Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why do I need a physical examination to refill my pet's medication?

Even if your pet is taking a medication for life, your veterinarian must do a physical exam at least once a year to be sure there are no changes in your pet's condition. In some cases, a blood test may be needed to be sure your pet still requires the same dose of medication. Medication doses must be accurate to maintain your pet's health.

Observed clinical signs can be very similar, but have a very different cause, and require very different treatment. One example of this might be that your pet seems to have an itchy skin condition every year, and receives medication for it. However, if this time your pet has a medication, the symptoms might appear the same, but the same medication could actually spread the infection and make it worse. Another example might be that your pet is squinting and seems to have an eye infection, however, if your pet has scratched his eye, the medication would be different. You should never use eye creams or ointments without a visit to the veterinarian or you could damage your pet's eye.

Q: At what age can I have my pet spayed or neutered?

Spaying or neutering can be done at approximately 6-8 months of age. Your pet is given an exam prior to surgery to help determine whether your pet is healthy enough to undergo the surgical procedure. Current vaccinations are required at the time of surgery. Also a pre-anesthetic blood screen is required for any pets prior to undergoing anesthesia and surgery.

Q: What is the pre-anesthetic blood screening?

This is a blood test that is performed prior to surgery. It tests the organ functions, blood counts and clotting function of your pet. The pre-anesthetic blood screening is done to assure safety during surgery and the ability to heal following surgery.

Q: Do you accept walk-ins?

Having a scheduled appointment will reduce your wait time and your pet's stress. In the event your pet has a medical emergency and you arrive without an appointment, we will assess your pet's condition and triage them accordingly. Critical emergency cases will receive top priority followed by patients with previously scheduled appointments. Emergency visits are charged an additional fee. It is strongly recommended to make an appointment to ensure that your pet will be seen by our staff.

Q: Why does my pet need to repeat blood work testing for certain medications?

Your pet's successful therapy depends on monitoring.  This ensures that the medications are working as intended and that any possible side effects are being noted.  You are your pet's health care advocate.  Closely following your veterinarian's dosing instructions, immediately reporting any changes in your pet's attitude or appearance and adhering to the recommended lab testing schedule will ensure your pet is receiving the maximum benefit from therapeutic drug treatment.

Q: Why does my pet need to be on heartworm medication all year round?

Heartworm disease is transmitted by infected mosquitos. Your pet should be on heartworm prevention all year round because we cannot say with 100% certainty when the first mosquito is going to come out and when the last mosquito will die. Heartworm disease has been reported in all 50 states, no matter the climate. The heartworm cycle takes up to 6 months for adults to develop and for us to notice clinical disease in our pets. So it is important to give prevention all year round. In addition, most heartworm prevention (Sentinel, Heartgard) also help protect your pets against intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.