Question 1

What should I do about fleas & ticks?

Accepted Answer

These nasty pests are quite common in our area and can be harmful to your pet. Flea bites are very irritating to your pet's skin and cause them to scratch and gnaw at the affected areas, resulting in infection. If you notice your pet scratching more than usual, there is a good chance they have fleas.

Question 2

Is antifreeze bad for your pet?

Accepted Answer

Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is extraordinarily poisonous to both humans and our pets. A very small amount can be very dangerous to any pet. Antifreeze is especially difficult because it both smells and tastes sweet. If you believe your pet has ingested any amount of antifreeze, please call immediately.

Question 3

Will I have time to ask questions?

Accepted Answer

Of course! If you are able, please be prepared with any questions or concerns you may have. We will be happy to address them during your appointment.

Question 4

What vaccines does my pet really need?

Accepted Answer

Necessary vaccinations vary from pet to pet. We take into consideration the lifestyle, age, and health status of every animal before developing a vaccine protocol.

Question 5

What will be examined during my pet's yearly check-up?

Accepted Answer

The annual examination includes a tip-to-tail review of your pet. We examine the entire body to assess the health of your pet. We check the mouth to see if periodontal disease is present (which is an infection that can affect the heart, liver, and kidneys), ensure that your pet is the appropriate weight, listen to the heart and lungs, look for signs of infection and also ensure that your pet is moving normally.

Question 6

Why was I asked to bring in a fresh fecal sample?

Accepted Answer

We recommend testing a fecal sample from each pet on a yearly basis to check for internal parasites. Most of the internal parasites that we find on animals are too small to be seen in the feces. Also, pets are not necessarily having diarrhea or losing weight as a result of these parasites.

Question 7

Why does my dog need a heartworm and lyme test?

Accepted Answer

We recommend a blood test to check for heartworm and rickettsial/tick-borne diseases on a yearly basis, even if your animal has been on yearly prevention. We do this to screen for animals who may have these debilitating diseases and to catch them before the disease is causing major problems in the body. Lyme disease is becoming much more prevalent in Vermont in both people and pets!

Question 8

It sounds like I will get a lot of information about my pet at their annual check-up. How will I remember all this information to report back to my family about my pet's health?

Accepted Answer

We have Report Cards that we are willing to fill out at the end of the appointment to detail all of the things that we checked. It is a great way to catch any problems that may be starting and ensure that the health and well-being of your pet are on track.

Question 9

What other testing may be needed?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your pet' previous medical conditions, lifestyle and age, we may recommend additional testing for your pet (which may include bloodwork, urine testing, diagnostic imaging, etc.).

Question 10

What foods are poisonous to pets?

Accepted Answer

Eventually most dogs (and sometimes cats) will eat something that is poisonous to them, but completely harmless to us. Their bodies and digestive systems are much different than ours and cannot handle some common foods.

As with all poisons, the amount ingested and the size of your pet play important roles. In general, the smaller the amount eaten and the larger the animal the less danger your pet is in. Here are 5 common foods that are poisonous to animals.

1. Chocolate (especially dark)

2. Grapes/raisins

3. Garlic/onions

4. Xylitol (synthetic sweetener found commonly in sugarless gum)

5. Alcoholic beverages

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