Why does my dog have diarrhea?
Diarrhea is often caused by diet changes, stress, parasites, or infection. Mild cases may resolve quickly, but if it lasts more than 24–48 hours, contains blood, or is paired with other symptoms, veterinary care is recommended.
My dog ate [food] — is it dangerous?
Certain foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol are toxic to dogs. If your dog eats something questionable, contact your veterinarian right away. When in doubt, it’s always safest to check.
Signs my pet is in pain?
Pets often hide discomfort. Common signs include decreased appetite, limping, hiding, vocalizing, or changes in behavior. If your pet seems “off,” they may be in pain and should be evaluated.
When should I take my pet to the emergency vet vs. regular vet?
Seek emergency care for difficulty breathing, seizures, severe vomiting or diarrhea, toxin ingestion, or inability to stand. For less urgent concerns, your regular veterinarian is the best place to start.
What is the price of an exam?
Our standard comprehensive exam is $65-$80. We offer $25 off with a referral for an exam for patients who need a wellness visit.
How do I know if my cat is sick?
Cats often show subtle signs of illness, including hiding, decreased appetite, vomiting, or changes in litter box habits. If your cat isn’t acting like themselves, it’s best to have them checked.
Do we offer payment plans?
We offer CareCredit and we offer payment plans through Cherry, a flexible Buy Now, Pay Later option that lets you spread your pet’s care costs into simple monthly payments with no hard credit checks.
How often does my dog need a vet visit?
Most dogs should have a wellness exam once a year, while puppies, seniors, and pets with medical conditions may need more frequent visits.
When do we perform surgeries?
We routinely schedule on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays but can make arrangements on other days if needed.
What vaccines does my dog need each year?
Core vaccines for dogs typically include rabies and distemper/parvo. Additional vaccines may be recommended based on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors.
What are the benefits of spay and neuter?
Greatly reduces the risk of certain cancers later in life. Eliminates the chances of uterine infections. Decreases/eliminates unwanted behaviors such as aggression and running off. It is also the only way to prevent unwanted litters of puppies or kittens without placing the extra burden on shelters.
Does my indoor cat need vaccines?
Yes. Even indoor cats should receive core vaccines like rabies and distemper, as they can still be exposed through unexpected situations.
How old does my puppy or kitten have to be for spay or neuter?
We recommend around 6 months of age to avoid urinary incontinence issues from being too young and before the first heat cycle to reduce the risk of mammary cancers.
How do I know if my pet is at a healthy weight?
You should be able to feel your pet’s ribs without excess fat and see a defined waist. Your veterinarian can help assess body condition and recommend diet changes if needed.
How do I know if my pet needs a dental?
If your pet has bad breath, inflamed or really red gums, tartar buildup on their teeth, loose/broken teeth, or difficulty eating.
What’s the best food for my dog or cat?
The best diet depends on your pet’s age, breed, and health needs. Your veterinarian can recommend a balanced, high-quality diet tailored to your pet.
Should my pet take heartworm, flea, and tick prevention year round?
Unfortunately yes! Cincinnati is notorious for bursts of warm days even in the winter. Ticks have been found hiding under leaves in a foot of snow!
When should I get my puppy or kitten spayed or neutered?
Most pets are spayed or neutered around 5–6 months of age, though timing may vary depending on breed and health.
Why is my pet scooting?
There can be several reasons. The most common is full anal glands. But it can also be caused by intestinal parasites or other more serious health issues.
Does my pet need flea and tick prevention year-round?
Yes. Fleas and ticks can be present year-round in many areas and can transmit serious diseases, making consistent prevention important.
What pet foods do you recommend?
There are many great brands out there but make sure you feed a premium diet such as Purina Pro Plan, Science Diet, or Iams.
What is heartworm and how do I prevent it?
Heartworm is a serious disease spread by mosquitoes. Monthly prevention is the safest and most effective way to protect your pet.
Why is my dog not eating?
A loss of appetite in dogs can be caused by anything from mild stress or dietary changes to more serious issues like infection, pain, or underlying illness. If your dog skips a meal but is otherwise acting normal, it may not be urgent. However, if they refuse food for more than 24 hours or show other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or diarrhea, it’s best to schedule an exam.
What is a wellness exam vs. a sick visit?
A wellness exam focuses on prevention and early detection, while a sick visit addresses specific symptoms or concerns your pet is experiencing.
Why is my cat throwing up?
Occasional vomiting in cats can be normal, especially with hairballs. However, frequent vomiting may indicate gastrointestinal issues, food sensitivities, parasites, or more serious conditions. If your cat is vomiting repeatedly, not eating, or acting lethargic, they should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
We recommend scheduling an appointment to ensure timely care. If your pet is experiencing an urgent issue, please call ahead so we can guide you.
My dog is shaking — is this serious?
Shaking can happen for many reasons, including anxiety, cold, pain, nausea, or illness. Some causes are harmless, but shaking paired with symptoms like vomiting, weakness, or disorientation could indicate something more serious. If the shaking is persistent or unusual for your dog, it’s best to have them checked.
