Question 1

What is a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship

Accepted Answer

It is the process of establishing a formal relationship with a veterinary healthcare facility, forming the basis for the interaction between veterinarians and clients. This relationship is legally required for accessing services such as vaccinations, prescription medications, surgeries, dental procedures, and any other treatments offered by the facility.

Question 2

Why do I need to vaccinate my pet?

Accepted Answer

Similar to humans, vaccinations are a crucial form of preventative care for your pet, helping to shield them from potential illnesses or diseases they may encounter throughout their life. These vaccines protect against a range of conditions, including rabies, Parvovirus, Distemper, Parainfluenza, Bordetella, and canine flu. Additional vaccines for dogs may include those for leptospirosis and Lyme disease. To learn more about how vaccinations can safeguard your pet from harmful diseases, be sure to check out our blog post on the importance of pet vaccines.(https://www.northpointeanimalhospital.com/post/vaccinations-for-your-pets-what-you-need-to-know-to-protect-your-pets-from-diseases)

Question 3

Why do I need to spay and neuter my pet?

Accepted Answer

Spaying and neutering offer a variety of benefits depending on your pet’s gender. For males, neutering can help prevent testicular cancer, prostate issues, and behavioral problems such as roaming, marking, and aggression towards other animals. For females, spaying reduces the risk of urinary infections, breast cancer, and eliminates heat cycles, which can reduce erratic behavior and bloody discharge. To learn more about the importance of spaying and neutering,(https://www.northpointeanimalhospital.com/post/spay-and-neuter-in-pets-why-it-is-important) be sure to check out our blog.

Question 4

Do you treat exotic animals?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, we are only equipped to treat dogs and cats. However, we can provide you with a referral to a facility that specializes in the care of exotic pets.

Question 5

Does my pet need a dental cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Just like humans, it’s recommended to take your pet for dental cleanings every 6 months to prevent tartar buildup, periodontal disease, bad breath, and even heart disease. For more tips on maintaining your furry friend's oral health, check out our blog on pet dental care.(https://www.northpointeanimalhospital.com/post/pet-dental-care-maintaining-your-furry-friend-s-oral-health)

Question 6

Does my dog need to be sedated during a dental exam?

Accepted Answer

Pets often hide painful issues that can affect sensitive teeth during a thorough dental cleaning. Anesthesia ensures that your pet remains pain-free throughout the procedure, including during dental extractions and the cleaning process. Additionally, X-rays and dental exams can uncover underlying problems that may require your pet to undergo anesthesia for further treatment.

Question 7

Do you take Emergencies or Walk in appointments?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we accept walk-ins and emergency cases during our regular hours, which are listed on our website. If your pet is experiencing a true emergency, we recommend bringing them in as soon as possible. For more serious emergencies that require immediate attention outside of our regular hours, we advise you to visit one of the nearby 24-hour emergency clinics.

Question 8

What kind of preventative medications does my pet need?

Accepted Answer

We recommend that your pet receive a combination of heartworm prevention along with flea and tick protection. While these medications can be purchased separately, we suggest opting for a combined treatment that protects against both fleas and ticks, as well as heart-worms, for added convenience and comprehensive protection.

Question 9

What does preventative care mean for my pet?

Accepted Answer

Preventative care begins at a young age and includes a comprehensive wellness exam for your pet. During this visit, they will receive necessary vaccinations, be tested or treated for potential parasites, and get any required medications. To learn more about the importance of preventative (https://www.northpointeanimalhospital.com/post/preventative-care-for-pets-why-it-s-essential-for-their-overall-health)care and how it contributes to your pet’s long-term health, check out our blog.

Question 10

Do you offer grooming services?

Accepted Answer

While we do not offer full grooming services, we provide nail trims and anal gland expression for both new and existing clients.

Question 11

Why is blood work recommended before procedures using anesthesia?

Accepted Answer

Blood work can help identify underlying conditions that may not be apparent during a physical exam, ensuring your pet is healthy and well-prepared for any upcoming surgery.

Question 12

Do you declaw pets?

Accepted Answer

We do not perform declaws, but we are happy to assist you in exploring alternative solutions to manage your pet's behavior.

Question 13

Do you perform tail-docking for dogs?

Accepted Answer

We do not perform tail docking at our facility.

Question 14

How often should I bring my pet in for a check-up?

Accepted Answer

We recommend annual wellness exams for most pets, but senior pets or those with chronic conditions may need more frequent visits—every 6 months or as advised by your veterinarian.

Question 15

What are signs that my pet might be sick?

Accepted Answer

Common signs include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, excessive thirst, weight loss, or changes in behavior. If you notice any of these, it’s best to schedule an exam.

NorthPointe Animal Hospital

559.434.5470 | 1916 E. Copper Ave Ste. 101 Fresno, CA 93730

Pet Dental Month!