Joshua Creek Animal Hospital

07/30/2026

No explanation needed.

Go ahead, we know you've got hundreds of photos on your phone. Drop your favorite picture of your cat in the comments. We'd love to see them!

07/28/2026

Almost never. Cats don't have accidents to "get back at" their owners.

Instead, they're usually trying to tell us something is wrong. Common causes include:
🚽 Urinary tract infections
🪨 Bladder stones
😿 Stress or anxiety
🦴 Arthritis or pain
🧹 Litter box issues

A cat that repeatedly goes in and out of the litter box, strains to urinate, or produces little to no urine could have a urinary blockage, a life-threatening emergency, especially in male cats. If your cat suddenly stops using the litter box, don't punish them. Schedule a veterinary visit to find the underlying cause.

📞 We're here to help: (905) 257-6630.

07/27/2026

Let's be honest...

To your dog, you're the favorite person in the world. You're the food provider, the walking buddy, the toy thrower, and the source of endless belly rubs.

If your dog had to describe you in one word, what do you think it would be?

Share your answer in the comments, we'd love to hear it!

07/24/2026

While cats are descended from desert animals, today's house cats still rely on you to help keep them safe during hot weather.

Cats have limited ways to cool themselves. Unlike people, they only sweat through their paw pads and rely on grooming (evaporative cooling) to lower their body temperature. If they begin panting, they're already struggling to cool down, and it shouldn't be ignored.

Help your cat stay safe by keeping them indoors during the hottest parts of the day, providing plenty of fresh water, and making sure they always have access to cool, shaded areas.

📞 If you have questions about keeping your cat safe this summer, call us at (905) 257-6630.

07/23/2026

Panting is how dogs cool themselves, so it's normal after exercise or time outdoors. However, excessive panting isn't always caused by the heat.

Heavy panting can also be a sign of pain, heart disease, respiratory disease, anxiety, heat exhaustion, or heatstroke. If your dog is panting heavily while resting, can't seem to settle down, or is acting weak, lethargic, or distressed, they should be examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

If you're unsure whether your dog's panting is normal, give us a call at (905) 257-6630.

07/21/2026

It might be, but don't assume hot weather is the only reason.

Some cats eat a little less during the summer, but drinking significantly more water while eating very little is not something to ignore.

Excessive thirst can be an early sign of serious medical conditions like:
💧 Kidney disease
💧 Diabetes
💧 Hyperthyroidism

Cats also shouldn't go long without eating. Even 24–48 hours without enough food can put them at risk for a dangerous liver condition called hepatic lipidosis.

If your cat's appetite has dropped, they're drinking much more than usual, or they're acting differently, it's time to schedule an exam. Have questions? Give us a call at (905) 257-6630.

07/21/2026

07/20/2026

Not always. For many double-coated breeds, including Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds, the coat actually helps insulate against heat and protects the skin from harmful UV rays.

Shaving these breeds can increase their risk of:
☀️ Sunburn
🌡️ Overheating
🐕 Coat damage as it grows back

Instead:
✔️ Brush out loose undercoat regularly.
✔️ Keep plenty of fresh water available.
✔️ Avoid the hottest part of the day.
✔️ Provide shade and air conditioning whenever possible.

Not every breed is the same, so if you're considering a summer haircut, ask your veterinarian or groomer first. Questions? Call (905) 257-6630.

07/17/2026

Fleas are more than just an itchy nuisance. In young kittens, senior pets, and small animals, heavy flea infestations can lead to significant blood loss and even life-threatening anemia.

Year-round flea prevention is one of the easiest ways to protect your pet from preventable illness.

If you think your pet has fleas or you'd like help choosing the right prevention, call us at (905) 257-6630.

07/16/2026

💙 A Heartfelt Thank You 💙

At Joshua Creek Animal Hospital, we are incredibly grateful to the family of one of our long-time clients, who has been part of our hospital family for over 6 years and counting.

In memory of their beloved family/friend, one of their final wishes was to make a donation to an animal hospital. We are truly honoured that Joshua Creek Animal Hospital was chosen to receive this generous gift.

This thoughtful donation will help us continue providing compassionate care to the pets and families who walk through our doors every day.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to the family/friend for your kindness, generosity, and for allowing your loved one's legacy to make a difference in the lives of animals.

If you would ever like to support our hospital through a donation, you are always welcome to stop by in person.

Thank you again for your incredible generosity and support. ❤️🐾