FAQs
Twin Oaks Animal Hospital answers some of the questions we hear most often from pet owners. If you don’t see your question here, our veterinary team is happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions at Twin Oaks Animal Hospital
What should I expect at my first visit?
Your first visit typically includes a full physical exam and time to discuss your pet's history and any concerns. We'll also review vaccines and discuss recommendations for parasite prevention. New clients are welcome to fill out our New Client Form ahead of time.
Does my pet really need vaccines?
What vaccines does my pet need and how often?
Core vaccines are recommended for most pets, while others depend on lifestyle factors like outdoor access or boarding. Puppies and kittens typically need a vaccine series, followed by regular boosters as adults. We'll review your pet's specific vaccine schedule as part of routine Pet Wellness Exams.
What should I feed my pet?
The right diet depends on your pet's age, breed, health history, and any specific conditions they may have. We're happy to make personalized recommendations as part of our Pet Nutritional Counseling services. In general, a high-quality diet suited to your pet's life stage is a good place to start.
How do I know if my pet is sick?
Changes in appetite, energy, or bathroom habits can all be early signs something isn't right. Some pets also hide discomfort well, so subtle changes are worth mentioning to us. When in doubt, it's always worth scheduling a visit so we can take a closer look.
How do I know if my pet is having an emergency?
Signs like difficulty breathing, collapse, heavy bleeding, or repeated vomiting often signal a true emergency. Our Pet Urgent & Emergency Care page has a fuller list of symptoms to watch for. When in doubt, it's always safer to call us or head to the nearest emergency clinic.
Why does my pet need bloodwork before surgery or anesthesia?
Pre-surgical bloodwork helps us check for signs of kidney or liver disease before your pet undergoes anesthesia. This gives us a clearer picture of how well your pet's body can process anesthesia safely. We offer this pet laboratory testing in-house, so results are often available quickly.
What are the signs of dental disease? Does my pet need a dental cleaning?
Bad breath, tartar buildup, and reluctance to have the mouth touched are common early signs. Many pets benefit from a professional cleaning at least once a year, though this varies by pet. Our Pet Dental Care page covers a fuller list of signs to watch for.
What flea, tick, and heartworm prevention do you recommend?
The right prevention plan depends on your pet's lifestyle and how much time they spend outdoors. Because parasites can stay active nearly year-round in our climate, we generally recommend continuous prevention. We can walk you through options as part of our Pet Parasite Control services.
What should I bring to my pet's first visit?
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to answer anything we haven’t covered here. Reach out anytime, or schedule a visit to talk things through in person.