledge with fellow breeders, especially novices

Recommended resources

• CKC — Canadian Kennel Club Breeding Page
• AKC — Tips for Beginners
• AKC — Guide to Responsible Dog Breeding

Most people struggle with losing a beloved pet. Some pets pass peacefully in their sleep; others require an owner to make the difficult decision of euthanasia. Either way, the loss is exceedingly difficult. We work with Gateway Pet Memorial for aftercare and offer both in‑clinic and at‑home euthanasia.

Choosing euthanasia

Many owners fear euthanasia as "giving up," but it is often the most humane choice. We frequently keep suffering pets with us longer than we should — selfishly, lovingly. Euthanasia ends the pain and the misery. Your veterinarian can walk you through the procedure and answer every question. Many offices allow owners to stand by for the final injection.

Stages of grief

• Denial — "Why me?" questions
• Anger — usually directed at the people around you
• Bargaining — "What if I had done things differently?"
• Depression — feelings of emptiness; life isn't as happy
• Acceptance — acknowledging the new reality without saying it's acceptable

Moving forward

Pet owners cope in various ways. Pet crematories, pet loss hotlines, and support groups are available. Finding an outlet to manage your grief matters. The healing process is deeply individual.

Getting a new pet — when (and when not)

• Don't introduce a new pet until you're ready to heal
• Allow yourself to go through the grief stages first
• Owners who don't heal first are more likely to surrender the new pet later
• Avoid comparing the new pet to the one you lost
• Consider purchasing a new pet before losing an elderly one (so there's no replacement dynamic)
• Don't give the new pet the same name or nickname
• Don't think of the new pet as a "replacement"
• Look for a different breed, species, or personality
• Take time to consider what pet fits your lifestyle today

Traveling with your pets allows for new experiences and avoids separation anxiety. Research your travel destination's requirements — some countries need specific blood tests, vaccinations, or heartworm medications. Check local pet travel regulations and confirm your accommodations allow pets. Ensure proper ID tags and microchips for safety. Many airports require a certificate of health and proof of vaccination dated no more than 10 days prior to departure.

Air travel — most major airlines

• Some allow small pets in cabin, others don't — check ahead
• Most require a health certificate and proof of vaccination within 10 days
• Winter: book midday flights when temperatures are warmer
• Summer: book early morning or late evening flights
• Non‑stop flights are strongly preferred

Airline crate requirements

• Allow a familiar toy during the flight
• Pet water container attached to the crate
• Crate must have ventilation slits and handles
• Absorbent material lining (for accidents)
• Contact info and a current owner photo labelled on the crate
• Proper ID on the collar
• Pet secured in a bolted crate
• Trim your pet's nails to prevent them catching on the crate

Car travel

• The most common method — pets need a comfortable area, frequent exercise stops, ventilation
• Bring a leash and adequate food/water
• Never leave pets alone in a car
• Cats should remain in a crate — they're more secure than roaming

Bus or train

• Pets are usually allowed in carriers — check local regulations
• Service pets are typically allowed without a carrier
• Confirm regulations before booking

More pet owners are seeking insurance similar to human health coverage. Pet insurance works similarly to human medical insurance — a monthly fee, qualifying requirements, and exclusions. Most plans have several limits.

Typically excluded

• Pre‑existing conditions
• Preventative and routine care
• Veterinary examination / consultation fees
• Applicable taxes
• Deductibles

Typically included

• Accidents
• Illnesses (unless preexisting)
• Hereditary disease (unless preexisting)
• Hospitalization
• Pet emergencies
• Diagnostics and laboratory testing

Cost range

Plans range from under $12/month (minimal coverage) to $150/month (comprehensive), depending on the coverage level you choose.

Tips before you sign up

• Be overly critical — examine every aspect of the policy
• Check if you can choose your own veterinarian or must use a provider network
• Look for breed‑specific exclusions
• Understand age restrictions and coverage by pet maturity
• Find out if your premium increases after a claim
• Examine reimbursement policy — percentage reimbursed and complexity
• Many companies offer FREE trials if an accident or illness occurs
• Best time to sign up: immediately after a veterinary exam

Doctors of Veterinary Medicine are medical professionals trained to protect the health and welfare of animals — and the people who love them. The word veterinarian comes from "veterinae", meaning "working animals." All veterinarians are extensively trained and licensed to practice.

What we do

• Diagnose, control, and treat animal diseases
• Treat sick and injured animals
• Prevent the transmission of animal diseases to people (zoonoses)
• Help ensure a safe food supply
• Contribute to wildlife preservation and public health

Clinical veterinarian responsibilities

• Guide owners on all aspects of pet maintenance
• Advise on food requirements, daily care, and special needs
• Provide vaccinations
• Perform surgery
• Prescribe medicines
• Use each visit to provide comprehensive guidance on pet care