COVID-19 Protocols in Place
As veterinary industry experts, we are always vigilant about communicable diseases that can impact our patients, their owners, and staff.
With the recent outbreak of COVID-19, we are taking extra measures above and beyond our already-high standards to help ensure the safety of everyone:
- As the situation is rapidly changing, we are regularly monitoring information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and federal and state/local agencies to follow all recommended protocols.
- We are using medical-grade disinfectants more frequently in high traffic areas, including, door handles, light switches, faucets, front counters, phones, keyboards, exam rooms, restrooms, and more.
- All employees are reminded to stay home if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms.
- We ask those pet owners who have an appointment with us and are feeling under the weather to please call our office before coming in so we can determine the best plan for taking care of your pet.
- Clients are welcome to come in with their pets for appointments, but are required to wear masks at all times within the hospital.
For more information about COVID-19 and pets, this is a great resource from the American Animal Veterinary Medical Association:
http://bit.ly/3a1zDm0. If you have additional questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICE AT
(971) 371-4024 OR TEXT US AT
(971) 351-1618 UPON ARRIVAL IN OUR PARKING LOT AND A TECHNCIAN WILL ESCORT YOU TO AN EXAM ROOM. OUR LOBBY REMAINS CLOSED AT THIS TIME.
Thank you so much for your patience and support during this ever-changing time! We will remain open for business during our regular hours and will continue working hard to provide the level of care you have come to expect from us!
Online Appointment Scheduling
Viking Veterinary Care has just launched our new app! Now you can access your pet's vaccination records, refill prescriptions, request appointments, and receive reminders online or on your mobile device.
Download the PetPage app by AllyDVM or access the online portal here: https://connect.allydvm.com/pet/viking/sign_in
Give us a call at (971)-371-4024 if you have any questions or need assistance getting set up with our new communication system!
PETPAGE MOBILE APP:
1) Download the mobile app from the Google Play or Apple Store by clicking
one of the links below (you must be using your mobile phone in order to
install the application).
Google Play link:

Apple Store link:

2) After you have installed and opened the app on your mobile phone click
the "sign up" button on the home page of the app. Enter your email address,
choose a password and click the blue sign up button. You must use the email
address on file at Viking Veterinary Care.
3) You will then be sent a confirmation email. Click the link in that email.
Check your SPAM folder if you do not see the confirmation in your inbox.
You can now log in to our mobile app to view upcoming appointments,
healthcare reminders, refill prescriptions, request appointments and more!
You can also call us at (971) 371-4024 to schedule an appointment.
Viking's Cancellation Policy
To better serve our patients and clients, our hospital is formally announcing our cancellation policy:
Please contact our hospital at least 24 hours in advance if you wish to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Cancelling on short/no notice prevents other patients from being seen during these times. If you miss your appointment without notice or cancel/reschedule your appointment with less than 24 hours notice, you will be subject to a cancellation fee of $35*. This fee will be added to your account and is expected to be paid in full at the time of your next office visit.
*Please note that multiple no-show occurrences may result in non-refundable pre-paid appointments only or discharge from our practice.
We make every attempt to see all of our patients with a medical concern in a timely manner. Ideally, this policy will give us more advanced notice so we are able to do so. Thank you for your understanding!
Employment Opportunities
We are always on the lookout for the right people to join our team! If you are passionate about providing a Fear Free experience for our patients and want to be part of a fluid, cohesive team, please fill out an application and email it to denna@vikingveterinarycare.com
Download the application here:
Payment Options
At Viking Veterinary Care we accept Cash, Visa, and Master Card. We also accept payment from Care Credit and Scratch Pay. Click below to learn more!
Routine Services
Fear Free Preventative Care and Medical Condition Examinations   $75
Our hospital is a Fear Free Certified Practice, which means our technical staff take their time with your pet in the exam room! We perform all diagnostics (with the exception of radiographs) with the owner where the pet is most comfortable, usually on the floor, and reward with positive reinforcement (treats and praise). We have a variety of treats available, so please let us know if your pet or any family members have particular preferences or food allergies. Please bring your pet hungry and feel free to bring their favorite treats or toys from home!
Each exam room has a padded, non-skid surface for your pet, pheromones to help alleviate stress, and music that is formulated to slow their brain waves and help with anxiety. And all new patients and pets returning for annual examinations get to raid the “Booty Box” after their appointments! For more information on our Fear Free Certification and tips for creating a stress-free visit, check out our link
here.
Urgent Care Examination   $90
Viking Veterinary Care keeps several veterinary appointments available daily for our existing clients whose pets have developed sudden medical conditions. Once those appointments are filled, our doctors and staff will be staying late and working through breaks to treat any additional emergencies. Any appointments that are made beyond what our scheduling capacity can accommodate for the day will be charged an Urgent Care Examination to offset the expense of the additional staff time.
Veterinary Technician Appointment
Not only is our Practice Fear Free Certified, but our entire staff completes additional training to become individually certified Fear Free Professionals! We focus on Fear Free restraint techniques with lots of treats so your pet looks forward to their veterinary visits. All technician appointments are completed in the exam room with the owner utilizing the same Fear Free environment as our Fear Free Preventative Care Examinations.
Veterinary Technician Appointments include vaccinations, diagnostics, subcutaneous fluids administration, and other treatments as designated in the patient plan formulated by your veterinarian. We do not require an examination with a veterinarian for vaccination updates as long as the pet is current on their annual examination.
<15 minutes   $10
15-30 minutes   $25
Vaccinations
We tailor our vaccination recommendations for each individual, but for general guidelines for dogs and cats from our Doctors, please check out the link
here. All appointments that include an injection include a $4.50 OSHA fee for medical waste disposal (one per visit).
Dogs
Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza (DAPP)   $35
Rabies (1 year or 3 year)   $35
Oral Bordetella   $30
Leptospirosis   $35
Influenza Combination (H3N8 & H3N2)   $45
Cats
Rhinotracheitis (Herpes), Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (FVRCP)   $35
Rabies 1 year   $35
Rabies 3 year   $95
Leukemia (FeLV)   $45
Titer Testing   $125
Titer testing is available to ensure dogs are protected against the distemper and parvo viruses and can be utilized in lieu of vaccination. Titer testing is NOT appropriate to check for protection against rabies, bordetella, or leptospirosis. For more information on titer testing, check out our link
here.
Titer testing does require a blood draw and can be performed as part of our Fear Free Preventative Care examination with a veterinarian, or as a Technician Appointment if the pet is current on their annual preventative care exam.
Microchip Placement   $45
Our newest microchips tell us a pet’s internal temperature without using a thermometer! For more information on microchipping, check out our link
here. They are usually placed during an anesthetic procedure, but can also be placed during a Fear Free Preventative Care Examination or a Veterinary Technician Appointment.
Fear Free Anal Gland Expression   $20
Anal gland expression can be completed during Fear Free Preventative Care Examination or as part of a Veterinary Technician Appointment. Our technicians apply topical lidocaine gel to help desensitize the anal gland region prior to expression.
Fear Free Nail Trims   $25
Fear Free Nail Trims can be completed during Fear Free Preventative Care Examination or as part of a Veterinary Technician Appointment. For more information on how to trim your pet’s toenails in a Fear Free manner, please check out our additional information
here.
Fecal Parasite Screening   $60
A fecal screen for parasites is recommended annually by our veterinarians. For more information about the importance of fecal screening and internal parasites, please
click here.
Heartworm Testing   $40
A heartworm test is required by our veterinarians prior to starting a dog on monthly heartworm prevention in accordance with the Companion Animal Parasite Council Guidelines, and should be repeated every 2 years after starting a consistent heartworm preventative.
Click here, for more information on heartworm prevention.
Payment Options
At Viking Veterinary Care we accept Cash, Visa, and Master Card. We also accept payment from Care Credit and Scratch Pay. Click below to learn more!

   
Cat Friendly Practice® Certification

Our practice is a certified
Gold Standard Cat Friendly Practice® with the
American Association of Feline Practicioners. This certification is only awarded to hospitals that have demonstrated the highest level of commitment and excellence in feline medicine.
Our Cat Friendly Practice® Includes:
- A separate waiting area for cats
- A feline-only examination room that provides a safe, non-threatening area where cats can be examined calmly and effectively. Pheromones and "Through a Cat's Ear" music provided to enhance your cat's experience at our hospital
- Staff trained to understand the individualized needs of cats, including specific facial and behavior cues
- Feline-friendly handling techniques to facilitate a more positive experience
- Experience in recognizing subtle, early signs of fear or anxiety and adapting appropriately
- Veterinarians that are members of the American Association of Feline Practitioners
- Treats are provided during the exam, but feel free to bring your cat's favorite from home!
- Each cat gets to pick a toy from the "Booty Box" after visiting Viking Veterinary Care for their first visit and their annual physical exams.
- Once a doctor-patient relationship is established, anxiety medication can be dispensed to help decrease your cat's stress for future appointments.
Fear Free vet visits start at home!
![]()
Roland enjoying the boat in the cat exam room.
Puppy Play Day Socialization Sessions
are a great way to socialize your new puppy!
We strive to create a safe environment, where puppies get the socialization they need and have another positive experience at their veterinary hospital! Our Puppy Playtime Socialization Sessions are on Saturdays from 9a-10a. Please call
(971) 371-4024 to reserve your spot.
At our Puppy Play Day:
- All dogs have been examined by our doctors, are up-to-date on their vaccines, have had 1 negative fecal test, and have been de-wormed.
- Playtime is supervised by a technician to help introduce the puppies in a fear-free way, to redirect aggressive behavior, and to make certain everyone has a good time.
- Diffusors of pheromones are provided in the room to signal to the puppies that they are in a safe place.
- Toys are provided onsite - sometimes dogs can get possessive over toys brought from home
- Dogs are usually between 8-weeks and 16-weeks old. If needed, puppies can be grouped by size or play style.
For more information on how you can socialize your puppy, check out the following links:
Online Pharmacy
![]()
Click
HERE to access our online pharmacy at Vet Source!
Vet Source is a reliable source of trusted, high-quality prescription products that provides competitive pricing by purchasing directly from the manufacturers.
If you would like to purchase a prescription from another pharmacy, we are happy to provide a written prescription that can be emailed, mailed, or picked up at our hospital. We do not act as a liaison to other outside pharmacies to protect our patients and our veterinarians' liability against products that are not guaranteed for safety and efficacy.
Purina Vet Direct

