Frequently Asked Questions

At Best Friends Veterinary Hospital, we are committed to providing exceptional care for pets in Gaithersburg, Rockville, Derwood, Germantown, Silver Spring, and Montgomery County. Below are some of the most common questions we receive from pet owners. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to contact us — we’re happy to help!

Two cute kittens on blue

Frequently Asked Questions

At Best Friends Veterinary Hospital, we are committed to providing exceptional care for pets in Gaithersburg, Rockville, Derwood, Germantown, Silver Spring, and Montgomery County. Below are some of the most common questions we receive from pet owners. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to contact us — we’re happy to help!

Vaccinations & Preventative Care

When should my pet be vaccinated, and what vaccines do they need?

Puppies and kittens should begin their core vaccinations between 6 and 8 weeks of age, with boosters every 2 to 3 weeks until they are at least 16 weeks old.

The rabies vaccine should be administered between 12 and 16 weeks of age. Our veterinary team will discuss additional vaccines based on your pet’s lifestyle and exposure risks to ensure they receive the best protection.

Spaying & Neutering

At what age should my pet be spayed or neutered?

Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are recommended between 5 and 12 months of age, depending on your pet’s breed, size, and medical history. Our veterinarians will help determine the best timing for your pet’s sterilization procedure.

Medication & Treatment

How do I apply transdermal medication to my pet?

Transdermal medications are absorbed through the skin and should be applied to an area with minimal fur, such as the inside of the ear. Our team will demonstrate proper application techniques during your visit to ensure effective treatment.

How do I apply eye drops to my pet?
  1. Gently hold your pet’s head still
  2. Use one hand to pull down the lower eyelid.
  3. Apply the prescribed number of drops into the eye.
  4. Let your pet blink naturally to distribute the medication.

Our staff is happy to demonstrate eye drop application if needed!

How do I give my pet oral medication?
  1. Place the pill at the back of your pet’s tongue.
  2. Gently close their mouth and tilt their head slightly upward.
  3. Encourage swallowing by rubbing their throat or offering a treat.

If your pet resists, we can recommend pill pockets or alternative medication forms for easier administration.

Pet Behavior & Lifestyle

I’m considering adopting an exotic pet. What should I know?

Before adopting an exotic pet, it’s important to research:

  1. The pet’s diet and habitat requirements
  2. The time and commitment needed for care
  3. Legal considerations and veterinary needs

Visit our client education page for species-specific information or consult with our veterinarians before making a decision.

I want to get a pet to teach my child responsibility. Is this a good idea?

While pets can teach responsibility, children under 18 years old should always have adult supervision when caring for an animal. If a pet becomes ill, injured, or neglected, the parent is ultimately responsible for its well-being.

Veterinary Careers

How does someone become a veterinarian?

Becoming a veterinarian requires:

  • Completing prerequisite courses in biological sciences
  • Earning a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
  • Gaining practical experience through internships or clinics
  • Passing admission exams and attending an accredited veterinary school

Admission to veterinary programs is highly competitive, requiring strong academic performance and hands-on experience.

Diet & Nutrition

Are table scraps safe for my pet?

No, feeding pets table scraps can lead to:

  • Obesity
  • Pancreatitis
  • Arthritis & diabetes
  • Gastrointestinal issues

For safe and healthy treat options, consult our veterinarians.

Surgical Costs & Pricing

Why do the same surgical procedures vary in cost from one practice to another?

Veterinary surgical costs can differ due to:

  • Clinic location and operational expenses
  • Experience and skill level of the surgeon
  • Pre-surgical preparation and post-operative care
  • Anesthetic protocol and surgical monitoring

At Best Friends Veterinary Hospital, we provide transparent pricing and high-quality care, ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort throughout their procedure.

Have More Questions? Contact Us!

If you have additional questions about your pet’s health or our veterinary services, feel free to reach out!