Given the hot, dry summer we are having in BC, it seemed inevitable that forest fires would eventually affect the beautiful Kootenay Boundary region.  Seemingly overnight, we have become surrounded by fires with dense smoke hanging in the air, affecting us as well as our pets.  While we all know about the concerns surrounding air quality, the question for many of us is "should I be worried about my pets?". 

Our clinic has recently purchased a new digital X-ray system (both radiology and dental xrays). Having digital X-rays allows us to be more efficient when taking X-rays and the images are clearer giving us better results. The digital system is also more environmentally friendly and exposes staff and pets to less radiation and chemicals. Being digital also means we can quickly and easily e-mail X-rays to referring clinics.

You have found a tick on your animal, now what? Here are a few simple steps to removing a tick from your pet:

1. Grab a small container and some tweezer (or handy tick pickers if you have some, which you can get at your veterinary clinic). You may actually want to hold onto the tick for awhile in case your pet starts to show signs of any tick borne dieases. We can send the tick away for such analysis.

The staff of west kootenayanimal hospital is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. April Hahn to our team

Dr. Hahn graduated from the Ontario Veterinary college in 2007 and brings a wealth of experience to our practice.

Our team is excited to be working with Dr. Hahn and looks forward to introducing her to all of our clients and patients.