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Ear mites visible on microscope Parasites pose a significant threat to the health and well-being of dogs and cats in Saskatchewan. From external pests like ticks and fleas to internal parasites such as worms and protozoa, these unwelcome invaders can cause serious health issues if left untreated. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can help protect your furry friends year-round. Common Parasites in Saskatchewan Saskatchewan’s climate creates an environment where various parasites thrive. Some of the most common ones affecting pets include: Ticks  – Ticks are a growing concern in the province, especially in warmer months. They can transmit dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease and anaplasmosis. Checking your pet regularly for ticks and using preventive treatments is crucial. Fleas  – Fleas cause itching, allergic reactions, and can transmit tapeworms. They thrive in warm weather but can also survive indoors during colder months. Roundworms, Hookworms, and Tapeworms  – These intestinal parasites can be picked up from contaminated soil, infected prey, or fleas. They can cause digestive issues, weight loss, and other health problems. Giardia and Coccidia  – These microscopic parasites cause gastrointestinal distress in pets and can spread through contaminated water or feces. Mites – Ear mites are mainly found in cats, but dogs can also become infected by them. How to Protect Your Pets Use Preventive Medications  – Veterinary-prescribed parasite preventatives help protect pets from fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites. These are typically given monthly and are a key part of keeping your pet parasite-free. Perform Regular Checks  – Inspect your pet’s coat for ticks and fleas, especially after outdoor adventures. Look for signs of irritation, scratching, or skin abnormalities. Maintain a Clean Environment  – Regularly clean your pet’s bedding, vacuum your home, and dispose of feces properly to reduce the risk of parasite infestations. Visit Your Veterinarian  – Routine veterinary exams help detect and prevent parasites before they cause significant health issues. Your vet can recommend the best parasite prevention plan for your pet. Be Cautious in High-Risk Areas  – Avoid letting your pet drink from stagnant water, and be mindful of wooded or grassy areas where ticks and other parasites are more prevalent. The Importance of Year-Round Protection Many pet owners assume parasites are only a problem during warmer months, but some, like fleas and intestinal parasites, can persist year-round. Consistent prevention is essential to ensure your pet stays healthy and parasite-free no matter the season. Protecting your pets from parasites is an important part of responsible pet ownership. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, you can help keep your pets safe, comfortable, and healthy. If you have any concerns about parasites or need guidance on prevention, don’t hesitate to contact Bridge City Vet Rehab. Our team is here to help you create the best plan for your pet’s protection!

A happy dog receives PEMF treatment while comfortably nestled on its owner's lap. At Bridge City Vet Rehab, we offer advanced rehabilitation therapies to help dogs and cats recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve mobility in our vet clinic in Saskatoon. One of the most effective veterinary rehabilitation modalities we use is Pulse Electromagnetic Field (PEMF)Therapy. Our vet clinic uses PEMF technology to help pets recover from injury and surgery, manage pain, and improve mobility. our machine features cutting-edge technology that allows us to customize treatments based on the needs of each pet. PEMF uses electromagnetic waves to stimulate cellular repair and improve oxygenation. These low-frequency electromagnetic fields induce microcurrents in tissues, which leads to improved healing and decreased inflammation. Additionally, PEMF aids in tissue regeneration. We utilize two machines to support pets: -         MagnaWave system : available for in-clinic treatments or mobile. -       Assisi Loop portable system: available for at home treatments   Five Benefits of PEMF Therapy: Reduces pain and inflammation deep within tissues Improves joint mobility and flexibility Aids in bone healing and wound healing Reduces inflammation for chronic conditions such as arthritis At-home treatment option with Assisi Loop. If you’re unsure if PEMF therapy is right for your pet, our Bridge City Vet Rehab team is happy to help! Contact us today to schedule a consultation and create a personalized rehabilitation plan for your furry friend.

