Monthly Health Topics

Education on a Variety of Veterinary Health Topics

Dedicated to providing ongoing education on a variety of veterinary health topics, Ambassador Animal Hospital proudly presents our Monthly Health Topics of Concern section. Please see the topics organized by month below for more information, and be sure to contact us if you ever have any questions, comments or concerns about your pet’s overall health and well-being!

At Ambassador Animal Hospital, senior pets make up a significant part of our practice and we love them dearly. That’s why we believe in the importance and value of our Senior Wellness program. Early detection means earlier treatment and a better prognosis for your senior pet’s long-term care.

Just as people have regular check-ups with their dentist, pets also require regular dental care. During your pet’s oral exam at Ambassador Animal Hospital, our veterinarian will look for signs of plaque, tartar, bacteria, and gingivitis. Remember, a healthy mouth can add years to your pet’s life!

It is estimated that at least 35% of Canadian pets are considered overweight! View associated health risks, factors for pet obesity and simple checks you can do yourself to determine whether or not your pet is obese. With a combination of nutrition, exercise and veterinary care, your pets can live long, healthy and happy lives!

Once you bring your little one through his first months safely, you can be proud of your accomplishment as a pet parent. Though it can take a lot of work, raising a well-fed, well-groomed, and happy puppy or kitten is a big step toward having a healthy adult pet.

Flea infestations can be not only annoying for both pets and humans, but also very dangerous. Problems caused by fleas may range from mild to severe itching and discomfort to skin problems and infections.

Heartworm can be prevented by using a once-a-month medication during the period of time your pet is at risk of contracting the disease, typically from June 1 to November 1. Not only do the heartworm preventative medications protect your pet from heartworm disease, they also provide protection against fleas, ticks, and gastrointestinal parasites.

Dogs and cats are victims of several internal parasites frequently referred to as worms. The most common are roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms. Of these four, only two are commonly seen in the stool with the unaided eye: roundworms and tapeworms.

We all love spending the long, sunny days of summer outdoors with our furry companions, but being overeager in hot weather can spell danger. Follow these heat safety tips for healthier, happier pets during the warmer months.

Allergies in dogs and cats more often take the form of skin irritation or inflammation, a condition called allergic dermatitis. From oral medications to medicated baths, there are many options available to help ease your pets’ allergies.

Pet overpopulation is at crisis levels in Ontario. Tens of thousands of dogs and cats end up on the streets or in shelters every year. Many homeless animals suffer neglect, abandonment and abuse. Spaying and neutering pets will reduce shelter intake and euthanasia. It can also reduce health risks, physical stress and improve behaviour.

Alleviate your pet’s everyday aches and pains with laser therapy. Laser therapy has been scientifically proven to be successful in treating post-surgical pain and many acute and chronic conditions, including wounds, allergies, sprains, strains, fractures, arthritis and ear infections.

Keeping your furry family members safe during the holidays can often prove to be a difficult task. At Ambassador Animal Hospital, we wish all of our patients and their families a safe and happy holiday season!