Your Pet Health Questions, Answered
At Healthy Pets of Ohio, we know that being a pet parent comes with plenty of questions. From unexpected symptoms and behavioral changes to vaccinations, nutrition, and preventive care, understanding your pet’s health is an important part of helping them live a long, happy life.
As Central Ohio’s largest independent veterinary group, proudly family-owned since 1952, we’ve spent generations helping families care for their dogs and cats.
We’ve compiled answers to 100 common pet health questions to help you better understand your pet’s needs, recognize potential warning signs, and know when it’s time to contact your veterinarian.
Whether you’re raising a new puppy in Gahanna, caring for a senior cat in Dublin, or searching for a veterinarian in Columbus, Delaware, Grove City, Lewis Center, New Albany, or Hilliard, Healthy Pets of Ohio is here to help.
These answers provide general educational information and are not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment.
General Pet Health & Wellness
How often should I take my dog to the veterinarian?
Most healthy adult dogs should receive a comprehensive veterinary wellness examination at least once a year. Puppies require more frequent visits for vaccinations and development monitoring, while senior dogs and those with ongoing medical conditions may benefit from examinations every six months or more frequently. Regular veterinary visits help identify potential health problems before they become serious.
How often should cats visit the veterinarian?
Healthy adult cats should generally receive a veterinary examination at least once annually. Senior cats and those with chronic medical conditions often benefit from visits every six months. Even indoor cats need preventive care because dental disease, kidney problems, diabetes, and other health conditions can develop regardless of their lifestyle.
What happens during a routine veterinary wellness exam?
During a wellness examination, your veterinarian evaluates your pet’s overall health, including their heart, lungs, eyes, ears, teeth, skin, joints, and body condition. Your veterinarian may also recommend vaccinations, parasite testing, bloodwork, or other preventive screenings based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and medical history.
How can I tell if my pet is healthy?
Healthy pets generally maintain a consistent appetite, appropriate body weight, normal energy levels, comfortable movement, and regular bathroom habits. Their eyes should appear clear, and their skin and coat should be free from unusual irritation. Changes in these patterns can sometimes indicate an underlying medical problem, even when your pet appears otherwise normal.
What are the early warning signs that my dog or cat might be sick?
Common early signs of illness include reduced appetite, unusual tiredness, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, changes in urination, coughing, unexplained weight loss, and behavioral changes. Pets often hide discomfort, so even subtle changes deserve attention. Contact your veterinarian if symptoms persist, worsen, or appear alongside other concerning signs.
Why is my pet suddenly drinking more water than usual?
Increased thirst can occur because of warmer weather, increased activity, or dietary changes. However, excessive drinking may also indicate diabetes, kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or other medical conditions. If your pet is consistently drinking more water or urinating more frequently, schedule a veterinary examination.
Why is my dog suddenly acting differently?
Sudden behavioral changes can result from pain, illness, anxiety, environmental changes, or age-related conditions. A normally social dog that begins hiding, avoiding interaction, or showing aggression may be experiencing discomfort. Because dogs cannot explain how they feel, unexpected behavior changes should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
How do I know if my pet is overweight?
A healthy pet should generally have a visible waist when viewed from above, and you should be able to feel their ribs beneath a thin layer of body fat. Difficulty feeling the ribs or a rounded abdomen may indicate excess weight. Your veterinarian can assess your pet’s body condition score and recommend a healthy weight-management plan.
Do indoor pets still need annual veterinary exams?
Yes. Indoor dogs and cats can develop dental disease, obesity, arthritis, kidney disease, diabetes, and other health conditions. Preventive veterinary examinations help identify these problems early, even when pets have limited exposure to outdoor hazards or other animals.
When should I be concerned about changes in my pet's appetite?
A reduced appetite may result from stress, digestive upset, dental pain, or illness. Contact your veterinarian promptly if your pet stops eating, especially if they also experience vomiting, lethargy, or other symptoms. Cats that go without food can develop serious complications, so prolonged appetite loss should never be ignored.
Dog Symptoms & Common Health Problems
Why is my dog suddenly coughing?