Click
HERE to access Purina Vet Direct!
Purina Vet Direct provides Purina products, including prescription diets, probiotics, and over-the-counter food options directly to your doorstep with
Free Shipping on all orders (no promo code or minimum cart value needed!)
![]()
Take advantage of
30% off your first Automatic Shipment!
- Promo Code TAKE30
- Discount applied only to automatic shipments
- Maximum discount $20
- One use per client
Our Veterinarians' Wellness Recommendations
Annual Exams and Labwork
Regardless of age, every cat should have an annual exam performed by a veterinarian. Seeing them at least once a year allows our veterinarians to not only discuss preventative care, but also to determine signs of illness, dental issues and osteoarthritis which many animals are skilled at hiding. If a cat is new to your household or has access to outdoors, testing for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is strongly recommended.
Annual bloodwork, which is especially important in pets over 6 years of age, allows us to evaluate their overall health and can determine which medications are safe and most effective. Our doctors may recommend a urinalysis as part of senior labwork to assess for signs of declining kidney function. This is due to the fact that over 70% of a cat’s total kidney mass must be compromised before values increase in the blood. A urinalysis may catch decreased kidney function early so we can make some changes to support them.
Nutritional Considerations
As cats age, many develop signs of kidney disease so it is extremely important that all cats have unlimited access to several water sources to maintain their hydration. Feeding cats a canned diet is also helpful due to the increased moisture and decreased carbohydrates. Their bowls should be rinsed daily and thoroughly cleaned weekly.
When choosing a food, it is critical you see the words “Formulated to meet AAFCO standards” written somewhere on the label. This means the food is nutritionally complete and no further supplementation is necessary. If you feed a raw diet, this rule of thumb still applies! For a raw diet that is nutritionally complete, check out Darwin’s (www.darwins.com).
If you want to feed a home cooked diet that is nutritionally complete, please go to www.balanceit.com to ensure you are meeting your pet’s vitamin and mineral requirements in the correct rations. (Let the nutritionists do the calculations for you!)
Treats should make up no more than 10% of a pet’s diet. Do not trust the recommended treat allowance on the bag. They just want you to buy more treats! Obesity is a huge health concern, especially for indoor-only cats, contributing to diabetes, urinary issues, and arthritis pain. Instead of giving them treats to show you care, see if they enjoy playing with wand toys or laser pointers.
Microchips
A permanent form of identification is available for pets by means of a microchip placed in the scruff between the shoulders. It is about the size of a large grain of rice and has a number on it that reflects back to a scanner when it is waived over it. The microchip itself does not transmit any waves. A microchip can be placed at any time, but since it is a larger needle, we like to do it during anesthesia for a pet’s spay or neuter.
We have chosen HomeAgain microchips, because they are the least likely to migrate after they have been placed. If your pet is missing in the first year after the HomeAgain chip is implanted, they will actively search via email blasts to pet hospitals, shelters, and rescues in the area. After a year, this program can be optionally renewed. The microchip identification itself never expires for the rest of the pet’s life. More information on HomeAgain microchips and their recovery program is available at https://public.homeagain.com/
Most pets from animal shelters, rescue groups, or breeders are already microchipped. It is imperative that you keep your pet’s contact information connected to the chip updated. If you need to update your contact information, you can do so via the Microchip Universal Lookup Database at http://www.petmicrochiplookup.org/
Vaccines
In order to keep your cat healthy, we recommend keeping the following vaccines up to date:
Rabies vaccines should be kept up-to-date since this disease is both fatal and zoonotic (can be passed on to people). The first rabies vaccination should be given between around 16 weeks of age. If a kitten is traveling to another state, the federal government requires vaccinating as young as 12 weeks for attaining a health certificate. The rabies vaccine should be repeated annually with a non-adjuvented brand, which helps to reduce the risk of a vaccine reaction. Rabies titers show if cats have been infected with rabies, not if they are protected against it. Therefore, the government will not accept a rabies titer in lieu of proof of vaccination if a cat has bitten someone or has possibly been exposed to this disease through infected wildlife.
The Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (FVRCP) vaccine is a core vaccine and is especially important for kittens. Kittens should have 3 sets of this vaccine, starting at 9 weeks of age, prior to going outside or being around other cats (with unknown vaccine/health backgrounds). If this vaccine is given before 9 weeks of age, maternal antibodies may interact render it ineffective. FVRCP vaccines are recommended again at 1 year of age and then every 3 years after that. Unfortunately titer testing has not been shown to reliably indicate if a cat is protected from these viruses and is not recommended at this time.
The Feline Leukemia (FeLV) vaccine is optional. This organism is transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids (i.e. biting, mating, or giving birth) and the vaccine is recommended for all cats that go outside where they may come into contact with infected cats. Cats that are new to the home should be tested for this virus prior to the FeLV vaccination; only a few drops of blood are needed to screen for it. There is a 1 in 10,000 chance that a cat may develop a vaccine associated sarcoma at the injection site for this vaccine. That being said, the risks of contracting this virus from an infected cat is much higher. The initial vaccine must be boostered after 3 weeks, then is given annually. All new kittens/cats coming into a household with other cats should be tested prior to introduction. Recent research suggests kittens vaccinated for FeLV may develop a lifelong immunity.
Please note that in smaller or sensitive cats, we will sometimes recommend breaking up the vaccines so they are not all given at once. Please feel free to request this at any time.
Parasite Prevention
The doctors at Viking Veterinary Care make their recommendations based on the Companion Animal Parasite Council’s latest reports. To get more information on the most common pathogens by county, check out www.capcvet.org.
Fecal Testing: Our doctors always recommend bringing in a fecal sample for a new pet and then rechecking a sample annually. Even if a pet has been dewormed or is on a monthly preventative, there are certain parasites (such as coccidia and giardia) that deworming medication will not eradicate. Many fecal parasites are transmissible to people, so it is important to develop good handwashing habits, especially after petting a new cat or cleaning the litterbox.
When bringing in a fecal sample for testing, please help our staff by making sure that the sample is as fresh as possible. If the sample cannot be brought into the hospital until the next day, please keep it in the refrigerator until it can be taken to the clinic. The amount of stool needed to adequately run the test is about the size of a sugar cube. Please make sure when you bring in the sample that it is in a sealed container.
If you have multiple pets and need to figure out which fecal sample belongs to which pet, you can shave color crayons into the food, using a different color for each pet. Crayons are non-toxic and tasteless. Pick a fun color for our technicians!
Heartworm Testing and Prevention: Heartworm is new to the Portland area but is very prevalent to the east and south. As it gets warmer in Oregon, more cases of heartworm are showing up. Heartworm is transmitted by mosquitos. Even if your cat isn’t the “outdoor type,” uninvited mosquitos will frequently find a way inside your home.
Heartworm is a life threatening condition and the treatment for it can be fatal. Fortunately, the prevention of heartworm for your cat is easy! Revolution is a topical preventative that can prevent cats from getting heartworm, as well as intestinal worms, ear mites, and fleas. Cats do not need a heartworm test prior to starting a preventative.
Monthly Deworming: With the mild, wet climate of the Pacific Northwest, worms tend to thrive here. They are spread through contact with infected feces and can be transmitted to people, especially children and anyone who is immunocompromised. Wildlife that frequent residential yards at night are often carriers. Once some of these parasites get in the soil, they can stay there for years. If your pet is a hunter, they are exposed to worms on a regular basis through their prey. Also, be aware that 15% of potting soil contains roundworm; gardening gloves have never sounded so necessary!
Monthly Flea Prevention: Due to the warmer temperatures of our climate, this area also has a thriving flea population. Some cats and people are extremely sensitive to flea bites which can lead to severe dermatitis. In order to prevent a flea infestation in your home, all pets in the household should continue monthly flea treatments, even if they are indoor only. Flea collars and shampoo do not prevent fleas.
Fleas love carpeting and upholstery. The eggs stay in the fibers until they are ready to hatch. To help control the flea population in the environment of your home, you can vacuum several times a week with a flea collar in the vacuum bag.
Diatomaceous earth does kill fleas and limits the egg population by dehydrating them but it also has been known to destroy vacuum cleaners. Diatoms are sharp with a consistency similar to ground glass and are not recommended for use around bare feet. They can be used in a yard, especially under bushes and trees where fleas tend to hide.
Annual Exams and Labwork
Regardless of age, every dog should have an annual exam performed by a veterinarian. Seeing them at least once a year allows our veterinarians to not only discuss preventative care, but also to determine signs of illness, dental issues and osteoarthritis which many animals are skilled at hiding.
Annual bloodwork, which is especially important in pets over 6 years of age, allows us to evaluate their overall health and can determine which medications are safe and most effective. Our doctors may recommend a urinalysis as part of senior labwork to assess for signs of declining kidney function. This is due to the fact that over 70% of a dog’s total kidney mass must be compromised before values increase in the blood. A urinalysis may catch decreased kidney function early so we can make some changes to support them.
Nutritional Considerations
Dogs should always have access to fresh, clean water. They lose a lot of moisture through panting so this is especially important in the warm summer months and when they are exercising, excited or stressed. Their bowls should be rinsed daily and thoroughly cleaned weekly.
In general, puppies should be on puppy food until 6 months to 1 year of age. Large and giant breeds should be on puppy food labeled for large breeds, as they need a different calcium to phosphorus ratio for their fast growing bones. If you have questions about what food your pet should be on, please feel free to discuss it with one of our veterinarians.
When choosing a food, it is critical you see the words “Formulated to meet AAFCO standards” written somewhere on the label. This means the food is nutritionally complete and no further supplementation is necessary. If you feed a raw diet, this rule of thumb still applies! For a raw diet that is nutritionally complete, check out Darwin’s (www.darwins.com).
If you want to feed a home cooked diet that is nutritionally complete, please go to www.balanceit.com to ensure you are meeting your pet’s vitamin and mineral requirements in the correct rations. (Let the nutritionists do the calculations for you!)
Treats should make up no more than 10% of a pet’s diet. Do not trust the recommended treat allowance on the bag. They just want you to buy more treats! Obesity is a huge health concern which can take years off your dog’s life. Instead of giving them treats to show you care, try playing with them or going for a walk instead. Here is a list of some healthy, low-calorie treats to try: baby carrots, ice cubes, dried sweet potatoes, frozen blueberries or green beans. You might be surprised at how much your dog loves these snacks!
Microchips
A permanent form of identification is available for pets by means of a microchip placed in the scruff between the shoulders. It is about the size of a large grain of rice and has a number on it that reflects back to a scanner when it is waived over it. The microchip itself does not transmit any waves. A microchip can be placed at any time, but since it is a larger needle, we like to do it during anesthesia for a pet’s spay or neuter.
We have chosen HomeAgain microchips, because they are the least likely to migrate after they have been placed. If your pet is missing in the first year after the HomeAgain chip is implanted, they will actively search via email blasts to pet hospitals, shelters, and rescues in the area. After a year, this program can be optionally renewed. The microchip identification itself never expires for the rest of the pet’s life. More information on HomeAgain microchips and their recovery program is available at https://public.homeagain.com/
Most pets from animal shelters, rescue groups, or breeders are already microchipped. It is imperative that you keep your pet’s contact information connected to the chip updated. If you need to update your contact information, you can do so via the Microchip Universal Lookup Database at http://www.petmicrochiplookup.org/
Vaccines
In order to keep your dog healthy, we recommend keeping the following vaccines up to date:
Rabies vaccines are required for licensing your dog in Washington County. The first Rabies vaccination should be given at about 16 weeks of age. If a puppy is traveling to another state, the federal government requires vaccinating as young as 12 weeks for attaining a health certificate. This vaccine should be repeated at 1 year of age and then every 3 years after that. Rabies titers show if dogs have been infected with Rabies, not if they are protected against it. Therefore, the government will not accept a Rabies titer in lieu of vaccinating.
The Distemper, Adenovirus, and Parvovirus (DAP) vaccine is a core vaccine and is especially important for puppies. Puppies should have 3 sets of this vaccine, starting at 9 weeks of age prior to going to dog parks or being in areas where other dogs (with unknown vaccine/health backgrounds) frequent. If this vaccine is given prior to 9 weeks of age, maternal antibodies can interact with the vaccine rendering it ineffective. DAP vaccines are recommended again at 1 year of age and then every 3 years after that. Alternatively, after the puppy series, we can test for protective titers with a blood draw every 2 years instead of vaccinating.
The Leptospirosis vaccine is optional. This organism is transmitted through infected urine of other mammals and can cause kidney failure. It can also be transmitted to people from pets. Western Oregon has a notably wet climate and if your dog plays in, or drinks from, puddles, lakes and streams, they have an increased risk of contracting this disease. This vaccine must be boostered 3 weeks after the initial shot, then given annually to be effective. The leptospirosis vaccine can be given in combination with a DAP vaccine or alone.
The Bordetella vaccine is also optional. This vaccine protects against the most common bacteria associated with kennel cough. There are many agents (both bacterial and viral) that can cause “kennel cough,” so it is important to note this vaccine does not protect against kennel cough itself. However, pets that are given this vaccine tend to be ill for a shorter amount of time and usually have less severe signs of disease. This vaccine is especially recommended for animals who go to the dog park, a groomer, or boarding facilities, where they may come in contact with other dogs’ nasal or oral secretions. It should be given once a year and is available in oral, intranasal, or injectable forms. The intranasal formulation also contains a vaccine for parainfluenza (another kennel cough pathogen) if a dog is at a higher risk.
Please note that in smaller or sensitive dogs, we will sometimes recommend breaking up the vaccines so they are not all given at once. Please feel free to request this at any time.
Parasite Prevention
The doctors at Viking Veterinary Care make their recommendations based on the Companion Animal Parasite Council’s latest reports. To get more information on the most common pathogens by county, check out www.capcvet.org.
Fecal Testing: Our doctors always recommend bringing in a fecal sample for a new pet and then rechecking a sample annually. Even if a pet has been dewormed or is on a monthly preventative there are certain parasites (such as coccidia and giardia) that deworming medication will not eradicate. Many fecal parasites are transmissible to people, so it is important to develop good handwashing habits, especially after petting a new dog or picking up their feces.
When bringing in a fecal sample for testing, please help our staff by making sure that the sample is as fresh as possible. If the sample cannot be brought into the hospital until the next day, please keep it in the refrigerator until it can be taken to the clinic. The amount of stool needed to adequately run the test is about the size of a sugar cube. Please make sure when you bring in the sample that it is contained in a sealed container.
If you have multiple pets and need to figure out which fecal sample belongs to which pet, you can shave color crayons into the food, using a different color for each pet. Crayons are non-toxic and tasteless. Pick a fun color for our technicians!
Heartworm Testing and Prevention: A heartworm test is required prior to starting a heartworm preventative and must be rechecked every two years. The test can be run on two drops of blood and takes about 10 minutes for results. Heartworm is new to the Portland area but is very prevalent to the east and south. As it gets warmer in Oregon, more cases of heartworm are showing up. Heartworm is transmitted by mosquitos. Even if your dog isn’t the “outdoor type,” uninvited mosquitos will frequently find a way inside your home.
Heartworm is a life threatening condition and the treatment for it can be fatal. Fortunately, the prevention of heartworm for your dog is easy! Puppies under 6 months of age do not need a heartworm test prior to starting preventative. This is due to fact that the preventative treats the larval stage of heartworm. The larvae take 6 months to lodge themselves in the heart and become adults.
Monthly Deworming: With the mild, wet climate of the Pacific Northwest, intestinal worms tend to thrive here! Worms are spread through contact with infected feces and can be transmitted to people, especially children and anyone who is immunocompromised. Wildlife that frequent residential yards at night are often carriers. Once some of these parasites get in the soil, they can stay there for years. If your pet is a hunter, they are exposed to intestinal worms on a regular basis through their prey. Also, be aware that 15% of potting soil contains roundworm; gardening gloves have never sounded so necessary!
Monthly Flea Prevention: Due to the warmer temperatures of our climate, this area also has a thriving flea population. Some dogs and people are extremely sensitive to flea bites which can lead to severe dermatitis. In order to prevent a flea infestation in your home, all pets in the household should continue monthly flea treatments, even if they are indoor only.
Fleas love carpeting and upholstery. The eggs stay in the fibers until they are ready to hatch. To help control the flea population in the environment of your home, you can vacuum several times a week with a flea collar in the vacuum bag.
Diatomaceous earth does kill fleas and limits the egg population by dehydrating them but it also has been known to destroy vacuum cleaners. Diatoms are sharp with a consistency similar to ground glass and are not recommended for use around bare feet. They can be used in a yard, especially under bushes and trees where fleas tend to hide.
Puppy Socialization
The most important time for puppy socialization is during their first three months of life. During this time puppies should have positive exposure to as many new people, animals, stimuli and environments as can be safely achieved. Be careful during this sensitive time to avoid causing overstimulation which can manifest as excessive fear, withdrawal or avoidance behavior.
Incomplete or improper socialization during this incredibly important time can increase the risk of behavior problems later in life which include fear, avoidance and/or aggression. Enrolling in puppy classes or taking part in socialization activities prior to three months of age can be an excellent means of improving training, strengthening the human-animal bond, and socializing puppies. For the complete recommendations from animal behaviorists regarding puppy socialization, please visit www.avsabonline.org under “Position Statements” in the Resource tab.
