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FAQ

What vaccinations do you recommend for my dog? My cat?

We recommend your dog be immunized for Distemper, Adenovirus 1 & 2, Parainfluenza, and Parvo (DHP-P) and Rabies. The kennel cough vaccine (Bordetella) should be boostered every 6 months.

We recommend your cat be immunized for Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calcivirus/Chlamydia, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP), Feline Leukemia (FeLV), and Rabies.

Click here for vaccination and exam schedule for puppies.

Click here for vaccination and exam schedule for kittens.

Does my pet truly need a dental procedure?

Studies show that pets can begin to accumulate dangerous plaque and tartar as young as one year of age. Regular cleanings and brushing at home can keep your pet’s mouth healthy and help them avoid many types of periodontal disease. The bacteria found in plaque can be dangerous for your pet’s kidney and heart as well as their mouths, so it is extremely important to maintain their oral hygiene through your veterinarian.

How important is nutrition for my pet?

Nutrition is as important for dogs and cats as it is for people. Nearly one-fourth of household pets are overweight in this country. A few extra pounds for a small animal can cause early diabetes, heart disease, decreased mobility and even shorten their lifespan. Please contact us here at Lakeway Animal Hospital for a nutritional consultation for your pet today!

How long should I wait to bring my pet in if I notice a change in behavior?

A change in your pet’s behavior should be addressed immediately with an appointment with a veterinarian. While not every behavior change may be significant, others may indicate pain or be an expression of an early onset of disease.

What should I do if I notice visible parasites on my pet?

If you discover parasites on your pet, whether fleas, ticks or ear mites, it is best to see your veterinarian. While some inexpensive products and internet pharmacies may be tempting, remember these products may not be guaranteed by the manufacturer and could even cause harm to your pet. Call your veterinarian and have them determine which product will be best for the needs of your pet.

What if my pet has an after-hours problem?

Should your pet need after-hours care, please call 5 Rivers Pet Emergency Clinic. Tel: 423-581-9492

At what age should I have my pet spayed or neutered?

We recommend all cats be spayed or neutered before 6 months of age, and all dogs be spayed or neutered between 6 months and 1 year of age.

What are heartworms, and how can I prevent my pet from getting them?

Heartworm disease develops when a dog is bitten by a mosquito carrying a microscopic heartworm larvae (baby worm) of a parasite called Dirofilaria Immitis. As a mosquito bites, these microscopic larvae are deposited on the dog and quickly penetrate the skin to begin their migration into the animals bloodstream. Adult heartworms can grow 10-12 inches in length and make their home in the right side of the heart and pulmonary (lung) arteries, often causing lung disease and heart failure.

There are safe preventative products for dogs and cats 6-8 weeks of age and older. Please call us today at Lakeway Animal Clinic if you suspect your pet has heartworms. Also, visit us or call us for more information on heartworm preventives.

How often should my pet have an exam or blood work?

We recommend yearly exams and blood work.

What flea and tick preventives do you recommend?

Dogs: For topical products, we recommend Frontline Gold (flea and tick) which is safe for dogs 12 weeks of age and older. For oral products, we recommend Nexgard (flea and tick) which is safe for dogs 8 weeks and older .

Cats: For topical products, we recommend Frontline Gold or Revolution which are both safe for cats 8 weeks and older.