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Business Details
47 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Veterinary Care Partner in Dartmouth
PetWorks Veterinary Hospital has been dedicated to animal care since 1979, beginning as Woodlawn Veterinary Hospital in Dartmouth's Woodlawn Mall. Over decades, we expanded our services and facilities, evolving into a comprehensive veterinary practice at our current 850 Portland Street location. Our hospital features advanced surgical suites with state-of-the-art monitoring equipment, enabling precise orthopedic and laparoscopic procedures. We specialize in Radioactive Iodine Therapy for hyperthyroid cats, laser therapy, and rehabilitation services, supported by an in-house pharmacy stocked with essential medications. Our team prioritizes continuing education to stay current with veterinary advancements, ensuring patients receive evidence-based care.

We implement a triage protocol for referrals to prioritize urgent cases while maintaining transparency with pet owners. Our facility is designed to deliver comprehensive medical, surgical, and wellness services across two levels, with dedicated spaces for senior pet care and new pet wellness programs. We emphasize client education through personalized nutrition advice, parasite prevention, and wellness testing. While we no longer offer daycare or boarding, our focus remains on delivering high-quality veterinary care with compassion and expertise to Dartmouth and Cole Harbour communities.
Services
Orthopaedic Surgery Radioactive Iodine Therapy Senior Wellness Healthy Start for Puppies Rehabilitation Services Laser Therapy In-House Pharmacy Parasite Prevention Wellness Testing Online Store
Details
  • Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
  • We offer specialized orthopedic and laparoscopic surgical expertise
  • Our hospital provides Radioactive Iodine Therapy for hyperthyroid cats
  • We maintain an in-house pharmacy with essential medications
  • Our team participates in regular continuing education programs
  • We use a triage protocol to prioritize urgent referral cases
Services
Orthopaedic Surgery
Our surgical team specializes in orthopedic procedures using state-of-the-art monitoring equipment. We perform joint repairs, fracture corrections, and ligament surgeries with meticulous attention to patient safety. Our expertise includes both routine and complex cases requiring advanced techniques.
Radioactive Iodine Therapy
We offer non-surgical treatment for feline hyperthyroidism using Radioactive Iodine Therapy. This specialized service requires dedicated facilities and trained personnel to safely administer treatment that targets abnormal thyroid tissue without harming other organs.
Senior Wellness
Our Senior Wellness Program focuses on early disease detection through comprehensive screening protocols. We monitor age-related changes in organ function, mobility, and cognitive health to implement timely interventions that maintain quality of life for older pets.
Healthy Start for Puppies
This preventive program includes four pre-scheduled visits covering vaccinations, deworming, nutrition guidance, and behavioral assessments. Our structured approach ensures puppies receive essential care while educating owners about proper pet development and maintenance.
Rehabilitation Services
We provide post-operative recovery programs and chronic condition management through therapeutic exercises, hydrotherapy, and pain management techniques. Our rehabilitation services focus on restoring mobility and improving quality of life for pets with musculoskeletal conditions.
People
Dr. Rick Swinemar
Veterinarian
Dr. Swinemar brings decades of experience in small animal practice, focusing on surgical excellence and patient-centered care. He has been with the hospital since its early years and remains committed to advancing veterinary medicine through continuous learning.
Dr. Tim Farrow
Veterinarian
Dr. Farrow specializes in diagnostic imaging and internal medicine, contributing extensive knowledge of complex medical cases. His approach combines technical expertise with compassionate communication to help pet owners understand treatment options and outcomes.
Dr. Ryann Dancy
Veterinarian
Dr. Dancy focuses on preventive care and wellness programs, emphasizing early disease detection and client education. She plays a key role in developing community outreach initiatives to promote responsible pet ownership throughout Dartmouth.
Mandy
Registered Veterinary Technician
As a certified RVT, Mandy provides critical support in surgical preparation, patient monitoring, and post-operative care. Her technical skills and compassionate approach ensure pets receive professional treatment throughout their hospital experience.
Kim
Certified Canine Rehab Tech
Kim specializes in post-surgical recovery and mobility restoration for canine patients. Her certification in canine rehabilitation allows her to implement specialized therapy protocols that enhance recovery outcomes for dogs with orthopedic conditions.
Questions
What specialties does PetWorks offer?
We specialize in orthopedic surgery, Radioactive Iodine Therapy for hyperthyroid cats, and rehabilitation services. Our team has advanced training in laparoscopic procedures and senior pet care.
Are emergency services available?
Yes, we provide emergency care during regular business hours. For after-hours emergencies, please contact our affiliated service at 902-225-7543.
Do you accept new patients?
We welcome new patients. Please call us to schedule an appointment for your pet's initial examination and establish care with our veterinary team.
What pharmacy services are available?
Our in-house pharmacy stocks essential medications and therapeutic diets, allowing immediate access to prescribed treatments without requiring external pharmacy visits.
How do referral appointments work?
We use a triage protocol to prioritize referral cases by medical urgency. Some specialized services like rehabilitation may have temporary scheduling restrictions.
Is online ordering available?
Yes, our online store allows convenient ordering of pet food, medications, and supplies for home delivery, streamlining your pet's ongoing care needs.