Frequently Asked Questions
At Caring Hands Animal Hospital, your veterinarian will evaluate your pet's vaccination needs based on their lifestyle and schedule. Puppies and kittens will receive distemper and rabies vaccines, deworming treatments, and a fecal test. Vaccines may be spaced out to minimize the risk of reactions.
Make sure to bring your pet in for regular checkups every 3-4 weeks to receive necessary booster shots and a thorough health evaluation. Just like human babies, young pets need close monitoring for proper growth. These visits also help your pet get comfortable with our team at Caring Hands Animal Hospital, making future appointments easier. We will also discuss wellness, training, and any questions you may have to help you smoothly transition into pet parenthood.
It is important to deworm puppies and kittens multiple times, especially after they have left their breeder's environment where parasites can easily spread among littermates. Some parasites can also be transferred to humans, so regular deworming is essential to protect both your pet and your family. Monthly heartworm preventatives also help to control intestinal parasites on an ongoing basis.
Dewormers are effective, but no single treatment can eliminate every type of intestinal parasite. Fecal testing is necessary to detect any parasites that may not have been eliminated by the initial deworming. In some cases, multiple fecal tests may be needed to ensure thorough treatment.
At Caring Hands Animal Hospital, a physical exam is an opportunity to connect with your pet, evaluate their well-being, and develop a personalized vaccination schedule. Even if no vaccines or treatments are necessary at this time, the visit helps foster a positive relationship with our staff. Additionally, many breeders and rescues mandate an initial exam within a specific timeframe to promptly address any health issues.
Parasite preventatives are generally safe for pets as young as 6-8 weeks old and weighing as little as 1-2 pounds. The right product for your pet will be determined by their age, weight, and overall health. Beginning preventatives early can help establish a routine and provide long-lasting protection.
There are different flea and tick treatments to choose from, with varying prices, ways to apply, and coverage. Click here to see your options and find the best one for your pet at Caring Hands Animal Hospital.
If this is your pet's first time going outside, it's important to make sure they are comfortable with wearing a collar, leash, or carrier. It's crucial that their collar fits properly, allowing enough room for two fingers to slide underneath, to prevent any escapes. Keeping a close watch on your pet when you arrive will ensure the safety and comfort of everyone.
If your breeder, rescue group, or shelter has provided health records, please bring them to your appointment. This will help us determine the right vaccination schedule and avoid unnecessary vaccinations, which could save you money.
If your pet has been to other veterinary clinics before, we will ask for those records when you schedule your appointment. Having this information ahead of time will make your visit more efficient and reduce wait times.
We are pleased to offer cost estimates for all appointments. While we can provide some estimates in advance, the exact cost will be determined during the appointment, especially if your pet is sick and needs a physical exam. Pet insurance is a great way to help cover healthcare expenses for your pet.
Unlike human health insurance, pet insurance allows you to file claims with any licensed veterinarian. click here to learn more about pet insurance options.
Payment is required at the time of your appointment. Afterward, you can submit a claim form to your pet insurance provider for reimbursement. To streamline the process, we suggest bringing a printed claim form to your visit.
Our team is available to assist with insurance claim forms, ideally on the same day services are provided. Forms can be completed within 30 days of your visit. Ask our Client Care Specialists for more details. Since policies vary, final submission is your responsibility, but you’re welcome to use our fax machine for assistance.
We are unable to give vaccines that were not ordered and stored by Caring Hands Animal Hospital because we cannot confirm their effectiveness.
Our veterinarians have experience with both large and small breed dogs, as well as all cat breeds. Although each doctor may have their own favorite breeds as family pets, they are fully capable of caring for pets of all breeds. Don't hesitate to inquire about any concerns specific to your pet's breed!
Before the scheduled surgery day, it is important to complete a comprehensive physical exam. This is necessary to confirm the need for the procedure, assess any potential risks, discuss the treatment plan, and conduct pre-anesthetic blood work. Having these results in advance allows us to make any necessary adjustments to the surgical approach or anesthesia.
Yes, absolutely! We highly encourage pet parents to actively participate in their pet's care. We believe that the bond between you and your pet is crucial, and our goal is to enhance that bond rather than hinder it.
Absolutely! We strive to create a transparent and open atmosphere. If you are interested in observing, please consult with your veterinarian and we will make the necessary arrangements.
Please contact your nearest Caring Hands Animal Hospital location to inquire about boarding availability, as some locations may have limited space due to constraints. Our priority is to ensure there is enough room for hospitalized patients.
Caring Hands Animal Hospital does not have dedicated groomers, but does provide some grooming services. Please contact your nearest location for more information.
We may offer house calls for established clients based on scheduling. While our primary focus is euthanasia, we may also provide at-home physical exams if it is in the best interest of your pet.
Veterinary care differs among clinics, and pricing reflects the quality of services provided. At Caring Hands Animal Hospital, we are committed to delivering exceptional care, including:
- IV Catheter Placement: Provides immediate vein access in emergencies and enables IV fluid administration to support hydration and blood pressure stability.
- Surgical Monitoring: A Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) continuously monitors your pet’s vitals during surgery, offering real-time updates to the veterinarian. While machines assist in tracking, hands-on expertise ensures optimal care.
- Pain Management: Post-operative pain relief is always included, ensuring your pet’s comfort throughout recovery.
- Pre-Operative Blood Work: Physical exams assess external health, while blood tests evaluate organ function, particularly liver and kidney health, to ensure safe anesthesia use. If needed, anesthesia protocols may be adjusted or the procedure postponed for safety.
It is recommended to have blood work done within 30 days of surgery for the most accurate assessment.
Yes. Caring Hands Animal Hospital - Ashburn welcomes patients from Alexandria and the surrounding communities of Sterling, Leesburg, Herndon, and Aldie. We are located at 43300 Southern Walk Plz #124, Ashburn, VA 20148, and are accepting new patients. Call 703-726-0446 or book online.