Puppy Play Day: We offer a puppy socialization every Saturday at 9am at Viking Veterinary Care. Puppies in attendance must have been examined by our doctors, be up-to-date on vaccines, dewormed, and must have had a negative fecal test. Toenails are checked prior to playtime to prevent scratches. Please call if you are interested in reserving a spot in our Puppy Play Day sessions! Puppies must be under 16 weeks of age and must not display aggression.
Regenerative Medicine: Platelet Rich Plasma and Stem-Cell Therapy
What is it?
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentration of platelets, growth factors, and signaling proteins. It is a potent anti-inflammatory and can be used to treat chronic tendonitis, arthritis, wounds, burns, and post-surgical sites. The signaling proteins tell the body to send stem cells to the area the PRP is injected, which differentiate into whatever is needed to repair the area (i.e. new cartilage, synovial lining, etc.). Growth factors assist in bringing blood flow to the area to increase healing, decrease inflammation, and provide increased energy sources to cells as they repair.
PRP can be done alone as an outpatient procedure or can but used in combination with stem cell therapy. The amount saved by owners in anti-inflammatories, laser treatments, Adequan injections, supplements, and other modalities their pets currently need to remain comfortable makes this a more affordable option for pain control in some pets.
How does it work?
Stem Cells are the body’s own restoration system. Mechanisms within the body attract stem cells to areas of inflammation, and they differentiate into cells that are needed for healing. As the body ages, it has a harder time activating its own stem cells. With our new in-house processing system, we can actually harvest them, activate them, and inject them exactly where we want them (in the joint). Stem cells have been shown to help with osteoarthritis pain, disc disease, tendon or ligament tears, hip dysplasia, and other musculoskeletal issues.
Remaining activated stem cells are given intravenously and migrate to areas of inflammation in the body. Cases have been reported of resolved kidney disease, allergic dermatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and other chronic conditions as a result of treating arthritis issues. Treatments other than osteoarthritis are considered “compassionate use” as there are no completed studies for conditions that are not musculoskeletal at this time. Stem cell use is currently being explored in humans to treat a wide range of conditions, including paralysis and Alzheimer’s disease.
What is involved?
Platelet Rich Plasma is concentrated from a blood draw. Stem cells are harvested from fat under approximately 20 minutes of general anesthesia. Other procedures, such as dental cleanings and mass removals, can take place at the same time as the procedure.
Viking Veterinary Care is working with Medivet Biologics to process stem cells and PRP in our hospital for 3 main reasons:
1.) Surgery to harvest the stem cells, processing, joint injections, and IV stem cells can all take place in one day. Your pet can go home with you the same evening.
2.) Processing stem cells in our hospital rather than sending them to an outside lab decreases the number of stem cells lost in transit, making more available for your pet’s inflammatory conditions.
3.) Medivet is the only regenerative medicine company using PRP and light activation with their stem cells, resulting in dramatically improved numbers of stem cells, both at harvest and when removed from cryogenic storage for additional treatments.
How long does it last?
The effects of PRP last weeks to months, which is why it is used for less involved conditions that just need a little added assistance in healing. Stem cell therapy effects typically last 18-24 months, and stem cells can be cryogenically preserved so the next time they are used, anesthesia is not necessary.
For more information on regenerative medicine, including stem cell and platelet rich plasma, check out the following links:
http://medivetbiologics.com/home/pet-owners/why-stem-cell-therapy
http://medivetbiologics.com/home/pet-owners/bio-solutions/pet-prp
Available Services
If you can't find something on our list, please
call us or send an
e-mail and ask!
Wellness and Preventive Care
- Annual Exam
- Vaccination
- Titer Testing
- Parasite Prevention
- Microchip Implantation
- Dermatology
- Orthopedic and Neurologic Exam
- Domestic/International Health Certificates
In-Hospital Laboratory Testing
- Complete Blood Cell Count
- Comprehensive Chemistry
- Packed Cell Volume/Total Solids
- Fecal
- Urinalysis
- Thyroid Testing
- Clotting Times
*Additionally, we can submit to outside laboratories for whatever your pet may need.
Regenerative Medicine
- Class IV Laser Therapy
- Stem Cell Therapy
- Platelet Rich Plasma
Alternative/Holistic Medicine
- Acupuncture
- Chinese Herbs and Supplements
Sports Medicine/Rehabilitation
- Physical Therapy
- Canine Fitness Training
- Treadmill Gait Evaluation
Surgeries
- Spay
- Neuter (Including Cryptorchid)
- Cystotomy
- Mass Removal
- Dental/Oral Surgery
- C-Section
- Perineal Urethrostomy
- Foreign Body Removal
- Eyelid Margin Tumor Removal
- Gastropexy
- Entropion Repair
- "Cherry Eye"
- Abdominal Exploratory
- Amputation
In-Hospital Specialists Available
*Referrals can be made to specialists throughout the Portland area depending on your pet's needs.
- Ultrasound/Consultation by Internal Medicine Specialist
Euthanasia: Most Commonly Asked Questions
By Rosie Gilbert, DVM
Imagine your last day on Earth. How would you want to go? Many of us picture being surrounded by our loved ones and drifting off to sleep. This is the gift of euthanasia for our pets. When they are sick, injured, or their quality of life has deteriorated, our animals rely on us to give a peaceful passing to them.
Saying goodbye to your pet can be the most difficult decision you ever have to make. You don’t want to wait too long, but it can be so hard to prepare yourself. It can be challenging to understand what your pet is going through, as they can’t tell us. Some days they seem to be better, then the next they look and feel terrible. So how can you know when it is time? As veterinarians, we have been through the process of letting go of our animals with thousands of pet owners. We are here to help explain what is happening in your pet’s body and behavior.
Euthanizing your pet affects us too. If you call for a euthanasia appointment and we require an exam first, please know it is to make sure you have all the information on your pet’s condition and that our veterinarians are comfortable performing the injection. We do NOT perform “convenience euthanasia” (i.e. there is nothing medically/behaviorally wrong with the animal, it just isn’t wanted by the owner anymore). Our veterinarians can decline to perform any euthanasia they do not feel is necessary. At the end of the day, we have to do what we must to sleep at night. Our hospital works with a number of rescue groups and we are happy to refer you to one if you are looking to rehome your pet.
Over our years of experience, we’ve put together a list of the most common questions in hopes that they will help at this trying time:
How will I know when it’s time?
What determines a good quality of life is as different for pets as it is for people. Some animals live to play, others are content to sit in your lap and watch Jeopardy at the end of the night. You know your pet best out of ANYONE else in the world! Here are some things to consider when you are evaluating your pet’s happiness:
1.) Do they have pain/anxiety? Is it affecting their lives? Can they still do the things they love, like chase a ball, jump up on the bed, eat food, etc.? Is their pain/anxiety manageable? (PLEASE talk to your vet about all your options!)
2.) Are they able/willing to eat and drink enough to sustain them? Are they having unmanageable vomiting and diarrhea? Wasting away can be a long and uncomfortable process. Remember, their last day doesn’t have to be their worst day.
3.) Are they having accidents in the house? Some animals can be REALLY upset by this and spend the day hiding because they have spent a lifetime trying NOT to do this. Other times, it is an unmanageable situation for the family. Round-the-clock caregiving can take its toll on the relationship you have with your pet, and they can sense it.
4.) Are you able to take care of your pet’s needs? If you have a 150lb dog that is unable to walk, it may not be feasible to keep going. If your cat is a diabetic and tries to bite when you attempt insulin injections, this may not be a sustainable situation. You are not letting your animal down by electing to euthanize. You are saving them from discomfort and stress.
What can I expect coming into a euthanasia appointment?
As soon as you arrive, we will get you and your pet immediately into room. Please call us from the parking lot if you would like to bypass our lobby or need assistance from your vehicle! We are happy to bring you in through the back door and can provide a stretcher if needed.
A big comfy bed is available for your pet, pheromones are being diffused, and calming music is playing-we want you and your pet to be as comfortable as possible! The veterinarian will come in and determine if an exam is necessary and walk you through the process so there are no surprises. A receptionist will check you out in the room and review your aftercare options so you don’t have to worry about these things after your pet has passed.
After the veterinary assessment, your pet will receive 2 injections. The first is a sedative so your pet is relaxed and not scared. They know you are upset and may be fearful because of it. Once your pet is asleep and you have said goodbye, the veterinarian will give your pet an injection in a vein. It is an overdose of an anesthetic agent. Your pet will be so deeply under anesthesia that their heart will stop. It does not hurt and takes no longer than a few minutes. Your veterinarian will tell you when their heart has stopped.
An animal’s eyes will usually stay open after they are gone. Sometimes they will have a reflex spasm of the diaphragm, which is a muscle that has been working since they were born. When this happens, it looks like a breath even though they have passed. It doesn’t happen often, but if it does, we don’t want you to be startled! Other muscles can tense as well, including the colon or bladder, which means sometimes pets will urinate/defecate when they die.
Can I be present when my pet passes?
You are welcome to be with your pet in their final moments. After your pet has passed, you may stay in the room as long as you need. When you are ready, a technician will show you out the back door so you don’t have to go through the lobby.
If you decide you can’t be present, please know one of our technical staff will be loving and petting them while they go. They are usually asleep at this point from the sedative.
What are my options for aftercare?
Home Burial - Please ensure the body is secured in a thick plastic bag and buried at least 3 feet deep. The medication used to euthanize an animal can be lethal to any other animals that get to the remains.
General Cremation - This is cremation where you DO NOT get your pet’s ashes back. The company we use spreads the ashes in an apple orchard purchased specifically for this purpose.
Private Cremation - This is cremation where you DO get your pet’s “cremains” back. There are some options available online now to make things out of the ashes, such as necklaces, crystals, etc. If you are interested in a specialty urn, please let us know and we can show you some options. Otherwise, ashes are returned in a floral printed box with your pet’s name on it.
**Please note: You are welcome to have toys, collars, or other personal effects cremated with your pet but be aware pricing is by weight.
Should I bring my other pet to the appointment?
Sometimes the most heartbreaking thing to see once your pet is gone, is the other pet’s struggle to understand their buddy isn’t coming home. Animals go through a mourning process just like people, and it can help them through the progression if they comprehend the other pet is deceased.
You are welcome to bring another pet with you to the euthanasia appointment if you feel it will help them to know their friend has died. Some choose to have them present during the whole appointment; others bring them in from the car after the pet has passed. Again, you know your animals best, so do what you think is right for them! We are happy to work with your decision.
What is veterinary hospice care?
Hospice is planning for your pet’s end-of-life options and making sure their quality of life is as good as it can be until then. Your veterinary team can help with pain control, appetite stimulation, fluid support, medication administration, etc. Ask us your questions! We have many palliative care options, including acupuncture, laser therapy, and Chinese herbs!
What if I want my pet to pass at home?
Some people believe strongly in letting their pet have a “natural death”. We like to think they will just “drift away”, which is rarely the case. Animals do not understand what is happening as they are dying and sometimes will fight the losing battle with all their might, which may be an unpleasant way to go. Should you decide to go this route, please contact us so we can make sure you have the tools you need to keep your pet as comfortable as possible.
Most days, we are not able to leave our hospitalized patients to perform euthanasia at the home, but we have some excellent colleagues that can. If you would prefer this option, please contact our friends at the following:
Compassionate Care 24/7 Home Euthanasia and Cremation Service,
www.drlorigibson.com, 503-880-1172
Loving Hands In Home Pet Euthanasia,
www.deborahrotman.com, 503-489-8421
Lap of Love,
www.lapoflove.com, 503-928-8866
I’m having an especially hard time and could use a little help. What can help me through this?
Losing a loved one is devastating, no matter the species! There are many resources available now to help with the grief from your loss. Here are some of our favorite resources:
Dove Lewis Pet Loss Support Program: 503-234-2061 24-hour message line,
www.dovelewis.org/community-services/pet-loss-support/ Email: petloss@dovelewis.org
Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine Pet Loss Support: 509-335-5704 or 1-866-266-8635, Monday-Thursday 7:00p-9:00p, Saturday 1:00p-3:00p
www.vetmed.wsu.edu/outreach/pet-loss-hotline Email:plhl@vetmed.wsu.edu
University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine Pet Loss Support: 530-752-4200 or 1-800-565-1526, Monday-Friday (Tuesday-Thursday during the summer) 6:30p-10:30p
www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/vmnews/16-2/16-2p07.pdf
Books written and illustrated by Christine Davis celebrating “forever dogs” and “forever cats” because “each will always have a forever place in my heart.” You can find the names of her forever pets hidden in the art throughout the books, always there if you look for them.
www.lightheartedpress.com/book-overview/for-every-dog-an-angel/
Every Cat An Angel
Every Dog An Angel
Forever Paws
Common Questions About Pet Loss:
www.petlosshelp.org
Coping with Losing a Pet:
www.helpguide.org/articles/grief/coping-with-losing-a-pet.htm
Fear Free Starts At Home: Recommendations For a Fear Free Nail Trim
By Rosie Gilbert, DVM
Nail trims can be daunting for both owners and pets. With one bad experience, neither wants to participate in them anymore. Here are some pointers from our Viking Team to help decrease anxiety for both parties.
Desensitize your pet to handling and nail trims:
- Handle feet paired with a high value treat (something they don’t get every day that is extra special!).
- Touch nail trimmers to the feet (without trimming) and pair with a treat until pet is comfortable with this.
- Try trimming 1-2 nails at a time while the pet is relaxed. You don’t need to get all the nails at once for success!
- Start trying these techniques with puppies and kittens! A human fingernail trimmer turned sideways to the nail works well on tiny baby feet.
Tips and Tricks:
- Start with only the tips, especially on black toenails. If you trim back too far, you will hit a blood and nerve supply called the “nail quick”.
- To help see where the nail quick is, shine a flashlight through the nail (works best on lighter colored nails).
- Long quicks will recede with regular nail trimming!
- Always end on a positive note! Don’t push too hard to get it all done.
- Some pets are not comfortable lying on their sides for nail trims (such as with arthritis or anxiety). Try trimming their nails in a standing position-support them under the belly if they need help staying on three legs.
- Smear peanut butter or squeeze cheese on a wall (bathtub) or a wall mounted toy to distract from nail trims.
- Try different settings (outside, bathroom, by the fire) to see if the pet is more amenable to one location over another.
- Some animals require anti-anxiety medication or additional training assistance to maintain their their nails. Please contact our office if you would like to try a prescription for anxiety to decrease your pet’s fear.
- We regularly work with Synergy Behavior Solutions (www.synergybehavior.com) and Coexist Canine Coaching (www.coexistcaninecoaching.com) for animals that need additional help in this area.
Is your pet a poop eater? Here’s what you can do about it!
By Rosie Gilbert, DVM
Poop eating in animals, aka coprophagia, can stem from a number of reasons. It has been suggested that pets that have experienced extreme hunger (i.e. rescued, pregnant, hypothyroid/hyperthyroid, etc) or pets with a nutritional deficiency may be prone to developing it. It can be an adaptation for pets that are ashamed of soiling in the house, or it may be normal den-cleaning behavior in mothers. Dogs do it more than cats, and female dogs more than males.
In addition to stinky breath, coprophagia can actually harm our pets. They can become infected with parasites that can be passed on to their owners, especially children, the elderly, and anyone immunocompromised. Opossum and raccoons in this area are known to have worms in their stool, while giardia and coccidia can be shared in dog poo. Horses that have been treated with the parasiticide ivermectin can pass the drug in their stool at levels too high for certain breeds of dogs to process, leading to neurologic issues. So what can we do?
1.) First of all, your pet should be examined by a veterinarian-and bring a fecal sample! There may be a medical reason causing them to not process their food correctly, such a parasites, endocrine issues, inflammatory bowel disease, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, pregnancy...the list goes on and on. Let's rule a valid reason for your pet needing more calories/nutrition!
2.) Try food additives. Once we know there is no medical reason for poo-eating behavior, we can focus on deterring them from doing it.
- There are some products available over the counter or through your veterinarian that work if you feed them to the pet whose stool is getting eaten (For-bid, CoproBan). These products are put in the food and contain flavors that may increase the "ick" factor after they’re "processed". They usually contain monosodium glutamate (MSG)-if you are using these, please be aware pets can have bad reactions to MSG just like humans.
- For a more natural approach to making poop taste bad, try adding Anise seeds or fresh pineapple to the food (canning destroys the enzymes, must be fresh!).
3.) Add something to the poop. If you can't control what goes in the food (such as with wildlife, other dogs, etc.) you may be able to tamper with the experience from the other end, so to speak. Apply something to the piles outside before turning your dog loose for a trial.
Some things that have been successful for our clients: hot sauce, wasabi, cayenne pepper, and my personal favorite, Pop-Rocks. Please keep in mind that any additives can cause gastrointestinal upset, so use with caution!
4.) Put in the training time. Training using a command, such as "leave it" and rewarding with a high-value treat can be a positive solution for both pet and owner!
Other tips:
- Basket muzzles certainly help if you are hiking or in an off-leash area
- Picking up poop consistently will sometimes make the pet feel like they don't have to
- Anti-anxiety measures can be helpful (check out our website for options to decrease anxiety in cats and dogs at www.vikingveterinarycare.com).
Most young dogs or newly rescued pets will grow out of it, but not always. Please remember that keeping a "poop-eater" on parasite preventatives is a MUST!
First published:
June Newsletter 2016
Edited 2/26/2017.
Don’t Get Ticked: Get Ticked Off!
Rosie Gilbert, DVM
Some of you may have seen in the news the recent case at Dove Lewis of a dog almost euthanized for a sudden decline and paralysis. Right before saying goodbye, an extern was rubbing the dog’s ears and found a tick. Within 10 hours after removal, the dog had completely recovered! (
http://katu.com/news/local/vet-intern-finds-tick-hidden-behind-dogs-ear-moments-before-scheduled-euthanasia-dove-lewis-tick-paralysis)
Tick paralysis is caused by prolonged exposure to toxins found in the saliva of certain ticks. Ticks can also be responsible for Ehrlichia, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Babesia, and Bartonella (to name a few). With many of our furry friends traveling to the tick-infested regions of Oregon this summer, we wanted to share with you some important information on how to keep them protected:
Ticks removed in less than 24 hours are MUCH less likely to be able to spread disease. Check your pet nightly, especially in the armpits, behind (or in) the ears, and between the toes!
Consider a tick preventative prior to hiking, camping, or traveling outside the Portland Metro area. Give us a call to discuss your tick prevention options!
- In dogs, Nexgard kills adult fleas and ticks for 30 days after ingestion.
