We love to answer questions from our clients, but sometimes we notice the same questions coming up again and again. To make your life easier, we've compiled this list of frequently asked questions.
Whether you're curious about why your pet needs annual bloodwork, how to prepare for surgery, or when to vaccinate a new puppy or kitten, you'll find helpful answers below.
Answers to Your Most Common Pet Health Inquiries
At Angel Animal Hospital, we believe in open communication and client education. Here are detailed explanations to help you navigate your companion's care:
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my pet need an exam every year if they seem perfectly healthy?
Pets age much faster than humans and have a strong instinct to hide symptoms of illness and pain. An annual physical examination allows Dr. Fisher to detect subtle issues—such as early heart murmurs, dental tartar, cataracts, enlarged organs, or joint stiffness—before they progress into costly, debilitating conditions.
At what age should I spay or neuter my puppy or kitten?
For cats and small-to-medium breed dogs, spaying or neutering is typically recommended around 5 to 6 months of age, before their first heat cycle. For large and giant breed dogs (over 50 lbs), recent veterinary research suggests waiting until skeletal growth plates close (between 9 and 15 months) to reduce orthopedic injury risks.
Why is 'anesthesia-free' dental cleaning discouraged by veterinarians?
Anesthesia-free dental scaling is purely cosmetic. It only chips visible tartar off the tooth crown while leaving 80% of bacteria and infection hidden beneath the gumline. Furthermore, sharp dental instruments in an awake, moving animal can lacerate gums and cause severe pain and panic.
How do I switch my pet's food without causing diarrhea?
Always transition diets gradually over 7 to 10 days. Mix 25% new food with 75% old food for 3 days; 50/50 for 3 days; 75% new for 3 days; and finally 100% new food. This allows your pet's digestive enzymes and microbiome to adjust smoothly.
What should I do if my pet eats chocolate, grapes, or xylitol?
Contact Angel Animal Hospital immediately at (614) 870-3900 or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Xylitol (artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum and peanut butter) causes rapid, fatal hypoglycemia and liver failure in dogs; grapes and raisins cause acute kidney failure; dark chocolate causes severe cardiac arrhythmias and seizures.
How often should I have my dog tested for heartworm disease?
The American Heartworm Society mandates annual blood testing for all dogs, even those on year-round preventatives. Testing confirms that missed doses, vomited medication, or late applications have not resulted in infection.