Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions relating to your pet's care?

While it's true that a one - on - one with your veterinarian is the best way to answer these questions, with answers more specific to your individual pet, we have compiled a list of some of our most frequently asked questions...

​Should I consider Pet Insurance?

We all want to protect our pets from harm, but no matter how much love and care we provide, accidents and illness will still happen and are  often out of our control.  Pet Insurance removes financial constraints.  Pet Insurance can give you confidence and peace of mind, knowing that you can provide your pet with the very best veterinary treatment and care. 

Do I need to book an appointment?

At the Animal Health Centre we see patients by appointment.  However, we know that emergencies can come out of nowhere and so we do offer an emergency service.  This service can be reached after clinic hours by calling (709) 639-7052.  During clinic hours we see emergency appointments as they arise.  We also offer a drop off service for clients who are unable to stay for an appointment.  For a regular scheduled appointment or for drop off service please call (709) 639-7051.

Do We Have Rabies in Newfoundland?

Rabies is a fatal disease of mammals including humans.  Rabies is usually spread by the bite of an infected animal. In Canada the primary host species may vary from fox to skunk or bat.

The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador is predominantly exposed to fox rabies that exists on a permanent basis in Labrador.  The Island of Newfoundland has had two outbreaks in recent history (1988 & 2002/03). Another form of rabies of concern is bat rabies.  Bat rabies exists wherever bats exist.  We have bat rabies in Newfoundland and Labrador.

We at the Animal Health Centre recommend vaccinating your dog and cat against the rabies virus.  Not only is the rabies vaccination a way to help keep your pet healthy but it also helps keep you and your family safe.

My dog/cat is slowing down, isn't that just because he is getting old?

Our pets age at a much faster rate than we do, however, they lack the verbal communication skills to voice their ailments.  Animals do not cry out or complain about their aches and pains. Owners often assume that their dog or cat is sleeping more, less active, and/or losing weight because they are "old".  Old age is not an illness and these changes in behavior and weight are often the first signs that your pet is suffering from an illness. Conditions like arthritis, dental disease, and weight gain/loss can come on so slowly that you may not notice the signs until the disease has really progressed.  Discuss with one of our veterinarians the subtle changes you are noticing so that we can ensure your pet's senior years are happy, healthy and pain free.