FAQs

No question is ever too big or small! Some of our most frequently asked questions are
answered here. Please contact us at 614-389-6455 if you have any other questions or concerns concerning your pet.

Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make an appointment to bring my pet in?

Yes, we value the time you and your pet have with our veterinarian. Please call ahead to schedule an appointment, 614.389.6455.

Do your veterinarians see exotic pets (birds, snakes, lizards, etc.)?

No, we do not have a veterinarian on staff that treats exotic patients on a regular basis. We recommend contacting a specialist who can provide the best care for your pet. Local veterinary facilities include Norton Road Veterinary Hospital, Animal Care Unlimited, and MedVet Hilliard.

Can I give my pet over-the-counter medications, like Benadryl or Aspirin?

As a rule of thumb, we do not recommend any human over-the-counter medications be given to your pet without first consulting your veterinarian. Certain drugs can cause severe damage to your pet’s internal organs, including liver & kidney damage, or gastrointestinal ulcers.

Why do you need to check my pet’s stool sample every year?

A stool sample will test your pet for intestinal parasites. Intestinal parasites are transmitted through contact with infected stool or by ingestion of small animals. It is possible for these parasites to be transmitted to humans, so periodic screenings are recommended.

Why do I need to heartworm test my dog if he/she is on heartworm preventative?

Our veterinarians recommend annual heartworm testing even if your pet is on heartworm medication to be sure the medication is truly working. Our heartworm test also screens for Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis & Ehrlichiosis – diseases that are transmitted by ticks.

I’ve found a stray animal, will you take them in?

We can only take in strays or surrendered/abandoned animals on a very limited, case-by-case basis. Please see our resources webpage for a list of animal shelters who may be able to help you.

Can I drop my pet off for the exam and pick him/her up later?

We offer this service for established clients. There is a day care fee and we must be able to reach you if the veterinarian has any questions.

Can I make payments?

Payment is required at the time of services. We accept cash, check (with driver’s license), MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Care Credit. To learn more about Care Credit payment plans, visit their website at www.carecredit.com. If you are considering Pet Health Insurance, check out our resources page and click on “Pet Insurance”.

Can you refill my pet’s prescription from a year or two ago? It’s the same problem.

In order to dispense prescription medications, the Ohio Veterinary Medical Association requires that the doctor, patient and client have an established relationship. For most medications, this requires an examination and diagnosis within the past year. However, there is the potential that the source of your pet’s symptoms may be caused by a different invader. If your pet’s overall health has changed since his/her last visit, the prescription medication may do more harm than good. Diagnostic tests should be performed to ensure the veterinarian is treating your pet at the source of the problem and not prolonging your pet’s condition.

Why does my pet need vaccines if he/she never goes outside?

All pets are required by Ohio State law to be vaccinated against rabies, regardless of their lifestyle. Bats carry rabies and could enter your home, putting you and your pets at risk. In addition, there is always a chance that your pet may escape from your home (especially when they are young) and be exposed to diseases.

I have treated my pets for fleas but they keep coming back. What else can I do?

  • Treating the environment: for a flea control program to be successful as quickly as possible, treatment of the home and yard is necessary.
    • Vacuum your home thoroughly and wash any pet bedding in hot water. Throw the vacuum bag away (out of the home) afterwards. Be sure to vacuum baseboards, upholstered furniture, and under cushions.
    • Foggers (bombs) are useful for large homes or you can use a commercial exterminator. Because bombs do not reach under furniture, a premise (area treatment) spray can be used for this purpose. Repeat this step (both bomb and area treatment) in three weeks.
    • Treat your yard with either a commercial product or one recommended by your veterinarian.
  • Treating your pets: make sure you are using multiple techniques for flea control.
      • Bathing your pet will not only kill many of the fleas, but it will also improve the condition of the animal’s skin. Getting rid of the flea dirt and cleansing any sore areas that the fleas may have caused will make your pet much more comfortable. Consult your veterinarian for the best type of shampoo for your pet.

     

  • Using a topical adulticide like Frontline every three weeks will get the fleas under control faster. These products are not absorbed into your pet’s bloodstream. The flea just needs to come into contact with your pet. These products kill 98% of fleas on the pet within 2 hours and 100% within 24 hours. They continue to kill any fleas that jump on your pet for at least 3 weeks. Frontline also kills ticks.

I need a refill of my pet’s medication from a different vet. Does my pet need an exam?

Recent legislation has prohibited veterinarians in Ohio to fill prescription medications prescribed by another veterinarian. “Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4729 (Pharmacy Law) requires that licensed veterinarians can only prescribe, administer and dispense drugs to their own clients/patients.”