Medical Services for Dogs and Cats in East Vancouver

Renfrew Animal Hospital provides a full range of medical services for dogs and cats in East Vancouver, addressing ongoing health conditions, acute illnesses, and complex internal medicine cases. Our team takes a thorough approach to each patient, beginning with a careful medical assessment before recommending any course of care. Whether your pet is experiencing a skin condition, a heart concern, chronic pain, or a hormonal imbalance, we work with you to develop a management plan that reflects your pet's individual needs, lifestyle, and health history. We are open seven days a week at 1801 Renfrew St, Vancouver.

Dermatology and Skin Conditions

Skin problems are among the most common reasons dogs and cats are brought to the veterinary clinic. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we assess and manage a range of dermatological conditions, including environmental and food-related allergies, bacterial and yeast infections, parasitic skin disease such as mange, and chronic conditions such as atopic dermatitis. Our approach begins with a thorough history and physical examination, often supported by skin scraping or cytology, to identify the underlying cause rather than simply addressing surface symptoms.

Cardiology and Heart Conditions

Heart conditions in dogs and cats can often be managed effectively when identified early. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, our team listens carefully for heart murmurs and arrhythmias during every physical examination. When a cardiac concern is identified, we may recommend chest X-rays, electrocardiography, or referral to a veterinary cardiologist for more complex cases. Early identification of heart disease allows us to begin monitoring and management before significant changes to heart function occur, supporting a better quality of life for your pet.

Pain Management

Chronic pain in dogs and cats often develops gradually and may not be immediately obvious from behavior alone. Conditions such as arthritis, intervertebral disc disease, and post-surgical soreness can all significantly affect your pet's comfort and daily activity level. Our team assesses pain through physical examination, gait evaluation, and your observations at home. We develop individualized pain management plans using a multimodal approach, addressing both the source of the discomfort and your pet's overall comfort. We also provide guidance on environmental modifications to support your pet at home.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition in which the hip joint does not form correctly, leading to progressive looseness, inflammation, and arthritis over time. It is most common in large and giant breed dogs, though it can affect smaller dogs and cats as well. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we assess hip dysplasia through physical examination and X-rays. Management options depend on the severity and your pet's age and overall health, ranging from weight management and supportive care to surgical evaluation and referral when appropriate.

Kidney and Renal Health

Kidney conditions in dogs and cats can develop as congenital conditions or progress gradually over time as part of aging. Renfrew Animal Hospital monitors kidney function through regular bloodwork, urinalysis, and blood pressure assessment. When kidney disease is identified, we work with you to develop a management plan that includes dietary adjustments, fluid support, and close monitoring to preserve kidney function and maintain quality of life for as long as possible. Early identification through routine screening gives us the best opportunity to intervene before significant progression occurs.

Anxiety Management

Behavioral anxiety in dogs and cats can manifest as destructive behavior, house soiling, excessive vocalization, or withdrawal. Common triggers include separation from their owners, loud events, travel, and changes in the household environment. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we take a comprehensive approach to anxiety management, beginning with a detailed behavioral history and physical assessment to rule out any underlying medical contributions. We develop management strategies tailored to your pet's specific triggers, including environmental modifications and behavioral guidance.

Medical Assessment

A medical assessment at Renfrew Animal Hospital is a comprehensive evaluation of your pet's current health status. It is appropriate for pets with new or changing symptoms, pets starting a new management plan, or those whose condition has not been evaluated recently. During a medical assessment, your veterinarian conducts a full physical examination and reviews your pet's history, current lifestyle, and any observed changes at home. Diagnostic testing may be recommended based on examination findings, with results guiding a clear, personalized care recommendation.

Geriatric Pet Management

As pets age, their health needs shift and the management of multiple concurrent conditions becomes more common. Our geriatric pet management services are designed for senior dogs and cats with established conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, cardiac conditions, cognitive changes, or weight management challenges. We create individualized management plans that balance quality of life with realistic health goals, taking into account your pet's comfort, appetite, activity level, and overall wellbeing. Regular monitoring appointments allow us to adjust the plan as your pet's needs evolve.

Specialist Referrals

Some conditions benefit from the expertise of a board-certified veterinary specialist. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we work with specialist services in areas including oncology, cardiology, dermatology, and advanced orthopedic surgery. When we believe your pet would benefit from specialist input, we provide a thorough referral with all relevant records and diagnostic results, and we remain involved in your pet's ongoing care. Our referral service is designed to ensure continuity of care, with clear communication between our team and the specialist throughout the process.

Explore More

Pet diagnostics for medical assessments and bloodwork

Surgical services for conditions requiring surgery

End-of-life care and comfort planning for senior pets

FAQs

How can I tell if my dog or cat is in pain?
Dogs and cats often mask pain instinctively. Signs to watch for include reduced activity, changes in posture or gait, decreased appetite, increased grooming of a specific area, changes in sleeping patterns, or withdrawal from interaction. If you notice any of these changes, a medical assessment can help determine whether pain is a contributing factor.
What skin conditions are most common in dogs in the Vancouver area?
Environmental allergies are particularly common in the Lower Mainland due to the year-round moisture and diverse plant life in the region. Dogs may develop seasonal or year-round itching, paw licking, ear infections, or recurring skin infections. Food allergies, parasitic skin disease, and contact dermatitis are also seen regularly. A dermatology assessment at Renfrew Animal Hospital can help identify the specific cause.
My senior cat has started drinking more water. Should I be concerned?
Increased thirst in a senior cat is a common early sign of several conditions, including hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes. Each of these conditions is manageable when identified early. We recommend scheduling a medical assessment that includes bloodwork and urinalysis, as early findings give us the most options for management.
When should my pet be referred to a specialist?
Your veterinarian will recommend a specialist referral when a condition exceeds the scope of general practice, when specialized equipment is required, or when you would benefit from a second opinion on a complex case. Common referral situations include advanced cardiac disease, oncology assessment, and complex dermatology cases. We provide all relevant records and remain available to support your pet’s care throughout the referral process.
Schedule a medical assessment for your dog or cat at Renfrew Animal Hospital in East Vancouver. Open seven days a week. Call (778) 737-1600 or book online at renfrewvet.com/make-an-appointment/.
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