Veterinarian in Ramsey Your Local Veterinary Clinic in Ramsey SEE UPDATED HOURS BELOW
5 Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey, New Jersey 07446, United States
Pet Frequently Asked Questions
Can I give my pets chocolate?
NO!! Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine which can cause excitement, tremors, seizures and cardiac arrhythmias. If your pet ingests any amount of chocolate, please call our clinic immediately.
Do I need to get my dog heartworm blood tested every year?
It is important to get your dog a heartworm blood test at least once a year. In accordance with FDA recommendations, our doctors highly recommend yearly blood tests even if your pet is on the preventative medicine year round. If the preventative was missed for one or two months, it is possible that your dog became infected with heartworms, therefore the blood test is imperative. Ask us for more information.
How can I tell if my pet is in pain?
Animals do not necessarily show pain the way humans do. Any behavioral abnormality can cause pain. Some signs would be depression, limping, lethargy, no appetite, aggressive behavior and inappropriate vocalization. Please come see us when you see these signs. Pain can actually further debilitate an already injured or sick pet. Arthritis is a common cause of pain, especially in the older pet. Once discomfort and pain are controlled, pets generally become much more active and are able to play and enjoy their environment again.
My pet is going to have surgery. Will there be pain afterwards?
Your pet may experience some discomfort after surgery, depending on type of surgery. Your veterinarian will be able to prescribe pain medication to make the healing period more comfortable. Medications used today to control pain are safe.
What is CDS in dogs?
CDS (Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome) is a clinical syndrome manifested by one or more behavior problems in older dogs that cannot be attributed ton an unrelated medical condition such as neoplasia, infection or organ failure. Come and see us for more information.
My dog gets carsick often! What can I do to make the trip easier and more comfortable?
Do not feed your pet 6-8 hours before the ride starts. Having an empty or almost empty stomach will most likely make him feel better. And if he does vomit in the care, there is no food coming up. Some pets travel better on empty stomachs, while some do need a small meal. Take your dog on short, short car trips to get him used to motion. Go to the bank drive-thru. Drive to the mail box and go back home. It is okay to roll down the window, a little. The fresh air will make your pet feel better. Take it slower than normal with your pet in the car. Sitting in the front seat may be better. There tends to be less movement in the front of your car. Invest in a doggy seatbelt for safety. In extreme cases, you may let him run from the front to the back seats. Give him a treat. After a couple of days, start the car and then gradually start taking the short trips. All this takes time, and if all fails, you may need to consult us for motion sickness medication
Do my housecats, who do not go outside, need to have ID collars and tags?
It is always a good idea for all pets to wear identification and proof of rabies vaccination should they accidentally get outside or if an unexpected tragedy (fire or burglary) leaves them stranded from home. We also recommend a Break-away type collar for added protection against injury should your pet's collar get caught on something. Having a microchip implanted will aid in identification and reuniting you with your pet.
Should I be brushing my dog and cat's teeth?
Yes! You can slowly establish a pleasant, daily brushing routine with your pet using patience, treats and special toothbrushes and toothpastes designed for animals. Proper daily home care may mean less professional dental prophylaxis in the future.
My dog is six months old. How should I go about changing from three feedings a day to two a day?
Try feeding your dog in the morning and then again in the late afternoon or early evening. Skip the midday meal. Measure the total amount of food your dog has been eating each day and simply divide that amount in half and feed this at each feeding. Your dog should not feel hungry as you will be feeding the same amount in two larger meals rather than three smaller ones.
When should I change my puppy's diet to an adult dog food formula?
The staff recommends at 12 months for most breeds and at 18 months for large breed dogs. Remember to change the diet gradually to avoid gastrointestinal problems.
Why should I have my pet neutered?
Early altering of pets prevents future medical problems related to the reproductive tract. Early age spaying of the female pets prevents mammary cancer and potentially deadly uterine infections, known as pyometra. Male dogs should be neutered to prevent testicular cancer, certain kinds of prostate disease, hernias, and bleeding anal tumors. Male cats should be neutered to decrease the chance of spraying and to eliminate highly pungent urine odor.
You can always visit us at Ramsey Veterinary Clinic during our normal business hours for any specific question(s).
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Info
As an essential business, Ramsey Animal Clinic remains open and we are taking all the necessary precautions to maintain the health and safety of our dedicated team, patients and the community. At this time only staff members are permitted to enter the hospital. Emergencies, drop offs, appointments, discharges and Rx pick-ups must be coordinated by phone from our parking lot. Additionally, we ask you, our clients, for everyone's safety, to please wear a face covering whenever you are interacting with a member of our team. We appreciate your patience and support as we navigate this outbreak.