Riverdale
Animal Hospital

901 Danforth Avenue
Toronto, Canada
Phone: 416-465-4655

Services

Making a diagnosis for a certain disease for veterinarians is not easy. As a responsible pet owner, it is your duty to give the veterinarian an honest to goodness description of signs and symptoms observed on your pet before presenting him or her for check up or treatment. All information presented in addition to the head to tail examination of the veterinarian, the signalment or age, breed and sex predisposition to certain diseases, and all the diagnostic tests performed are crucial in making a correct diagnosis. This will all be combined to narrow down possibilities of diseases making a final diagnosis and treatment.

Giving correct information including the correct age, breed or bloodlines for mix breeds and the signs observed, the time and duration since the signs are observed and even previous history and medication given matters a lot.

Riverdale Animal Hospital has a lot of services to offer to provide you and your pet a high quality of medical care with the aid of advance diagnostic tools and well trained and experienced staff.

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PREVENTIVE MEDICINE

Preventive medication and immunization is always better than cure. Regular vaccination, heartworm medication, internal and external parasite prevention, aside from proper nutrition assures the best quality of life to your pet. It always costs less than treating your animal for diseases after being exposed to organisms or parasites.

Aside from thoroughly examining the animal physically, wellness testing is recommended yearly especially when the animal reaches the senior age (7 years old). Blood is collected for complete blood count and clinical chemistry testing. This will help determine any existing medical problem or may help identifying a problem, which has not progressed yet to cause any clinical manifestations.

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IMMUNIZATION

Puppies or kittens born receive antibodies (maternal antibodies) from their mother’s milk (colostrum) for the first few days of their life. These antibodies protect these young animals from certain diseases for few weeks. Protective level of antibodies gradually decreases as the animal grows older. In some, decrease of maternal immunity happens as early as six weeks old or later until they are 16 weeks old. In such scenario, a series of Immunization is recommended to increase and maintain the protective level using vaccines. Some vaccines used are combination of killed or modified-live organisms to protect the animal against different diseases. Most of the vaccines are repeated yearly thereafter to make sure the protective level of antibodies is well maintained to prevent diseases.

A thorough physical examination is performed first and made sure that the animal to be vaccinated is apparently healthy. The physical examination does not guarantee that the animal is not infected at all before being presented for vaccination but will at least minimize the risk of having post vaccination problems or reaction or at most vaccination failure.

Vaccination protocols differ from age, risk of exposure to certain diseases and animal species. Geographic locations or traveling to different countries requires different kind of vaccines. Patients are advised to stay in the hospital for at least 30 minutes to make sure there’s no allergic reaction to vaccines.

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HEARTWORM PREVENTION

Heartworm are parasitic worms that lives in the heart or major blood vessels and pulmonary trunk in the lungs, where they can cause obstruction of blood and air flow, tissue damage and death. Larval stage of heartworm is transmitted from one infected animal to another by mosquitoes via the blood. Treatment of heartworm is expensive and may be life threatening.

Prevention against heartworm starts when mosquitoes start to show up usually in the months of May and June in North America. But before starting the preventive medication, blood test (Heartworm Antigen Test) is done to make sure that the animal is not infected at all. It is not dangerous to start the preventive medication unless positively tested animals are treated first. A series of six monthly medications are given until the mosquitoes are gone again in winter. Medications are based on body weight and it is recommended to present the animal for thorough physical examination and blood testing first before starting to medicate.

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ENDOPARASITE CONTROL AND PREVENTION

Puppies and kittens are sometimes born infected with some internal parasites such as roundworms since larva are transmitted from the dams infected with the said parasites in the blood via the placenta during the fetal stage and via the colostrum during nursing. These larvae will migrate to the lungs and will be coughed out and eventually swallowed until they mature in the intestines. Common tapeworms are transmitted by fleas, which serve as an intermediate host. Some parasitic ova and even fleas are carried to the house by the owner or ingested by the dog from the park where they usually walk and play. Even indoor cats are infected not knowing that the owner actually brought ova to the house in their shoes and ingested eventually by the cat. Other common parasites in the intestines are hookworms and whipworms.

