Ontario Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA)

07/14/2025

Dogs can contract kennel cough, a contagious respiratory disease, at places where canines congregate. Dogs can spread it to one another through airborne droplets, direct contact (e.g. touching noses) or contaminated surfaces, including water and food bowls. It’s very treatable in most cases, but it can be more severe in puppies and immunocompromised dogs. If you notice your pet coughing (often with a “honking” sound) or if you plan to introduce your dog to large groups of animals, speak with your veterinarian.

07/09/2025

Pets are family members, and dealing with unexpected medical care can be emotional and stressful. Find out how can help! Visit ovmapetinsurance.com for more information and a free quote.

07/07/2025

🦠 Have you found a tick on your pet? Ticks are unpleasant, but removing them promptly and properly helps prevent disease. Here's how to remove a tick safely:

1️⃣ Use fine-tipped tweezers – Grasp the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible.

2️⃣ Pull straight out – Use steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk, as it can cause parts to break off and stay in the skin.

3️⃣ Clean the area – Use soap and water or antiseptic on your dog’s skin and wash your hands thoroughly.

4️⃣ Dispose of the tick – Drop it in rubbing alcohol or seal it in a bag. Avoid squishing it!

5️⃣ Watch for signs – If you notice redness, swelling, or changes in your pet's behaviour, contact your veterinarian.

If you’re unsure or uncomfortable removing a tick, your veterinarian can help!

06/30/2025

Fireworks can be frightening for pets. In preparation for any fireworks displays happening in your area tomorrow, here are a few tips to help reduce your pet's anxiety and keep them comfortable.

06/26/2025

The Farley Foundation, OVMA's charitable arm, is hosting its annual Ride for Farley event on Saturday, Sept. 13 in Elmira, Ont.!

Learn more about how you can participate this year: farleyfoundation.org/events/

Mark your calendars and join us on Saturday, Sept. 13 in Elmira, Ont., for our annual Ride for Farley event! The Ride for Farley is an annual cycling fundraiser that brings veterinary professionals, community members and friends to cycle 50 kilometres in support of the Farley Foundation.

📢 New this year: the event will start in Elmira on the G2G Trail, travel west to Millbank and return to Elmira for lunch. We look forward to riding with everyone this year in this new location! To register online, visit farleyfoundation.org/events. Spread the word to your cyclist friends!

06/23/2025

It's officially summer, and while we love the sunshine, it’s important to remember that hot weather can be dangerous for our pets.

🚫 Never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes. On a warm day, the temperature inside a vehicle can soar to deadly levels in just moments—even with the windows cracked. If you see a pet in a hot car in distress, call 911.

Signs of heatstroke in pets include excessive panting or drooling, lethargy or confusion, and rapid heartbeat. If you think your pet has heatstroke, take them to your veterinarian immediately.

Help spread the word! Share this post to keep our furry friends safe all summer long.

06/21/2025

On June 21, for National Indigenous Peoples Day, we recognize and celebrate the history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis across Canada. Today is an opportunity to honour the rich cultures, traditions and contributions of Indigenous Peoples, past and present, who continue to shape the land we share.

As a veterinary community, we acknowledge the deep connection many Indigenous communities have with animals, the land and traditional knowledge. We're committed to listening, learning and supporting respectful, inclusive care for all.

📚 Take a moment today to learn more. Whether it’s attending a local event, reading Indigenous authors or exploring the history of the land you live on, every step matters in the journey toward understanding and reconciliation.

06/16/2025

In addition to providing you with worry-free protection for your pet, OVMA Pet Health Insurance also offers customers loyalty discounts. Visit ovmapetinsurance.com for more information and a free quote.

06/09/2025

Did you know that obesity is one of the most common diseases in dogs and cats, and it can cause a variety of health problems and shorten your pet's life? Your veterinarian will weigh your pet and can tell you if an adjustment in diet is needed to maintain a healthy weight.

06/04/2025

It’s National Pet Appreciation Week! This week is all about celebrating the furry, feathered or scaly companions who bring so much love, laughter and loyalty into our lives. How can you celebrate?

🐶 Treat them to their favorite snack.
🐱 Schedule a wellness checkup.
🐦 Try a new toy or enrichment activity.
🐢 Spend quality time together.

Leave a comment and tell us what makes your pet special!

06/02/2025

OVMA believes in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. 🏳️‍🌈

We acknowledge the struggles and challenges that many q***r and trans individuals continue to face, both within and outside the workplace, and we reaffirm our commitment to promoting acceptance, respect and equality for all as we continue to do the work necessary when it comes to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). OVMA members can visit our website for EDI resources. Together, we can work toward a future where equality and acceptance are the norm.

This Pride Month, let's celebrate love, individuality and the progress we've made, while also acknowledging the work that remains. We're proud to be an ally for the q***r and trans communities, and we'll continue to champion EDI in all aspects of our organization.

05/28/2025

Although common tick habitats include wooded areas, tall grasses and leaf litter, you can find a tick just about anywhere - even your own backyard. Since they can latch onto a host quite easily, it's important to always thoroughly tick check yourself and your pets, and use parasite prevention for your pets. Speak to your veterinarian to learn more about pets and tick safety.