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Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQs

We generally recommend that pets have a wellness exam at least once a year. However, senior pets or those with chronic health conditions may benefit from more frequent check-ups.

If you have not visited us before, you should bring any medical records, a list of your pet’s current medications, and any questions or concerns about your pet’s health.

Yes, we provide a wide range of veterinary services including wellness care, diagnostics, surgery, dental care, and more to support your pet’s overall health.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides veterinary services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

We are open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 6 pm, and Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm. We are closed on Sunday.

You can visit us at 11990 Coit Rd, Suite 110, Frisco, TX 75035. You can also call us at (469) 956-6100 or email us at info@petnestanimalhospital.com.

Surgery

Your veterinarian will recommend surgery if it is the best option for your pet’s health. This could be due to injury, illness, or a condition that can be corrected or improved through surgery.

Yes, anesthesia is safe with minimal risks. We use advanced anesthesia monitoring equipment and protocols to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort. Our team will perform a thorough pre-surgical assessment to minimize any risks.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides surgical services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

Follow your veterinarian’s instructions, including fasting your pet before the procedure if they will be under anesthesia. Make sure your pet is clean and has a safe, quiet place to rest after the surgery.

On the day of surgery, your pet will be admitted to our hospital. They will undergo a pre-surgical examination and be given anesthesia. After surgery, they will be monitored in recovery until they are ready to go home. We will contact you if there are any concerns during the process, so please keep a phone available.

Post-operative care varies depending on the type of surgery but generally includes rest, limited activity, pain management, and monitoring of the surgical site for signs of infection. We will provide specific aftercare instructions.

Recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery and your pet’s overall health. Some surgical sites heal in a few days, while others may require several weeks of recovery.

Signs of complications can include excessive swelling, bleeding, discharge from the surgical site, loss of appetite, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. Please contact us immediately if you notice any of these signs.

Ultrasound

Yes, ultrasounds are very safe. They do not use radiation and are non-invasive. Your pet will experience little to no discomfort during the procedure.

During an ultrasound, your pet will lie on an examination table, and a handheld probe (transducer) will be moved over the area of interest. The transducer emits sound waves, creating images of your pet’s internal structures on a screen.

Sedation or anesthesia is generally not required for an ultrasound. However, if your pet is anxious or in pain, mild sedation may be used to keep them calm and still during the procedure.

Ultrasounds can diagnose a variety of conditions, including heart disease, liver and kidney disease, tumors, cysts, bladder stones, fluid accumulation, and gastrointestinal issues.

The duration of an ultrasound can vary depending on the complexity of the examination, but it typically takes 20 to 40 minutes. Additional time may be needed for preparation and to review the results.

In many cases, the ultrasound results will be discussed with you immediately after the procedure. If a specialist’s interpretation is needed, the final results may take a bit longer to receive.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides ultrasound services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

ACL Repair

There are several surgical techniques to repair a torn CCL, including Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) and Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA). The choice of procedure depends on your pet’s size, age, and activity level, as well as the severity of the injury.

Yes, an ACL repair is a common and generally safe procedure. As with any surgery, there are risks, but our experienced veterinary surgeons take every precaution to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.

Preparation for CCL surgery includes a thorough veterinary examination, pre-surgical blood work, and possibly imaging studies like x-rays. Our veterinary team will provide specific instructions on fasting and other pre-operative care.

Recovery from a CCL repair involves rest and restricted activity for several weeks. Your pet will need to avoid running, jumping, and playing during the recovery period. Physical therapy and follow-up appointments may be suggested for a successful recovery.

Pain management is a critical part of the post-surgical care plan. Your veterinarian will recommend pain medications and anti-inflammatories to keep your pet comfortable during recovery.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides CCL repair services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

In some cases, bilateral surgery can be performed if both knees are affected. However, this depends on your pet’s overall health and specific circumstances. Your veterinarian will discuss the best approach for your pet.

Dental Care

Dental radiographs (x-rays) allow our veterinarian to see areas of your pet’s teeth and gums that are not visible to the naked eye. This helps identify problems like tooth decay, unerupted teeth, and issues below the gumline, enabling comprehensive care.

Tooth extractions are necessary when teeth are broken, severely decayed, have advanced gum disease, or are unerupted. While we strive to preserve your pet’s teeth, extractions are sometimes the best option for their health and comfort.

We perform various dental surgeries, including growth removal, fractured jaw repairs, and correcting dental or oral defects. Our team takes every precaution to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during these procedures.

Yes, anesthesia is carefully administered to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during dental procedures. It allows us to perform a thorough cleaning and examination while minimizing stress and discomfort for your pet.

