Medical Services in Vancouver, BC

Medical services at Homer Animal Hospital in Vancouver address the full spectrum of internal health concerns in dogs and cats. From allergies and skin conditions to heart health and endocrine disorders, our veterinary team provides thorough assessments, evidence-based care plans, and ongoing management tailored to each patient. We work closely with you to understand your pet's history, explain what we find, and give you the information you need to make informed decisions about their care.

Allergy and Dermatology Management

Skin and coat problems are among the most common reasons pets visit the veterinarian. Allergies in dogs and cats can manifest as chronic itching, recurring skin infections, ear infections, and hair loss. At Homer Animal Hospital, we assess the skin carefully, discuss environmental, food, and contact allergy triggers, and develop a management plan to reduce flare-ups and improve your pet's comfort. We perform skin scraping, cytology, and other in-house diagnostics to support a clear picture of what is happening.

Ear and Eye Infection Management

Ear infections cause significant discomfort and, if left unaddressed, can affect hearing and deeper ear structures. We examine the ear canal with an otoscope, perform ear cytology when indicated, and prescribe appropriate care based on what we find. Eye infections and other ocular concerns are assessed with tonometry and a thorough eye exam. Prompt care reduces the risk of long-term damage in both cases.

Gastrointestinal Care

Chronic vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and appetite changes can all signal gastrointestinal disorders. Our medical team assesses GI concerns through history, physical examination, bloodwork, fecal testing, and imaging when needed. Common conditions we manage include inflammatory bowel conditions, parasitic infections, pancreatitis, and dietary sensitivities. Management plans focus on improving quality of life and reducing recurrence.

Pain Management

Recognizing and addressing pain in pets requires a careful eye, because animals often conceal discomfort. Signs of pain include changes in activity level, posture, appetite, grooming habits, and temperament. At Homer Animal Hospital, we assess pain at every visit using validated tools and develop multimodal pain management plans for acute and ongoing conditions. This may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory options, adjunctive care, and lifestyle modifications.

Cardiology and Heart Health

Cardiac conditions such as murmurs, arrhythmias, and congestive heart failure are diagnosed and managed as part of our internal medicine services. We assess heart function through auscultation, and when further evaluation is needed, we can arrange referral to a veterinary cardiologist for echocardiogram and advanced imaging. Ongoing monitoring and management of known cardiac conditions is available at Homer Animal Hospital.

Endocrine Disease Management

Hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism in dogs and hyperthyroidism in cats, along with diabetes and Cushing's disease, require careful long-term management. We use in-house bloodwork including endocrinology panels to establish baselines and monitor response to management. Regular check-ins are key to keeping endocrine conditions stable and your pet feeling well.

Internal Medicine and Chronic Condition Care

Many pets develop complex, multi-system conditions that require ongoing attention and coordination of care. Our internal medicine services provide a home base for managing chronic illness, interpreting specialist recommendations, and adjusting care plans as your pet's needs change. We prioritize clear communication and work to minimize the number of visits needed while keeping your pet well.

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FAQs

How do I know if my dog has allergies or a skin condition?
Common signs include chronic itching, licking at the paws, recurring ear infections, red or inflamed skin, and hair loss. Allergies often follow a seasonal pattern or may be year-round if food is involved. A veterinary assessment including skin cytology and a thorough history can help identify the likely trigger and guide an effective management plan.
My cat keeps vomiting. When should I bring them in?
Occasional hairball-related vomiting can be normal for cats, but frequent vomiting (more than once or twice a week), vomiting blood, lethargy, weight loss, or changes in appetite are all reasons to book an appointment. Our team will assess for underlying gastrointestinal, metabolic, or systemic causes and develop a care plan based on what we find.
Can you manage my dog's diabetes at Homer Animal Hospital?
Yes. We provide ongoing assessment and management for diabetic dogs and cats, including glucose monitoring, insulin protocol guidance, and dietary support through nutrition counseling. Regular monitoring visits and bloodwork help us keep your pet’s condition stable and adjust their care plan as needed. Therapeutic diet guidance is available as part of a comprehensive management plan.
What signs suggest my pet might have a heart problem?
Signs of heart disease in pets include exercise intolerance, coughing (especially in dogs), labored breathing, fainting or weakness, and a swollen abdomen. Many heart conditions are first detected as a murmur during a routine wellness exam before symptoms appear. Early detection gives us the most options for management and monitoring.

Book a medical assessment for your dog or cat at Homer Animal Hospital in Vancouver. Call (604) 416-4114 or book online. We offer same-day appointments for urgent medical concerns and are open Monday to Friday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.