- Revolution is effective against the American Dog Tick, which was the species responsible for the paralysis discussed above, and can be applied topically in dogs or cats.
Be careful to remove the head of the tick using tweezers or other tick removal device with slow, steady traction. Place the tick in a container with isopropyl alcohol to kill it quickly and save it in case identification is necessary. Use caution! Ticks can transmit disease to humans too.
Please DO NOT try to burn out a tick with a match head, “suffocate” it with Vaseline, or kill it by applying essential oils. The tick should be removed as quickly as possible with the head intact.
Planning a trip and need some advice on the best tick prevention for your pet? Please call us at 971-371-4024.
First Published:
June 2016 Newsletter
Edited 2/26/2017
Titer Testing To Prevent Over-Vaccination in Dogs
Rosie Gilbert, DVM
Remember when pets were brought to the vet every year for shots? Well, research in the last couple decades has shown that the immune response stimulated by vaccines hangs around a lot longer than we knew! Because of this new information, vaccine guidelines have changed.
- After the series of three Distemper Adenovirus Parvo (DAP) vaccines and one rabies vaccine a dog receives as a puppy, they should have a booster at 1-year of age.
- Thereafter, DAP and rabies vaccines are given every 3 years instead of annually. Three years is the time frame that every DAP and rabies vaccine available was shown to last for. In some dogs, antibody response stimulated by vaccines can last MUCH longer.
Titer testing is a way for us to measure if a dog has adequate immunity against these deadly viruses. For rabies, “protective antibodies” does NOT equal immunity, which is why no state allows rabies titers to be used instead of vaccinating. (Rabies vaccines can be waived by your veterinarian if they have a medical condition, such as a previous vaccine reaction, that warrants it.)
Titer testing for distemper and parvo viruses is available through our hospital for $117. A “positive” titer indicates protection, while a “negative” titer suggests vaccination is needed.
Fun Fact: 1 in 1,000 dogs do not form a protective immune response to the parvo vaccine. The same is true for 1 in 5,000 dogs to the distemper vaccine. These dogs are called “genetic non-responders”. No matter how many vaccines they receive, they will not be protected. There used to be a large number of Rottweilers and Doberman Pinchers who were non-responders, but most of them died with the first parvo outbreaks in the 70s and now these breeds are not overrepresented. There is a suspicion in the veterinary community that Pitbulls may have larger numbers of non-responders than other breeds, but this has yet to be proven.
The best time to test your puppy to see if it is protected from parvo and distemper is 2-4 weeks after their last vaccination in their “puppy series” (~18-20 weeks of age). Adult dogs can be titer tested anytime and checked every 2-3 years to ensure their titers remain high.
Spaying and Neutering: A Review of the Health Risks
Rosie Gilbert DVM
"When should my pet be spayed/neutered, Doc?" is a question I get almost daily, but the answer isn't as simple as it seems. There are a lot of factors that weigh into this decision for each of my patients, and I thought I would share them with you.
Why are shelters spaying/neutering so young?
Pet overpopulation has made it necessary to spay/neuter pets before they leave an animal shelter or rescue group. Every medical professional that I know would rather alter a pet really young, than euthanize unwanted litters. Yes, there are some health issues that can develop from young spaying and neutering, particularly in large to giant breed dogs. But in the rescue community, it is better than the alternative.
What are some of the health issues that can develop from spaying/neutering?
In female dogs, there is a possible increased risk of urinary incontinence after spaying, especially if they are larger dogs and were spayed before 3 months of age. Being spayed young can result in a recessed juvenile vulva, which can be more difficult to keep clean, causing dermatitis and bladder inflammation (particularly if they are overweight).
Sex hormones tell the growth plates in the bones when to close (i.e. stop growing). When this hormonal influence on the skeleton is removed, large and giant breed dogs especially will have a longer-limbed conformation, which can predispose them to orthopedic disease. When the hind limbs bones are longer than what would have been "normal" for that dog, it changes the angle in the knee-this may be why many large-breed dogs are suffer from cruciate ligament tears/injuries.
In a study on Golden Retrievers, hip dysplasia in males neutered at younger than 12 months was double that of intact males, with an earlier disease onset. No significant difference in hip dysplasia was seen in females. Golden Retrievers spayed before 1 year of age, or who remained intact were 4x LESS likely to developed hemangiosarcoma (the bleeding spleen tumor) than females spayed after 1 year of age. No differences were found among male Golden Retrievers. It appears timing may be everything!
Obesity in pets after they are spayed/neutered is frequently seen if their diet is not adjusted. After spaying/neutering, a female cat requires 33% less calories and a male cat requires 28% less calories-something we need to keep in mind! There is discussion in the veterinary community regarding increased femoral head (top of the back leg) fractures in cats neutered early-If you have a young, active cat who has suddenly gained weight following a neuter, whose growth plates aren't closed, there is a possibility their bones aren't going to be as strong as their intact male counterpart.
What are the benefits of spaying/neutering?
Removal of the female reproductive organs prevents pyometra, a uterine infection that can be life threatening. It also prevents uterine, ovarian, and vaginal tumor formation. Mammary tumor (breast cancer) risk in female dogs is substantially increased with age and exposure to sex hormones. One study suggests the risk is up to 40% higher in intact females after 2.5 years of age.
Intact male dogs over 5 years of age will have a 50% chance of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia, a very painful condition where the prostate gland becomes enlarged, pressing on the colon and making them unable to defecate without pain. Castration prevents this, as well as prostatitis, prostatic cysts, testicular cancer, and perineal herniation.
Intact dogs and cats are more likely to die of infections and trauma. Spayed/neutered dogs and cats have been shown to live longer. Pets having surgery at younger ages appear to heal from it faster-there is less blood flow to the sex organs if they haven't been used yet, and less abdominal and intra-abdominal fat obscuring the surgical field.
As some animals become more sexually mature, undesirable behaviors can develop, such as mounting, being overly protective/bonded to one owner in the home, urinary marking or spraying, and aggression towards other animals. This can create a stressful situation for other animals in the household, as well as their owners. Studies have shown that intact male cats exhibit less affection towards humans and more aggression towards other cats.
What are the recommendations at Viking Veterinary Care?
In general, if you are not breeding your dog, we recommend the following:
Female dogs: Spaying before their first heat cycle (unless they appear to have a tucked vulva- Please consult your veterinarian on this!). This is around 6 months of age for most females, possibly later for giant breeds.
Male dogs: Neuter at musculoskeletal maturity. In small dogs, this is around 6 months of age. In large or giant breeds, we recommend 1 to 1.5 years of age unless behavior issues are involved.
Male and female cats: Neuter and spay between 4-5 months of age. Some cats will become sexually active before 6 months-old, and it may be a benefit to spay/neuter before urine marking develops.
If you have questions about your specific pet, please discuss them with Dr. Gilbert and Dr. Brock directly. These are general guidelines and may not be applicable in all cases.
First Published:
November 2016 Newsletter
Edited 2/26/2017
References:
Goh, Clara S. Age of neutering in large and giant-breed dogs. Clinicians Brief. Aug 2016: 18-23.
Bushby, Phillip. Pediatric spay and neuter. Wild West Conference 2015
Little, Susan. The best time to neuter kittens. International Society of Feline Medicine 2013
Dental
Does your pet have bad breath but the thought of anesthesia for a dental scares you? You are not alone! And while we can't ever promise that anesthesia is 100% risk free, we can show you what we do in our hospital to make every procedure as safe as possible.
Winston (pictured) came to our Adoption Ward with two fractured canine teeth. We donated a dental to help him get adopted.
Before we even schedule a dental, we need to examine your pet and draw pre-anesthetic bloodwork.
- The exam helps us give you the best estimate on what needs to be done, how long it will take, and how much it may cost.
- Bloodwork helps us make sure your pet doesn't have any pre-existing conditions that we need to address before anesthesia (How's our organ function? Are we going to process medications safely? Is there any indication to keep the patient on IV fluids before or after anesthesia?)
- Antibiotics may be necessary to start before the dental if there is infection within the mouth.
If we are unable to obtain blood during the exam appointment, we can run it the day of the procedure with our in-house laboratory machines.
Medication prior to the dental
Prior to anesthesia, your pet will receive an injection of a pain medication that also makes them sleepy. By preventing pain before it happens, pets experience less pain post-operatively.
Depending on the severity of the dental disease, we may also do an antibiotic injection if the patient was not started on them beforehand.
Eye lubrication is always applied during anesthesia as well to protect the eyes from getting dry.
Intravenous (IV) Catheter and Fluids
An IV catheter and fluids are placed prior to anesthesia. This gives us direct access to your pet's bloodstream, should they need medications while under anesthesia. The IV fluids support your pet's blood pressure. If blood pressure drops too low, blood flow to the kidneys is compromised and damage can occur. We do not allow IV catheters and fluids to be "waived", as they are critical to the safety of your pet's procedure.
Anesthetic Monitoring
Every pet under anesthesia has a breathing tube placed. This tube has a cuff at the end of it that is inflated once it is inserted into the trachea. The inflated cuff keeps any fluid from the mouth from going into the lungs. It also allows us to give deep breaths to the patient when needed. It is held in place by a piece of gauze secured behind the back of the head.
After your pet is intubated, they are connected to our monitor so we can keep tabs on their vital signs.
At Viking Veterinary Care, TWO technicians will be working with your pet throughout the procedure:
Dental Hygienist: Takes dental radiographs, cleans & polishes your pet's teeth, and helps identify problem areas with an oral exam.
Anesthesia Technician: Monitors your pet's vital signs throughout the procedure, making sure your pet is at the correct plane of anesthesia (not too deep, not too shallow).
Dental Radiographs
Dental radiographs are a vital part of assessing your pet's oral health. They are used to see what is going on under the gumline. Radiographs help us find pockets of infection, resorbing tooth roots, dentigerous cysts, teeth that never erupted, and masses, among other things. Radiographs in conjunction with an oral exam help us determine if a tooth needs to be extracted, or if there is something we can do to save it.
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Winston had a fractured canine tooth with pulp exposure-a direct route for bacteria to get to the root!
Extractions
If any abnormalities are found on dental radiographs and oral exam, we do our best to contact you at the phone numbers you have left with us. We discuss with you what our recommendation is and why, as well as giving you an updated price. In the event you cannot be reached, we do have an option on our drop-off form for you to authorize the doctor to proceed at their discretion, or not. It is VERY important that you leave us a phone number where you can be contacted in case of emergency.
Prior to any extractions, nerve blocks are placed in the mouth, just like what you receive at your own dentist if something potentially painful is going to occur. This makes the pet much more comfortable waking up.
Winston received a nerve block prior to any extractions.
After the area is numbed, the gums are elevated from the tooth and the tooth is removed. The difficulty of an extraction depends on how many roots the tooth has, what condition those roots are in, and if infection is present.
Winston getting one of his canine teeth extracted. After the tooth is extracted, the socket is flushed with an antibiotic and closed with absorbable suture.
Post-Operative Care
After a dental is completed, we routinely use our Class IV therapy laser to speed healing and reduce gingivitis. Protective eyewear is placed on your pet prior to lasering.
A technician remains with your pet until they are extubated and sitting up. Even then, they remain in our ICU ward so they can be closely monitored while still sedated. If an extraction was performed, they may receive another pain injection before going home with a prescription of pain medication.
Depending on the severity of the oral disease, we may want to recheck your pet in 7-10 days. Sometimes we have to go longer on the antibiotic course, or your pet may need an additional laser treatment if infection or inflammation persists.
Instructions to go home
We do our best to provide before and after pictures, as well as copies of the dental radiographs so you understand what your pet went through during their procedure. You will be sent home with a dental report card that has your post-operative instructions on it, as well as a Tooth Fairy Cup with your pet's teeth if you want to put it under their pillow.
Winston lost 2 canine teeth during his dental.
Should you have any other questions or concerns regarding a dental in your pet, please feel free to call our office anytime at 971-371-4024.
Winston showing off his pearly whites post-dental!
C-Section
Ever wondered what happens during a C-section? Here's a step-by-step view behind the scenes at our hospital during the recent surgery performed on Cinnamon and her Buns in the Oven.
Adorable little Cinnamon from Lovers Not Fighters came into their rescue pregnant (almost to term) and was very underweight. We weren't sure how our little 8-month-old would do during labor.
On her exam the week before, it was determined Cinnamon had 7 puppies. The night before her C-section, she passed 1 stillborn puppy with a severe herniation of the abdomen. An ultrasound showed good fetal heartbeats and it was determined that a C-section would be the safest for Cinnamon and her puppies.
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After pre-anesthetic bloodwork, an intravenous (IV) catheter was placed and Cinnamon was started on fluids. With any birth, a lot of fluids are lost, so we pre-emptively started replacing them!
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Cinnamon was provided with oxygen for at least 15-20 minutes before anesthesia. Once anesthesia was started, a tube was passed into the trachea to protect her airway and allow manual ventilation.
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Mama was moved to the surgery suite and the final preparation was completed.
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After Cinnamon was draped for surgery, Dr. Gilbert placed a numbing agent under the skin in preparation for the incision. Pain medication must be used judiciously until the puppies are out or they may be overdosed, so maximizing use of local anesthetics is desirable.
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Once the abdomen is open, the uteri full of puppies is gently lifted out. Dogs have 2 uterus that meet the cervix in a "Y" shape - this allows them to support several babies at once. Cinnamon had 3 puppies in each uterus.
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The fluid inside the uteri can be irritating to the rest of the organs in the abdomen, so before opening the uteri, they are separated from the abdomen by sterile pads.
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An incision was made at the base of the uteri and a puppy (inside its amniotic sac) was extracted. The sac was removed from around the puppy, the umbilicus (navel) was clamped, and the puppy was passed to our technical crew.
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Each puppy was revived from anesthesia via vigorous rubbing. The nostrils and mouth are suctioned to remove fluid, allowing the puppies to take their first breaths.
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Once a puppy was breathing, its umbilicus was tied off and cleansed with betadine to prevent infection. Before birth, each pup received their oxygen, blood, and nutrition via the umbilicus. If it is not completely sealed, it is a direct route for bacteria to enter their bodies.
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Our dedicated crew of puppy rubbers worked diligently to makes sure all puppies were yelling at us very quickly!
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All 6 puppies were brindle, like mom! Four girls and two boys were born.
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After the babies were out, Mama received additional pain drugs and her spay was completed.
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Dr. Gilbert finally got to meet the puppies she delivered! Each puppy was weighed, examined for any medical issues, and their suckle reflex was checked (these guys were hungry!).
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Mama Cinnamon recovered from anesthesia perfectly.
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Even though she doesn't remember giving birth, Cinnamon's instincts took over once she saw the pups and she rolled over so they could nurse easily. Nice job, Mama!
Cystotomy
Lily, a young female Pomeranian (Pictured at left, prepping for surgery under her sister, Lucy’s, watchful eye), presented for tenderness in her abdomen when she was picked up. Other symptoms frequently seen in pets with bladder stones include frequent urination, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, urinating small amounts, having accidents in the home, drinking more water, and ongoing urinary tract infections. Here's a step-by-step of her cystotomy, or bladder stone removal.
The owners had to chuckle at the bladder stone (circled) found on radiographs. It's shaped like a Canadian maple leaf and Lily was adopted in British Columbia!
Lily had pre-operative bloodwork, an IV catheter was placed, and IV fluids were started to support her blood pressure during anesthesia. She was anesthetized, intubated to protect her airway, and then her abdomen was prepared for surgery.
Lily’s belly was shaved, then scrubbed twice to remove as much dirt, hair, and bacteria as possible. A sterile drape was placed to keep the incision site and the surgical instruments protected.
A numbing agent was applied under the skin prior to the first incision to decrease nerve stimulation, which keeps our patient more comfortable after surgery.
The bladder sits on top of everything else in the abdomen when a dog is on its back, making it very easy to find. Urine can be irritating to the abdominal contents, so the bladder is isolated from the abdomen with large, gauze-like “lap sponges” that are moistened with warm saline. If any urine is spilled it will be caught by the sponge.
To minimize our risk of spilling urine and to make the bladder easier to handle, we remove the urine with a needle and syringe. This is called a “cystocentesis” and is the same procedure used with awake dogs and cats to sterily collect urine (we just don’t have to go through the skin in surgery). It is always a good idea to submit the sterile urine, a small piece of the bladder wall, and a little crushed up bladder stone for a culture and sensitivity. Frequently, bladder infections and stones will go hand-in-hand; to prevent future stone formation, we need to make certain any underlying infection is resolved.
“Stay sutures” are placed in the bladder to help manipulate it’s positioning without handling the tissue too much with instruments or our hands.
An incision is made into the bladder and stones carefully removed. We explore every part of the inside and make sure we got all the stones. A urinary catheter is also passed to ensure no stones are hiding in the urethra.
Once our bladder is sewn closed again, it is filled with saline to make sure it doesn’t leak when it is under pressure. (Remember, urine is irritating to the abdominal contents.)
Once the bladder is returned to the abdomen, the abdomen is filled with warm saline, then suctioned to remove as much of it as possible. This is a final “rinse” to dilute and remove any urine that may have found its way into the belly.
The abdomen is then closed and radiographs are repeated to ensure all the stones were removed.
The stones are submitted to an outside lab to determine what they are made up of. Once we know the make-up of the stones, we can choose a dietary plan to keep more stones from forming. Prescription diets help decrease stone development by limiting the minerals that make up the stones, encouraging pets to drink more water (thus keeping their urine dilute), and by keeping the pH balance in the bladder at a level non-conducive to stone formation.
Fear Free™ Medicine

