Ask a Vet

Helping you make the best decision for the health of your pet means giving you the information you need to make that decisions. Take a look at our responses to these frequently asked questions for easy access to some need-to-know information. If you don't find the answer you're looking for, simply contact us and we will be in touch with you soon.

Quick Tip of the Month

Did you know that allergies are very common in dogs and cats? If your dog is scratching, rubbing his/her face or licking paws - this is not normal! If your cat is grooming all of the hair off his/her belly - this is also not normal! If your pet is experiencing these behaviors, they could be dealing with a chronic allergy causing severe itchiness. Please contact us to discuss over the counter and prescription treatments for allergies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: I have some general questions about caring for my pet. Is there a website online where I can find reliable information?

Answer: Much of the information you will read on the Internet is inaccurate. We recommend that you use the site www.veterinarypartner.com to get information on any questions you may have. You can also call us during our regular business hours and we will be happy to answer any questions.

Question: What over the counter medications are safe for my pet and how do I know how much to give?

Answer: Before you give any over the counter medications we would strongly recommend you call us. If it is after hours call the Pet Emergency Clinic of Pitt County at 252-321-1521. Many over the counter medications are toxic to animals. Dogs and cats are NOT furry people.

Question: What suggestions do you have for people interested in becoming a veterinarian?

Answer: First, volunteer or shadow at a veterinary hospital to experience firsthand what a veterinarian does on a daily basis. It isn't all puppies and kittens, it's important to experience firsthand the diversity of veterinary medicine. Second, volunteer at an animal shelter or humane society in order to get more animal experience. If you have the opportunity to work at a veterinary clinic this is also helps when applying to veterinary school. Finally, understand the reality of veterinary medicine; for example, a career in veterinary medicine is highly respected by the public, but falsely viewed as an extremely high-paying job. In addition, veterinary school is very costly, lengthy, and challenging — you have to work hard, but it all pays off in the end.

Question: Why did you decide to go into the field of veterinary medicine?

Answer: I simply like it and never find it boring. I enjoy meeting people and their pets, so I felt that a career consisting of both is perfect. I like the puzzle—say the challenge—of figuring out what is wrong with the patient and how to treat them. I love making the quality of an animal’s life better, and, thus, their family’s life better. Therefore, I found that veterinary medicine was the overall best choice for me.