Wellness and Preventative Care
When is my pet considered a senior?
Dogs are generally considered senior at around age 7, though large and giant breeds may reach senior status earlier — closer to age 5 or 6. Cats are typically considered senior at around age 10. Your veterinarian can give you personalized guidance based on your pet’s breed, size, and health history.
How often should senior pets see the veterinarian?
We recommend semi-annual (twice yearly) veterinary exams for senior pets. Health conditions in older animals can develop and progress quickly, so twice-yearly checkups allow us to catch changes early and adjust care plans as needed.
What diagnostic tests are recommended for senior pets?
Senior pets benefit from regular bloodwork (CBC and chemistry panel), urinalysis, thyroid testing, and blood pressure evaluation. These tests help us monitor organ function and screen for common age-related conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and hypertension.
How can I tell if my senior pet is in pain?
Pets often hide pain instinctively. Signs that your senior pet may be uncomfortable include changes in activity level, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, stiffness when getting up, changes in grooming habits, altered sleep patterns, reduced appetite, or behavioral changes like increased irritability or withdrawal. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an exam as soon as possible.
What can be done for a senior dog or cat with arthritis?
There are several effective options for managing arthritis in older pets. These include prescription anti-inflammatory medications, joint supplements, weight management, and Cold Laser Therapy, which reduces inflammation and improves joint mobility without medication side effects. Our team will help you build a pain management plan tailored to your pet.
Should I change my senior pet’s diet?
In many cases, yes. Senior pets have different caloric and nutrient needs, and a diet formulated specifically for their life stage can make a significant difference in their health and energy levels. Our team provides nutritional counseling to help you select the best diet for your senior dog or cat, including options for pets managing specific health conditions.
My senior cat seems healthy — do they really need more frequent checkups?
Yes — especially for cats. Cats are expert at masking illness, which means serious conditions like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes can go undetected for a long time without regular bloodwork. By the time symptoms are obvious, the disease may already be significantly advanced. Twice-yearly exams for senior cats are strongly recommended.
Hospitalization
How will I know how my pet is doing while they are hospitalized?
We believe in open, proactive communication with pet owners. Our team will update you on your pet’s condition and notify you of any significant changes or decisions that need to be made during their stay. You are always welcome to call us at (832) 632-1595 for a status update on your hospitalized pet.
Can I visit my pet while they are in the hospital?
Visitation depends on your pet’s specific condition and treatment needs. In some cases, visits can be calming and beneficial for pets; in others, they may add stress during a critical recovery period. Your veterinarian will advise you on whether and when visitation is appropriate for your pet’s situation.
What should I bring when I drop my pet off for hospitalization?
You don’t need to bring much — we provide everything your pet needs during their stay. However, if your pet has a special comfort item such as a familiar blanket or small toy, you are welcome to bring it along. Please also bring a list of any medications your pet is currently taking and any relevant medical records if they have been seen elsewhere recently.
How long will my pet need to be hospitalized?
The duration of hospitalization depends entirely on your pet’s condition and how they respond to treatment. Some patients are ready to go home the same day after a period of observation, while others may need to stay for several days. Your veterinarian will give you the best estimate of the expected timeline and will keep you updated throughout.
What kind of care will my pet receive while hospitalized?
Every hospitalized patient at Egret Bay Veterinary Hospital receives a customized care plan based on their specific needs. This may include IV fluids, medications, pain management, wound care, nutritional support, monitoring of vital signs, in-house laboratory testing, and imaging as needed. Our team checks on hospitalized patients regularly throughout the day.
Is hospitalization available for both dogs and cats?
Yes. We provide hospitalization services for both dogs and cats. Our team is experienced in caring for both species and takes every measure to keep each patient as comfortable and stress-free as possible during their stay.
How much does pet hospitalization cost?
The cost of hospitalization depends on the nature of your pet’s condition, the treatments required, the duration of the stay, and any diagnostics performed. We will provide you with a cost estimate before your pet’s hospitalization begins and will keep you informed of any significant changes. We also accept CareCredit and Cherry financing to help manage costs. Visit our Payment Options page for more details.
Soft Tissue Surgery
What is soft tissue surgery in veterinary medicine?
Soft tissue surgery refers to any surgical procedure that does not involve bones or joints. This includes surgeries on the skin, muscles, internal organs, and other soft structures. Common examples include spays, neuters, tumor removals, bladder surgery, and gastrointestinal procedures.
How do I know if my pet needs soft tissue surgery?
Your veterinarian will recommend surgery after a thorough physical examination, diagnostic imaging, and lab work. Signs that may warrant surgical evaluation include lumps or masses, difficulty urinating, abdominal pain, wounds that won’t heal, or unexplained weight loss. Schedule an exam at 832-632-1595 if you notice any of these symptoms.
What should I do to prepare my pet for surgery?
We will provide specific pre-operative instructions based on your pet’s procedure. In most cases, pets need to fast (no food) for 8–12 hours before surgery. We also recommend completing any required pre-surgical bloodwork ahead of time, which helps us ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.
Is anesthesia safe for my pet?
