Swan Valley Veterinary Clinic

Box 388
Swan River, MB R0L 1Z0

(204)734-4565

swanvalleyvetclinic.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions/answers that we are frequently asked. If you have additional questions that aren't covered here, please feel free to give us a call at (204)734-4565.

1. What are the Hospital hours?:

   Our hospital is open Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 5:00pm. The clinic is closed on Saturday and Sunday.

2. Do I need to have an appointment?

    Yes, patients are seen by appointment.  If you have a veterinary emergency, please call the clinic to let us know you are coming so we can be better prepared to meet the needs of your pet upon arrival.

3. What forms of payment do you accept?

     Cash, Mastercard and Visa

4. Can I make payments?

    Payment is required at the time of service.

5. At what age can I have my pet spayed or neutered?

   For most pets spaying or neutering should be done at approximately 6 months of age.  There is now evidence that the incidence of certain diseases, such as bone tumors, are higher in large breed dogs spayed or neutered at a young age.  Younger animals tend to recover more rapidly from anesthetic than older animals.  Surgery time is reduced in younger animals as there is less body fat.  Younger animals also heal faster after surgery than older animals.  To determine when your pet should be spayed or neutered, discuss the risks and benefits with our veterinarians.  Your pet is given an exam prior to surgery to help determine whether your pet is healthy enough to undergo the surgical procedure. Current vaccinations are recommended at the time of surgery. Also a pre-anesthetic blood screen may be recommended prior to undergoing anesthesia and surgery.

6.  What is the pre-anesthetic blood screening?

   This is a blood test that is run here in the clinic prior to surgery. It tests the organ functions, blood counts and clotting function of your pet. The pre-anesthetic blood screening is done to assure safety during surgery and the ability to heal following surgery.

7. How long do the sutures stay in after my pet's surgery?

   The sutures used in most elective procedures (such as spays and neuters) dissolves over time.  When non-dissolving sutures are used, they need to be removed in 14 days following the surgery.

8.  Is it a good idea to let my pet have at least one litter?

    No, there is no advantage to letting your pet have one litter. However there are plenty of advantages to having you pet spayed or neutered. These advantages include decreasing the chances of breast tumors later in life, decreasing the chance of cystic ovaries and uterine infections later in life, decreasing the desire to roam the neighborhood, decreasing the incidence of prostate cancer later in life, helping prevent spraying and marking, and also decreases the surplus of unwanted puppies and kittens.

9.  Do you board pets?

   No, we do not offer boarding services at this time.  If your animal has specific medical needs, boarding may be considered.  Call our receptionist to discuss.

10.  What are your kennels like?

   Our dog kennels are indoor. We also have 2 outdoor dog runs.  The dogs are walked 3 times daily while they are in hospital.  Blankets and food are provided for our patients.