Frequently Asked Questions
 

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions.  If you have a question that is not answered here, or you have a question that you would like included in this list, please email us and let us know.

1. What are your office hours?

Monday-Friday our office is open from 8:00am to 5:00pm. Saturdays we're open from 8:00am to 12:00pm.

2. Do I have to have an appointment?

It is preferred. We do take walk-ins, but patients with already scheduled appointments and/or emergencies will be seen first.

3. Is someone there through the night?

Gilroy Veterinary Hospital doctors see appointments during the week until 5pm. Patients needing 24 hour care may be referred to Silicon Valley Veterinary Specialists or United Veterinary Specialty and Emergency for overnight observation or further diagnostics 

4. Can I just drop my pet off and pick him/her up after work?

Drop off appointments can be be made during doctor hours. You may pick up your pet during office hours, usually between the hours of 4 and 5pm.

5. Do you take credit cards?

Yes: Mastercard, Visa, Discover, and Care credit.

6. What does a physical exam include?

A yearly physical exam may catch medical problems before they get worse. The teeth, ears, lymph nodes, and skin are checked for any infection or growths. The sounds of the heart and lungs help us make sure they are in good working order. Tests like blood analysis,X-rays, and urinalysis may be needed to check on internal organs like the liver and kidneys.

7. Can I make payments?

Payment is required at the time services are rendered, unless otherwise discussed with the veterinarian.

8. What do I feed my puppy or kitten?

Puppies and kittens need a good source of protein and vitamins to help with their development and growth. This can be achieved by feeding them a puppy or kitten maintenance diet until they are 7 months to one year of age.Large breed puppies that grow from 2 pounds to 70 pounds or more in a short time may need a large breed puppy diet. 

9. How soon can I bathe my pet?

Puppies and kittens can safely be given baths at the age of 8 weeks. Prior to 8 weeks you can use a baby wipe or waterless shampoo to remove soiled areas on your pet. Always make sure puppies and kittens are kept warm when bathed.  Bathe early in the day and use a gentle blow dryer so the pet will be dry before early evening and won't catch a chill.

10. Is it all right to feed my dog bones?

Baked bones can break teeth and cause obstructions if broken and swallowed. Large raw bones may be OK if dogs will chew them slowly and deliberately

11. Do you sell pets?

Occasionally, Gilroy Veterinary Hospital will have animals up for adoption. 

12. How old must my pet be in order to be spayed or neutered.?

Spaying and neutering your pet can be done as early as 2 months of age, but is usually done between 4 and 6 months of age. An exam to determine whether or not your pet is healthy enough to undergo anesthesia and the surgical procedure is required. Current vaccinations are also required at the time of surgery. 

13. How long is a cat/dog's pregnancy?

Female gestation in cats normally last 63-65 days. Siamese cats may carry their kittens for 67 days. A female dog's gestation is normally 63 days. However, puppies can be delivered between 58-68 days.

14. When does a cat/dog go into heat?

The heat cycle is the mating period for female animals. Cats normally have their first heat cycle around 6 months. A dog's first heat cycle is usually around the same time. 

15. Can my pet be spayed during heat?

Yes, the surgical procedure can be at this time for an additional fee. If you think your pet may be in heat and you have any questions and or concerns please call your veterinarian.

16. Shouldn't I let my pet have at least one litter?

No, there is no advantage in allowing your pet to have a litter.The risk of breast cancer increases if a dog or cat is not spayed. Non spayed females can also develop a serious infection of the uterus.

17. What are the advantages of Spaying my female pet?

There are numerous advantages to having your female pet fixed.  These include:  reducing the risk of breast cancer, pyometra (infected uterus), and other female problems. It also saves lives by preventing unwanted litters and homeless animals.

18. What are the advantages of Neutering (castrating) my male pet?

There are numerous advantages to having your male pet fixed.  These include: reducing the risk of prostate cancer and infection, reducing aggressive behavior, reducing the desire to roam looking for females and possibly getting hit by a car, and reducing spray behavior.  It also saves lives by preventing unwanted litters and homeless animals. There may be an advantage to castrating working dogs at one year of age. The extra time with testosterone may help build stronger muscles and tendons. That may reduce injuries. 

19. How long do sutures stay in?

Sutures may or may not be necessary for your pet's procedure. Procedures involving sutures usually require sutures to be removed in 10-12 days from the time of the procedure.

20. Do you board pets?

Gilroy Veterinary Hospital offers boarding for clients. Current exams and vaccinations, including the bordetella vaccination for dogs are required for boarding. Please make reservations in advance especially during the holidays and weekends as space fills quickly.

21. What are your boarding facilities like, and can I bring in my pet's own food, bed and toy?

Gilroy Veterinary Hospital has both indoor and outdoor boarding facilites. All dogs are brought in for the night if they are outside. Indoor facilities are air conditioned and heated. We provide litter boxes, blankets and bedding, toys and a vet choice diet for all of our boarders. We have found that it's not always the best idea to bring blankets or bedding for the pet as they may urinate on it in the kennels.  Most toys are ignored due to the fact that the boarders are away from home, so we provide toys if the animal is interested. However, you are welcome to bring in your pet's own food, and treats. We want to make sure your pet is comfortable for its stay.