What can I do to prepare my animal for a veterinary exam?
Practice the following exercises with your pet before the next visit to the veterinarian to assure a more productive and less stressful appointment:
  • Pick up each foot and run your fingers down the top and bottom of each toe. Complement the animal on their bravery and patience.
  • Lift your pet’s lips up and look at the teeth, while telling them how gorgeous they are.
  • Hug your pet tightly around the neck and body and whisper in their ear.
  • Lift up each ear and stick your finger in it.
  • Run your hands all over his body, head, limbs and tail, checking for scabs, fleas, cuts and areas of hair loss in the process.
What is considered an emergency?
If your pet experiences any of the following symptoms, visit Hoffman Animal Hospital immediately:
  • Vomiting with blood
  • Diarrhea with blood
  • A toy breed, puppy, kitten, or older animal that is not eating
  • Severe depression
  • Seizures
  • Unable to walk
  • Trouble breathing
  • Pale or yellow mucous membranes (gums)
  • Severe pain, including excessive panting or if the animal is uncomfortable
  • Facial swelling
  • Erratic pulse or heart rate
  • Active bleeding
  • Possible recent ingestion of a toxin
  • Any male straining to urinate
  • If the animal has been hit by a car
How do I introduce a new puppy/kitten into the house?
First, puppy- or kitten-proof your residence and yard by storing any hazardous chemicals and moving electrical cords. Then, purchase all of the necessary supplies before bringing the puppy or kitten into the house. Finally, start housetraining and bonding immediately after introducing the animal to your home.
What are the general feeding guidelines for cats and dogs?
Dogs require a balanced diet and plenty of water that correlates to their size, either three-five times a day for puppies or one-two times per day for older dogs with an occasional treat.
Cats require a balanced diet of canned food and water to prevent feline obesity, often caused by the carbohydrates found in dry food and urinary disorders from a limited water intake.
What is heartworm disease and how is it prevented?
Heartworm disease is transmitted to dogs and cats from mosquitoes and is prevented with routine testing and monthly medication. Dogs should be tested annually to verify successful prevention of the disease.
How do I prevent fleas?
There are a number of effective monthly flea medications, some of which also prevent heartworms and / or help control ticks. Once you have an infestation, it is vital to treat all pets in the home, and may be necessary to treat the house and yard as well. Flea shampoos and dips are no longer recommended except in very rare occasions.
How do I crate train my puppy?
According to the Humane Society, start by introducing your pet to the crate by placing it in an area frequented by your family, such as the family room. While the door of the kennel remains open, toss in a few treats and a favorite toy to encourage your dog to enter. Begin feeding the dog near the crate and later inside with the door closed, then leave him in there for at least 10 minutes following the meal. Next, condition the animal for longer periods of time by placing him in the kennel a few times each day while you are at home, either in the room or elsewhere in the home. Eventually, the dog will be able to spend time alone in the crate while you are sleeping or out.
What vaccine does my pet need?
Vaccines are administered on a case-by-case basis corresponding the risks and exposures of the animal but all pets need to receive the distemper and rabies vaccine