What vaccines are required for my pet?
Rabies vaccine is required by law in Indiana for dogs, cats, and ferrets. While not required by law, the distemper combo vaccine DA2PP is strongly recommended as this covers several diseases that can kill dogs. The feline version FVRCP is also strongly recommended to ensure they are protected. There are other vaccines that depending on your pet’s life style, while not necessarily required, are strongly recommended and can be discussed in detail with your veterinarian.
Can I give my pet human medications instead?
While human medications have been widely used in the past, there are safer alternatives that should be used for dogs and cats. If you are considering using a human medication, consult with your veterinarian first as there are human medications that can kill you pet even with a small dose.
How often should my pet come to the vet?
This will depend a bit on the pet. At a minimum, pets should be examined once a year when they are due for their vaccines. As pet’s get older, every 6 month exams may be beneficial as we can catch things before they get worse in an aging pet and be able to improve their quality of life.
Do I need an appointment to be seen?
Yes, patients are seen by appointment, however, we can accommodate same-day and next-day appointments within our network of practices. If your pet is experiencing an emergency, we will triage your pet accordingly to ensure everyone receives the best care possible. Call us at
(317) 516-5921.
How often should I give my pet a bath?
Pets can be bathed 1-2 times per month. Bathing too frequently can dry out the pet’s skin causing more problems. Using a soothing or oatmeal based shampoo can help with prevent drying of the skin.