VCA Canada Central Saanich Animal Hospital

04/15/2026

We hear it every year. "I’ll start heartworm meds in July when the bugs are bad."

But here’s the reality for Canadian pets. Heartworm doesn't wait for Canada Day. Between urban hot spots (like sunny balconies and warm brick alleyways) and pets traveling to warmer climates, the risk of transmission can start weeks before the official mosquito season begins.

Why is spring shield month?

✅ An annual blood test ensures your pet hasn't carried an undiagnosed infection through the winter.
✅ Starting prevention in the early spring months builds a protective barrier before the peak mosquito swarm hits.
✅ It’s significantly easier (and far less costly) to prevent heartworm than it is to treat it.

Don't play catch-up with your pet’s health. 📥 Send us a message or give us a call to schedule your spring wellness check-up and heartworm test today!

04/10/2026

This story is one hop, skip, and a jump toward more full bellies!

In the heart of Ontario stands The Inn of the Good Shepherd - Sarnia, a refuge for those who are in need of food, shelter and other essentials. Through our program we joined forces with them to ensure that while the people in the neighbourhood are cared for, their beloved pets are not forgotten.

With help from our Mars, Incorporated friends we watched this come to life, and in just two short hours, over 50 neighbours were welcomed, each bringing a story of the deep bond they share with their animals.

By the end of the morning, every bag of food had found its way into a loving home. Beyond the supplies, we saw genuine smiles and felt the true impact of what happens when a community simply shows up for one another.💙

04/09/2026

Sometimes we have to resort to drastic measures to wake the Labradors up! 😂 Don’t worry, Miss Winnie got to eat all our play pieces once she was awake!

04/08/2026

👀 Eye spy...👀

Can you spot the ticks on Sully? 🤔

You may need to zoom in closely to see them. 🔍🐶

Even though it is winter, it is important to think thermometer 🌡️, NOT calendar. 📆

can be active in colder weather when protected under snow, leaf litter, and brush. Deer ticks (those that can potentially transmit Lyme disease) become active and seek hosts when temperatures reach 4 degrees Celsius or warmer. This means they can be active year round in some locations. ❄️

The good news is you can help protect your pets BEFORE exposure. Stay informed about the tick risk in your area and ask us how to help prevent and protect your pet from ticks. 💙

04/05/2026

Happy Easter! We hope you are all enjoying this beautiful long weekend! We will be back in clinic again tomorrow (April 6th)!

04/01/2026

Our friends at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea are hosting their fundraising gala on May 9th! Proceeds go towards their ocean education initiatives. You can purchase tickets online, at the Aquarium or from us!

https://www.salishseacentre.org/events/2026/5/9/fundraiser-a-night-of-magic

03/30/2026

03/28/2026

I want to apologize to anyone who received our parasite prevention email multiple times. There was a system glitch! Technology doesn't always behave the way it should! -Kim, Hospital Manager of Central Saanich Animal Hospital

03/25/2026

We are proud to announce Central Saanich Animal Hospital just passed our AAHA re-accreditation! AAHA hospitals undergo accreditation checks every 3 years to ensure they are still meeting AAHA standards. We have proudly been AAHA accredited since 1991!

03/25/2026

Ziva is showing off some of her favorite tricks today 🐶, but Pogo wanted to make sure everyone knows that dogs aren't the only ones who can master the art of the "ask." 🐱

While these moments are adorable, they are actually doing something incredible for our pets' neuro-brain health. Trick training is one of the most effective ways to promote .

Learning a new behavior creates new neural connections. This "brain plasticity" is vital for keeping pets sharp as they age, helping to stave off cognitive dysfunction. For a dog like Ziva, following a complex command requires intense focus and impulse control, which engages the prefrontal cortex.

For Pogo, "tricks" aren't just for show, they engage a cat’s natural problem-solving instincts. It provides a healthy outlet for their predatory drive, reducing stress and anxiety.

Training isn't just about "good manners", it’s about building a resilient, healthy brain. Plus, the bond it builds between you and your pet is the best "side effect" of all. 😉

What is your pet’s favourite or most impressive trick? 👇

03/25/2026

Do you know where your Golden Retriever is? There is one found running scared and loose!

03/25/2026

We got a new look! After what seemed like a never ending construction project, our new siding is done! Thank you to all our clients who supported us through the intermittent parking lot closures and construction noises.