FAQ’s

At a minimum, we recommend yearly wellness visits that include a physical exam, vaccinations if due and when necessary, lab tests.

If your pet is experiencing abnormal behavior or you have general concerns, an exam will be recommended so we can accurately care for your pet.

Dental tarter contains a large amount of bacteria, which can cause gingivitis and painful dental disease. That bacteria also enters the bloodstream. Over time untreated dental disease can damage organs such as the liver and kidneys.

As with most things medical, the surrounding circumstances are definitely a factor. In general, I like to look at the big picture. Overall, how does your pet feel? If they missed a meal or two but are otherwise happy and feeling fine, I recommend giving them 12-24 hours and then reevaluate. If their condition is looking better, we can give them a little more time. If their condition is going downhill then they need to be seen.

If we are closed and your pet is experiencing an emergency, please contact Bradley/McMinn Emergency Clinic at 423-336-2822 or Animal Emergency & Specialty Center of Chattanooga at 423-822-8304.

Heartworms are a major threat in the southeast. They are a blood parasite that is transmitted from mosquitos that have fed off other heartworm positive dogs. Once infected, the baby heartworms (microfilariae) then move to the heart and lungs and grow up. With time this condition results in a blockage of blood flow and slowly causes heart failure. The good news is that it can be treated and even better, it can be easily prevented with pills or an injection.

We recommend ProHeart12 or Simparica Trio.

A single injection of ProHeart12 prevents heartworm disease for 12 months as well as controlling some intestinal parasites.

Simparica Trio is an oral chew given every 30 days. In addition, to preventing heartworm disease it kills fleas, ticks, and controls some intestinal parasites.

We recommend Bravecto, a chew tab, given once every 12 weeks or Simparica Trio given every 30 days. Simparica Trio also prevents heartworm disease and controls some intestinal parasites.

The only over the counter flea and tick prevention we recommend are Seresto collars.

We generally recommend cats be spayed or neutered at approximately 6 months of age. Dogs are typically spayed or neutered between 6 and 12 months, depending on the breed. One of our veterinarians can help determine the best time for your individual pet.

We expect payment in full prior to you and your pet going home. We accept cash, checks, most major credit/debit cards, and CareCredit which is a healthcare credit card. Please ask for an estimate prior to your pets' treatment so you can be financially prepared to pay in full at time of treatment.