The Fear-Free Certified Professionals at Viking Veterinary Care make appointments feel like visits with old friends. Every effort is made to be sure you and your pet are at ease. We are happy to accommodate special requests - just ask!
What does Fear Free™ mean for you and your pet?
- Quiet, calm lobby with separate area for cats
- Sophia Yin's "low stress" handling techniques
- Calming pheromone diffusers in all exam rooms
- Treats to keep patients in a positive emotional state
- Cushioned non-slip surfaces for all patients
- Exams on the floor, or wherever your pet is comfortable
- Treatment plans tailored to each individual pets' needs
- Thundershirts available for in-clinic use
- A visit to the Booty Box to pick out and pillage a fun new toy after every annual physical exam!
Fear Free™ visits start before the exam - here are some things you can do at home to get your pet ready for their appointment:
Fear Free Vet Visits Start Before the Exam!
For the Kitties
Statistics show that the family feline only makes it to the vet if something is wrong. It's a stressful event for both the cat and the owner, so annual exams are postponed indefinitely.
In addition to getting your kitty as comfortable as possible in the carrier (see below), here are a few other things to consider:
- Place a towel or blanket over the carrier so your cat feels safe.
- Hug the carrier to your chest like a football; Don't swing it by the handle.
- Use Feliway spray or wipes in the carrier. This is a pheromone to help reduce stress (http://www.feliway.com/us/).
- Play soothing music at a low volume in the car. Consider a CD of "Through a Cat's Ear" - music meant to decrease brain activity, slow the heart rate, and lower blood pressure in cats (http://throughadogsear.com/tace/).
- Feel free to utilize the isolated section of our waiting room! It's meant for cats and fearful dogs.
- Keep the carrier elevated so your cat feels safe - we welcome you to put the carrier on the chair next to you in the waiting room.
- If there is anything we can do to help make your cat's appointment more enjoyable, please don't hesitate to ask!