Dogs may cough because of respiratory infections, kennel cough, allergies, airway irritation, heart disease, or other medical conditions. An occasional cough may not be serious, but persistent coughing, breathing difficulties, lethargy, or appetite changes warrant veterinary attention. Difficulty breathing requires emergency care.
Why does my dog keep licking their paws?
Frequent paw licking may indicate environmental allergies, skin irritation, yeast or bacterial infections, injuries, or foreign objects between the toes. Occasional grooming is normal, but persistent licking, redness, swelling, or an unusual odor should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Why does my dog smell like corn chips?
The familiar corn-chip smell sometimes called “Frito feet” can result from naturally occurring microorganisms on a dog’s paws. A mild odor without irritation may be normal. However, a strong smell accompanied by redness, excessive licking, or inflammation may indicate yeast or bacterial overgrowth requiring veterinary treatment.
Why is my dog shaking their head so much?
Frequent head shaking can indicate ear infections, allergies, trapped moisture, ear mites, or foreign material inside the ear canal. Other symptoms may include scratching, redness, discharge, or an unpleasant odor. Veterinary examination is important because untreated ear problems can become painful and more difficult to resolve.
Why is my dog suddenly limping?
Limping may result from a paw injury, torn nail, muscle strain, arthritis, ligament injury, or another orthopedic condition. Check for obvious paw injuries without forcing movement. If your dog cannot bear weight, appears painful, or has significant swelling, seek prompt veterinary care. Persistent limping also requires examination.
Why is my dog throwing up yellow foam?
Yellow or foamy vomit often contains bile, which may appear when a dog’s stomach is empty. However, vomiting can also result from dietary problems, gastrointestinal inflammation, pancreatitis, or other illnesses. Repeated vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness, or an inability to keep water down requires veterinary attention.
Why is my dog scooting across the floor?
Dogs commonly scoot because of irritated or full anal glands, allergies, skin irritation, or parasites. Occasional scooting may seem harmless, but repeated dragging, excessive licking, swelling, or discomfort should be evaluated by a veterinarian to identify the underlying cause.
Why does my dog have bad breath?
Persistent, bad breath is often associated with dental plaque, tartar buildup, gum inflammation, or periodontal disease. Occasionally, unusual breath odors may indicate other health conditions. Because dental disease can cause significant pain even when dogs continue eating normally, persistent, bad breath should prompt a veterinary dental examination.
Why is my dog scratching so much?
Excessive scratching can result from fleas, environmental allergies, food allergies, dry skin, or bacterial and yeast infections. The location of the itching, seasonal patterns, and accompanying skin changes can help your veterinarian identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Why is my dog suddenly shaking or trembling?
Dogs may tremble because of cold temperatures, excitement, anxiety, pain, nausea, or illness. Trembling accompanied by weakness, vomiting, difficulty walking, or unusual behavior can indicate a more serious medical problem. Seek immediate veterinary attention if your dog experiences severe or unexplained shaking.
Cat Health & Behavior
Why is my cat suddenly hiding?
Cats often hide when they feel stressed, frightened, uncomfortable, or sick. Environmental changes can trigger hiding, but a cat that suddenly avoids interaction may also be experiencing pain or illness. If hiding is accompanied by reduced appetite, vomiting, changes in urination, or lethargy, contact your veterinarian.
Why is my cat throwing up frequently?
Cats may vomit because of hairballs, dietary issues, gastrointestinal inflammation, parasites, or other medical conditions. Frequent vomiting should not be considered normal, even when a cat appears healthy. Repeated episodes, weight loss, appetite changes, or blood in vomit warrant veterinary evaluation.
Why is my cat drinking so much water?
Excessive thirst in cats can indicate kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or other health conditions. Some cats naturally drink more when eating dry food, but a noticeable increase in drinking or urination should be investigated through a veterinary examination and appropriate diagnostic testing.
Why is my cat peeing outside the litter box?
Urination outside the litter box can result from urinary tract inflammation, bladder stones, stress, litter box preferences, or other medical and behavioral issues. A veterinary examination helps rule out medical causes. A cat that repeatedly strains to urinate or produces little to no urine may have a life-threatening blockage and needs emergency care.
Why is my cat losing weight even though they're eating?
Weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite may indicate hyperthyroidism, diabetes, intestinal disease, or other medical conditions. Unexplained weight loss should always be evaluated by a veterinarian, particularly in middle-aged and senior cats.
Why does my cat meow constantly at night?
Increased nighttime vocalization may result from hunger, boredom, anxiety, age-related cognitive changes, hyperthyroidism, or other medical problems. If nighttime meowing is new or increasing, especially in an older cat, a veterinary examination can help identify potential causes.
Why is my cat suddenly aggressive?
Sudden aggression may be triggered by fear, stress, pain, illness, or changes in the household. Cats experiencing arthritis, dental pain, or other discomfort may become less tolerant of handling. A veterinary examination can help determine whether an underlying medical condition is contributing to the behavior.
How can I tell if my cat is in pain?
Cats frequently hide pain. Warning signs include decreased grooming, hiding, reluctance to jump, reduced appetite, unusual vocalization, changes in posture, or increased aggression. Because these symptoms can be subtle, changes in your cat’s normal behavior deserve veterinary attention.
Why does my cat have bad breath?
Persistent, bad breath in cats commonly indicates dental disease, gum inflammation, or painful oral conditions. Occasionally, unusual breath odors may be associated with other medical problems. A veterinary dental examination can help identify the cause and determine whether professional treatment is needed.
Why is my cat suddenly not grooming itself?
Reduced grooming may indicate arthritis, dental pain, obesity, illness, or age-related mobility problems. Cats that stop grooming may develop greasy, matted, or unkempt coats. A veterinary examination can help identify the underlying cause and improve your cat’s comfort.
Vaccinations & Preventive Veterinary Care
What vaccines does my dog need?
Core canine vaccines generally include protection against rabies, distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and leptospirosis. Additional vaccines, such as Bordetella, canine influenza, or Lyme disease, may be recommended based on your dog’s lifestyle, geographic exposure, and individual risk factors. Your veterinarian can develop an appropriate vaccination schedule.
What vaccines does my cat need?
Core feline vaccinations generally include rabies and the FVRCP combination vaccine, which protects against several serious infectious diseases. Feline leukemia vaccination is recommended for kittens and may be appropriate for adult cats based on their exposure risk. Your veterinarian can determine the safest vaccination schedule.
Does my indoor cat need a rabies vaccine?
Yes. Indoor cats can still be exposed to rabies through unexpected contact with bats or other infected animals. Rabies vaccination is also subject to state and local requirements. Your veterinarian can explain the vaccination schedule and applicable requirements for your cat.
How often does my dog need a rabies shot in Ohio?
Rabies vaccination schedules depend on the vaccine used, your dog’s vaccination history, and applicable local regulations. Some vaccines provide one-year protection, while others are labeled for three years. Your veterinarian can confirm when your dog’s next rabies vaccination is due.
Do dogs need flea and tick prevention during the winter in Ohio?
Year-round flea and tick prevention is often recommended for dogs in Ohio. Fleas can survive indoors, and certain ticks remain active during mild winter weather. Your veterinarian can recommend a prevention plan based on your dog’s lifestyle, health, and exposure risks.
Can indoor cats get fleas?
Yes. Fleas can enter homes on other animals, clothing, or through wildlife exposure. Indoor cats may develop flea infestations even if they never go outside. Your veterinarian can help determine whether year-round flea prevention is appropriate.
Do dogs in Ohio need heartworm prevention year-round?
Year-round heartworm prevention is generally recommended because mosquitoes can transmit heartworm disease, and weather patterns can make seasonal exposure unpredictable. Consistent prevention helps protect dogs from this potentially life-threatening disease. Annual heartworm testing is also commonly recommended.
How often should my dog be tested for heartworms?
Most dogs should receive heartworm testing annually, even when taking preventive medication. Testing helps detect infections that may occur because of missed doses or other prevention gaps. Your veterinarian may recommend additional testing based on your dog’s history and exposure.
Can dogs get Lyme disease in Ohio?
Yes. Dogs in Ohio can contract Lyme disease through the bite of infected ticks. Symptoms may include fever, lethargy, joint pain, and shifting-leg lameness, although some infected dogs show no obvious symptoms. Tick prevention and, when appropriate, Lyme vaccination can help reduce risk.
