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After you spay or neuter your pet at our clinic in Toronto, you may wonder how to best take care of your furry friend. It’s a vulnerable time in his or her life, and you want to make sure that post-op care goes as smoothly as possible. Here are some general guidelines to follow, but be sure to check with your vet for any additional recommendations.

When your cat has skin that’s itchy or sore, it can be troubling. The source of your feline’s discomfort may be due to any number of things, and pinpointing the cause isn’t always easy. It’s best if you bring your kitty to visit us at Brimley-Lawrence Animal Clinic. Our cat clinic is open seven days a week to residents of Toronto, Scarborough and other surrounding areas. We’ll offer a diagnosis and treatment that’s bound to get your feline friend back to his or her regular self. However, if you want to use a home remedy that’ll offer a bit of relief before your appointment, here are a few things you can try.

Unlike pet vaccination, animal allergy shots provide somewhat uncertain results in Toronto, Scarborough and other surrounding areas. Success rates are generally high, but in approximately 20% of cases, the effects of the treatment are minimal or non-existent. Still, allergy shots are worth considering if you have pets who are otherwise healthy but suffering from the effects of environmental allergies.

It's never easy seeing your pet go through pain, whether their pain is temporary or chronic. Although today's modern medicine provides many helpful avenues for pain relief, it's good to consider all branches of the medicinal tree. Whether new or old, local or foreign, there are countless ways to treat an animal that's in pain.

As a pet owner, you can learn the different options available to help improve your pet's quality of life. And if it means a smaller dosage of prescription drugs with fewer side effects, what have you got to lose? Read on to get a feel for some of the more common prescriptions and alternative sources of pain relief for your loved one.

One of the most common questions pet owners ask their vet is, “What should I feed my dog?” The answer to this question will vary depending on the breed and size of your puppy. However, there are some universal truths for proper pooch nutrition that never change. Here are some guidelines to follow when it comes time to deciding what to feed your dog and what you should avoid.

Your dog is part of your family, so making the decision to bring in a new family member (or a second dog) is a big one. Will the new dog get along with your current pooch? What extra work comes with having a second pet? We'll discuss all these questions and more in this post as we explore the different issues that arise when getting a second dog.

No matter how much you brush a dog's coat, fur still seems to get everywhere. It hides on the couch and on clothes and on carpet. While some dog breeds shed more than others, all dogs shed fur.

If you live with a dog, you know that at times it may be difficult to handle all the excess fur. Guests may avoid your home simply because they wish to avoid all the fur sticking to their clothes. Or you may consider leaving your furry friend outdoors to keep the fur to a minimum.

But before you take drastic action with the hair clippers, take the time to understand why your dog's fur is important and why dogs shed often.

If you could recall your first visit to a doctor's office you would remember feeling out of place. There are unfamiliar smells and sounds. The doctor is using instruments you've never seen before. It can be intimidating and your pet can feel the same anxiety. There are some animals who like the attention. However, if you know your animal doesn't like new situations, this can be a scary experience for them.

Having a dog is a lot like having a child. You go to great lengths to care for your dog and you love them dearly. For many couples, the thought of introducing a child into their family dynamic comes with a few anxieties. If you are feeling stressed and asking yourself a lot of questions about this transition, prepare yourself for bringing home baby to meet your dog. Here are some tips for introducing your dog to a new baby.

Traveling is often a must, even for pet owners. Many people are required to take business trips, and almost all of us need a vacation every once in a while. A pet can throw a wrench into travel plans, especially if traveling with a pet is too expensive of a travel destination isn’t pet friendly. Enter the pet sitter, the saviour of pet owners everywhere.

Babysitting requires a whole host of activities, from making sure your charge is safe and happy to removing dangerous objects to keeping the house clean. Pet sitting is fairly similar—your goal is to keep your employer’s animal safe, happy, and comfortable throughout their owner’s trip. Read on for great tips about how to do just that.

People love playing with puppies and kittens. They enjoy holding them in their arms and watching them explore a world they are already intimately familiar with. Their fur is soft, they smell great, and their energy level is through the roof.

But as these little bundles of cuteness grow older, they begin to develop. They become less playful, less cuddly, and they lose that new puppy or kitty smell. The most noticeable change is their breath.

Whether your dog is energetic or easy-going, off-leash dog parks are the perfect treat to keep your pet’s spirits up. If you’re located in or around Toronto, here’s a list of off-leash dog parks and areas to ensure your canine stays active, healthy, and happy.

Is your cat curled up on your lap purring right now, pawing at the keyboard and trying to get your attention? She spent the day snoozing in the sun, meowing animatedly at you, and clawing at bits of string. On a typical day, it might be hard to see the connection between your cat and majestic wildcats stalking their large prey through the wild.

If you're a dog person, you might have a similar question: how did the smiling, floppy-tongued animal tracking dirt into your house originate from the reserved, cautious grey wolves of the world?

What is it about those fuzzy little fur-ball friends of ours? Puppies fill us with delight and make our troubles just melt away—the way they clumsily learn to walk, how they discover their tail . . . and attempt to chase it, how tuckered out they become after trotting about filled with complete and utter happiness.