It is generally recommended that pets have their teeth checked at each wellness exam and cleaned at least once a year. However, depending on their dental health, some pets may need more frequent checkups.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides comprehensive pet dental care for dogs and cats in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

To schedule a dental appointment for your pet, please contact us, make an appointment through our website, or call our office directly. We are here to help you keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy!

Regular brushing of your pet’s teeth, providing dental chews or toys, and ensuring a balanced diet can help maintain your pet’s dental health. Our team can provide specific recommendations based on your pet’s needs.

Vaccinations

When you bring your pet to us for vaccinations, we support you in several ways:

Fast and easy scheduling
An experienced and knowledgeable team
Safe and sterile vaccinations

Kittens and puppies should begin their vaccination series as early as 6-8 weeks in order to boost their immune systems. After this first series, adult cats and dogs require booster vaccines throughout their lives in order to maintain immunity to dangerous diseases.

Most vaccines are needed annually; however, a dog rabies vaccine is only needed every three years; whereas Bortedella is recommended twice a year. At each exam, we will discuss your pet’s lifestyle to ensure they are getting everything they need to stay healthy. Vaccine protocol may change as your pet ages.

Just like human vaccines, pet vaccines were developed to prepare your pet’s immune system to fight disease-causing organisms. Vaccines contain antigens. These appear like the disease-causing organisms to an animal’s immune system causing the immune system to be mildly stimulated, but they don’t actually cause disease. Then, if your pet is ever exposed to the real disease, the immune system will recognize it and fight it off or significantly reduce the severity.

No medication is without any risk, but the benefits of pet vaccines far outweigh the few risks. Pet vaccinations protect animals against devastating diseases including rabies. Pet vaccinations can also protect humans. While approximately 59,000 people die each year from rabies worldwide, only one or two deaths occur in the US (according to the WHO), where laws require pets to be vaccinated. The most likely complications your pet could have from vaccines include tissue swelling at the injection site, mild signs of illness like fever and soreness, and allergic reactions to the vaccine. The likelihood of a serious or dangerous reaction is low; however, the likelihood of a life-threatening disease in an unvaccinated pet is much higher.

Wellness Care

We generally recommend that pets have a wellness exam at least once a year. However, senior pets or those with chronic health conditions may benefit from more frequent check-ups.

If you have not visited us before, you should bring any medical records, a list of your pet’s current medications, and any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. If your pet is due for fecal testing, it’s also helpful to bring a fresh stool sample.

Yes, puppies and kittens require more frequent wellness exams to monitor their growth and development and to ensure they receive the necessary vaccination boosters and preventatives.

Yes, you can discuss any behavioral issues with your veterinarian during wellness exams. They can offer advice and training tips and, if necessary, refer you to a behavior specialist.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides wellness care services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

It depends on the test. Some results, like those from a physical examination and certain rapid tests, can be provided during the visit. Other tests, such as a urinalysis, may require additional time, and we will contact you once the results are available.

Microchipping

Yes, microchipping is a very safe procedure. Pet microchipping is biocompatible, meaning it shouldn’t cause allergic reactions, and the insertion process is quick and minimally invasive.

Pets can be microchipped as early as 8 weeks old. It’s a quick and easy procedure that can be done during a routine vet visit.

The process of inserting the microchip is similar to a vaccination and causes minimal discomfort.

Microchips are designed to stay in place. They rarely move or cause any issues after insertion.

No, a microchip is not a GPS device. It doesn’t track your pet’s location. Instead, it provides a permanent ID that can be scanned by a veterinarian or animal shelter if your pet is found.

You can update your contact information through the microchip registration company. It is important to keep this information current so that you can be reached if your pet is found. If you have questions about updating your contact information, ask us!

Microchips are designed to last for the lifetime of your pet. They do not need to be replaced and do not wear out.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides microchipping services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

Spay & Neuter

Pets are typically spayed or neutered between 4 to 6 months of age. However, the appropriate age can vary based on breed, size, and overall health, so it’s best to consult your veterinarian.

Yes, spays and neuters are routine surgeries that are generally very safe. Our experienced veterinary team takes all necessary precautions for your pet’s safety and comfort.

Preparation typically includes fasting your pet before surgery. We will provide specific pre-surgical instructions to ensure your pet is ready for the procedure.

Recovery usually involves rest, limited activity, and monitoring the surgical site for any signs of infection. Most pets recover quickly and return to normal activities within a week or two.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides spay and neuter services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

Spaying and neutering can help reduce undesirable behaviors like aggression, marking, and roaming. However, it will likely not change your pet’s basic personality or energy level.