What preventive tests should senior pets receive?
Senior pets may benefit from bloodwork, urinalysis, thyroid testing, blood pressure monitoring, and other diagnostic screenings based on their health history. These tests can help identify kidney disease, diabetes, hormonal disorders, and other conditions before obvious symptoms develop.
Puppy & Kitten Care
When should I take my new puppy to the veterinarian?
Schedule your puppy’s first veterinary appointment within a few days of bringing them home, or sooner if they appear sick. Your veterinarian will evaluate their overall health, review vaccination records, discuss parasite prevention, and establish a schedule for future wellness visits.
When should kittens receive their first vaccinations?
Kittens typically begin their core vaccination series around six to eight weeks of age, with additional doses given at recommended intervals until approximately 16 to 20 weeks. Your veterinarian will establish an appropriate schedule based on your kitten’s age, health, and previous vaccinations.
How many vaccinations does a puppy need?
Puppies generally receive a series of core vaccinations beginning around six to eight weeks of age, with boosters every two to four weeks until at least 16 weeks of age. Rabies and other vaccines are administered according to age, exposure risks, and applicable regulations.
When should I spay or neuter my dog?
The ideal age for spaying or neutering depends on your dog’s breed, expected adult size, sex, health, and lifestyle. Some dogs benefit from surgery at a younger age, while others may benefit from waiting until they are more physically mature. Your veterinarian can help determine the best timing.
When should I spay or neuter my cat?
Many cats are spayed or neutered by approximately five months of age, although individual circumstances may affect the timing. Early discussions with your veterinarian can help prevent unwanted pregnancies and address potential behavioral and health considerations.
How often should I feed my puppy?
Young puppies generally require multiple meals throughout the day to support growth and maintain energy levels. Feeding frequency depends on age, breed, size, and health. Your veterinarian can recommend an appropriate feeding schedule and portion sizes.
What should I feed my new kitten?
Kittens need a complete and balanced diet formulated specifically for growth. Kitten food provides the protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals needed for healthy development. Your veterinarian can recommend feeding amounts and help determine when to transition to adult cat food.
When can my puppy safely go to the dog park?
Puppies should generally avoid high-risk public dog areas until they have completed their recommended core vaccination series and your veterinarian confirms they are appropriately protected. Controlled socialization with healthy, vaccinated dogs in clean environments can begin earlier under veterinary guidance.
Why does my puppy have diarrhea?
Puppy diarrhea can result from dietary changes, stress, intestinal parasites, infections, or eating inappropriate objects. Because puppies can become dehydrated quickly, persistent diarrhea, vomiting, blood in the stool, or lethargy should prompt veterinary attention.
How do I socialize a puppy safely?
Safe puppy socialization involves gradually introducing your puppy to different people, sounds, surfaces, environments, and appropriately vaccinated dogs. Positive experiences during early development help build confidence. Your veterinarian can recommend ways to balance socialization with disease prevention.
Pet Nutrition & Weight Management
What is the healthiest food for my dog?
The healthiest dog food is a complete and balanced diet appropriate for your dog’s age, size, activity level, and medical needs. Nutritional requirements vary between puppies, adults, seniors, and dogs with specific health conditions. Your veterinarian can help evaluate food options and recommend an appropriate diet.
Should I feed my dog grain-free food?
Grain-free diets are not necessary for most dogs. The FDA has investigated a possible association between certain diets, including some grain-free formulations, and canine dilated cardiomyopathy. The relationship remains under investigation. Discuss your dog’s nutritional needs with your veterinarian before making significant dietary changes.
How much should I feed my dog each day?
Daily feeding amounts depend on your dog’s weight, age, activity level, body condition, and the calorie content of their food. Package feeding guidelines provide a starting point, but individual needs vary. Your veterinarian can help calculate appropriate portions and monitor your dog’s weight.
Why is my dog always hungry?
Increased appetite may result from normal behavior, insufficient calorie intake, certain medications, or medical conditions such as diabetes and Cushing’s disease. If your dog’s appetite suddenly increases, particularly alongside weight changes or excessive thirst, schedule a veterinary examination.
Can dogs eat human food?
