Frequently Asked Questions
At Caring Hands Animal Hospital, all puppies and kittens receive distemper vaccines, a rabies vaccine, deworming, and a fecal test. Our veterinarians evaluate your pet's vaccination status and lifestyle to recommend the most appropriate vaccines. In some cases, we may suggest spacing out vaccinations to reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
Puppies and kittens should return for booster vaccinations and checkups every 3-4 weeks. Just like human babies, young pets need close monitoring to ensure proper growth and development. These visits also help your pet build a positive relationship with Caring Hands Animal Hospital, making future appointments less stressful.
During these visits, your veterinarian will discuss wellness, training, and any concerns you may have. We know this stage of life is both exciting and challenging, and we're here to support you every step of the way!
Ensuring puppies and kittens are dewormed multiple times is crucial, especially after they leave their breeder's environment, where parasites may have been passed between littermates. To protect your family from potential transmission of parasites from pets to humans, we take all necessary precautions. Additionally, the monthly heartworm preventatives prescribed by Caring Hands Animal Hospital also serve as intestinal dewormers.
Most dewormers target a wide range of parasites, but no single medication can eliminate all types. Fecal tests help identify any parasites that may have been missed by previous deworming treatments. In some cases, multiple fecal tests may be needed to ensure successful treatment.
Bringing your pet to Caring Hands Animal Hospital for a physical exam is a great way for us to get to know you and your new companion while discussing their upcoming vaccination schedule. Even if no vaccines or treatments are needed at this visit, it allows your pet to have a relaxed and positive experience with us—complete with cuddles and treats!
Additionally, many breeders and rescue organizations require a physical exam within a set timeframe after adoption. This initial check helps identify any potential health concerns early, giving you peace of mind and ensuring the best start for your new furry friend.
Parasite prevention is recommended starting at 6-8 weeks of age and is safe for pets weighing as little as 1-2 pounds. Age and weight requirements may vary depending on the specific product, so it's best to consult your veterinarian at Caring Hands Animal Hospital. Starting prevention early helps protect your pet and establishes monthly preventatives as a regular part of their care routine.
Choosing the right flea and tick preventative for your pet depends on factors like cost, application method, and effectiveness. Your veterinarian at Caring Hands Animal Hospital can help determine the best option for your pet. For more details, click here.
If your pet is going outside for the first time, help them adjust by introducing a collar, leash, or pet carrier. Ensure the collar fits properly by allowing two fingers to fit between the collar and your pet’s neck to prevent escapes.
For everyone's safety and comfort, please keep your pet under close supervision when visiting Caring Hands Animal Hospital.
Bring any medical records from a breeder, rescue group, or shelter to your appointment. These records help us determine the best vaccination schedule and avoid unnecessary vaccines, saving you money.
If your pet has been seen at other veterinary hospitals, we will request their records when you schedule your visit. Having these documents in advance helps reduce wait times and ensures we have all the necessary information for your pet’s care.
We are happy to provide cost estimates for all visits. While we can sometimes offer an estimate before your appointment, we usually have a clearer understanding of the necessary services after a physical exam and discussion with the doctor. If your pet is unwell, determining treatment costs in advance can be difficult without a thorough evaluation.
Pet insurance is a great way to help manage veterinary care expenses.
Pet insurance works differently from human health insurance, as your provider will accept claims from any licensed veterinarian, not just those who are in-network. To learn more about available pet insurance options, please click here.
At Caring Hands Bristow, you will pay for services at the time of your visit and then submit a claim form to your insurance company for reimbursement. To help speed up the reimbursement process, we recommend printing and bringing your claim form with you to the appointment.
Our team at Caring Hands Animal Hospital is happy to assist you with completing your insurance claim forms. While it's best to do this on the day of your pet's visit, we can help within 30 days after the appointment. Feel free to ask one of our Client Care Specialists for assistance. Since each policy is different, we’ll review your forms with you to ensure they’re complete before submission. You are also welcome to use our fax machine for this purpose.
We regret to inform you that we are unable to provide vaccines that were not ordered and stored by Caring Hands Animal Hospital. This decision is made in consideration of the efficacy and safety of the vaccines. Thank you for your understanding.
Our veterinarians at Caring Hands Animal Hospital have extensive experience in treating dogs and cats of all sizes and breeds. While they may have personal preferences for family pets, they are proficient in caring for a diverse range of breeds. Feel free to ask about their experiences with different breeds during your visit!
Prior to your surgery, we require you to undergo a comprehensive physical examination to verify the need for the procedure and minimize any potential risks. This will allow us to discuss the treatment plan with you, perform pre-anesthetic blood tests, and address any concerns that may necessitate modifications to the surgical plan or anesthesia.
Yes, we absolutely encourage your active involvement in caring for your pet. At Caring Hands Animal Hospital, we value the unique bond between you and your pet and aim to strengthen it at every visit.
We value transparency and encourage you to observe the surgery. Please discuss with your veterinarian to arrange for this opportunity.
Please contact your nearest Caring Hands Animal Hospital location to verify the availability of boarding services, as certain locations may have limited space. Our main focus is on ensuring the comfort and well-being of our hospitalized patients.
Caring Hands Animal Hospital offers basic grooming services, but does not provide full grooming services. For more information on the services available, please contact your nearest location.
House calls at Caring Hands Animal Hospital are available for established clients based on scheduling availability. While primarily offered for euthanasia, we also aim to accommodate physical exams in your home when it is in the best interest of your pet.
We understand that pricing can vary between clinics, which can be confusing. At Caring Hands Animal Hospital, we provide high-quality care that includes:
- IV Catheter Placement: Provides immediate vein access for emergencies and enables IV fluid administration to support blood pressure and hydration during surgery.
- Continuous Monitoring: A Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) closely monitors your pet’s vital signs throughout the procedure, ensuring quick response to any changes. While monitoring equipment provides essential data, the skill of a trained professional is irreplaceable.
- Pain Management: Every surgical estimate includes pain medication. Your pet will receive post-operative pain relief for comfort, with additional medication provided for home care for 2-5 days after surgery.
- Pre-Anesthetic Blood Work: Assesses organ function to ensure safe anesthesia use and detect any underlying health concerns. For accuracy, blood work should be conducted within 30 days of surgery.
Yes. Caring Hands Animal Hospital - Bristow welcomes patients from Alexandria and the surrounding communities of Manassas, Gainesville, Haymarket, and Nokesville. We are located at 12733 Braemar Village Pz, Bristow, VA 20136, and are accepting new patients. Call 703-368-7300 or book online.
New Furry Faces Welcome! Enjoy $50 OFF Your First Exam*
*Valid for new clients on the 1st exam only. Cannot be combined with other discounts. Please call with questions.
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703.368.7300