Fear Free Vet Visits Start Before the Exam!
For the Dogs
If you have a nervous dog, or one who has had a bad experience in the past, please let us know before-hand. Some dogs do better if we meet them in the lobby first with treats, or they may prefer not to see the white coat. We are absolutely willing to work around whatever fears your pet may have!
Here are some suggestions we have before the exam:
- Bring your dog to the vet hungry! Stress is reduced if their stomach is telling them to focus on the treats.
- Take them on a walk or have some playtime before the visit.
- Play soothing music at a low volume in the car. Consider a CD of "Through a Dog's Ear" - music meant to decrease brain activity, slow the heart rate, and lower blood pressure in dogs (http://throughadogsear.com/tace)
- Use a pheromone spray (Adaptil) on a bandana before the car ride or consider an Adaptil collar (available at the front desk, www.adaptil.com)
- Consider an anti-anxiety supplement, such as Zylkene ahead of time. Give us a call and we can have it ready for you to pick up before your appointment. (http://www.zylkenepet.co.uk)
- We have Thunder Shirts! We can fit your dog with one upon arrival if you would like to see if it helps them. The pressure from a Thunder Shirt has a similar effect to swaddling a child. Let us know if you would like to try one out! (http://www.thundershirt.com)
What's New At Viking Veterinary Care
Our newsletters have updates on the latest information about pet health, new services we're offering, and our ongoing community outreach programs!
Spring 2020 -
Adoption Ward Update, Viking's Commitment to Continuing Education, COVID-19 Facts For You and Your Pet, The Viking Approach to the Itchy Dog
February 2020 -
February is Dental Month, Continued Learning at Viking, Behind the Scenes of a Viking Dental, Heartworm Update and Testing Recommendations, 2019 Was a Year to Remember! Go Green: Protecting the Environment, Our Commitment
November 2019 -
Purrsday, Jessica Alejandra and Cristina CVT Progress Update, Welcome Dr. Ginger Grellmann, Canine Influenza, FHO and TPLO Rehabilitation Plans, Cassie's Fund Update, Fear Free Socialization Challenge, Dentigerous Cysts, Heart Disease and Dog Food
Summer 2019 -
Purrsday, Rob's CVT Graduation, Introducing Dr. Danielle Drennen, Adoption Ward Update, The Viking Approach to the Itchy Dog, Tips for Vanquishing Fleas, Top Picks for Preventing Fleas
March 2019 -
Open House, Cat-only day, 2018 Recap, More to Come in 2019!
October 2018 -
Cancellation Policy, Herbs/Supplements/Pheromones, New Online Pharmacy, Exotics at Viking, Fear Free Acupuncture.
Spring 2018 -
Available Adoptable, Welcome Dr. Sarah Tran, Product Spotlight: Galliprant, Case Study: Heartworm Treatment, Canine Fitness Training, Fitness Corner.
Winter 2018 -
February is Dental Month, What Goes Into A Dental Cleaning, Signs Of Dental Pain, Safe Anesthetic Protocols, Orovet Dental Chews Special, The Risk Of Essential Oils To Cats, Important Websites For Pet Owners.
February 2017 -
February is Dental Month, Oravet Dental Hygiene Chews, Purina Dental Chewz, CET Vanilla Mint Toothpaste, Minerva - Progress Update, Feedback Request - Dog Training, Rescues and Shelters - Our Experiences,
Bart's Hospital Tour,
Smart Rabies Tags, Client Communication System Update.
January 2017 -
Acupuncture - An Age-Old Treatment, February - Dental Month,
Animal Community Talks - Regenerative Medicine,
VetSource Home Delivery Program,
Parvo in Cats, Katy, Old Dogs Can Learn New Tricks
December 2016 -
How to Help Your Pets Deal with Holiday Stress, Adoption Ward Update - Congratulations Sam and Dean! New Doctors at Viking - Hope Flint and Emily Bemrose, Online Pharmacy, VetSource Home Delivery, Dr. Brock Certified in Rehabilitation Medicine, Adoption Ward Year in Review, Cassie's Fund Year in Review.
November 2016 -
Spaying and Neutering - A Review of the Health Risks, Online Pharmacy Announcement, Adoption Ward Update - Sam and Dean, Lisa Nicholson, Preventative Specials.
October 2016 -
How to Financially Plan For Your Pet's Care, Cassie's Fund Update, Stem Cell Therapy Presentation, Adoption Ward Update - Sam and Dean, Rabies Tag Survey, Heartworm is Here, Preventative Specials.
September 2016 -
Stem Cell Therapy and Platelet Rich Plasma, Viking Veterinary Care 2-Year Anniversary, Adoption Ward Update - Sam and Dean, Tails From The Trenches, Adequan Promotion, Preventative Specials.
August 2016 -
Salmon Poisoning, Kitty Condos for Rent, Adoption Ward Update, When Dogs Eat Bad Things, Trupanion Pet Insurance Free Trials, Puppy Play Day, Preventative and Food Specials.
July 2016 -
Degenerative Joint Disease and Treatment in Cats, Fear Free Certification, Dasuquin Advanced for Cats, Use of Class IV Therapy Laser to Address Acute and Chronic Pain, Adoption Ward Update, Open Late on Tuesdays, Product Specials.
June 2016 -
Poop Eating Pets, Adoption Ward Update, Tick Prevention, Survey, New Products, Current Specials.
May 2016 -
Poison Prevention, New Products - Oravet and Heartgard Plus, Adoption Ward Update, Rehabilitation Case Study - Minerva, Current Rebates and Discounts.
April 2016 -
Puppy Play Day, Poison Prevention - Chocolate vs. Xylitol, Adoption Ward Update, Canine Socialization, Titer Testing to Prevent Over-Vaccination, Naturopathic Medicine.
March 2016 -
Pheromones - What are they and what do they do? Feliway and Adaptil Specials, Dog Breed Identification App, Adoption Ward Update, Animal Community Talks - Dr. Gilbert: Fear-Free Veterinary Visits.
February 2016 -
Dental Special, Adoption Ward Update, Canine Influenza, Puppy Play Day, Dental - Behind The Scenes.
January 2016 -
Animal Community Talks - Managing Fear and Stress, Congratulations Barney, PVMA Pet Supply Drive Results, Top 5 Resolutions Pets Would Approve.
December 2015 -
PVMA Pet Supply Drive, DIY Dog Tug Toy, Puppy Play Day, Holiday Dangers to Pets.
November 2015 -
Toxoplasmosis, Adoption Ward Update - Chloe and Henry, Gold Standard Feline Friendly Practice Certification, Open House, Puppy Play Day.
October 2015 -
One Year Anniversary Open House, Flea and Parasite Freebies and Rebates, Marijuana Toxicity, Thank You For Your Support, Adoption Ward Update - Winston.
September 2015 -
Cat Friendly Practice Certification, Behind-the-scenes of a C-Section, Shipwreck in the Cat Exam Room! Viking Veterinary Care Celebrates 1 Year Anniversary, Adoption ward update.
August 2015 -
Preparing for Boarding or Pet Sitting, Adoption Ward Update - Winston, What is a Cryptorchid?, Dog Facial Recognition App.
July 2015 -
Rabies Alert, Tick Removal, Kitty Extravaganza Giveaway Winner, Specialists at Viking Veterinary Care, Cassie's Laser Certification, Special Request Kitty Shave-downs.
June 2015 -
Fear Free Vet Visits For Kitties, Drawing for June's Kitty Extravaganza Giveaway, Cat Carrier Advice, Fear Free Vet Visits For Dogs, Booty Box, Adoption Ward Update - Grease Monkey, Fear Free Practice.
May 2015 -
Parasite Prevention Guidelines, Pet Insurance, Adoption Ward, Wellness Plans.
April 2015 -
Girl Scouts, Rescue Partnerships, MDR1 Gene Mutation, Laser Certifications, Training Sessions, Why Microchip, Fecal Samples, Poison Control App.
March 2015 -
Pet Car Safety, Puppy Playtime/Socialization, Girl Scouts, Sentinel Discount, Adoption Ward, Certified Training Partner, High Schoolers.
February 2015 -
Referral Program, Dental Month Discounts, Puppy Playtime, Animal Community Talks, Genetic Testing, Adoption Ward, Parasite Prevention, Scratch 'n' Scoot Cards.
Rosie Gilbert, DVM, CVA - Hospital Owner/Veterinarian
Education:
- University of Alaska Southeast, Bachelor in Communication
- Oregon State University, Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine
- IVAS Acupuncture Certified
- USDA APHIS Certified
- Dove Lewis Emergency Animal Hospital, Internship in Emergency and Critical Care
- Medivet Stem Cell Certified Practitioner
- First Fear Free Certified Veterinarian in Oregon

