F.A.Q.
Do I need to schedule an appointment to have the doctor see my pet?
What do I do if I have an emergency?
I think my pet ate poison, what should I do?
What is needed to board my pet?
Why do I have to fast my pet before surgery?
Can my pet have their medication if they are suppose to be fasted?
How can I get rid of the smell after my pet has been sprayed by a skunk?
I found an injured wild animal, what should I do with it?
Why are the Senior Wellness Exams important?
Do I need to schedule an appointment to have the doctor see my pet?
Patients are seen by appointment, you can call the office to schedule a visit. (top)
What animals do you treat?
At Animal Care, Dr. Carlson sees cats and dogs. (top)
What do I do if I have an emergency?
Emergencies are our priority and will receive our attention first. If you have an emergency you should first call the office to make sure the doctor is available and to prepare us for your arrival.
If the office is closed during your emergency, you can still receive assistance from us. Call our office and the recording will give you the number to Essex County Veterinary Emergency Hospital. This hospital is open 24 hours. (top)
I think my pet ate poison, what should I do?
In a situation like this, you should first call the office and we will give you assistance according to your situation. (top)
If our office is closed, please call the ASPCA Poison Control Center. Please be advised this helpline has a per incident fee. (top)
What is needed to board my pet?
Our standard for boarding requires that all pets are free of disease and parasites for the safety of all our guests. Certain vaccines are required for boarding, which can be found in the Boarding section of this website. Along with vaccines we require that pets are free of internal parasites (intestinal worms) and external parasites (fleas, mange and ticks). If you have any questions about how to be assured that your pet meets these requirements, please give our office a call.
Along with these basic requirements, you are free to bring some of your pets belongs to ease their stay and add comfort. These include toys, treats and a small towel. (top)
Can I bring my dogs bed?
We want your dog to be as comfortable as possible but for sanitary reasons we do not accept beds from home. We can offer you a service of soft fuzzy rugs for them to sleep on that we will wash daily. (top)
Why do I have to fast my pet before surgery?
Following the doctor’s fasting instructions prior to surgery is important. If your animal does eat before anesthesia the likelihood of vomiting during the procedure is increased. This is a danger to your pet because they could choke on the vomit.
Fasting your pet before surgery also provides better blood work results. Often times if may be difficult to fast your pet because of other pets in the household or because of their begging behavior about meals, but it is a necessary step. (top)
Can my pet have their medication if they are suppose to be fasted?
In most situations medications should not be administered to your pet prior to surgery. However each case is different and you should ask the doctor what the fasting instructions are for your pet. (top)
Do you have payment plans?
Payment is expected at the time services are performed. However, we will gladly provide an estimate of cost. (top)
Is it important to vaccinate?
Yes! Vaccinations are your pet’s first line of defense. Widespread use of vaccines prevents death and disease in millions of animals. Dr. Carlson will council you as to what are the necessary vaccines for your pet according to their lifestyle and exposure. (top)
How can I get rid of the smell after my pet has been sprayed by a skunk?
If you find your pet immediately afterwards and the spray is still wet apply a liberal amount of talcum powder to the area. Allow the powder to soak up the wetness, then wipe away with a towel.
You can also give a bath by creating this mixture:
1 quart hydrogen peroxide
¼ cup baking soda
1 teaspoon dawn dish soap
Use the mixture fresh, do not store in a sealed bottle because the mixture creates bubbles and the pressure will cause the container to explode.
Work the mixture into the fur well, avoiding the eyes. Let stand for 5 minutes then rinse very well. Do not rinse the mixture into your pet’s eyes. (top)
I found an injured wild animal, what should I do with it?
Wild animals should not be touched or picked up. If you find a young wild animal with no apparent injuries you should leave the animal where you found it, do not pick it up and leave the area.
If an animal is injured you can call a wild animal rehabilitator. Names and numbers of local Wildlife Rehabilitation officers can be found on this website. (top)
Why are the Senior Wellness Exams important?
Senior Wellness Exams are one of the most important things to do for your older pets because it is an advanced examination that includes blood work; it allows the doctor to assess the internal functions of your pet. By being proactively about your pet’s health we can determine what health factors should be monitored or addressed and therefore increase the life of your pet. The three most important steps you can take to maintain your senior pet’s quality of life are proper nutrition, maintain good dental health and senior wellness monitoring. (top)