At Bridge City Vet Rehab, we offer advanced rehabilitation therapies to help dogs and cats recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve mobility in our vet clinic in Saskatoon. Two very effective veterinary rehabilitation modalities we use are Class IV Laser Therapy and Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) We have two machines that we utilize for pets: 1.     Summus Laser: in-clinic or house call 2.     MagnaWave PEMF: in-clinic or house call While laser and PEMF treatments promote healing and reduce inflammation, they work in different ways and maybe suited for different conditions. Let’s explore how they compare to help you understand which option may be better suited for your pet. How Laser Therapy Works Canine patient receiving Laser therapy Class IV laser therapy uses focused light energy to penetrate deep into tissues, stimulating cellular activity and enhancing circulation. The laser promotes increased oxygen and nutrient delivery to damaged areas while reducing inflammation and pain. Our vet clinic uses a Summus Laser , a top-tier device that allows customized treatments based on each pet’s needs. Read more about the benefits of laser therapy here https://www.bridgecityvetrehab.ca/post/five-benefits-of-laser-therapy-for-your-pet How PEMF Therapy Works Feline Patient receiving PEMF treatment on a PEMF mat Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF) uses electromagnetic waves to stimulate cellular repair and improve oxygenation. These low-frequency electromagnetic fields induce microcurrents in tissues, which leads to improved healing and decreased inflammation. Additionally, PEMF aids in tissue regeneration. We utilize the MagnaWave  system in our vet clinic and for house calls. We do have an option of an Assisi Loop  for owners who house calls or in clinic visits may not be an option. Please contact the clinic to inquire. Read more about the benefits of PEMF therapy here https://www.bridgecityvetrehab.ca/post/five-benefits-of-pulse-electromagnetic-field-pemf-therapy-for-your-pet Differences between Laser Therapy and PEMF Therapy Feature Laser Therapy PEMF Therapy Mechanism Light energy absorbed by mitochondria Electromagnetic waves modulate ion channels and cellular voltage Best for Acute injuries, post-surgical recovery, soft tissue pain, chronic Chronic conditions, joint issues, bone healing Pain relief Immediate and noticeable Gradual, builds over time Treatment time 5-15 minutes per session 10 minutes per session Portability In-clinic and portable option for at-home treatment In-clinic and portable option for at-home treatment Which Therapy is Right for Your Pet? Both laser therapy and PEMF therapy are excellent options for pain relief and healing, but the right choice depends on your pet’s specific needs. Laser therapy may provide immediate relief and faster recovery if your pet has an acute injury, recent surgery, or soft tissue pain. If your dog suffers from a chronic condition like arthritis, joint issues, or a bone injury, PEMF therapy may offer deeper, long-term benefits. In some cases, combining  both therapies  provides the best results, enhancing overall healing and comfort. If you’re unsure which therapy is right for your pet, our Bridge City Vet Rehab team is happy to help! Contact us today to schedule a consultation and create a personalized rehabilitation plan for your furry friend.

a video showing how laser therapy works At Bridge City Vet Rehab, we offer advanced rehabilitation therapies to help dogs and cats recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve mobility in our vet clinic in Saskatoon. One of the most effective veterinary rehabilitation modalities we use is  Laser Therapy. Laser therapy can be referred to by many different names: Low Level Light (LLLT) therapy, cold laser, Red light therapy, photobiomodulation. Our vet clinic uses a Summus Laser to help pets recover from injury and surgery, manage pain, and improve their mobility. It features cutting-edge technology that allows us to customize treatments based on the needs of each pet. Laser therapy uses focused light energy to penetrate deep into tissues, stimulating cellular activity and enhancing circulation. The laser promotes increased oxygen and nutrient delivery to damaged areas while reducing inflammation and pain. Five Benefits of Laser Therapy: Accelerates tissue healing after surgery or injury Reduces inflammation Provides pain relief Faster recovery by increasing blood circulation and oxygenation Non-invasive and pain free Different Types of Lasers Different types of lasers are used for different applications. The number associated with a laser indicates how powerful it is. Lasers range from classes 1-4. Class 3A: has a low wattage output such as a laser pointer Class 3B: has a higher output of wattage but can be purchased online and is typically used for superficial treatments Class 4: These lasers have a high wattage output (exceeding 0.5 watts). They are used for surgical or therapeutic purposes (like we use in our vet clinic) We use a class 4 laser in our vet clinic. Class 4 lasers are very powerful and can penetrate to joint depth. These machines should be used by trained professionals and require proper safety equipment. This is why we have you and your pet wear goggles! When Should Laser Therapy Not be Used There are a few scenarios when laser therapy should be avoided: - directly into the eye - over the abdomen of pregnant animals - over tumors - over the thyroid gland - on pediatric growth plates - or on pets who are photosensitive. If you’re unsure if laser therapy is right for your pet, our Bridge City Vet Rehab team is happy to help! Contact us today to schedule a consultation and create a personalized rehabilitation plan for your furry friend. 306-220-1256