Yes, it can’t be denied, even naughty puppies have a way of making us fight back a smile. Their honest little expressions and open giving of affection will get you every time. For a dog lover, it doesn’t matter the age or type, all dogs make your heart skip a beat. Going to the shelter is risky business, because you would take them all home with you . . . if you could.

For many dog owners, their four-legged friend is a valued member of the family. Your pooch may be accustomed to undivided attention and a set routine, but all that will change when you bring home a baby.

Imagine a hot summer day. Your family goes into the store to grab something, and you decide to wait it out in the car. The temperature soon begins to climb to about 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit) in your vehicle. You have no water, fans, or air conditioning. And you're wearing a fur coat.

While this situation may seem ridiculous for a human, it's fairly common for dogs. Dogs are covered in fur that can heat up their bodies. Like humans, they need to keep cool, but their beloved owners don't always remember this.

Your cat or your dog is more than just an animal you own. It's a member of the family and one of your best friends. The more attached you become to your pet, the more difficult it is to cope with its loss.

Similarly, your children may bond to your pet and may be just as devastated by grief when it dies. Younger children might not fully understand what happens when a pet dies, and special consideration should be made when helping them cope with the loss.

But don't give up hope. The grieving process may take time, but together, you and your children will eventually heal.

When you first bring home a new puppy or kitten, it’s hard to imagine that soon they’ll grow up and be more than a soft little ball of cuddly fur. However, that time will come sooner than you think, and before it does, you need to have your pet spayed or neutered.

You want to do what’s best for your pet, but you might not be sure if spaying/neutering is really a good idea. Will it change their behaviour? Does your pet want to reproduce?

To separate the facts from the fictions, you should know the benefits of spaying/neutering your pet, and the truth about some common myths you’ve heard.

It used to be that a nine-year-old cat was considered ancient. But these days, an indoor cat can live for up to 15 or 20 years, and becomes a senior when they’re about 10.

As any animal ages, their body changes. To avoid being hurt or attacked, cats hide their pain and other changes in their body. However, there are subtle signs that your aging cat is having a bit of trouble. Here are some changes to watch for as your cat lives out its golden years:

The endless sunshine of summer might be glorious for you, but it may be miserable for a furry dog. Your canine friend's luscious coat makes enjoying the summer heat nearly impossible. Since he can't just throw on some shorts and a tank top, your dog will spend most of the summer lounging in your air-conditioned house.

Bored dogs can develop destructive tendencies. How do you keep your buddy entertained? Read on for ways to keep your dog active indoors.

Not sure if your cat should be an indoor cat or an outdoor cat? Do you feel guilty for keeping your cat inside all day? The outdoors provides some great benefits like sunlight and fresh air. But there are some things you need to know about whether or not to let your cat outdoors.

If you see your pup itching, scratching, and twisting around as if trying to do a wonky version of the Macarena, then he or she may have fleas. Though fleas sound like harmless pests, if left untreated, your precious pooch could develop a serious infection or disease. Here is the foolproof method to spotting fleas and forcing them to pack up their pesky bags and flee.

Is your cat packing on too many pounds? Oftentimes, people associate indoor cats as lazy felines, but this doesn’t have to be the case. All cats need exercise. Rely on at-home workouts to help your cat become happier, healthier, and more energetic.

Though it may take a little bit of creativity on your part, all your efforts will pay off by having a happier, healthier feline friend in the end. Here are some tips on how to get your cat up and moving.

Your dog is your beloved companion who sticks by your side through every stage of life and who greets you eagerly at the end of the day, anxious to play.

While your dog can't communicate with words, you probably understand his unspoken communication very well. A tilted head and extra good behaviour might mean that he is asking for a treat. A ducked head and the tail between his legs probably mean your pet has done something he knows he shouldn't have done.

The better you know your dog’s behaviours, habits, and ways of communicating, the better you will be able to tell if something is wrong. When your dog is sick or injured, he will try to communicate that to you. Pay close attention to the following signs that signal illness or injury.

When it comes to finding a cat that is compatible with your cat allergies, there are a lot of common misconceptions. Here is a list from us at Brimley-Lawrence Animal Clinic that uncovers the myths and helps you decide which cat is right for you and your allergies.

Unlike humans, dogs come with a ready-made pair of shoes and their padded paws! Your dog's paws insulate against extreme weather and protect paw tissue, bones, and joints from injury. For your dog to be healthy and happy, her paws need do their job right. As a dog owner, you can take a lot of steps to keep your dog on her toes all year-long.

We brush our teeth twice a day. We floss and visit the dentist to take care of our teeth. But what about our dogs? How can we help them maintain strong oral hygiene? Part of the care you give to your "best friend" should include oral care. Start by brushing your dog's teeth and by looking for signs of oral maladies.

Winter can be tough on all of us, but it can be especially tough on cats who like to venture outdoors despite Toronto’s heavy snowfall. There are always dangers lurking outside for cats, but felines are especially vulnerable in colder temperatures. These seven tips will help you protect your furry friend.

