How safe is my pet’s procedure?

Each individual procedure will vary from pet to pet and condition to condition. As with humans, the older the individual the more precaution needs to bee taken. Typically a physical examination, review of the patients' medical history and blood work are recommended with older patients. These precautions will make a procedure as safe as possible with a senior pet.

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

Remember that an average ratio between our furry friends and humans is approximately 7 years. This means that if our pet has not been to the veterinarian in the past year, it is the equivalent of a human not having a check up in seven years. The more frequent examination, blood work and dental examination can help extend your pets life by as long was 25%.

Does my pet truly need a dental procedure?

The overwhelming answer is absolutely yes! Tartar is loaded with bacteria that gets into the blood stream transmitting harmful bacteria to your pet's internal organs. This bacterial can limit the lifespan of your pet.

When should new puppies and kittens come in for their first visit?

Puppies and kittens should have their initial examination around 6 weeks of age even if there are no signs of any problems or concerns. Multiple immunizations at different visits will be required to get your new pet’s immune system ready for exposure to the environment outside your home. Puppies and kittens are highly susceptible to viruses, infections, and/or parasites and proper early care and screening help to give your new baby the best start in life.

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

It is always important to call Primary Veterinary Care immediately for an appointment when your pet exhibits a change of behavior or sudden weight gain or loss. We also offer 24 hour emergency services when those unexpected emergencies occur.

What if I begin to notice visible parasites for the first time on my pet?

There are several types of intestinal parasites found commonly in the fecal material of dogs and cats. By isolating the eggs of these “worms” with a fecal examination, we can identify which parasite is present. Different medications are used to treat different species of parasite, so identification is key to successful treatment. Some intestinal parasites can infect people, causing serious medical conditions, so always contact us if you suspect worms in your pet. The Companion Animal Parasite Council (www.petsandparasites.org) is an excellent resource for in depth information regarding parasites and human infection risk.