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Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our section on frequently asked questions, where you will find answers to commonly asked questions about pet care. We hope you find this information helpful. For answers to specific information not included here please call us at 813-265-4043.

Q: Is it true that chocolate is poisonous to dogs?

A: Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine which are nervous system stimulants that can be toxic to dogs. The high fat content of chocolate can also cause digestive problems resulting in vomiting and/or diarrhea. The amount of chocolate needed to be ingested in order to reach toxic levels depends on your dog’s size, weight, age and overall health, and the type of chocolate ingested. Dark chocolates contain the highest levels of caffeine and theobromine and are therefore a bigger risk than white chocolates. If you suspect that your dog has eaten chocolate you should monitor the animal for restlessness, hyperactive behavior, muscle twitches, excessive panting and urination, vomiting, diarrhea and elevated heart rate. In extreme cases seizures may occur. If you witness these symptoms contact your veterinarian immediately. With proper treatment most pets recover within 24 to 48 hours.

Q: Are there any harmful effects from having my pet spayed or neutered?

A: Research has shown no ill effects from spaying and neutering your pet. In fact the exact opposite is true. Altered pets typically live longer and are less prone to develop certain types of cancer and other health problems and are less susceptible to infections than animals that have not been spayed or neutered. Spayed and neutered pests are also typically easier to train and less likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors including the tendency to roam and spray or “mark their territory.” Unless specifically interested in breeding your pet, it is the responsibility of every pet owner to do their part to help reduce the number of unwanted animals by having their pet spayed or neutered.

Q: Do I need to feed my pet bird a special diet or can I just feed them seeds?

A: Although most birds do eat various seeds in the wild, they also eat a variety of other foods including insects, fruits, and leaves. Limiting your bird’s diet to only seeds is the equivalent of limiting your own diet to only one food group. The effects would be poor health, possibly disease and, over time, can lead to an early death. Fortunately there are a number of formulated, pelleted bird feeds available that address the specific nutrition needs of your particular breed of bird. These feeds are widely available and your veterinarian or bird breeder can provide additional information and guidance.

Q: Do I need to have my ferret vaccinated?

A: Ferrets can contract a number of diseases common to both wild and domesticated animals including distemper, heart worms and rabies. You should have your pet ferret vaccinated for canine distemper at eight weeks old followed by boosters at eleven and fourteen weeks of age. A yearly vaccination should be administered thereafter. Your ferret should also be vaccinated against rabies and be on monthly heart worm prevention medication as prescribed by your veterinarian.

Q: Can humans become infected with feline leukemia?

A: Feline leukemia is a virus that only affects cats. The virus is perhaps the most common cause of illness and death in domestic cats and can be transmitted from cat to cat. It cannot be transmitted to humans (including children and the elderly) nor can it be transmitted to other species of animals including dogs.