Frequently Asked Questions

This is a surgical procedure performed by a veterinarian to sterilize an animal by removing its reproductive organs.

A male animal has its testicles removed (castration), which prevents it from being able to reproduce.

A female animal has its ovaries and usually the uterus removed (spayed), preventing it from being able to reproduce.

A highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs and other animals such as ferrets, raccoons, and skunks. 

It is caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV) and can lead to serious illness and even death in infected animals. Symptoms of distemper in dogs include fever, coughing, nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhea, neurological signs such as seizures, and in severe cases, death. 

Vaccination is effective in preventing distemper, and it is considered an essential part of routine pet care to protect dogs from this disease. The distemper vaccine, also known as, DA2PP vaccine or DHPP or  DAPP includes distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parvovirus, and parainfluenza. 

These vaccinations can be administered to pets as early as  6-8 weeks old and should be given annually to all pets .

A viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is caused by the rabies virus, which is usually transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, commonly through bites. 

Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal.a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. Vaccination of pets and avoiding contact with wild or unknown animals are crucial preventive measures and are mandatory depending on the country and local regulations

The initial rabies vaccination is typically given around 3-4 months of age with a booster vaccine given once every year.

A highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs, also known as kennel cough. It is caused by several infectious agents, including Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria and various viruses like canine parainfluenza virus and canine adenovirus.

The Bordetella vaccine is typically recommended for dogs that are frequently in environments where they may be exposed to other dogs, such as boarding facilities, doggy daycare, grooming salons, or dog parks.

The vaccine is an intranasal vaccine administered to pets as early as 6 weeks old then annually because it stimulates a strong local immune response in the respiratory tract.

The methods and products used to protect pets from flea infestations. Fleas are small, parasitic insects that can cause itching, discomfort, and even transmit diseases to animals and humans. 

Preventing fleas typically involves regular use of flea prevention products such as topical treatments, oral medications, collars, or sprays.

It's crucial to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best flea prevention plan for your pet based on their specific health, lifestyle, and local conditions.

Fecal testing for pets involves examining a sample of their feces (stool) to check for the presence of internal parasites like worms (e.g., roundworms, hookworms) and protozoa (e.g., Giardia, Coccidia).

Many internal parasites can reside in a pet's intestines without showing obvious symptoms. Fecal testing helps detect these parasites early before they cause significant health issues. Some parasites that affect pets can also be transmitted to humans (zoonotic parasites).

The frequency of testing depends on factors like the pet's age, lifestyle, and health history, and it's best determined in consultation with a veterinarian who can provide personalized recommendations.

Microchipping for pets involves implanting a tiny, rice-sized microchip under the skin, typically between the shoulder blades. This microchip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned using a handheld scanner. The number is registered in a national pet recovery database, where the owner's contact information is stored.

Implanting a microchip is a non-invasive, quick and relatively painless procedure, similar to a routine vaccination. It doesn’t require anesthesia and is done at the veterinary clinic.

Microchips are made of biocompatible materials like glass or polymer, which are well-tolerated by pets’ bodies and typically don’t cause reactions or discomfort after implantation. They are designed to last for the lifetime of the pet and do not require a power source. The risks associated with microchipping are minimal.

Unlike collars and tags, microchipping is a permanent way to identify your pet and it's a widely recommended practice by veterinarians and animal welfare organizations worldwide.