Some pets may experience a decrease in metabolism after surgery, making them more prone to weight gain. Proper diet and regular exercise are essential for any pet to maintain a healthy weight.

Allergy Testing

Environmental allergies occur when there is an exaggerated immune response to an allergen. An allergen is a protein that comes from exposure to things like tree pollen, grass pollen, dander, and flea saliva. Your pet can develop antibodies to an allergen and then overreact to it. This leads to skin inflammation and itchiness.

Veterinarians perform allergy tests to determine what pets are allergic to. If we suspect that your pet suffers from environmental allergies, we will likely perform intradermal allergy testing to determine how they react to common allergens. Blood allergy testing is sometimes used, but it does not always provide precise results.

A food allergy occurs in your pet when there is an overreaction of the immune system to a particular ingredient in their diet. This can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms including inflammation of the skin, intestines, eyes, and respiratory system.

We test for food allergies by eliminating certain ingredients from the patient’s diet. Elimination diets let us determine which ingredients in particular cause problems. We may recommend a hydrolyzed diet to reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions significantly. Our team will work closely with you to get to the root of your pet’s problem and find the right course of treatment.

End-of-Life Care

PetNest Animal Hospital provides end-of-life care services, including hospice care and euthanasia, for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

Signs that it may be time to consider end-of-life care include severe pain that cannot be managed, loss of appetite, inability to move without assistance, and a significant decline in overall quality of life. We can help guide you through this difficult decision.

Signs of pain in pets can include limping, reluctance to move, excessive panting, vocalizing, restlessness, and changes in behavior such as aggression or withdrawal.

Palliative care, or hospice, involves providing comfort-focused care to pets with terminal illnesses. It includes pain management, nutritional support, and assistance with mobility to maintain their quality of life as much as possible.

During a hospice care visit, your veterinarian will assess your pet’s condition, provide pain management and other supportive care, and offer guidance on caring for your pet at home to keep them as comfortable as possible.

Euthanasia is performed by administering a sedative to relax your pet, followed by an injection of a euthanasia solution that quickly and painlessly stops their heart. The procedure is gentle and ensures a peaceful passing.

Preparation involves making your pet comfortable, deciding on aftercare options such as cremation or burial, and gathering family members who wish to be present. Our compassionate team can help guide you through these steps.

Yes, you are encouraged to stay with your pet during the euthanasia process to provide comfort and say goodbye. Our team will support you and your pet throughout the procedure.

Drop-Off and Go

If we do not already have records, please bring any necessary medical records and a list of your pet’s current medications. It can also be helpful to bring a favorite blanket or comfort item to keep your pet calm.

We strive to keep our Drop-Off and Go patients happy and comfortable. If your pet seems stressed, we will work at their pace by giving them a break.

Yes, you can pick up your pet anytime before we close. We appreciate a quick call to let us know you are on your way.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides Drop-Off and Go services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

Drop-Off and Go is suitable for many types of exams and procedures, but not all of them. Please call us to discuss your pet’s needs and determine if this service is appropriate for their visit.

This service works great for many pets but may not be suitable for pets with severe anxiety or certain medical conditions. Please discuss any concerns with our team when scheduling the appointment.

Digital Radiology

Digital radiology can diagnose a wide range of conditions, including fractures, dislocations, arthritis, tumors, lung diseases, heart problems, foreign bodies, and gastrointestinal obstructions.

X-rays are generally safe for pets. The amount of radiation exposure is minimal, and modern digital radiology systems use even lower doses of radiation. Our team takes all necessary precautions to ensure your pet’s safety during the procedure.

During a digital x-ray, your pet will be positioned on a table, and the radiology machine will capture images of the targeted area.

In most cases, your pet will not need to be sedated. Sedation or anesthesia may be required if your pet is anxious, in pain, or needs to remain completely still for the x-ray. This ensures the best quality images and minimizes stress for your pet.

The actual x-ray procedure is quick, typically taking only a few minutes. However, additional time may be needed for preparation, positioning, and, if necessary, sedation.

For safety reasons, pet owners are not allowed to stay in the room during digital pet radiology. Our veterinary team will take good care of your furry friend during their brief time away from you.

Digital x-rays provide images that our veterinarians can review right away. In many cases, you will receive the results during your visit. If a specialist needs to perform further analysis, it may take a bit longer.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides digital x-ray services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

Electrocardiogram

No preparation is needed for an ECG. Being calm during the procedure is helpful, so please let us know if there is something that will help your pet feel relaxed.

An electrocardiogram typically does not require sedation, as the procedure is non-invasive and quick. If your pet is particularly anxious, we can discuss some mild sedation methods.

Yes, an EKG is a very safe procedure. Electrocardiograms do not involve any radiation, and pets generally tolerate them very well.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides electrocardiogram services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

Your pet may need an ECG if they show signs of heart disease, such as coughing, difficulty breathing, fainting, or irregular heartbeats. Electrocardiograms may also be recommended for pets undergoing anesthesia or as part of a routine health check for senior pets.

We know that finding out your pet has a health issue like heart disease is very difficult. Our veterinary team is here to support you and create a compassionate plan to manage your pet’s health.

The frequency of EKG testing depends on your pet’s health condition and risk factors. Pets with known heart issues may need regular monitoring, while others may only need it occasionally as part of a routine health check.

Parasite Prevention

The frequency of parasite prevention treatments depends on the type of parasite and the product used. Many flea and tick preventatives are administered monthly, while heartworm preventatives are typically given monthly or every six months. Your veterinarian will discuss a schedule based on your pet's needs.

Yes, year-round parasite prevention is recommended to protect your pet from parasites that can be present at any time of the year, depending on your location and environment.

Yes, parasite preventatives are generally safe when used as directed. Your veterinarian will recommend the most appropriate and safe products based on your pet’s age, weight, and health.

While some over-the-counter products are available, it is best to consult your veterinarian before using them. Prescription products are often more effective and safer for your pet.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides parasite prevention services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

If you find a tick on your pet, carefully remove it using tweezers, making sure to grasp it close to the skin and pull it out steadily. Clean the area afterward and monitor your pet for any signs of illness. Contact your veterinarian if you have concerns.

If your pet has fleas, start treatment immediately using veterinarian-recommended flea control products. You should also clean your home, including washing bedding and vacuuming thoroughly, to eliminate fleas and prevent reinfestation.

Laboratory Diagnostics

The time to receive diagnostic test results can vary. Some in-house diagnostics can provide results during your visit. Others, such as certain blood tests and cultures, may take several days to a week or longer. If you have questions about a specific test, please ask us!

An in-house laboratory allows us to quickly perform diagnostic tests and obtain results during your visit. This rapid turnaround enables us to diagnose and treat health issues promptly, improving your pet’s care and reducing wait times for critical test results.

PetNest Animal Hospital provides laboratory diagnostic services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.

Blood tests help diagnose and monitor various health conditions in pets, such as infections, anemia, organ function, and metabolic diseases. They provide valuable information about your pet’s overall health.

Fecal exams test for the presence of intestinal parasites such as hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. Regular fecal testing is essential to check if your pet is free from these parasites.

Urine tests can detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, diabetes, and other metabolic conditions.

Vaccine titers measure the level of antibodies in your pet’s blood to determine if they have adequate immunity from previous vaccinations. This can help decide if booster shots are needed. Titers are also required for entrance into some countries when traveling.

Emergency & Urgent care

A pet emergency includes any sudden illness or injury that requires immediate medical attention. Common emergencies include trauma from accidents, severe allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, ingestion of toxins, and sudden, severe pain. If you are unsure whether your pet’s condition is an emergency, it is always best to contact us or bring your pet in for evaluation.

If your pet has an emergency outside our regular business hours, we recommend contacting a nearby 24/7 animal emergency hospital. Their contact information is listed on our website for your convenience.

A: We accept walk-ins for emergencies and urgent care during our normal business hours. However, please call us ahead of time so we can prepare for your arrival and provide immediate care.

Being prepared for a pet emergency involves knowing the location and contact information of your nearest emergency veterinary clinic, keeping a pet first aid kit at home, and being aware of common household items that can be toxic to pets. It’s also helpful to have your pet’s medical records easily accessible.

When calling about a pet emergency, provide your name, your pet’s name and breed, the nature of the emergency, any symptoms your pet is experiencing, and your estimated time of arrival. This information helps us prepare for your visit and provide the best possible care.

The need for an overnight stay depends on the severity of your pet’s condition. In some cases, pets may need to be monitored closely or receive ongoing treatment. If overnight care is necessary, we will discuss this with you and make arrangements with a 24/7 emergency animal hospital if needed.

The cost of emergency pet care varies depending on the nature and severity of the condition, as well as the treatments required. We will provide you with an estimate before proceeding with any treatments. Visit our payments page to learn about our payment options.

When bringing your pet for emergency care, try to bring any relevant medical records, a list of current medications, and information about the incident or symptoms. Having this information handy can help expedite the treatment process.

24/7 Emergency Veterinary Care for Your Pets

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