How often should my pet have an exam?
At a minimum, we recommend yearly wellness visits that include a physical exam, vaccinations if due and when necessary, lab tests.
If your pet is experiencing abnormal behavior or you have general concerns, an exam will be recommended so we can accurately care for your pet.
Why does my pet need a dental procedure?
Dental tarter contains a large amount of bacteria, which can cause gingivitis and painful dental disease. That bacteria also enters the bloodstream. Over time untreated dental disease can damage organs such as the liver and kidneys.
If my pet’s feeding or overall behavior changes how long should I wait to bring them in?
As with most things medical, the surrounding circumstances are definitely a factor. In general, I like to look at the big picture. Overall, how does your pet feel? If they missed a meal or two but are otherwise happy and feeling fine, I recommend giving them 12-24 hours and then reevaluate. If their condition is looking better, we can give them a little more time. If their condition is going downhill then they need to be seen.
What if my pet has an after-hours problem?
If we are closed and your pet is experiencing an emergency, please contact Bradley/McMinn Emergency Clinic at 423-336-2822 or Animal Emergency & Specialty Center of Chattanooga at 423-822-8304.
What are heartworms and why does my pet need prevention?
Heartworms are a major threat in the southeast. They are a blood parasite that is transmitted from mosquitos that have fed off other heartworm positive dogs. Once infected, the baby heartworms (microfilariae) then move to the heart and lungs and grow up. With time this condition results in a blockage of blood flow and slowly causes heart failure. The good news is that it can be treated and even better, it can be easily prevented with pills or an injection.
What type of prevention does my pet need for heartworms?
We recommend ProHeart12 or Simparica Trio.
A single injection of ProHeart12 prevents heartworm disease for 12 months as well as controlling some intestinal parasites.
Simparica Trio is an oral chew given every 30 days. In addition, to preventing heartworm disease it kills fleas, ticks, and controls some intestinal parasites.
What type of prevention does my pet need for flea & tick?
We recommend Bravecto, a chew tab, given once every 12 weeks or Simparica Trio given every 30 days. Simparica Trio also prevents heartworm disease and controls some intestinal parasites.
What do you recommend for over the counter flea and tick prevention?
The only over the counter flea and tick prevention we recommend are Seresto collars.
When is the optimal time to get my pet spayed/neutered?
We generally recommend cats be spayed or neutered at approximately 6 months of age. Dogs are typically spayed or neutered between 6 and 12 months, depending on the breed. One of our veterinarians can help determine the best time for your individual pet.
When is the safest time to board my puppy?
In the ideal situation it is best to wait until all puppy and kitten vaccinations have been administered (usually around 3 to 4 months old). However, we understand that life happens and you may need to board sooner than later. Because we take safety seriously, we will make a determination on a case by case basis.
What financing options do you offer?
We expect payment in full prior to you and your pet going home. We accept cash, checks, most major credit/debit cards, and CareCredit which is a healthcare credit card. Please ask for an estimate prior to your pets’ treatment so you can be financially prepared to pay in full at time of treatment.
My pet drank a lot of water after coming home from boarding. Why?
Many different factors can affect why your pet might drink excessively after boarding. A different environment, the car ride home, or lots of playtime with our kennel staff can result in your pet being thirsty once they arrive home. Naturally, they will be more comfortable in their home and might want to drink where they are comfortable. It is best to allow them to drink a normal amount, not an excessive amount. Drinking a lot and quickly can result in vomiting. While boarding, we do give fresh water and a clean bowl in the morning and evening and refill throughout the day.
My pet seemed tired after boarding. Is this common?
Absolutely! While boarding, your pet gets lots of exercise and playtime in the yard. Possibly, a lot more than what they get at home. This combined, with a different environment, can tend to make your pet want to sleep a bit more once you get them home.
How many times per day do the pets in boarding get exercise/yard time?
All of our dogs in our care get to go outside for exercise and play-time four to six times per day. Cats that are boarding with us get extra pets during the day and plenty of toys.
Can I take a tour of the boarding facility?
We would love to take you on a tour of our boarding facility, explain our daily routine and answer any questions you may have. We do ask that you come for a tour between the hours of 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. We want to be able to give you the time you deserve while you are here for a tour and our mornings and evenings can be rather hectic.
What do I bring for my pet while they are boarding?
We try to keep it as simple as possible. All you need to pack for your pet is enough food for the duration of their stay, any medications, and an up to date vaccination record from a licensed veterinarian. Toys are welcome but we prefer to use our own bedding as our laundry load can be quite large.
You have more questions?
Please give us a call at 423-715-1477. We’d love to hear from you!