Some human foods, including plain cooked chicken, carrots, and certain fruits, can be offered safely in moderation. However, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and products containing xylitol can be dangerous. Always verify food safety before sharing human food with your dog.
What foods are toxic to cats?
Common foods that can harm cats include onions, garlic, chocolate, alcohol, and products containing certain artificial sweeteners. Cats also have specific nutritional requirements that human foods cannot adequately meet. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control service if your cat consumes something potentially toxic.
How much water should my dog drink each day?
A dog’s water needs depend on body size, diet, activity level, temperature, and health. Many dogs drink approximately 40–60 milliliters of water per kilogram of body weight daily, although individual needs vary. A sudden increase or decrease in water consumption should be discussed with your veterinarian.
Why is my cat not drinking enough water?
Cats naturally have a relatively low thirst drive, particularly when they receive moisture through wet food. Some cats prefer moving water or multiple drinking locations. If your cat shows signs of dehydration, reduced appetite, or changes in urination, contact your veterinarian.
How can I help my overweight dog lose weight?
Safe weight loss usually involves portion control, an appropriate diet, measured treats, and regular physical activity. Rapid weight loss or severe calorie restriction can be harmful. Your veterinarian can establish a target weight, recommend daily calorie intake, and monitor progress.
Is wet food or dry food better for cats?
Both wet and dry cat foods can provide complete and balanced nutrition when appropriately formulated. Wet food generally contains more moisture, which may benefit some cats. The best choice depends on your cat’s age, preferences, dental health, weight, and medical needs.
Dental Health, Skin & Grooming
How often should dogs have their teeth professionally cleaned?
Professional dental cleaning frequency depends on your dog’s age, breed, oral health, and individual risk factors. Some dogs require annual cleanings, while others need them more or less frequently. Your veterinarian can evaluate your dog’s teeth and recommend an appropriate dental care schedule.
Do cats need professional dental cleanings?
Yes. Cats can develop periodontal disease, tooth resorption, and other painful dental conditions. Professional dental examinations and cleanings help identify and treat problems that may not be visible during routine observation at home.
Can I brush my dog's teeth at home?
Yes. Regular toothbrushing with pet-safe toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to reduce plaque accumulation. Ideally, brush your dog’s teeth daily. Never use human toothpaste because some ingredients can be harmful to pets.
Why are my dog's gums red?
Red or swollen gums may indicate gingivitis, periodontal disease, injury, or other oral health problems. Gum inflammation can become painful and may progress without treatment. Schedule a veterinary dental examination if you notice persistent redness, bleeding, or bad breath.
Why is my dog losing patches of fur?
Patchy hair loss can result from allergies, parasites, bacterial or fungal infections, hormonal disorders, or excessive licking. Because different conditions can produce similar symptoms, a veterinary examination is important for identifying the cause and recommending effective treatment.
How often should I bathe my dog?
Bathing frequency depends on your dog’s breed, coat type, skin health, and activity level. Some dogs benefit from monthly bathing, while others need more frequent or less frequent cleaning. Dogs with skin conditions may require special shampoos or bathing schedules recommended by their veterinarian.
Why does my dog keep getting ear infections?
Recurring ear infections often occur because of underlying allergies, moisture retention, ear anatomy, or other medical conditions. Treating the infection alone may not prevent future episodes. Your veterinarian can investigate contributing factors and recommend a long-term management plan.
Why does my dog's skin smell bad?
Strong skin odors can indicate yeast or bacterial infections, excessive skin oil, allergies, or other dermatological problems. An unusual smell accompanied by itching, redness, or hair loss should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
How often should I trim my dog's nails?
Most dogs need nail trimming approximately every three to six weeks, although the frequency varies with activity level and nail growth. Nails that become too long can affect walking comfort and increase the risk of injury.
Why does my cat have dandruff?
Cat dandruff may result from dry skin, obesity, reduced grooming, parasites, allergies, or underlying illness. Persistent flaking, especially when accompanied by itching, hair loss, or changes in grooming behavior, should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Senior Pets & Age-Related Conditions
At what age is a dog considered a senior?
Dogs enter their senior years at different ages depending on breed and size. Large and giant breeds generally age faster than smaller breeds. Many dogs begin benefiting from senior-focused preventive care around seven years of age, although your veterinarian can provide guidance based on your dog’s individual needs.
