COVID-19 Updates

We have been continuously monitoring the current COVID-19 situation and are pleased to announce that we are now offering routine wellness and preventative health care visits for your beloved pets! These include nail trims, annual health exams, vaccinations, as well as spay and neuter procedures. To make an appointment, please call us at 780-456-3616 or request an appointment online.

To reduce the potential spread of COVID-19, and to protect our clients and staff members, we ask for your understanding as we continue to adhere to the guidelines provided by the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association.
  • We are able to accommodate clients during this time through contactless appointments. Clients and other members of the public will not be permitted entry into our clinic. Upon arrival please remain in your vehicle and contact the clinic at 780-456-3616 to alert the staff.
  • A Registered Veterinary Technician will greet you in the parking lot, collect information and then bring your pet into the clinic for their appointment with the Veterinarian. Upon completion of the appointment, the doctor will be happy to discuss the results of your pet’s exam with you and form a treatment plan.
  • If your pet needs medication, food, or treats a staff member will be happy to deliver them curbside for you. Please remain patient as we expect our phone lines to remain busy. We thank you for your understanding and co-operation in advance.

We will continue to monitor the situation and will release further updates as necessary. We hope you are all keeping well and look forward to seeing you and your pet soon!
Pet Tips During COVID-19
Looking for tips on how to socialize your puppy or adult dog during the COVID-19 outbreak? If so, please read the following tips to help improve your pet’s confidence!
  • Expose your pets to different sound stimulations. Search Youtube for videos of fireworks, car horns, doorbells, etc. Being exposed to these sounds early in life will help to reduce anxiety later.
  • As you will be limited in your ability to introduce your pet to new people, try playing a costume game with your pet. Have a member of your family wear different articles of clothing (sunglasses, hats, jackets, etc.) to get your pet used to new or different people. It may help to make the simulation more authentic if the person in costume rings the doorbell and enters through the main door. Be sure to provide reassurance to your pet by giving lots of verbal praise. You may even consider offering treats to make the experience more enjoyable.
  • Ensure that your pet gets some alone time. Many people find themselves at home more than they otherwise would. Leaving your pet at home for short intervals will help get them comfortable being alone and will minimize the potential for separation anxiety and destructive behaviours. Consider going for a walk around the block or head to the grocery store to begin training your pet. Kennel training can be a helpful way to work towards this goal. If you have questions about kennel training, we can provide you with more information. Please call us at 780-456-3616 or e-mail us at info@castledownsvet.ca for more information.
  • To reduce the likelihood of fears and aversions, be sure to expose your pet to many types of textures. Regular and early contact with different surfaces like tile, carpet, grass, wood, pavement, and concrete will increase the confidence of your furry friend.
We hope that you find this information helpful. Please stay tuned to our Facebook page for more information on pet care.