  

While completing courses to apply to veterinary school, Dr. Gilbert worked as a veterinary technician assistant at Dove Lewis Emergency Animal Hospital and Multnomah County Animal Services. She was frequently found inside a kennel with a recovering patient or writing records with a kitten on her lap. Dr. Gilbert has fostered several strays, each of whom hold a special place in her heart (or can still be found on her bed).
If she looks familiar, it may be because Dr. Gilbert spent four years at Rock Creek Veterinary Hospital, then two years as a fill-in veterinarian throughout the Portland area while researching her own veterinary hospital. This gave her the opportunity to evaluate equipment, exam room set-up, and work place flow to give clients and patients the best possible experience.
Dr. Gilbert is always looking for additional ways to help clients who don’t want to give up on their furry loved ones. "Science is constantly evolving, and so should we. Which is why we’ve brought in Integrative Medicine (acupuncture and Chinese herbs) and Regenerative Medicine (platelet-rich plasma, stem cell treatments, and class IV therapy laser) to our hospital. When clients have exhausted all other traditional treatment options, we can also offer effective complimentary cutting edge modalities."
Dr. Gilbert and her husband, Michael Riley, are currently owned by two kitties (Professor Chaos and Wingnut), two Great Danes (Sauvie and Jacks), and two sulcata tortoises (Dozer and Roomba). Outside of veterinary medicine she enjoys competing in local races/obstacle courses, exploring Oregon’s wine country, and enjoying a good book while covered in her animals.
Bridget Hendricks, DVM – Associate Veterinarian
Education:
- Colorado State University, Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine
- USDA APHIS Certified

