Q: What vaccines does my pet really need?
Great question! We know the number of vaccines available can feel overwhelming, so let’s break it down. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that every dog and cat receive certain “core” vaccines that protect against the most serious diseases:
- Dogs: distemper, parvo, and rabies
- Cats: feline distemper and rabies
Beyond these essentials, we only recommend additional vaccines if your pet’s lifestyle calls for them. For example, if your dog goes to doggy daycare, we might suggest the Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine. If your cat spends time outdoors, then the feline leukemia vaccine may be a good idea for them. We’ll discuss your pet’s specific needs and lifestyle, and create a vaccination schedule that works for them and you.
Q: My pet has diarrhea—should I be worried?
It depends! Causes of diarrhea can range from a one-time “oops, I ate something weird” to something more serious. After we chat about what’s been happening and examine your pet, we can figure out the best approach together.
Q: When should I worry about my pet vomiting?
While occasional vomiting happens (especially if your pet is an “adventurous eater”), frequent or persistent vomiting definitely warrants an exam. Young pets often get into trouble with toys, socks, or other non-food items that can cause serious blockages. In older pets, vomiting might signal underlying issues like kidney problems, pancreatitis, or other conditions.
If your pet seems uncomfortable, can’t keep water down, or you suspect they ate something they shouldn’t have, don’t wait—give us a call.
Q: My pet isn’t eating. How long should I wait before calling?
When pets stop eating, their bodies are usually telling us something important. Pain, infections, or internal issues can all cause appetite loss, and the sooner we address the underlying cause, the better the outcome.
If your normally food-motivated pet skips more than a meal or two, it’s time for an exam. We’d rather see them early and find nothing serious than wait until a treatable condition becomes complicated.
Q: What’s causing my pet’s itchy skin?
Skin issues are quite common, and they’re often frustrating for everyone involved! The most common culprits include:
- Unwanted guests like fleas, ticks, or mites
- Food or environmental allergies
- Bacterial, yeast, or fungal infections
- Immune system issues that cause inflammation
- Hormonal imbalances affecting skin health
The good news? Once we identify what’s bothering your pet’s skin, most issues respond well to treatment. We’ll work together to figure out the cause and get your pet feeling comfortable again.