Happy Paws Veterinary Clinic has been helping pets stay healthy and happy since 2015. The clinic is owned and operated by husband and wife team, Jeff Boucher, administrator, and Dr. Erin Heck, Veterinarian. Happy Paws has a small team of veterinarians that can help you with your pets, including Dr. Sarah Pederson who offers integrative pet medicine.
“At the time we started planning for Happy Paws, Dr. Heck was working at an emergency clinic in Calgary. We really wanted to start our own business where the focus of the clinic was communication with our clients,” explains Boucher. “We ensure that our clients never feel rushed and that they always have their questions properly answered. Further, we spend the time educating our clients on treatment techniques and how we can help their pets live longer lives.”
He continues, describing the services offered.
“Happy Paws is a small animal clinic that focuses on primary care for cats and dogs. This includes annual exams, vaccines, diagnostic blood work, and radiographs. We also offer general surgical services including but not limited to spay and neuters, lump removals, and dental cleanings and extractions. We also offer a full pharmacy stocked with most medications.”
The addition of Dr. Sarah Pederson means Happy Paws can include unique services that greatly improve the mental and physical health, and mobility, of cats and dogs.
Boucher explains, “Dr. Pederson’s integrative medicine includes acupuncture, which is a practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and relieve pain. In pets, acupuncture can be used to treat a range of conditions including musculoskeletal problems, neurological disorders, and gastrointestinal issues. The therapy is believed to work by stimulating the release of endorphins, natural painkillers produced by the body.”
“Therapeutic massage,” he continues, “involves the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body to promote relaxation, relieve tension, and improve circulation. In pets, massage can be used to reduce muscle stiffness, relieve pain, and promote healing after injury or surgery. The therapy can also be beneficial in reducing anxiety and stress in pets.
“Both acupuncture and therapeutic massage are generally safe and well-tolerated in pets when performed by a qualified practitioner. However, it is important to note that these therapies should not be used as a substitute for conventional veterinary care, but rather as a complementary approach to managing a pet's health.”
Happy Paws is very community focused and hosts an annual event called Compassion
Clinic where the day is dedicated to helping seniors, veterans, and families in need by providing free veterinary care for their pets.
“We invite members of the community to nominate individuals who require assistance, and we select successful applicants to receive our services,” says Boucher. “On the day of the event, which we hold on a day when we are normally closed, our amazing staff volunteers their time to provide check-ups, vaccines, spays and neuters, dental procedures, and the investigation of lumps and bumps to ensure that our patients are healthy. We are able to provide medications, supplies, and diagnostic testing at no cost to the recipients. We look forward to this day every year, as it allows us to give back to our community and help families in need.”
He has high praise for the team. “There is no doubt in my mind that the success we have achieved at Happy Paws can be attributed 100% to our team. We feel blessed to work with a wonderful group of people who are passionate about pets and dedicated to helping our clients enjoy more quality time with their beloved companions.”
Recently, Happy Paws opened a second location (2920 Kingsway Blvd). This state-of-the-art space has 5,500 square feet that includes nine exam rooms and two surgery suites. Another achievement is three consecutive years of winning the Readers' Choice Award for Airdrie's Best Veterinary Clinic.
“We are currently focused on expanding our team and client base to accommodate our new East side location. Our goal is to provide exceptional care to even more pets and their families, and we are excited to welcome new staff and clients to the Happy Paws family,” Boucher concludes.