Watching your sweet little puppy get sick can be heartbreaking. No pet owner ever wants to see their furry friend fall ill. That’s why pet vaccinations are such an important part of keeping your puppy happy and healthy. Keep reading to learn all about the signs and symptoms of some common illnesses that puppies suffer from and why your puppy needs to get his/her pet vaccinations as soon as possible.

Just like people can feel down due to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), so too can your little kitty get the blues when the weather outside is frightful. And while there’s not much you can do to stop winter from coming to Toronto, there are a few things you can do to prevent your fuzzy friend from feeling the effects of wintertime sadness. Keep reading for six great tips from Brimley-Lawrence’s Toronto animal clinic.

Winter is a time of blustering winds, freezing temperatures, snow and slippery ice. These conditions can be fun (for some), but for your pet winter can pose serious health risks.

At veterinary clinics in Toronto, we see many incidences of frostbite that could’ve been prevented. But it’s easy to protect your pets against the elements this winter if you follow the guidelines below.

It’s normal for dogs and cats to experience some hair loss throughout the year. Shedding has normal seasonal components. For example, at animal clinics across Toronto, we notice more shedding and dry flaky skin on family pets once furnaces go on in the fall and winter. Using a humidifier can help alleviate some of the problem.

We all want the best for our pet but the ongoing debate surrounding vaccines leaves many of us feeling confused. Are you unsure if vaccination is right for your pet? Don’t worry! This small guide will help you make an informed decision.

Fleas are a cat owners worst nightmare. These tiny insects feed off your fluffy friends blood, causing very itchy and sometimes painful bites. Unfortunately, these little pests are very hard to exterminate: they reproduce at an astonishing rate and they protect themselves with a hard shell on their back!

As the heat rolls in, so do summer pests and parasites. Summer brings insects directly to our backyards, homes and felines during peaks of warmth and sunshine. Some bugs are harmless while others can be dangerous to your pet’s health and wellness.

There are preventative measures you can take during the warm months. We have tips for you so that you and your cat can have a great and safe summer.

Dental care is not only important for you but also for your furry best friend too! Taking care of your pet’s oral hygiene is absolutely necessary.

Pet dentistry plays a major role in your dog or cat’s overall health and happiness. Just like their physical health, you have to look after their teeth and gums as well.

You love your pet, and so all the hoopla about Lyme disease leaves you feeling a bit bewildered. Is it a real threat? Can it kill your dog? And how can you prevent it? Read on to learn about the main thing you need to watch out for when it comes to your dog, ticks and Lyme disease.

Have you made the decision to spay and neuter your beloved pet? If you are still on the fence about the idea, you should reconsider your options. Spaying and neutering your cat or dog could have significant impacts on their health and behaviour.

Your cat or dog is much more than an animal. They are your companion and best friend.

The choice to spay or neuter your pet is healthy, beneficial and necessary. This procedure curbs unwanted behaviour and prevents disease.

The arrival of a new puppy or kitten is an exciting time for any pet owner. To avoid worms and diseases, preventative measures are absolutely necessary. All animal companions need to undergo deworming to ensure a happy, healthy and long life.

The decision to spay or neuter your pet is an important one for both your family and pet. The team of professional veterinarians at our animal clinic in Toronto is here to provide options for a smooth procedure and transition for your cat or dog. Pet owners can rely on our comprehensive veterinary care.

There are many health and behavioural benefits to spaying or neutering your pets. Your animal companion deserves to lead a happy and long life.

With spring around the corner, it is important to discuss preventative measures for heartworm disease for your animal companion. Heartworm disease is a serious danger with life-threatening consequences for your dog or cat.

Our veterinary clinic in Toronto wants pet owners to have access to education, prevention and treatment for their pets. Here is what you need to know about heartworm disease and what you can do to ensure a happy and healthy life for your furry friend.

Your dog will eat anything. From the most savory dog food to unsecured garbage, your canine with ingest anything it can get its paws on. And as a dog owner, you’re concerned about the things your dog consumes. But high-quality dog foods can be pricey. If you are looking for a healthy alternative to costly dog food, you may only need to look as far as your own refrigerator.

While we all know that dog owners should never give chocolate to their beloved family pets, there are a number foods that are completely acceptable to feed your fury friend. Listed below are some everyday human foods that are healthy for your animal to eat.

From the first day you brought your dog home, you've loved him. As a puppy, all he wanted to do was play. And as he's grown, you've enjoyed his companionship and loyalty. But no matter how old your friend gets, one thing never changes: those sad puppy eyes watching you as you eat.

Whether you eat every meal at the dinner table or in front of the television, your dog has been there watching you. And when you do give in to those sad eyes, it's important to know what not to give him. Listed below are five substances you need to make sure your dog never consumes.

Stress is a normal part of everyday lifeā€”for both humans and animals. Just like people sometimes have a hard time coping with stress, dogs can also struggle in stressful situations.

Aggressive dog breeds sometimes lash out in stressful situations, while some breeds stress so much that they make themselves physically ill. By familiarizing yourself with stress indicators, you can prevent attacks and injuries, and also keep your pet happy and healthy.