Dr. Hendricks has had a passion for animals and science ever since she was young. Two of her most prized childhood possessions were The Merck Veterinary Manual and The Cornell Book of Cats, both of which still sit on her bookshelf.
Throughout Dr. Hendricks' veterinary education and career, her focus has always been the human-animal bond and owner education. "It's my privilege to be part of such an amazing relationship. What better way to help build a strong bond between pet and owner than to help that owner understand why their best friend does what he does." As a veterinarian, Dr. Hendricks' goal is to keep that bond as strong as possible for as long as possible. "Preventative, wellness care is the best way to keep our pets happy and healthy. Not just in the medical sense, but also nutrition, behavior, and senior care. This is why I'm so excited to be joining the team at Viking Veterinary Care. Their philosophy and my philosophy fit hand-in-hand."
Dr. Hendricks and her husband are lucky enough to share their house with three cats – Macavity (who is affectionately known as "Kitten" even though he’s almost 13) and 2 kittens. When she’s not in the hospital, Dr. Hendricks loves running, flatwater kayaking, getting dirty in mud races, and dancing in downtown Portland.
Danielle Drennen, DVM – Associate Veterinarian
Education:
- Oregon State University, Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine
- USDA APHIS Certified

Born and raised in Oregon, Dr Drennen could not ask for a better place to call home. She started working in the veterinary field at a young age and always knew becoming a veterinarian was her true calling. She has worked many positions in a veterinary hospital including a dog walker, kennel technician, receptionist and veterinary technician.
Dr Drennen attended Oregon State University in Corvallis Oregon, and double majored in Animal Science and Bioresource Research with a special interest in animal reproduction. She loved Corvallis so much that she stayed there to attend veterinary school at Oregon State as well (Go Beavs!!) Her current interest is enhancing the human animal bond including geriatric medicine, dentistry, nutrition, ophthalmology, behavior, and sports medicine. "The most valuable part of being a veterinarian, is seeing the love and connection between a pet and their family, and being able to encourage and support that bond".
Dr. Drennen currently lives with her two labs, Dakota and Hudson, black cat named Brooklyn, her husband Matt and her new little baby girl named Everly. She enjoys volunteering for the community and helping with non profit organizations and shelters including Oregon Humane Society. When she is not practicing medicine, she enjoys spending her time with her family, snowboarding, wake boarding, hiking the beautiful northwest, spending time at the beach, and gardening.
Denna - Hospital Manager

  

Denna is a local girl from Aloha. As a kid she had chickens, ducks, geese, dogs, and cats. She was also involved with raising, showing, and judging rabbits. Denna loved being surrounded by animals and it led her to a career in animal health. She has been in the field for almost 20 years, having experience with general practice, oncology, and emergency care, and still learns something new every day!
When she is not working she is spending time with her family: her husband, two sons, her 3-legged dog (Lt. Dan) and her kitties (Tuesday and Blaze).
What is your goal with every patient visit?
"I want every patient and client to know that we are here to help, to educate, and to understand. I really enjoy being part of the Viking team because the whole team is amazing. I also feel really good about the level of care and the medicine we practice here."
Alejandra - Certified Technician Assistant

Alejandra came to us from sunny Santa Barbara, California. She began her career with animals volunteering at a local cat sanctuary in middle school and has been hooked ever since. Since joining the veterinary field, Alejandra has gained extensive experience in Physical Rehabilitation. She hopes to learn and grow with Viking Veterinary Care’s Fear Free approach to excellent patient care, physical rehabilitation and acupuncture.
In her personal time, she enjoys going out in search of waterfalls, trails, tea, and antique stores. She especially enjoys adventuring when in the company of her friends, people and dogs alike.
What is your goal with every patient visit?
My goal is to provide support, empathy and respect to our patients and clients so that in turn they receive individualized, quality care.
Jessica - Technician Assistant

Jessica has always loved animals and wildlife. Her parents have pictures of her feeding baby raccoons while she was still in diapers. Her passion for saving cats started in middle school when her aunt and uncle had a bunch of baby kittens, one of which was afraid of everyone; but she was determined to help it. These days, that same originally skittish feral kitty named Boo curls up by her side every night.
Jessica's started her own cat rescue, Mission Impawsible, focused on helping feral cats and kittens to receive the care they need. She's dedicated to helping find homes for all the other Boos out there.
When not at work or involved with rescue, Jessica enjoy being outdoors, hiking or camping. She also loves to cuddle up on the couch with her cats and a good show.
What is your goal with every patient visit?
"My goal with every patient is to form a bond that makes that pet feel safe and loved every time they come in."
Kiyerra - Receptionist

Born in Portland, Kiyerra grew up in the suburbs of Olympia, Washington, with her family and several house pets, including a German Shepherd named Tico, and a black kitty named Sam. On their property they were often visited by various deer, squirrels, raccoons and opossum. Kiyerra used to watch the deer eat the apples from the tree in her front yard.
As an adult, Kiyerra was able to share her love for animals with her husband and adopted a tuxedo kitty named Zelda and an Australian Shepherd named Boba. In her spare time you can find her with a camera in her hand, snuggling with Zelda in the sunshine, or taking Boba to an open field to play.
What is your goal with every patient visit?
"Every pet parent to feel that we treat their fur-babies as if they were our own. Very loved and cared for!"
Courtney - Inventory and Technician Assistant

Courtney’s love of animals was encouraged by her mom, who took her to different zoos and animal rehab/conservations centers starting at a young age. Between her two cats and her family's dairy farm, Courtney learned to care for all animals. Courtney tended to her neighbors’ pets and pursued her love of animals to doggie daycare then veterinary medicine.
When she’s not at work, Courtney likes to go hiking, going to the beach or reading. She’s currently leash training her cat, Cake, and trying to make it to every state park in Oregon.
What is your goal with every patient visit?
"My goal with every visit is to make patients and owners feel welcome, like they're walking into an old friend’s place, and wanting to come back."
Madison - Technician Assistant

Bio Coming Soon!
Brittany - Technician and Hospital Assistant

Brittany discovered her interest in the veterinary field while caretaking for primates and studying zoology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. After graduation, she worked in pet retail management, expanding her pet care and nutrition knowledge.
Brittany was drawn to Viking's dedication to being a Fear Free Certified practice, as well as their therapeutic laser and acupuncture service offerings. In her free time, Brittany likes to roller skate, dance, and relax with her Chihuahua, Yoshi.
What is your goal with every patient visit?
"My goal with every appointment is to foster an open dialogue, actively listening to owners and answering questions. So that we can work together to provide the best Fear Free care possible for their furry companion."
Jenny - Receptionist

Jenny has a lifelong love of animals. When she was younger, her favorite imaginary companions were a golden retriever named Mandy and her 50 puppies. Eventually, her family got a beagle and Mandy was no longer called upon. Having an actual dog in the house cemented the deep love of pets and a desire to see them happy and healthy.
Jenny knew she wanted to have a career where she could help people. It wasn’t until later in life she realized she could combine a love of animals and a desire to help people by working in the veterinary field. She feels incredibly lucky to have found Viking Veterinary Care and to be invited to be part of this outstanding team.
When not at work, Jenny likes to read, explore the outdoors, and listen to jazz albums. She currently lives with a beautiful cat named Sophia who is incredibly happy being the one and only pet in the house. Jenny would love to eventually have a dog of her own.
What is your goal with every patient visit?
"To see pets treated with kindness, compassion, and dignity. To help pets feel their best selves."
Collin - Technician Assistant

While growing up, Collin always shared his home with animals, especially with his mother working in the veterinary field for as long as he can remember. He would accompany her when she was dog-sitting, visit the clinic before school every morning, and enjoyed seeing all of the different animals she was helping. This inspired him to get more involved in the veterinary field.
In his personal time, Collin enjoys driving around, camping, and losing time quading or boating. When he isn’t exploring new places, he likes chilling inside while playing video games with his friends.
What is your goal with every patient visit?
"My goal is to ensure every animal knows that this is a place of happiness and well-being, and their owners know this is a safe place for them to be entrusted"
Lauren - Technician Assistant

Lauren has always had a love for animals. She grew up having lot of pets, including cats, hamsters, a tortoise, and even a hedgehog. She has discovered her passion for veterinary medicine after learning the ins and outs here at Viking.
Lauren has a cat named Sweet Boy, who lives up to his name fully! She hopes to soon have a house of her own so she can have all the cats her heart desires. When she isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her family in southern Oregon, seeing live concerts, and camping.
What is your goal with every patient visit?
"To treat each and every animal as if they were my own; with patience, compassion, and respect."
Hospital Tour (by Bart)
Dr. Rosie Gilbert and Bart arriving for the day. Parking is plentiful and a ramp is available for pets or people. Our veterinarians and staff are certified Fear Free Professionals and we are a Gold Standard Feline Friendly Practice. We work hard to make your pets HAPPY at the vet!
In the lobby, we have products available to help with stress, dental care, and supplementation. A separate seating area is available for cats or reactive dogs, and carrier platforms are available so cats and small dogs can be raised off the floor.
Captain Bart welcomes you from the reception boat! Our receptionists are happy to help with the needs of your pet, including scheduling appointments, answering insurance questions, socialization through Puppy Play Day, and offering advice on how to get your pet to the hospital in a Fear Free manner.
Bart demonstrating that the scale doesn't have to be scary with a non-slip mat and treats. We welcome patients to come in for "Happy Visits" to help desensitize them to the hospital.
Our exam rooms are "Dane-sized" with flip up tables. We do the majority of our exams and treatments on the floor, where our patients are most comfortable. Bart is getting a Class IV therapy laser treatment from Stacey, one of our CVTs. The laser is used for anything infected or inflamed (and REALLY helps with arthritis).
We have full in-house lab capabilities to assess bloodwork, cytology, stool samples, and urine. Bart sometimes has to supervise!
Our giant breed-friendly kennels in the treatment area allow us to have eyes on our patients at all times! They are large enough for giant dogs to completely turn around inside.
Our hydraulic lift table safely lifts our canine friends during anesthetic procedures, such as dentals, platelet-rich plasma injections, or mass removals.
Our ICU ward also has a glass front where patients can be monitored constantly but can rest comfortably in a quiet environment with pheromones (a chemical signal that tells cats or dogs they are in a safe place).
We have digital radiology, which ensures we can take X-rays very quickly and send them to radiologists for a timely review. The table is extra large to fit the big guys comfortably. No, Bart, your gown is not on correctly...
Bart is making certain our cat boarding area meets his standards for our next guests. Each kitty gets 2 kennels attached by a pass-through-litter box on one side and food/water on the other, just the way our feline friends like it! The cats get full litter boxes, shelves to hang out on or hide under, pheromones, and relaxing music playing during their stay.
We have a full service surgical suite where our doctors perform spays, neuters, gastropexies, mass removals, foreign body removals, stem cell harvesting, and exploratory surgerys. Specialists are available for orthopedic and laparoscopic procedures with advanced notice.
Viking Veterinary Care In The News!
Featured Speakers: Rosie Gilbert DVM and Kristy-Ann Brock DVM - Animal Community Talks (March 19, 2017) - "Regenerative Medicine: A New Frontier In Joint Pain"
Featured Speaker: Rosie Gilbert DVM - Animal Community Talks, March 2017
Portland Vet Using Stem Cells to Treat Arthritis in Pets - KPTV News, Sept. 20 2016
Stem Cell Therapy Helping Pets in Pain - KGW News, Sept. 20 2016
Fear Free Veterinary Visits by Rosie Gilbert - Animal Community Talks, Feb. 21 2016
Managing Chronic Pain by Rosie Gilbert - Animal Community Talks, 2015
Meet Dr. Rosie Gilbert - Spot Magazine, April 2015
New Hospital Specializes in Big Dawgs - Spot Magazine, Dec. 2014
With Viking Veterinary Care, owner brings a bit of home to Bethany, Rock Creek - Oregon Live, Sept. 29 2014
Viking Veterinary Care invites public to tour hospital during open house - Oregon Live, Oct. 3 2014
Open House at Viking Veterinary Care - Spot Magazine, Sept. 2014
Viking Veterinary Care holds open house Saturday, Oct. 4 - Viking Veterinary Care Press Release Oregon Live Blog, Sept. 22 2014