It is highly recommended to have regular fecal testing and deworming to all pets of any age. Positively tested animals require special deworming protocols and medication depending on the type of parasites seen. Broad-spectrum dewormers are usually used to control the most common parasites in the gastro intestinal tract. Some parasites are zoonotic which means they are transmitted to humans and may cause problems or clinical disease too.

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ECTOPARASITE CONTROL AND PREVENTION

Ticks, mites and fleas are the most common external parasites that affect dogs and cats. These are bloodsucking ectoparasites, which can cause annoying pruritus and serious dermatological problems. Aside from causing skin irritation and some dermatological problems, ticks and fleas transmit more serious diseases or serves as intermediate host for some endo parasites. They can survive for long periods without a blood meal and can reproduce into epidemic populations at warm temperatures.

Effective flea and tick control is difficult to achieve. Aside from appropriate insecticide used for every animal in the household, animal sleeping areas, dwellings and beddings are also treated with insecticides appropriate for each parasite. Some agents together with heartworm medication and endoparasites control are available in the hospital. These are weight based and are applied monthly for six month or as needed depending on the condition or severity of the case.

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INTERNAL MEDICINE

Internal medicine refers to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the internal organs like heart, stomach, intestine, liver, spleen, kidney, lungs and others. With the help of the owners honest to goodness detailed history of signs observed and complaints, and with the aid of the physical examination, laboratory test results, radiographs and ultrasound, cases are evaluated, diagnosed and appropriate treatment or management is performed. Surgery, blood transfusions, fluid therapy, catheterization or oxygenation is done if necessary. Animals that need special attention or intensive care are hospitalized. Force-feeding or if necessary, tube feeding maybe done to supply the nutritional requirement of the animal.

Hospitalized animals are closely monitored day and night and provided with professional care and treatment. Cases that need urgent and specialized tests and care are sometimes sent directly to the Emergency Hospital for diagnosis and immediate treatment.

It is advisable to immediately bring your pet a veterinarian for a check up in case there is vomiting, diarrhea, gagging or coughing, inappetence, incoordination, seizures and other abnormal signs observed. Some diseases or problems are acute and may cause serious problems or even death. Before doing or giving anything to your pet, it is better to call your veterinarian first and make sure that the animal is kept in warm temperature with good ventilation.

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SURGERY (LASER SURGERY)

Surgeries are mostly performed under general anesthesia. Any animal subjected to any surgical procedure might be at risk but the risks of general anesthesia are usually greater than the surgery itself. Pre- anesthetic blood tests are usually required before any surgical procedure is to be performed especially for senior animals (7 years or older). This blood test is recommended to identify any existing medical problem and to ensure that anesthetic risk will be avoided or at least minimized. Preparing the animal for surgery also matters. Withholding food 12 hours prior to surgery will prevent vomiting and inhaling gastric contents during the surgery. Updated vaccinations and check up two weeks before the anticipated date of surgery will also help minimize surgical and anesthetic risks.

Cost, length of surgery and recovery periods depend on the procedure performed, the age of the animals and the anesthesia used. Using laser technology in performing surgeries is highly recommended these days for many advantages.

Why subject your animal to more painful procedure? LASER SURGERY is commonly used since this technology provides countless benefits as compared to the “old” scalpel procedure. The laser emitted by the Laser Machine cuts and seals the nerve endings and blood vessels thus preventing pain and at the same time coagulates blood as it precisely cut the tissues. Bleeding is less or most of the time no bleeding at all. Wound heals faster and infection is minimized since heat emitted by the laser kills the bacteria. Moreover, the procedure is done faster since less bleeding management by ligatures of blood vessels and clamping are not necessary anymore with the use of laser technology.

Post-operative management is still important and well taken cared off since environment and activities of the animal might affect healing of the wound even the procedure is properly done.