Vaccinations are a crucial part of your pet’s healthcare routine, protecting them from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Whether you have a playful pup or a curious cat, ensuring they receive the right vaccines at the right time can help them live a long, healthy life. Why Are Vaccines Important? Vaccines work by stimulating your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight off specific diseases. Many of these diseases are highly contagious and can be fatal, making prevention through vaccination essential. Core and Non-Core Vaccines Some people may use the slang terms to describe vaccines such as puppy shots  or cat shots . Cats and dogs have different types of vaccines which are generally divided into two categories: core and non-core. Core Vaccines for Dogs Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs, regardless of lifestyle: Rabies:  A fatal disease that affects the nervous system and can spread to humans. Distemper:  A serious viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Parvovirus:  A highly contagious and deadly virus that causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Adenovirus (Hepatitis):  Affects the liver and can cause serious illness. Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your dog's lifestyle and risk factors: Bordetella (Kennel Cough):  Important for dogs that visit kennels, dog parks, or groomers. Leptospirosis:  A bacterial infection that can spread to humans and affect the kidneys and liver. Lyme Disease:  Recommended for dogs in some tick-prone areas. Canine Influenza:  Protects against respiratory illness, especially in social dogs. Core Vaccines for Cats Core vaccines are essential for all cats: Rabies:  A fatal disease that affects the nervous system and can spread to humans. Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper):  A highly contagious virus that affects the digestive and immune systems. Feline Herpesvirus & Calicivirus:  Causes severe respiratory infections in cats. Non-Core Vaccines for Cats Non-core vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle: Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV):  Important for cats that go outdoors or interact with other cats. When Should Pets Be Vaccinated? Puppies and kittens require a series of vaccinations starting at 8 weeks old, with booster shots given every few weeks until they reach 16 weeks of age. Adult pets need regular booster vaccines throughout their lives to maintain immunity. Are Vaccines Safe for Pets? Vaccines undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are safe and effective. The vast majority of pets experience no side effects or only mild ones, such as slight soreness at the injection site or temporary lethargy. Severe reactions are extremely rare but should be reported to your veterinarian. The benefits of vaccination in preventing deadly diseases far outweigh the minimal risks involved. If you have concerns about vaccine safety, our veterinary team is happy to discuss any questions you may have. Protect Your Pet with Vaccines Vaccinations are a simple and effective way to protect your pet from dangerous diseases. If you’re unsure about your pet’s vaccine schedule, our veterinary team is here to help. Contact us today to ensure your furry friend is up to date on their vaccinations!

As a responsible pet owner, one of the most important health decisions you’ll make for your dog is when to spay or neuter. Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are routine surgical procedures that help prevent unwanted litters, reduce health risks, and contribute to better behavior. But when is the best time to schedule this procedure? The answer can depend on several factors, including your dog’s breed, size, and overall health. Traditional Timing vs. New Recommendations For many years, the standard recommendation was to spay or neuter dogs around six months of age. However, recent research suggests that the best timing may vary based on a dog's breed and size. Small Dogs (Under 10 kg Adult Weight):  For smaller breeds, spaying or neutering around six months of age is generally appropriate. These dogs reach maturity faster, and early spaying/neutering can help prevent unwanted pregnancies and some health concerns. Medium Dogs (10-30 kg Adult Weight):  Dogs in this weight range may benefit from waiting until around 9 to 12 months of age before undergoing the procedure, as this allows for more balanced growth and development. Large and Giant Dogs (Over 30 kg Adult Weight):  Larger breeds mature more slowly, and early spaying or neutering may increase the risk of orthopedic issues, certain cancers, and other health concerns. Many veterinarians now recommend waiting until 12 to 18 months of age to allow full development before surgery. Health Benefits of a Spay or Neuter Spaying and neutering provide several health benefits, including: Spaying (Females):  Eliminates the risk of uterine infections (like pyometra) and significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumors, especially if done before the first heat cycle. Neutering (Males):  Reduces the risk of testicular cancer and decreases the likelihood of prostate problems later in life. Behavioral Benefits:  Neutered males are often less likely to roam, mark territory, or exhibit aggressive behaviors. Spayed females won’t go into heat, which can help prevent unwanted behaviors such as excessive vocalization and attraction of male dogs. Considerations for Delaying a Spay or Neuter While spaying and neutering provide significant benefits, delaying the procedure for large and giant breeds may reduce the risk of joint problems like hip dysplasia and certain cancers. If you choose to wait, be sure to discuss options for preventing accidental pregnancies with your veterinarian. Did You Know? Did you know that all spay's and neuters performed at Bridge City Vet Rehab receive a complimentary Laser. Laser therapy reduces inflammation and can reduce healing time. Stay tuned for our post on the benefits of Laser therapy in your pet. Talk to Your Veterinarian Every dog is unique, and the decision about when to spay or neuter should be made in consultation with your veterinarian. Factors such as breed, lifestyle, and health risks all play a role in determining the best timing for your pet. If you have questions or are ready to schedule your dog’s spay or neuter procedure, contact our clinic today! Our team is here to help ensure your pet stays happy and healthy for years to come. Bridge City Veterinary Rehabilitation