Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions/answers that we are frequently asked. If you have additional questions that aren't covered here, please feel free to give us a call at Hillsboro Animal Hospital.

1. At what age can I have my pet spayed or neutered?

   Spaying or neutering can be done at approximately 6 months of age. Your pet is given an exam prior to surgery to help determine whether your pet is healthy enough to undergo the surgical procedure. Current vaccinations are required at the time of surgery. Also a pre-anesthetic blood screen is recommended prior to undergoing anesthesia and surgery.

2. Do I need to have an appointment? What about leaving my pet for the day?

    Yes, patients are seen by appointment. We also offer "drop-offs" for clients that don't have the time for an appointment. We ask that those patients be admitted before 9:00 am so that we have ample time to perform examinations and treatment.

3. Can I visit my sick pet in the hospital?

    We invite all pet owners to visit their pet during hospitalization as it gives you peace of mind about your pet's recuperation and usually lifts the animal's spirits as well.

4. What is the pre-anesthetic blood screening?

   This is a blood test that is run here in the clinic prior to surgery. It tests the organ functions, blood counts and clotting function of your pet. The pre-anesthetic blood screening is done to assure safety during surgery and the ability to heal following surgery.

5. How long do the sutures stay in after my pet's surgery?

   Procedures involving sutures require them to be removed in 10-14 days following the surgery.

6.  Is it a good idea to let my pet have at least one litter?

    No, there is no advantage to letting your pet have one litter. However there are plenty of advantages to having you pet spayed or neutered. These advantages include decreasing the chances of breast tumors later in life, decreasing the chance of cystic ovaries and uterine infections later in life, decreasing the desire to roam the neighborhood, decreasing the incidence of prostate cancer later in life, helping prevent spraying and marking, and also decreases the surplus of unwanted puppies and kittens.

7.  Do you board pets?

   We only board critical or special needs patients such as diabetics, etc. We can also board birds and other small exotics, but you will be required to bring your own cage and food for your pet.

8.  What are your kennels like?

   Our dog kennels are all indoor. The dogs are walked 3 times daily while they are boarding. The cat boarders are housed in a separate area away from the dogs. Blankets and food are provided for our boarders, but you are always welcome to bring your own.