Frequently Asked Questions from our clients

  1. When should I bring my puppy or kitten in for vaccines?

    2. Most puppies and kittens should start their vaccinations at 8 weeks of age.

  2. When should my puppy or kitten be spayed or neutered?

    3. We like to spay and neuter dogs and cats when they are 5 months old or older.

  3. Is it safe to feed my dog food from the dinner table?

    4. In most cases it is not safe to feed your dog food from the dinner table. For specific questions about food treats, see your veterinarian.

  4. We plan on taking our pet on an extended vacation with us. Is there anything we need to do before we go?

    5. You should have a valid health certificate and a copy of its vaccination record prior to leaving your state. Microchipping your pet and bringing a recent photo of the pet, in case it gets lost, are a good ideas, also.

  5. Is it safe for my dog to eat chocolate? Raisins?

    6. No, it is not safe for dogs to eat any amount of chocolate. The same is true for raisins, grapes, onions, macadamia nuts, and many other foods that are safe for people. When in doubt, ask your Vet!

  6. Why does my dog eat grass?

    7. Dogs are attracted to the chlorophyll in the grass, especially in new spring crops of these plants. Grass isn't harmful except when eaten in large quantities because it is not digestible in dogs and cats.

  7. I just found a tick on my dog. What do I do?

    8. There are safe ways to remove a tick from your dog. You don't want to twist the tick off, but grasp the tick as close to the skin as you can with a tweezer or forcep and pull it straight out. You don't want to leave the head as it is a source of inflamation.

  8. What parasites should I be concerned about in the Treasure Valley?

    9. Ticks are common and fleas are less common in the Treasure Valley. They seem to be seasonal parasites occuring mostly Spring through Fall. We have several internal parasites to be concerned about, the most common being round worms. Heartworms are also on the rise in our area, and heartworm prevention is strongly recommended to our dog clients.

  9. What is the best way to introduce a new dog?

    10. It is best to introduce a new dog into an established household gradually and with safety precautions. Animals should be on leash or in crates when they are first brought into the household so that the other pets can sniff and explore without anyone getting hurt. Once contact has been made without animals getting aggressive, then pets can be allowed to meet each other without these precautions, but still with supervision. Pets can be finally left together once you've determined they can coexist without any harm being done.

  10. House do I house break/potty train my dog?

    11. Feed your dog a measured amount of food at the same time each day. After your dog finishes eating, take him out through the same door to the same spot to do eliminations. Use a specific verbal cue like "Go potty" or "Do business". When your dog begins to eliminate, praise him quietly. When he is finished, praise him enthusiastically and/or give him a food treat. Repeat this each time your dog is fed. In between times, keep a close eye on your dog, recognize behavior signalling the need to eliminate, and reward appropriate behavior. It is very important to be consistent, and be patient!