At what age is a cat considered a senior?
Cats are commonly considered seniors around 10 years of age. As cats grow older, they become more susceptible to conditions such as kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, arthritis, and dental problems. Regular veterinary examinations help monitor age-related changes.
What are the early signs of dementia in dogs?
Canine cognitive dysfunction can cause disorientation, nighttime waking, pacing, house-training accidents, altered interactions, and changes in activity. Because other medical conditions can cause similar symptoms, a veterinary examination is important before attributing behavioral changes to dementia.
Why is my older dog pacing at night?
Nighttime pacing may result from pain, anxiety, cognitive dysfunction, sensory changes, or other medical problems. Senior dogs experiencing arthritis or confusion may have difficulty settling down. Your veterinarian can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
How can I tell if my dog has arthritis?
Common signs of canine arthritis include stiffness after resting, difficulty climbing stairs, reluctance to jump, reduced activity, limping, and changes in posture. Dogs may not cry or visibly express pain. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can help improve mobility and comfort.
Why is my senior cat losing weight?
Weight loss in older cats may indicate kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, dental disease, or other medical conditions. Because unexplained weight loss can signal significant illness, schedule a veterinary examination even if your cat continues eating normally.
How often should senior dogs have bloodwork?
Many senior dogs benefit from bloodwork approximately every six to twelve months, depending on their health and medical history. Screening can help identify changes in kidney function, liver health, blood sugar, and other important indicators.
Why is my older dog having accidents in the house?
House-training accidents in senior dogs can result from urinary tract infections, kidney disease, diabetes, arthritis, cognitive dysfunction, or reduced bladder control. A veterinary examination can help identify medical causes and guide appropriate treatment.
Can arthritis in cats be treated?
Yes. Although arthritis cannot always be reversed, veterinary treatment can help manage pain and improve mobility. Options may include prescription medications, weight management, environmental modifications, and other therapies based on your cat’s individual needs.
How can I improve my senior pet's quality of life?
Senior pets often benefit from regular veterinary examinations, appropriate nutrition, pain management, gentle exercise, comfortable bedding, and modifications that make daily activities easier. Monitoring appetite, mobility, behavior, and overall comfort can help identify changing needs.
Pet Emergencies & Urgent Veterinary Care
How do I know if my dog needs emergency veterinary care?
Emergency warning signs include difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, severe bleeding, repeated unproductive retching, a swollen abdomen, suspected poisoning, and serious injuries. If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
What should I do if my dog eats chocolate?
Chocolate contains substances that can be toxic to dogs. The severity depends on the type of chocolate, amount consumed, and your dog’s size. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control service immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinary professional.
What should I do if my dog eats a mushroom in the yard?
Some wild mushrooms are highly toxic to dogs and can cause serious illness. If your dog eats an unidentified mushroom, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control service immediately. If possible, safely photograph the mushroom or collect a sample for identification without delaying care.
What should I do if my dog has a seizure?
Keep your dog away from stairs, furniture, and other hazards. Do not place your hands near their mouth or attempt to restrain them. Time the seizure and contact a veterinarian immediately. A seizure lasting five minutes or longer, or multiple seizures close together, requires emergency treatment.
Why is my dog breathing heavily while resting?
Heavy breathing at rest may result from heat, pain, anxiety, respiratory disease, or heart problems. Persistent rapid breathing, unusual respiratory effort, blue or pale gums, or difficulty getting comfortable can indicate a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
What should I do if my cat cannot urinate?
A cat that repeatedly attempts to urinate but produces little or no urine may have a urinary obstruction. This condition is especially dangerous in male cats and can become life-threatening quickly. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
What should I do if my dog is vomiting repeatedly?
Repeated vomiting can lead to dehydration and may indicate intestinal obstruction, pancreatitis, poisoning, or other serious conditions. Contact your veterinarian promptly, particularly if vomiting is accompanied by weakness, abdominal pain, blood, or an inability to keep water down.
How do I know if my dog has heatstroke?