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SPAY

Spaying is the term applied to the procedure removing the uterus and ovaries of a female animal. It is done to prevent the animal being bred and produce off-springs afterwards. Intact female cats will come into heat every 21 days on the average and every 6 months for dogs. This stage of heat will last for a week and the animal will become very uneasy and very vocal trying to find a mate, which can be very disturbing and annoying. They will try to get loose or get out of the house, which is very dangerous and might not come back for some days. As they grow older, intact animals will have a higher tendency of having infection in the uterus (pyometra) or may have hormonal imbalance, which might lead to cysts or tumor growth in the reproductive organs. These consequences will require more complicated surgery, which may be costly and risky.

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NEUTER

Intact male dogs and cats are hard to keep indoors. They may want to go out and find a mate especially if they can sense that there is a female animal in the area, which is in heat. They may become territorial and may fight other pets and might mark territories urinating or spraying everywhere frequently. Prostate problems and tumors associated with uncastrated males are common. The testicles are removed in this procedure on male animals at 6 months of age or before they reach sexual maturity.

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COSMETIC SURGERY

Not all veterinarians perform these types of surgeries for some reasons. May it be personal or professional, these procedures are still performed by some even there are some controversies on the issue. The procedures are not only done for aesthetic reasons but some are done for treating some injuries and abnormalities that require surgical intervention. The most common surgeries under this category are ear cropping, declawing and tail docking.

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EAR CROPPING

This procedure is performed mainly in dogs of selected breeds. Surgery is performed around 12 weeks old under general anesthesia. The length and shape of the cut depends on the breed of the dog unless the owner has other preference. Bandaging and splinting for a period of time is a major factor to get the ears to stand. Post-operative care at home is very important in this kind of procedure. The owner is mostly responsible during this period. Re-bandaging is sometimes necessary depending on how the post-operative care is managed.

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TAIL DOCKING / DEW CLAW REMOVAL

Tail docking and dew-claw removal is best performed on puppies between 3-5 days. These procedures does not require anesthesia unless the puppy is older. The length of the tail to be cut is breed specific unless tail docking is necessary due to injuries or abnormalities. Some breeds also have standards on dew claw but more importantly, dew-claws are removed to prevent injuries especially for working, hunting and herding dogs.

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DE-CLAWING

De-clawing is usually done in cats at 6 months old. Most of the owners have it done at the same time spaying or neuter is performed. This procedure requires general anesthesia and cats stay in the hospital for two nights for observation. Special litter is recommended for the first two weeks to prevent infections and complications. It is advisable that de-clawed cats are kept indoors for their own safety. Cats with their front claws de-clawed can still climb up on trees.

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ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

Orthopedic Surgery Service at Riverdla Animal Hospital offers comprehensive surgical care for dogs and cats with orthopedic conditions. Radiographic imaging is done at once to identify and evaluate the problem. If further diagnosis is needed, such as biopsy and ultrasound imaging, clients will be advised for the scheduled procedure. Some more complicated cases are referred to specialists and surgeries are done either at RAH or in other orthopedic hospitals.

After the surgical procedure is performed, patients are housed in cages or runs and given full attention and care to comfort them. Most of the animals are cage rested but if necessary, and the conditions permit, patients are taken outside for a walk or exercise daily for easy recovery.

Any signs of limping, lameness or immobility should be given immediate attention and be consulted to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

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DENTAL PROPHYLAXIS, EXTRACTION AND SURGERY

Like humans, our pets need dental attention too. Brushing their teeth and feeding the recommended food are sometimes not enough to ensure that your pet has healthy teeth and gums. Tartar and plaques constantly accumulate on the surface of the teeth and can cause tooth decay, gingivitis and periodontal disease, which is more common on dogs and cats more than 4 years old. Unnoticed, this condition might cause or complicate problems on the heart, kidneys, liver and joints too. Immune system will also be compromised and might lead to some other diseases. It is advisable to have your pet undergo a professional check up at least once a year to ensure healthy gums and teeth.

