Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is one of the best kinds of chaos. Somewhere between the introductions to the rest of the household and figuring out where they're going to sleep, one appointment should go straight to the top of the list: their first veterinary visit at a trusted local clinic like Eastside Veterinary Services. Here's exactly what to expect and how to prepare, so that first appointment goes smoothly for both of you. When to Book the First Visit Puppies and kittens should see a vet within the first week of coming home , even if they've already had a check-up with a breeder or shelter. If your pet is coming from a rescue or shelter, book the visit as soon as possible after adoption, records don't always transfer completely, and a baseline exam helps catch anything that needs early attention. Most puppies and kittens are ready for their first full round of vaccines starting around 6 to 8 weeks old , with follow-up boosters every 3 to 4 weeks until rough...

Kingston sits right in one of the highest-risk zones in Ontario for tick-borne disease. If your dog spends any time in long grass, wooded trails, or along the waterfront, tick exposure is not a matter of if but when. Here's what pet owners in Kingston need to know about ticks, Lyme disease, and how to keep pets protected. Why Kingston Is a Tick Hot Spot Ticks that carry Lyme disease have become established across Eastern Ontario, and Kingston and the surrounding Frontenac and Lennox & Addington areas are considered endemic. Warmer winters and longer falls have extended the active tick season: ticks can be active any time the temperature rises above roughly 4°C, which in this region can mean exposure from early spring through late November. Popular local spots for dog walking, such as Lemoine Point, Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area, and trails around the Rideau Trail system, all fall within tick habitat: long grass, brush, leaf litter, and the edges of wooded areas. How...

Dental disease is one of the most common health problems veterinarians see in dogs, and one of the most overlooked. By age three, most dogs already show some sign of periodontal disease. Left unchecked, it does not stay confined to the mouth. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. The good news is that a professional dog dental cleaning, combined with some care at home, prevents most of this. Here at Eastside Veterinary Clinic in Kingston, Ontario, we walk every dog owner through exactly what happens during a dental cleaning, and how to tell when your dog needs one. Why dental health matters more than owners expect Pets are experts at hiding pain. A dog with a fractured tooth or an infected gum will often keep eating and acting normal, simply because showing weakness is not in their instincts. That means dental disease can progress for months or years before it becomes obvious. Left untreated, it typically leads to: ...

  Cat and Dog Vaccinations in Kingston, Ontario: Schedules, Costs, and Where to Go If you've just searched "dog vaccinations near me" or "cat vaccinations near me" while trying to figure out what your pet actually needs and what it will cost, you're not alone. Vaccination questions are some of the most common ones we hear from Kingston pet owners, whether it's a new puppy's first round of shots or a reminder that an adult cat's booster is overdue. Here's a clear breakdown of what's involved. Why Vaccinations Matter Vaccines protect pets against diseases that are often serious, sometimes fatal, and in some cases (like rabies) a public health concern. They work by preparing your pet's immune system to recognize and fight off specific viruses or bacteria before an infection can take hold. For puppies and kittens especially, a properly timed vaccination series is one of the single most important things you can do for their long-term he...

 Urinary problems are among the most common — and most uncomfortable — health issues we see in pets. From straining in the litter box to accidents around the house, the signs can be easy to miss or easy to dismiss. But urinary disorders can range from a simple infection to a true, life-threatening emergency, so knowing what to watch for matters. At Eastside Vet Clinic , we treat urinary conditions in dogs and cats every week. This guide walks through the most common urinary disorders, the warning signs, and when it's time to call a vet near me . Common Urinary Disorders in Dogs and Cats 1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Bacterial UTIs are very common, especially in dogs and in older or female pets. Bacteria travel up the urethra and infect the bladder, causing inflammation and discomfort. UTIs are usually straightforward to treat with antibiotics once diagnosed — but left untreated, they can spread to the kidneys. 2. Bladder Stones (Uroliths) Minerals in the urine can...

Pet health starts with prevention. Choosing reliable east side veterinary services in Kingston ensures your pet receives the care they need to stay healthy and active. At East Side Animal Hospital , annual wellness exams are a key part of maintaining your pet’s long-term well-being. If you’re searching for a trusted Kingston Animal Hospital or experienced veterinarian in Kingston , understanding the value of routine checkups is essential. What Are East Side Veterinary Services? East side veterinary services focus on preventive care, early diagnosis, and overall pet health management. At Eastside Veterinary Clinic , these services include comprehensive wellness exams tailored to your pet’s needs. During a typical visit, your pet may receive: Full physical examination Body weight and nutrition assessment Dental health evaluation Vaccination updates Parasite prevention guidance Regular visits to a professional Animal Hospital Kingston pet owners trust can significantly imp...