FAQ – Altlasvets

Frequently Asked Questions

You Ask
We Answer

We try to answer everything. If you have any questions, call our emergency service number.

Pet Ear Cleaning.

Dust, pests, allergens, dander, and bacteria naturally find their ways into your pet’s ears because of the wide-open anatomy of the outer ear structures. The main
danger presented by these foreign bodies is infection, which can cause severe pain and hearing loss.

What kinds of Infections Are Pets' Ears Prone to Developing?

Bacterial and yeast infections are the biggest potential threats to a dog’s ears. For cats, the most worrying danger is ear mites. Nearly 50 percent of all ear
infections in cats start when these tiny pests invade the ears.

Are Some Pets at Special Risk for Developing Ear Infections?

Certain breeds with excessively long, floppy ears (Basset Hounds and Cocker Spaniels, for example), may have more trouble with ear hygiene and ear infections
simply because moisture and dirt may accumulate within the ear flaps.

What Methods Should I Use to Clean My Pet's Ears?

Using a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution, hold the ear flap up and gently (without touching the applicator to your pet’s ear) add enough solution to fill
the ear canal. Gently wipe the ear with a cotton ball and then let your pet shake his ears clean. Do not use a Q-tip or similar applicator.

How Often Should I Clean My Pet's Ears?

Different pets may need ear cleaning more or less frequently, and some pets may need it rarely. Our vet can advise you on the healthiest routine for your
individual pet.

When Should I Avoid Cleaning My Pet's Ears at Home?

Avoid cleaning your pet’s ears if you notice ear redness, discharge, head tilting, or other signs of an ear infection in progress. Bring your pet to our veterinary clinic
for evaluation and treatment instead.

How Can Your Vancouver Veterinarian Keep My Pet's Ears Healthy?

Our Vancouver veterinarian can check and clean your pet’s periodically during preventative wellness exams, while also attending to any ear conditions that may
come up. We can also educate you on the best practices for cleaning and protecting your pet’s ears all year round.

Nail Trimming.

Why is it Important to Cut a Pet's Nails?

If your pet’s nails are not cut, they will curl as they grow. This will lead to your pet having difficulty walking, as the nails will be positioned on the undersides of their paws. If the nails grow to extreme lengths, they could puncture the pads or even your pet’s skin. Since this can cause an infection, it is best to keep up with routine nail clipping sessions to keep your dog or cat as healthy as possible. In addition, a pet with long nails makes clicking sounds as they walk and can damage flooring.

How Often Should a Pet's Nails Be Cut?

As a rule, it is best to cut your dog or cat’s nails at least once every month. Since the quick portion of the nails grows along with the nail itself, waiting too long for a clipping will make it more difficult to cut the ends of the nails without cutting the quick portion as well. Since this is painful for a pet, it is best to contact our veterinarian to conduct a nail cutting if the quick has grown to an excessive level. Keeping up with monthly clippings will ensure you are able to cut each of your pet’s nails easily and effectively.

What Does Our Vet Do During an Appointment?

When you bring your pet to our veterinarian for an appointment for a nail clipping, they will first conduct an exam to ensure your dog or cat is in the best of health. If there is a medical difficulty discovered, they will provide appropriate treatment as necessary. When it comes to the grooming portion of the appointment, our veterinarian will use special clippers to remove excess nail without causing your pet pain or discomfort in the process. Our vet will teach you how to clip your pet’s nails on your own if you choose to undertake the task in the future.

What should I expect in terms of costs for pet surgery?

The cost of pet surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure and any additional services required. We will provide you with a detailed estimate before the surgery, including all associated costs. We are also happy to discuss financing options and answer any financial questions you may have.

Is pet surgery always necessary, or are there alternative treatments available?

Pet surgery is recommended when it is the most effective and appropriate treatment option for a particular condition. In some cases, alternative treatments or therapies may be considered, and our veterinarians will discuss these options with you based on your pet’s individual needs.