Dental Prophylaxis and extraction, if necessary, is performed under general anesthesia. Preparation is similar to any surgical procedure. Dental machine with ultrasonic scaler and polisher is used. Teeth and gums are well evaluated and extraction is done depending on the gravity of the problem. Wounds are sutured if necessary. Sometimes, tooth is spared from being extracted with the help of special gels applied on gaps between teeth and gums. Antibiotics, pain medication, mouthwash and gels and special food are recommended after dental prophylaxis and extractions are done to maintain good health on teeth, gums and mouth.

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DERMATOLOGY

The skin is the largest organ of the body and is always exposed to the external environment. Due to numerous factors that can cause skin problems in an animal, diagnosis and treatment is not that simple. From a simple scratch, insect bite or allergy to more complex conditions like endocrine disorders and congenital defects, diagnosis and treatment are sometimes complicated and costly. Aside from the skin, diseases on the ears and nails are included in this category.

Simple skin scrapings, swabs for culture and sensitivity, biopsies, allergy testing and blood tests are done to help in the diagnosis of the disease. Duration of antibiotic treatment applied topically, given orally or parenterally is usually longer as compared to the usual antibiotic treatment for other diseases. Supportive medication and supplements like omega fatty acids and vitamins are given aside from additional topical medications in the form of creams, ointments or even medicated shampoos. Special food is usually recommended for some dermatological cases.

Loss of hair, itchiness, reddening or discoloration of the skin, lumps, greasy or dryness of skin are the most common signs of skin problem or disease. It is advisable not to do anything at all before presenting your pet for a check up to the veterinarian.

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OPTHALMOLOGY

It is advisable to bring your pet to the veterinarian for a check up if you notice that your pet has some abnormal discharge from the eye or redness and discoloration. Aside from very obvious wound or bleeding, more alarming are signs of winking, blinking, light sensitivity, difficulty in maneuvering and bumping to walls or objects. These are the most common signs of eye problem and need to be addressed as soon as possible. Opthalmology relies heavily on the veterinarian’s ability to visualize and recognize ocular features and abnormalities.

The hospital has experienced staff and equipments to diagnose and treat ophthalmic diseases even performing surgeries to improve vision and restoring eyesight thus making the quality of your pet’s life better.

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DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGY

Radiograph is the mage produced by the X-rays or electronic radiations that passes through the patient body or body parts. The picture is assessed and interpreted by veterinarians to diagnose certain diseases, abnormalities, detect foreign bodies and even fractures on bones of your pets. Radiography is an indispensable part of the diagnostic work-up in small animal practice. Progress in bone fracture healing and obstruction in the gastro intestinal system can be assessed by series of radiographs taken. Gastric passage or emptying is monitored using contrast medium. Bladder stones and urinary tract obstructions by radio-opaque materials can also be detected using radiograph. Also, radiographs are used as guide or aid in interpreting images of diagnostic ultrasonography or in conjunction with other diagnostic tools to identify or diagnose the problem.

High-resolution radiographs are taken and developed at RAH which helps in quick diagnosis of certain health problems.

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DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASONOGRAPHY

Ultrasonography is an integral part of resources in small animal disease diagnosis. Ultrasound Imaging is a non-invasive technology that can provide details of images of organs, tissues, abnormal growths and even foreign bodies inside the body. Sizes of organs or tissues can be measured, interpreted and assessed using ultrasound. More accurate diagnosis of any disease or abnormalities in your pet is achieved leading to a more precise treatment or management.

A new and sophisticated model of ultrasound machine is available at RAH used as aid to diagnose certain health issues and diseases.

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DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY

The hospital is also equipped with an in-house laboratory capable of doing basic blood works such as Complete Blood Count and Clinical Chemistry Test. Also, fecal test, urine test, antigen tests for Heartworm, FIV and FIP, microscopic diagnosis of mites and endo and ecto parasites can also be done. Tests are done immediately to provide quick diagnosis. There are instances that some samples are sent to a diagnostic laboratory for testing in case RAH laboratory is not capable of doing the tests for some reasons.

