FAQs
Answers to some of your most common questions:
What do I do if I think my pet has been poisoned or ingested a toxic substance?
First, assess your pet’s condition and remove them from the dangerous substance. If they’re having trouble breathing, are unconscious, having seizures, or bleeding, take them to an emergency veterinarian immediately.
If they seem to be acting normal, gather the evidence (leftover packaging or pills), and call your veterinarian and/or contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Who do I contact if my pet is having an emergency?
If your pet is having an emergency any time or any day, we refer our patients to Fort Worth Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Hospital at (817) 263-2900. Their facilities are fully equipped to provide your pet with the best possible critical care, and their veterinarians are highly experienced in handling all kinds of veterinary emergencies.
Is my pet having an emergency?
Seek emergency veterinary care if your pet experiences any of the following signs or symptoms:
- Protracted vomiting and/or diarrhea
- No bowel movements or difficulty urinating
- Distended abdomen
- Difficulty breathing or persistent coughing
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Trauma or injury
- Poison or toxin ingestion
- Confusion, disorientation, or non-responsiveness
- Fainting or collapse
- Seizures
- Extreme pain
- Extreme weakness
- No eating or drinking
If you are uncertain whether your pet requires immediate care, we welcome you to contact our office or the emergency veterinary hospital listed above.
Is my pet's arthritis treatable and how?
Arthritis is a chronic disease, which means it cannot be cured. Although arthritis cannot be cured, there are several approaches available to managing arthritis in pets, slowing its progression, and alleviating its symptoms. Treatments include a variety of medications (oral and injectable), cold laser therapy, weight management, nutritional supplements, prescription diets, and orthopedic surgery.
Treatment plans for managing arthritis vary from pet to pet, depending on the pet’s condition, the severity of symptoms, and more.
Could my pet have arthritis and what are the common signs of arthritis?
Signs and symptoms of arthritis in pets include:
- Joint pain
- Swelling around the joints
- Stiffness
- Difficulty getting up or laying down
- Trouble jumping up onto the sofa or bed
- Decreased range of motion
- Limping or limb favoring
If you think your pet might be suffering from arthritis or experiencing any kind of pain, schedule an appointment right away.
What is an ear crop?
Ear cropping (cosmetic otoplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes part or all of a puppy’s auricles or pinnae, which are the external, visible flap of the ears.
What dog breeds commonly get ear crop procedures?
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Beauceron
- Boxer
- Caucasian Shepherd
- Doberman Pinschers
- Great Dane
- Pitbull
- Schnauzer
What is anxiety-free pet care?
Anxiety-free veterinary care pairs calming techniques with a low-anxiety environment to make veterinary appointments easier for everyone.