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Veterinary FAQ's

Braintree Veterinary Care FAQs

There is no question too big or too small for our veterinary team. Below are some answers to our most common questions.

Appointment

We proudly serve the pets of Braintree, MA and beyond.

At Braintree Veterinary Care, we get a ton of interesting questions from pet parents. Below are some common FAQs that might help answer any questions or concerns. Please feel free to call us at 617-245-4944 for any other concerns you might have about your pet.

Emergency & Prevention

Important information in the event of an emergency—and to help avoid one.

Where do I take my pet in case of an emergency?

Veterinary Urgent Care Center:
291 Quincy Ave, Quincy MA
Phone: 617-481-5197

Monday-Friday 3 PM-10 PM
Saturday 11 AM-6 PM
Sun 11 AM-7 PM

Do I need an appointment for my pet to see a veterinarian?
Yes, please call ahead to make an appointment with one of our veterinarians.
Does heartworm prevention need to be given year-round?

Based on the recommendations from the American Heartworm Society – Yes! Year-round prevention is recommended. Mosquito species are constantly changing and adapting to cold climates, and some species successfully overwinter indoors as well. Year-round prevention is the safest and is recommended. Remember, too, that many of these products are de-worming your pet for intestinal parasites that can pose serious health risks for humans.

Does flea and tick prevention need to be given year-round?
Yes. Although fleas and ticks pose a threat to pets year-round, they become most active during the warmer months, starting as early as March in some areas of the United States. … The best defense is to keep your pet on a year-round flea and tick preventive medication as recommended by your veterinarian.

Pet Care Basics

Guidelines to help you plan the best care for your pet.

Which pet food should I feed my dog/cat?

While there are hundreds of available foods to feed your pet, there are several things to consider. The Association of American Feed Control Officials has developed general guidelines for commercial pet foods. Make sure your pet’s food contains an AAFCO feeding statement which means it meets feeding standards. Depending on variables such as age, breed, and activity level, your veterinarian can help recommend the best options available.

Will microchipping hurt my pet?

It won’t hurt any more than a routine vaccination – having a microchip implanted doesn’t even require an anesthetic. The microchip is preloaded in a sterile applicator and injected under the loose skin between the shoulder blades.

Why should I spay or neuter my pet?

Per the Humane Society: “There are a number of potentially fatal health conditions and transmissible diseases that animals can contract or develop as a result of being intact and breeding; for example, pyometra, TVT, and reproductive cancers. These risks are eliminated when the animal is spayed or neutered. On the whole, animals who have been sterilized at an early age tend to live longer, healthier lives, potentially increasing their lifespans by an average of one to three years for dogs, and three to five years for cats.”

How often do I need to bathe my dog?
Rule of thumb: You can bathe your dog about once a month unless they seem smelly/dirty or you notice it over-dries their skin. Note: Be sure to avoid over-bathing. Dry skin caused by over-bathing can be very uncomfortable. Dogs need a certain amount of oil to maintain a healthy coat and skin.
Does my pet need dental care?
Yes. Dental health is a very important part of your pet’s overall health, and dental problems can cause or be caused by other health problems. Your pet’s teeth and gums should be checked at least once a year by your veterinarian to check for early signs of a problem and to keep your pet’s mouth healthy.

More About Braintree Veterinary Care

A few additional details to help you plan for your visit.

What types of payments are accepted?

We accept cash, all major credit cards, scratch pay, and care credit.

How do I transfer my pet’s records from a previous clinic?

Please bring any records from your previous vet with you on the day of your appointment. We recommend if medical records are extensive, please email them to info@braintreevet.com so our staff can review them before your appointment.

Do you offer a multiple-pet discount?
If you bring in more than 1 pet, they will be seen individually, get a full exam by your veterinarian, and receive personalized recommendations based on exam findings, client concerns, and previous medical history. We do not “add-in” pets to the exam because we want each patient to get the full attention of the doctor; hence we do not offer multi-pet discounts.
Do you board pets?
No, we do not board pets at this location.
I found an injured wild bird, rabbit, etc. – what should I do?

Please read this article for advice on what to do: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/what-to-do-if-you-find-a-wild-animal-that-might-be-sick-or-injured