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FOOD, FEEDING AND NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING

Every dog, cat or any animal has unique nutritional needs depending on the age, health condition and the level of activity they do everyday. Feeding each pet either less or much more than the required nutritional needs can negatively affect growth, performance and health. Especially for dogs, level of activity differs from each breed. Some breeds are used for show, hunting, herdings aside form the very wide range of sizes depending on the breed. Cats compared to dogs have the ability to utilize high levels of fats and require niacin and more vitamin B. Household with 2 or more pets especially those with dogs and cats together are more likely to have problems in respect to feeding and nutritional issues.

Lifestage nutrition is a very common knowledge that most of the time neglected by pet owners. Shifting to another kind of food when the pet reaches a different stage in life is very important. From puppy/kitten, to adult, and to senior age, each kind of food is changed in each life stage. Pregnant, nursing, active animals and those with health problems are also given different kind of ration. Spaying or neutering your pet will also affect activity and metabolism and feeding should also be decreased and given attention.

The RAH Team are well adept of the nutritional needs of your pet. The main goal of the team is to help and assist owners in providing information on pet nutrition and feeding. Making appropriate recommendations to the client depending on their pet’s needs to prevent health problems. Prescription diets, aside from the regular food for dogs and cats are available in the hospital. Regular visit to the hospital to monitor the weight of your pet is highly appreciated.

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BOARDING

The hospital has boarding facilities to provide clean and comfortable environment for your pets while you are on vacation or spending your holidays. Cages and runs are safe for their stay. Dogs are walked daily on a nearby park. Playing, cuddling and petting are always provided and each guest is always given undivided attention and care.

We require vaccination against major canine and feline diseases especially Rabies and Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough). Updated endo-parasite and ecto-parasite control is recommended. Animals are checked by our veterinarians and given immediate treatments if necessary. Boarding animals with regular daily medications are given full attention and made sure that their medications are given on time by our staff.

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GROOMING

We believe that personal hygiene is essential to our health and of course to our pet’s health too. Proper and regular grooming does not only refer to washing the dirt off nor removing obvious imperfections in one’s appearance but also, preventing some dermatological problems that might go unnoticed in time. With our experienced groomer and stylist, and with the help of our staff and veterinarians, any dermatological issue seen before and during grooming is reported to their owners at once. The problem is discussed and addressed properly.

Full Service Grooming includes bathing, trimming or shaving hair, ear cleaning and nail trim. Other health related services such as vaccination, parasite control and anal gland check are done at the same time as requested by the owner. We require vaccination against major canine and feline diseases especially Rabies and Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough).

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ANIMAL IDENTIFICATION (MICROCHIP)

Microchip is an electronic “chip” implanted under the skin of an animal used for identification. The microchip is designed to last the lifetime of your pet and needs no replacement at all. Microchip when scanned will provide a unique alpha numeric code assigned to your pet. Aside from identifying your pet when your pet got lost and picked up by animal control officers, microchipping helped a lot in easier record keeping, pet registration and travel documentation. When traveling, microchipped animals are easily inspected and identified.
The hospital is an authorized microchipping center that uses microchips that can be scanned and read by scanners used by animal control officers, in shelters and inspectors in different ports of other countries.

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HOUSE CALLS, PICK UP AND DELIVERY

Riverdale Animal Hospital provides some in-home veterinary services for your dogs and cats upon request. In some special cases, transportation services are provided for pets that require medical treatment in the hospital.

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CREMATION

Our hospital offers cremation services for your pet. The remains are sent to a reputable pet memorial company that performs all services regarding pet cremation and memorial services. Special cremation can be requested and the company will return the ashes or cremains of your pet in cedar or ceramic urns with a personalized certificate of cremation and paw prints. Special urns and framed paw prints are also provided upon request and will be charged accordingly for a reasonable price.

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