Best Friends’ Veterinary Hospital offers the best pet care services in the region. Our professional staff has a deep love for animals and extends that affection to each patient.
Q: When should my pet be vaccinated and for what?
A: Puppies and kittens should be vaccinated with the basic vaccines every 2 to 3 weeks, beginning at 6 to 8 weeks of age, until they are at least 16 weeks of age. Rabies vaccine should first be administered between 12 and 16 weeks of age. The staff will discuss which vaccines would be best according to your pet's lifestyle and exposure.
Q: At what age should my pet be "fixed"?
A: "Fixed" refers to the surgical sterilization of the pet. This procedure is called ovariohysterectomy for the female (i.e. - removal of the ovaries and uterus, or spaying), and castration for the male (i.e. - removal of the testicles, or neutering). This is usually done between 5-12 months depending on your pet's breed, size, and medical history.
Q: How do I apply transdermal medication to my pet?
Q: How do I apply eye drops to my pet?
Q: How do I pill my pet?
Q: Is declawing of a cat's front claws cruel?
A: Surgical declawing of cat's front claws, when done properly under general anesthesia with sufficient analgesics (pain killers), is not cruel. The procedure is a logical alternative to having cats destroy furniture and other possessions, despite scratching posts and other humane deterrents.
Q: I'm considering adopting an exotic pet. What kind of information do i need to know first?
A: Please visit our Client Education page for species specific information. As with every decision to add a new pet to the family, please keep in mind the responsibility and the amount of time a new pet will need.
Q: I want to get a pet to teach my child responsibility, is this a good idea?
A: Children under the age of 18 need guidance and supervision in taking care of their pet. If a pet gets injured, ill, or neglected, it is the parent's responsibility to oversee the care of their child's pet. Keep in mind these are living creatures, and have needs too.
Q: How does one become a veterinarian?
A: To become a veterinarian, one must complete a competitive prerequisite program prior to admission to veterinary college. This program may be a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, as well as practical experience and admission exams. Admission is very competitive and even high grades and high test scores do not guarantee admission.
Q: Are table scraps okay for my pet?
A: Table scraps should not be fed to your pets. Such practice can lead to various health problems, including pancreatitis, obesity, arthritis, diabetes, gastritis, and diarrhea. Discuss safe alternatives with our staff for more information.
Q: Why do the same surgical procedures vary in cost from one practice to another? A: Surgical costs vary due to multiple factors, and may include general demographics, the surgeon's skills, pre-surgical preparation, surgical monitoring, anesthetic protocol, or simply discounting common procedures to stimulate business.
Contact our veterinary hospital in Gaithersburg, Maryland, for animal care from our compassionate staff.
