Community News
Pet Health: Laser Application in Surgery

Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic wants our pets to heal properly with reduced pain, so using a laser during surgery is a valuable asset in our practice. It helps in the recovery of our companions in two ways: less bleeding since the laser cauterizes when it cuts, plus less pain as it helps to seal nerve endings. These benefits result in quicker recovery times as well as reduced post-surgery pain. Although initially designed for spay and neuter surgeries, it is a nice tool for removing lumps of all types in addition to countless other applications for your animal needs.

Plantar Wart Prevention

Plantar warts appear on the soles of your feet and toes and are spread by contact with moist, well-traveled surfaces like public showers and washrooms. Caused by HPV (type 1), the skin around the wart forms and thickens so it feels like a marble in your shoe. Prevention is key. I tell my patients to always wear flip flops in public change rooms and at the pool. Treatment varies depending on the physician, but it usually requires several visits two weeks apart. A wart can get better on its own after 2 years, but it can feel like a lot longer!

Estate Planning Concerns

Caring for an aging parent can be both stressful and challenging. You want what’s best for them, but if you have concerns about the circumstances leading up to the preparation of their will, now is the time to deal with it while they have the capacity to effectively participate in the review and discussion with a lawyer. Often, the reluctance to have these discussions means that they are put off until the parent has lost capacity. At that point, it may be too late to ensure their actual wishes are carried out.

Strong & Steady

Did you know that falls are the most common cause of injury in Canada? According to a recent Canadian study, exercise can cut your chance of falling in half. If you are unsteady on your feet due to age or other health challenges, the Red Deer Primary Care Network’s Strong & Steady four-week program can help you. Learn exercises in a group setting to increase your strength, flexibility, and balance. Call 403-343-9100 to register. You can also ask your family doctor or PCN health care professional for a referral.

Community Event: Healthy Me Expo

Nov. 19-24. Mall hours. Bower Place – The Great Indoors Market, Old SEARS location. Visit with LOCAL health professionals, businesses and groups. See their displays, demos and presentations promoting all aspects of wellness – mind, body and soul! It’s an excellent chance to find a Christmas gift for others or for yourself…the gift of health. Be sure to drop by the Wellnessnews booth to say “hi” and enter to win some amazing draw prizes.

Community Event

Sugar Plum Fair
Nov. 18. 1:30-3:30 pm.
6 Daykin St.
All are welcome to a fun-filled afternoon at The Hamlets at Deer Park. There is something special for everyone in your family! Visits with Santa, FREE horse & carriage rides, shop local vendors for festive gifts, hot cocoa, snacks and more! Bring your winter spirit and cheer to this festive event. Donations to the Food Bank appreciated. For more information call 403-309-6333.

Retirement Living at its Finest

You deserve the best and a place to call home. Sit back and relax at The Hamlets at Deer Park while you enjoy 3 meals a day restaurant style, complimentary bistro snacks, weekly housekeeping, in-house salon, theatre, the privately owed bus for scheduled transportation and weekly excursions, and monthly live entertainment. All this, PLUS peace of mind with 24-hour-a-day, on-site care staff. Your furry friends are even welcome here! Call today for a complimentary lunch and tour.

Keep Your Pet Smiling

Dental disease is a painful condition that affects the quality of life of our loving companions. It is an increasing problem and it is the buildup of plaque and tartar that can lead to additional health problems such as heart and kidney disease. Left untreated, plaque and tartar buildup can lead to more gingivitis and cause gum recession and tooth loss. Pet owners should consider routine observation and brushing of the teeth, as well as dealing with problems as soon as they are noticed. These actions will help prolong and improve the quality of life of our beloved friends.