Pet Health Blog | Dunbar Animal Hospital Vancouver

Senior Pet Care in Vancouver: Supporting Your Aging Dog or Cat

April 20, 2026

Dogs and cats are living longer than ever, thanks in part to advances in veterinary medicine, improved nutrition, and the attentive care of their owners. But as pets enter their

Puppy and Kitten Socialization Tips for Vancouver Pet Owners

April 12, 2026

Spring is one of the most popular times to welcome a new puppy or kitten into the family, and in Vancouver’s Dunbar-Southlands neighbourhood, the timing is ideal. Warmer weather, longer

Easter Lily Toxicity in Cats: A Guide for Vancouver Pet Owners

April 7, 2026

Spring in the Dunbar-Southlands neighbourhood brings blooming gardens along West 41st Avenue, fresh bouquets at Kerrisdale shops, and Easter arrangements on kitchen tables across Vancouver’s West Side. Among the most

Cat indoors at a Kerrisdale home near Dunbar Southlands Vancouver protected from spring fleas

Why March Is the Month to Start Flea Prevention | Kerrisdale and Dunbar Southlands Pet Guide

March 19, 2026

Flea prevention is one of those topics that tends to get addressed after a problem appears rather than before one develops. In the Kerrisdale and Dunbar Southlands area, where residential

Dog on leash walking SW Marine Drive trail near McCleery Golf Course in Dunbar Southlands Vancouver spring For dog owners in the Dunbar Southlands and Kerrisdale area, March marks the return of proper trail season. The SW Marine Drive corridor, McCleery Golf Course perimeter, and the green spaces along W 41st Ave offer excellent daily walks — and as the season shifts, these areas see increased foot traffic, wildlife activity, and environmental changes that are worth being aware of as a dog owner. At Dunbar Animal Hospital on W 41st Ave, we support the pets and families of the Southlands community, and spring safety is one of our most discussed topics at this time of year. What the SW Marine Drive Trail Environment Brings in March The trail areas adjacent to McCleery Golf Course and along SW Marine Drive include sections of naturalistic landscaping — shrubs, grassy margins, and wooded edges — that harbour fleas, ticks, and other seasonal wildlife more readily than open streets. March is when tick activity begins increasing meaningfully in Vancouver's west side. Dogs that explore off the main trail path, push through undergrowth, or roll in grass near the course perimeter are at greater exposure risk than dogs that walk on paved surfaces. After any trail walk in this area, checking your dog thoroughly — particularly around the neck, ears, between the toes, and under the collar — is a simple, practical habit. Wildlife Encounters and Waste Hazards on Southlands Trails The Dunbar Southlands area borders more naturalistic green space than much of urban Vancouver. Coyote activity, particularly in early spring when food sources are limited, is worth being aware of when walking dogs near McCleery in low-light hours. Geese return to the area in spring and their droppings — present along the trail margins — can be a source of gastrointestinal upset for dogs that investigate or ingest them during walks. Keeping dogs on leash in the early weeks of spring, when wildlife patterns are less predictable, is a practical precaution. If your dog shows signs of gastrointestinal upset after a trail walk — vomiting, loose stools, lethargy — contact your veterinarian. Frequently Asked Questions Q: How do I check my dog for ticks after a McCleery trail walk? A: Run your fingers through your dog's coat slowly, feeling for small bumps. Pay close attention to the ears, neck folds, armpits, groin area, between the toes, and around the tail. If you find something attached, contact your veterinarian for guidance. Q: My dog ate goose droppings on the trail — should I be concerned? A: Goose droppings can contain bacteria that cause gastrointestinal distress. A small amount ingested by an otherwise healthy adult dog often resolves without intervention, but if your dog develops prolonged vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, contact your vet. Q: Is Dunbar Animal Hospital open on weekends? A: Yes — Dunbar Animal Hospital is open Monday through Saturday 8:30am–8pm and Sunday 9am–8pm. Q: Does Dunbar AH offer parasite prevention? A: Yes. Your veterinarian can discuss the most appropriate parasite prevention plan for your dog's lifestyle and trail habits at your next visit. Book Your Appointment Spring trail season is here. Book your dog's wellness and parasite prevention check at Dunbar Animal Hospital. Find us at 3518 W 41st Ave, Dunbar Southlands. Call (604) 434-0018 or book at dunbarah.ca. Complimentary first exam for new clients. Published by the team at Dunbar Animal Hospital. This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health. Contact Dunbar Animal Hospital at (604) 434-0018.

Spring Trail Safety for Dogs Along SW Marine Drive and McCleery | A Dunbar Southlands Guide

March 19, 2026

For dog owners in the Dunbar Southlands and Kerrisdale area, March marks the return of proper trail season. The SW Marine Drive corridor, McCleery Golf Course perimeter, and the green

Why Winter Is Still Important for Preventive Vet Care

December 24, 2025

Introduction Winter is often viewed as a quieter season for pet health, with fewer outdoor risks and reduced activity levels. However, preventive veterinary care remains important throughout the colder months.

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