Category: Blog

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?

French Bulldogs are adorable, charming, and full of personality—but they’re not built for heat. Their flat faces (or brachycephalic skull structure) mean they can’t cool themselves efficiently by panting, especially during hot, humid Vancouver summers. Unlike other breeds, Frenchies have shortened airways that make it harder for them to breathe and regulate body temperature. Even… Continue reading Why French Bulldogs Need Extra Summer Care in Vancouver

Pets are curious by nature, and they tend to get into things they shouldn’t. While it’s part of their charm, it can also lead to some serious health risks. Many common household items are toxic to pets, and even small amounts can cause harmful effects. As a pet owner, it’s important to be aware of… Continue reading Common Pet Toxins – What To Keep Out Of Reach

Choosing the right parasite prevention for your pet is one of the most important things you can do to keep them healthy. Parasites like fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms can cause serious health problems if left unchecked. Fortunately, there are many effective options available, but finding the right one can be a bit overwhelming.… Continue reading Choosing the right parasite prevention for your pet