Modern veterinary anesthesia is very safe when administered properly. We perform pre-surgical health evaluations and blood panels to identify any underlying conditions that could increase anesthetic risk. Our team monitors your pet closely throughout the entire procedure.
How long is the recovery after soft tissue surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the type and complexity of the procedure. Minor surgeries like skin mass removals may have a recovery period of just a few days, while more involved abdominal procedures may take one to two weeks. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and are available to answer questions throughout your pet’s recovery.
Does Egret Bay Veterinary Hospital offer post-surgical pain management?
Yes. Pain management is a critical part of post-surgical care. We use appropriate medications to keep your pet comfortable, and we also offer Cold Laser Therapy to help reduce inflammation and promote faster healing following surgery.
How much does soft tissue surgery cost for pets?
The cost of soft tissue surgery varies depending on the procedure, the size of your pet, and whether hospitalization is needed. We provide detailed estimates before any procedure so there are no surprises. We also offer financing options through CareCredit and Cherry — visit our Payment Options page to learn more.
Dentistry
How common is dental disease in dogs and cats?
Dental disease is extremely common — it affects an estimated 80% of dogs and 70% of cats by age three. Despite being so prevalent, it often goes undetected because pets rarely show obvious signs of oral pain. Regular dental exams and professional cleanings are the best way to prevent and manage dental disease.
Does my pet really need to be under anesthesia for a dental cleaning?
Yes. Anesthesia is necessary to perform a thorough, safe dental cleaning. It allows us to clean below the gumline (where disease begins), take dental X-rays, probe for periodontal pocketing, and perform any necessary extractions — all without causing pain or stress to your pet. Anesthesia-free cleanings only address surface tartar and miss the most important areas.
How often should my pet have a professional dental cleaning?
Most pets benefit from a professional dental cleaning once a year. However, the frequency depends on your pet’s individual oral health, breed, and home care routine. Some pets — particularly small breed dogs — are prone to faster tartar accumulation and may need more frequent cleanings. Your veterinarian will recommend a schedule based on your pet’s specific needs.
What is SANOS and how does it help my pet’s teeth?
SANOS is a barrier sealant applied to the gumline following a professional dental cleaning. It helps prevent the reattachment of plaque bacteria, slowing the progression of periodontal disease and extending the interval between professional cleanings. Ask our team if SANOS is a good option for your pet.
Can I brush my pet’s teeth at home?
Yes, and we strongly encourage it! Daily brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste is the most effective home care you can provide. Start slowly and make it a positive experience with treats and praise. If your pet won’t tolerate brushing, dental chews, water additives, and dental diets can also help. Ask our team for product recommendations.
What happens if dental disease is left untreated in pets?
Untreated dental disease is painful and can have serious health consequences beyond the mouth. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and contribute to disease in the heart, liver, and kidneys. Left untreated long enough, dental disease can require multiple tooth extractions — far more involved and costly than routine preventive cleanings.
Does Egret Bay Veterinary Hospital take dental X-rays?
Dental radiographs are an important diagnostic tool in veterinary dentistry. They allow us to evaluate the health of tooth roots and bone beneath the gumline, which cannot be assessed during visual examination alone. We will discuss the use of dental X-rays with you as part of your pet’s dental care plan.
Cold Laser Therapy
Is cold laser therapy safe for dogs and cats?
Yes, cold laser therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and drug-free treatment option for pets. It uses low-level light energy that does not produce heat or cause tissue damage. It is FDA-cleared for use in veterinary medicine and has been used safely in animals for many years.
Does cold laser therapy hurt?
No, cold laser therapy is painless for most pets. In fact, many animals find it relaxing and will stay calm or even fall asleep during treatment. The laser emits light energy that gently stimulates cellular activity without causing any discomfort.
How many laser therapy sessions will my pet need?
The number of sessions depends on the condition being treated. Acute injuries may only require a few sessions, while chronic conditions like arthritis often benefit from an ongoing treatment schedule. Your veterinarian will recommend a plan tailored specifically to your pet’s needs.
What is the difference between cold laser therapy and surgical lasers?
Cold laser therapy (also called low-level laser therapy) uses light energy at a wavelength and intensity that stimulates healing — it does not cut or remove tissue. Surgical lasers, by contrast, use high-intensity beams that generate heat to cut or cauterize tissue. They are entirely different technologies used for very different purposes.
Can cold laser therapy be combined with other treatments?
Absolutely. Cold laser therapy works exceptionally well alongside other veterinary treatments including medication, physical rehabilitation, and post-surgical care. It is often used as a complement to Soft Tissue Surgery recovery and is a valuable tool in managing pain for senior pets.
How soon will I see results in my pet after laser therapy?
Many pet owners notice improvement in their animals within the first few sessions, particularly for pain and mobility issues. Results vary depending on the condition, but most pets show measurable improvement after a series of treatments. Chronic conditions may take longer to respond than acute injuries.
Does Egret Bay Veterinary Hospital use K-Laser technology?
Yes. We use K-Laser therapy, a leading veterinary laser system known for its effectiveness in treating pain, inflammation, and promoting tissue repair in animals. Ask our team about how K-Laser therapy may benefit your specific pet during your next visit.