Heatstroke symptoms may include excessive panting, weakness, drooling, vomiting, confusion, collapse, or seizures. Move your dog to a cooler area, begin cooling with cool—not icy—water, and seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Heatstroke can cause life-threatening organ damage.
What should I do if my pet eats something poisonous?
Contact your veterinarian, an emergency veterinary hospital, or an animal poison control service immediately. Provide information about the substance, estimated amount consumed, and time of exposure. Do not administer home remedies or induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinary professional.
When should I take my dog to the veterinarian for diarrhea?
Mild diarrhea may resolve, but persistent diarrhea, blood in the stool, vomiting, lethargy, or dehydration requires veterinary attention. Puppies, senior dogs, and pets with underlying health conditions may need earlier evaluation because they can become ill more quickly.
Veterinary Services & Healthy Pets of Ohio
Where can I find a veterinarian in Central Ohio?
Healthy Pets of Ohio operates eight veterinary hospitals serving Columbus and surrounding communities, including Grove City, Delaware, Lewis Center, New Albany, Hilliard, and the northwest and west Columbus areas. Each location provides veterinary care designed to support pets throughout their lives.
Is Healthy Pets of Ohio independently owned?
Yes. Healthy Pets of Ohio is a family-owned, independently operated veterinary group that has served Central Ohio since 1952. As the region’s largest independent veterinary group, Healthy Pets emphasizes personalized care, long-term relationships, and the health and well-being of every patient.
Does Healthy Pets of Ohio accept new patients?
Healthy Pets of Ohio welcomes new clients and their pets. Appointment availability and services may vary by location. Pet owners can contact their preferred Healthy Pets hospital or use the website’s appointment request feature to begin scheduling care.
Does Healthy Pets of Ohio provide dental care for dogs and cats?
Yes. Healthy Pets of Ohio offers veterinary dental services, including oral examinations and professional dental care. Dental health is an important part of preventive medicine because untreated oral disease can cause pain, infection, and difficulty eating.
Does Healthy Pets of Ohio perform spay and neuter surgery?
Yes. Healthy Pets of Ohio provides surgical services, including spaying and neutering. Your veterinarian can recommend the appropriate procedure and timing based on your pet’s age, breed, size, health, and individual needs.
Does Healthy Pets of Ohio offer diagnostic testing?
Yes. Healthy Pets of Ohio offers veterinary diagnostic services, including laboratory testing and medical imaging. Available equipment and specialized diagnostic services may vary by hospital. Your veterinarian can recommend appropriate testing based on your pet’s symptoms and medical history.
Does Healthy Pets of Ohio provide orthopedic care?
Healthy Pets of Ohio offers orthopedic evaluation and treatment services, with certain hospitals providing additional orthopedic capabilities. Because specialized services vary by location, pet owners should contact their preferred hospital to discuss their pet’s needs.
Does Healthy Pets of Ohio offer grooming and boarding?
Yes. Selected Healthy Pets of Ohio locations offer professional grooming and pet boarding services in addition to veterinary care. Availability, accommodations, and vaccination requirements vary by hospital. Contact your preferred location for details.
Does Healthy Pets of Ohio offer laparoscopic surgery?
Healthy Pets of New Albany offers laparoscopic surgical services for selected procedures, including certain spays and gastropexies. Laparoscopic surgery uses specialized instruments and small incisions and may provide benefits for appropriately selected patients. A veterinarian can determine whether your pet is a candidate.
How do I schedule a veterinary appointment with Healthy Pets of Ohio?
You can request an appointment through the Healthy Pets of Ohio website or contact one of its eight Central Ohio veterinary hospitals directly. Whether your pet needs a wellness examination, vaccinations, dental care, diagnostic testing, or evaluation of a health concern, the Healthy Pets team can help you determine the appropriate next steps.
Important Pet Health Reminder
If your pet is experiencing difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, severe pain, suspected poisoning, or another potentially life-threatening condition, contact an emergency veterinary hospital immediately rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
Healthy Pets of Ohio is committed to helping Central Ohio families make informed decisions about their pets’ health through preventive medicine, compassionate veterinary care, and education.
This information is intended for general pet health education. Individual medical recommendations should come from your veterinarian. Medical content should be reviewed by a Healthy Pets of Ohio veterinarian before publication.