FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions By Our Clients

Question 1: At what age should my puppy or kitten see a Veterinarian?

Answer 1: Puppies and kittens should be dewormed between 3 and 4 weeks of age. They need to have a check up at 6 weeks, and a veterinarian will inform you of the recommended vaccination schedule at that point in time. An important thing with new puppies and kittens is proper intestinal parasite control. We say parasites because your pets can be infected with more than worms. For example, coccidia and giardia are commonplace among young pets. Giardia is contagious to people and we recommend all puppies belonging to families with children should be tested to prevent zoonoses (transfer of parasites from animals to humans). 


Question 2: At what age can I spay or neuter my Cat or Dog?

Answer 2: We recommend spaying or neutering puppies and kittens between 4-6 months of age as long as they are well vaccinated and free of parasites. It is strongly recommended that you spay or neuter your pet regardless of their age. The reason being that older reproductive organs can develop cancer and lead to more severe complications. Give us a call at 770-459-2253 and schedule a time to have your pet spayed or neutered. 


Question 3: How does my pet get heartworms and how can I prevent them?

Answer 3: This is a common question we hear at Atlanta West Veterinary Hospital, and Heartworms are a major hazard for your pet. Heartworms are a deadly parasite carried and transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Heartworm prevention for your dog and/or cat throughout their entire lives is paramount to healthy living. Even if your pet never goes outside and is strictly an inside pet, mosquitoes very easily get inside your home and infect your loved one. It is less expensive to pay for Heartworm prevention than to pay for Heartworm treatment, and you can ask our Veterinarians about a multitude of options available for Heartworm Prevention.


Question 4: Which flea products does Atlanta West Veterinary recommend?

Answer 4: We carry a variety of products available for our customers, but we do recommend Nexgard, Frontline, and Revolution as they seem to be the safest and most effective products. There are benefits and negatives to each flea product, and different products work better for different animals. 

Doctor's Note*: Any product used for the first time on a pet should be done in the morning during the week under observation for the day in case of your pet having a reaction. 


Question 5: How often should my pet have an exam and bloodwork?

Answer 5: Our Doctors here at Atlanta West Veterinary Hospital rely on consistent physical exams and blood work to diagnose issues early, at a point when the issue may still be manageable. We recommend you begin these consistent exams and bloodwork as early as possible, especially if your pet hasn’t had regular veterinary care in the past. It’s recommended that your pet have blood work done before surgery, which is required if pet is 7 or older, to keep them as safe as possible under the effects of anesthesia. As your pet gets older more frequent trips to the veterinary office are needed to monitor their ongoing health.


Question 6:  Why does my pet need a dental procedure?

Answer 6: Dental Care in pets is needed for the same reasons as people. Giving your pet regular teeth cleanings not only keep their teeth healthy, but bacteria on teeth can cause liver, kidney, and major heart disease over a length of time. Medical studies have shown that regular dental care for your pet can extend their lifespan as long as 25%.


Question 7: Is nutrition particularly important for my pet?

Answer 7: Yes, nutrition is largely important to your pet living a long and healthy life by not suffering from the medical effects of being overweight. Your pet, much like people, can develop diabetes and heart disease from over eating or not having a properly balanced diet. We have a line of diet foods here at Atlanta West that we can specially pair with your pet to give them proper nutrition and care.


Question 8: How long should I wait to bring in my pet after a change in behavior?

Answer 8: Changes in pet’s behavior can be a signal for a large variety of problems, both major and minor. Simply letting your Veterinarian know that your pet has recently changed their behavior allows them to use tools and experience to develop solutions. Schedule an appointment with our Veterinarians as soon as possible if you notice a change in the your pet's behavior.


Question 9: What should I do if I notice visible parasites on my pet?

Answer 9: If you notice visible parasites on  your pet at any point we recommend you bring them in for a visit immediately. Fleas and ticks carry and can transmit a number of diseases to your pet including Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Also,  your pet can bring these parasites into your home.


Question 10: What if my pet has an after hours problem?

Answer 10: If your pet is experiencing an after hours emergency, please call Westside Animal Emergency Clinic at 770-819-1090.


Question 11: Is Payment Due at the Time of Treatment or are there financing options?

Answer 11:  Yes, payment is due at the time of service. Care Credit is offered for payment options if approved. Care Credit can be contacted at their website www.carecredit.com

Contact Us

We look forward to hearing from you

Location

Find us on the map

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed