Common Questions & Concerns

Question 1

Do Dogs Really Need Dental Cleanings

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dental disease is common in dogs and can cause pain, infections, and even problems with the heart and kidneys if left untreated.

Question 2

What Are The Signs That My Dog Might Need A Dental Cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Bad breath, drooling, swollen gums, dropping food, or pawing at the mouth are all signs your dog may need dental care.

Question 3

What Happens During A Dog Dental Cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Your dog is placed under anesthesia so we can clean under the gumline, take dental x-rays, and treat issues you can't see from the surface.

Question 4

Is Anesthesia Safe For Dogs?

Accepted Answer

Although the risk associated with anesthesia are low, there are inherent risks associated with any anesthetic procedure.

Question 5

How Often Should My Dog Get A Dental Cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Most dogs need a cleaning once a year, but some may need it more often depending on their size, age, and overall health.

Question 6

How Much Does A Dog's Dental Cleaning Cost?

Accepted Answer

At The Pet Advocate, it costs $600 for a standalone cleaning. It costs $550 when you book a spay or neuter appointment at the same time.

Question 7

Do Cats Really Need Dental Cleanings?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cats can develop dental disease just like dogs, and cleanings help prevent pain, infection, and tooth loss.

Question 8

What Are The Signs My Cat Might Need A Dental Cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Bad breath, drooling, dropping food, swollen gums, or pawing at the mouth are common warning signs.

Question 9

What Happens During A Cat Dental Cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Your cat is placed under anesthesia so we can safely clean under the gumline, take x-rays, and treat hidden problems.

Question 10

Is Anaesthesia Safe For Cats?

Accepted Answer

Although the risk associated with anesthesia are low, there are inherent risks associated with any anesthetic procedure.

Question 11

How Often Should I Clean My Cat's Teeth?

Accepted Answer

Most cats benefit from yearly cleanings, but your veterinarian may recommend more frequent care based on your cat's health.

Question 12

How Much Does A Cat's Dental Cleaning Cost?

Accepted Answer

At The Pet Advocate, it costs $600 for a standalone cleaning. It costs $550 when you book a spay or neuter appointment at the same time.

Question 13

What Age Can My Pet Be Spayed Or Neutered?

Accepted Answer

Pets must be between 4 months and 7 years old to have surgery at our clinic.

Question 14

Why Does It Cost More To Spay A Female Than To Neuter A Male?

Accepted Answer

Spaying is a more complex surgery. It requires more time and care than neutering.

Question 15

Are There Health Or Behavior Benefits To Spaying And Neutering?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Surgery can prevent certain cancers, reduce roaming and marking, and help calm unwanted behaviors.

Question 16

Do I Need An Appointment For A Spay Or Netuer Procedure?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Spay and neuter services are by appointment only and require a deposit at booking.

Question 17

How Long Will It Take My Pet To Recover?

Accepted Answer

Most pets recover within 10-14 days. You'll get instructions on pain control, rest, and aftercare when you pick up your pet.

Question 18

Can You Spay Or Neuter Any Breed Of Cat Or Dog?

Accepted Answer

No. Some breeds, such as French Bulldogs and Rottweilers, are not accepted at our clinic for safety reasons. Flat-faced cats are also not accepted for safety reasons.

Question 19

How Much Does It Cost To Spay/Neuter A Pet At Your Clinic?

Accepted Answer

Pricing varies based on the size of your pet. Dogs typically range from $170 for smaller pets, to $350 for large pets (plus the price of any medication needed). Cats typically range from $105-$130 (plus the price of any medication needed), depending on the cat's sex.

Question 20

When Do I Need To Start My Pet's Vaccinations?

Accepted Answer

Puppies and kittens should start vaccines at 8 weeks old. Pets that are older than 4 months with no vaccines should start right away.

Question 21

Does My Pet Really Need Vaccines?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Vaccines are the easiest way to prevent serious illness and protect your pet's long-term health.

Question 22

How Much Do Vaccines Cost For Dogs And Cats?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the vaccine. At The Pet Advocate, we charge from $25-$35 per vaccines depending on the protection your pet needs.

Question 23

I Don't See Worms. Why Does My Puppy/Kitten Need To Be Dewormed?

Accepted Answer

Worms are not always visible in stool. Puppies and kittens should be dewormed at least twice before 4 months of age, then once a year after

Question 24

Can Worms From Dogs And Cats Spread To People?

Accepted Answer

Some types of worms can be passed from pets to humans. Regular deworming protects both your pet and your family.

Question 25

How Often Should My Puppy Or Kitten Be Dewormed?

Accepted Answer

They should be dewormed at least twice before 4 months of age, then once a year after that.

Question 26

Do Adult Pets Need Deworming Too?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Even healthy pets can pick up parasites from soil, other animals, or fleas. Annual deworming is recommended.

Question 27

How Much Does Deworming Cost At The Pet Advocate?

Accepted Answer

We offer deworming treatments for $12.

Question 28

Why Does My Pet Need Flea Medications If They Are Indoor-Only?

Accepted Answer

Fleas can come inside on shoes or clothing, and even indoor pets can be affected. Fleas also spread parasites and may cause anemia.

Question 29

I Don't See Fleas, Why Does My Dog/Cat Need Flear Medication?

Accepted Answer

Fleas can jump on and off quickly, and even one bite can make your pet uncomfortable. Year-round prevention is best.

Question 30

Why Is My Pet Scratching?

Accepted Answer

Scratching may be caused by fleas, allergies, ringworm, mange, or other skin problems. Ask our team if you're unsure of the cause.

Question 31

What Is Heartworm?

Accepted Answer

Heartworm is a parasite spread by mosquitoes that grows in a dog's heart. It can cause heart disease or death, but it's easily prevented with regular medication.

Question 32

How Much Does Flea, Tick, & Heartworm Treatment Cost At The Pet Advocate?

Accepted Answer

The price for this service varies from pet to pet. Different pets require different treatments and dosages. In general, the larger the pet, the more it costs.

Question 33

What Are Anal Glands?

Accepted Answer

Anal glands are two small sacs located near your pet's bottom. They release a scent that pets use for marking.

Question 34

Why Does My Pet Need Anal Gland Expression?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes the glands don't empty on their own. This can cause swelling, discomfort, or even infection. Expression relieves the pressure and keeps your pet comfortable.

Question 35

How Do I Know If My Pet's Anal Glands Need Attention?

Accepted Answer

Common signs include scooting on the floor, licking or biting at the area, and a strong fishy odor.

Question 36

Does Anal Gland Expression Hurt?

Accepted Answer

No. It may feel strange for your pet, but the process is quick and provides immediate relief.

Question 37

Can I Do Anal Gland Expression At Home?

Accepted Answer

It's best to leave this to professionals. Incorrect expression can cause injury or infection.

Question 38

How Much Does Anal Gland Expression Cost At The Pet Advocate?

Accepted Answer

Anal gland expression at The Pet Advocate costs $30 per pet.

Question 39

What Is A Microchip?

Accepted Answer

A microchip is a tiny device placed under your pet's skin with an ID number linked to your contact information. It helps reunite you with your pet if lost but does not provide GPS tracking.

Question 40

Is Microchipping Painful For My Pet?

Accepted Answer

No. The process is quick and feels similar to a routine vaccination. Most pets barely notice it.

Question 41

How Does A Microchip Work?

Accepted Answer

When a shelter or clinic scans your pet, the chip sends a unique ID number. That number is tied to your contact information in a registry so you can be contacted.

Question 42

Do I Still Need A Collar And Tag If My Pet Has A Microchip?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Collars and tags are visible ID, while microchips act as a backup if tags fall off or become unreadable.

Question 43

Can A Microchip Be Used To Track My Pet's Location?

Accepted Answer

No. A microchip is not a GPS device. It only works when scanned at a shelter or clinic.

Question 44

How Long Does A Microchip Last?

Accepted Answer

For life. Microchips don't wear out or need replacement. You only need to keep your contact information up to date.

Question 45

What Happens To My Microchip If I Move Or Change Phone Numbers?

Accepted Answer

You'll need to update your contact information in the microchip registry. This ensures your pet can always be traced back to you.

Question 46

How Much Does A Microchip Expression Cost At The Pet Advocate?

Accepted Answer

A microchip from The Pet Advocate costs $30.

Question 47

Why Does My Pet Need Regular Nail Trims?

Accepted Answer

Long nails can cause pain, change the way your pet walks, and even lead to joint problems. Regular trims keep them comfortable and healthy.

Question 48

How Often Should I Trim My Dogs Nails?

Accepted Answer

Most dogs need trims every 4–6 weeks, but it depends on how quickly their nails grow and how active they are on hard surfaces.

Question 49

What Happens If I Don't Trim My Pet's Nails?

Accepted Answer

Overgrown nails can curl into paw pads, split, or make walking painful. This may also increase the risk of injuries or infections.

Question 50

Can I Trim My Dog's Nails At Home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but many pets are sensitive about their paws. If you're not comfortable, it's best to let a vet or technician handle it safely.

Question 51

Is Nail Trimming Painful For My Dog?

Accepted Answer

No. A proper trim is quick and painless. Pets may only feel discomfort if nails are left too long or if the quick is accidentally cut.

You Have Questions. We Have Answers.

Dental Cleanings - Dogs

Dental Cleanings - Cats

Spay & Neuter Appointments

Wellness Services

Vaccines

Deworming

Flea, Tick, & Heartworm Treatment

Anal Gland Expression

Microchips

Nail Trims