FAQs
How safe is my pet’s procedure?
No procedure is 100% safe - infections or reactions and other complications can arise from even seemingly minor procedures. You are encouraged to discuss any procedure recommended by your Bartow Animal Hospital veterinarian regarding benefits and risks, and any concerns you may have.
How often should my pet have an exam and blood work?
It is recommended that your pet come in for a yearly check-up and blood work. Depending on your pet’s breed and age, and any existing health issues, your Bartow Animal Hospital veterinarian may suggest more frequent check-ups, blood work, and other tests - common with older pets or when following up post surgical procedure.
Why does my pet need a dental procedure?
If your Bartow Animal Hospital veterinarian recommends a dental procedure, it may be to treat any number of conditions, like an infection or to correct an abnormal bite that could affect jaw movement, causing pain and a decrease in appetite. A more thorough teeth cleaning or de-scaling may require anesthesia for the safety of your pet.
How important is nutrition for my pet?
A poor diet, or one that is deficient in meeting special dietary needs, can affect energy, quality of life, mood, ability to recuperate from illness, injury or surgery, and lead to more serious problems down the road. A healthy diet is important for any pet - the staff at Bartow Animal Hospital can help you with any concerns you have about your pet’s diet and provide nutritional counseling.
How long should I wait to bring my pet in if I notice a change in behavior?
Since our pets can’t communicate with words, a change in behavior is a good indicator that something is not right. They may be sick, or in pain. If you notice a significant change in your pet’s behavior, contact your Bartow Animal Hospital veterinarian to discuss further evaluation.
What should I do if I notice parasites on my pet?
Should you notice or suspect a parasitic infection, contact the Bartow Animal Hospital as soon as possible. Your Bartow veterinarian may want to see your pet to determine what kind of infection your pet may have, what treatments may be needed, and whether or not you may need to treat other pets. You might also be directed to collect a stool or urine sample.
What if my pet has an after-hours problem?
Should your pet need emergency care after hours, we recommend the following after-hours emergency centers:
UrgentVet East Cobb
4363 Roswell Road
Marietta, GA 30062
770-790-1700
Northwest Georgia Veterinary Center
111 John Maddox Dr.
Rome, GA 30165
706-204-8425
Animal Hospital of Towne Lake
3105 Parkbrooke Circle
Woodstock, GA 30189
770-591-9500
At what age should I have my pet spayed or neutered?
Depending on the breed most cats and dogs can be neutered as early as eight weeks, but it should be done before they reach six months. Your Bartow Animal Hospital veterinarian will be able to determine when would be the right time for your particular pet for their age, size, and breed.
What are heartworms, and how can I prevent my pet from getting them?
Heartworms are a dangerous parasite that can be potentially fatal, especially to canines. Heartworms can permanently damage the heart and other organs. There are many preventative treatments available – talk to your Bartow Animal Hospital veterinarian about treatment options.
When is pain management recommended for my pet?
In the last 15-20 years, pain management has become recognized as a crucial part of the healing process. Whether your pet is being treated for illness, injury, post-surgical care or other conditions, if your pet is in pain it will add to the stress placed on the body as it tries to recover. Your Bartow Animal Hospital veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s condition and make any recommendations for pain management, including drug therapies and physical rehabilitation.
What financing options do you offer, or is payment expected at the time of service?
Bartow Animal Hospital accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Debit Cards, Care Credit, cash and personal checks. Payment is expected at the time of service. In emergency situations, when upfront payment may not be an option, please notify Bartow Animal Hospital as soon as possible -organizations like Care Credit may be able to assist in such situations.