ABOUT VACCINATIONS

Why does my dog need an annual heartworm test if they are on heartworm prevention year round?

As with any preventive medication, nothing is 100% effective. By testing every year, we can make sure that the medication is working. Dogs have been known to throw up the pill and/or spit the pill out once they get outside or behind the sofa. Sometimes our lives become very busy and heartworm prevention may not be given for a month or two. If we do not test your dog and they do have heartworms, the monthly preventive could cause a serious reaction and even death. We use a heartworm test that tests for two tick borne disease, one of which is Lyme disease.

If my pet stays inside, why do they need to be on heartworm prevention?

Even if your pet never goes outside, mosquitoes can come inside your house. They can attach to your clothing and fly in through open doors and windows. All pets need to be on heartworm prevention year round. It is much easier to prevent heartworm disease than to treat it

What vaccine protocol do you use?

Vaccines depend on your pet's lifestyle. Is your pet strictly indoors or do they lead a very active and social life? We tailor the vaccine protocol to fit your pet's needs so no unnecessary vaccines are given. Currently, we offer both one year and three year vaccines for both dogs and cats.

At what age do you spay/neuter dogs and cats?

We recommend that they are between 4-6 months of age. All pets that are not going to be used for breeding should be spayed or neutered.

At what age do you start vaccinations?

The first vaccine can be given at 6 weeks of age.

Why do you not write script to online pharmacies?

There are several online companies that sell pet medications, such as flea and heartworm preventatives. Although they may be cheaper, we do not know if they are getting the medication directly from the manufacturer, if they are stored correctly, or even if you are getting the real thing. For the safety of your pet, we will only dispense medications from our clinic. We get the medication directly from the manufacturer and know that it is stored properly and not expired. Several heartworm prevention companies will not back up any product that is purchased though an online pharmacy. Please download and read this important information about why you should buy medication from your pet's doctor.

How much are vaccinations?

Since we tailor our vaccine protocol to fit your pet's lifestyle, it is hard to quote a price for vaccines. An estimate can be made for you once we do an exam and talk about what vaccines your pet requires.