At what age can I spay/neuter my pet?

We recommend to spay or neuter between 4-6 months of age.  Cats and Dogs start coming into heat around 6 months.  We prefer to spay the females before their first heat.  This makes it an easier procedure and a faster recovery for the female.

When I schedule my pet to have surgery do they have to stay overnight?

NO, at Noah's Ark Veterinary Services we use a safe anesthetic that allows your pet to wake up slowly and safely, but are able to go home that same day.  Our general surgical protocol is to have you drop your pet off between 7:30am and 9:00am the morning of their surgery and pick them up after 3:00pm that day.  We ask that you withhold food the night before their surgery but you may offer water up until you bring them to the hospital.

At what age do I start my puppy's/kitten's vaccines?

Our recommendation is to begin their series vaccines around 7-8 weeks of age.  Some may vaccinate as early as 6 weeks.  Dewormings should also be performed around the same age.  Call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ford.

What is Heartworm prevention?

Heartworm prevention is started for puppies between the ages of 10-13 weeks.  It is then continued on a monthly schedule for the rest of your puppies life.  Heartworm prevention not only protects your dog from the deadly heartworm disease, but also from intestinal parasites.  With some Heartworm prevention you also get flea control!

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When can I start flea prevention?

There are many types of flea preventions out there, including collars, powders, sprays, topicals, dips and the list goes on! But what type should you use and when to start it will vary.  It is very important to read the label on the type of prevention you purchase.  We recommend to use Frontline topical or Advantage topical for puppies and kittens.  These products are safe to use as early as 8 weeks of age in most cases.  You want to continue to re-apply these topical preventions once monthly and continue year round.