Category: Blog

Siamese cats are one of the most recognizable and beloved cat breeds in the world, known for their striking blue eyes, sleek bodies, and vocal personalities. But behind their elegant appearance lies a predisposition to certain health challenges, particularly respiratory issues. Understanding why Siamese cats are more prone to these problems can help owners provide… Continue reading Why Siamese Cats Are More Prone To Respiratory Issues

When most people think about vaccines for cats, they picture a kitten getting a series of shots at their first vet visit. But what about indoor cats who rarely go outside? Do they still need the full lineup of vaccines? The answer might surprise you. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we believe that every cat, even… Continue reading Vaccines For Cats: Which Ones Your Indoor Cat Actually Needs

When people think of dental problems in dogs, they often imagine a big Labrador with a messy mouth or a chewed-up chew toy. What’s less obvious is that small and toy breeds face unique dental challenges that can seriously affect their health. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we see it all the time: tiny teeth, big risks. If… Continue reading Small Dog, Big Dental Problems: Why Toy Breeds Need Extra Oral Care

Active breeds bring energy, enthusiasm, and loyalty, but their zest for life comes with unique health challenges. In this guide, we explore why these dogs are at risk, how to spot early warning signs, and practical steps to keep them healthy and injury-free. The Physiology Behind High-Energy Breeds Labs, Shepherds, and other active breeds are… Continue reading Why Active Breeds Like Labs and Shepherds Are at Risk

German Shepherds are one of the most beloved dog breeds in Canada, admired for their loyalty, intelligence, and versatility. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we see many of these magnificent dogs, and while their temperament makes them wonderful companions, they are also prone to certain health challenges. Understanding these issues early can help you provide a… Continue reading Health Challenges Every German Shepherd Owner Should Know

Many cat owners are surprised to learn that diabetes is fairly common in cats—especially as they get older, gain weight, or become less active. But because cats are masters at hiding illness, the early signs often go unnoticed. By the time it becomes obvious, their blood sugar may already be dangerously out of balance. At Renfrew Animal… Continue reading Does Your Cat Have Diabetes? The Subtle Signs Owners Miss

Small dogs come with big personalities—but also with tiny mouths that can cause a surprising number of problems. Many pet parents are shocked to learn that dental disease can start in small dogs as early as age 2, even if their pup seems perfectly healthy. What’s worse? These early signs are often missed until there’s… Continue reading Dental Disease in Small Dogs: Why It Starts So Young

You’ve got the food bowls, the squeaky toys, the teeny-tiny collar, and enough pee pads to wallpaper a small room. But even the most prepared new puppy parents often overlook a few crucial things that make the early weeks smoother, healthier, and a lot less stressful. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we meet excited new pet parents… Continue reading The New Puppy Checklist (That Most People Forget)

The rise of grain-free dog food didn’t come out of nowhere. As human food trends leaned toward gluten-free and paleo, many pet parents started questioning what grains were doing in their dog’s kibble. Pet food brands responded with glossy labels promising “ancestral” or “biologically appropriate” diets—many of them proudly grain-free. But here’s the catch: dogs… Continue reading The Truth About Grain-Free Dog Diets: Hype, Harm, or Helpful?

That long, flowing show coat you see on TV? It’s undeniably stunning—but it’s not always realistic for the average Shih Tzu owner. Maintaining that signature look takes daily brushing, specialized grooming tools, and serious dedication. And if you’re in Vancouver, where rain and damp sidewalks are the norm for much of the year, things get… Continue reading The Shih Tzu Grooming Dilemma: Short Cut or Show Coat?