Frequently Asked Questions

Regular deworming is essential to prevent internal parasites. Puppies and kittens should be dewormed every 2-3 weeks until 12 weeks old, then monthly until six months. Adult pets typically require deworming every 3-6 months, depending on lifestyle and risk factors. Your veterinarian can recommend an appropriate deworming schedule and products that are safe for your pet and effective against internal parasites.

Puppies require a series of vaccinations to protect against diseases like distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies. The vaccination schedule typically starts at 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old. Your veterinarian will provide a tailored vaccination plan based on your puppy’s needs and lifestyle.

Persistent scratching without fleas may indicate allergies, dry skin, or skin infections. Environmental allergens like pollen or dust mites, food sensitivities, or contact irritants can cause itching. Your veterinarian can perform tests to identify the cause and recommend treatments, which may include dietary changes, medications, or topical therapies.

Obesity in pets can lead to various health issues, including diabetes, joint problems, and heart disease. Preventive measures include feeding a balanced diet appropriate for your pet’s age and activity level, measuring food portions, limiting treats, and ensuring regular exercise. Regular veterinary check-ups can help monitor weight and adjust dietary plans as needed.

Frequent sneezing in cats can result from upper respiratory infections, allergies, or irritants like dust or smoke. If sneezing is accompanied by nasal discharge, coughing, or lethargy, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. They can determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include antibiotics, antihistamines, or supportive care. If you have multiple cats and one cat has recently begun sneezing, try to separate the cats at least until your veterinary visit, to protect the other cats in case it is due to a contagious respiratory infection.

Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and can be life-threatening. Early stages may show no symptoms, but as the disease progresses, signs include coughing, fatigue, weight loss, and difficulty breathing. Annual testing and monthly preventive medications are crucial for protection. If you suspect heartworm disease, and/or you live in, or adopted a dog from, a heartworm endemic area, consult your veterinarian promptly for testing and treatment options.

Chronic kidney disease is common in older cats. Signs include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, decreased appetite, and vomiting. As the disease progresses, symptoms may worsen. Regular veterinary check-ups and blood tests can detect kidney issues early. Management includes dietary changes, medications, supplements such as potassium, and fluid therapy to slow disease progression and improve quality of life.

A dog’s normal body temperature ranges between 101°F and 102.5°F. Signs of fever include lethargy, shivering, loss of appetite, and warm ears or nose. The most accurate way to check is by using a rectal thermometer. If your dog exhibits these symptoms or has a temperature above 103°F, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian to identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.

Diarrhea in dogs can result from dietary changes, infections, parasites, or stress. Mild cases may resolve with a bland diet of 1 part boiled chicken and 2 parts rice for 24-48 hours. Ensure your dog stays hydrated, as diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Avoid over-the-counter medications without veterinary guidance. If diarrhea persists beyond two days, contains blood, or is accompanied by vomiting or lethargy, consult your veterinarian for a thorough evaluation.

Vomiting in dogs can be caused by various factors, including dietary indiscretion, minor stomach upset, or more serious conditions like gastrointestinal obstructions. If your dog vomits once but remains active and continues to eat and drink, it may be a transient issue. However, vomiting several times, blood in the vomit, or accompanying symptoms like lethargy warrant immediate veterinary attention. Monitoring your dog’s behavior and consulting with your vet can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Cats are subtle when they’re in trouble. If your usually social cat is suddenly hiding, skipping meals, or avoiding touch, something is likely wrong. These changes can be caused by pain, illness, or even a life-threatening emergency, like a male cat with a urinary blockage from crystals or stones.

This is not a “wait and see” moment. If your cat is acting off, especially if they’re straining to pee or not peeing at all, get them to a vet or emergency clinic right away. Early action can save their life

Skip the DIY flea collars from the store. They rarely work and sometimes cause irritation. The best protection comes from vet-approved topical or oral medications that kill fleas and ticks before they can bite or spread disease. Prevention matters more than ever with tick-borne illnesses on the rise across the U.S. Make it a habit year-round—even in colder climates. And don’t forget: fleas can live in carpets and furniture, not just on pets.

Every pet needs a core set of vaccines to stay safe, distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, parvo (DHLPP) and rabies for dogs; and feline herpesvirus 1, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and rabies for cats. But lifestyle matters too. Does your dog visit the groomer or dog park? They may need Bordetella. Does your cat go outside? Feline leukemia might be added to the list. We’ll build a schedule that fits your pet’s world, not just a one-size-fits-all checklist. And yes, staying up to date really can save your pet’s life.

Pets don’t always cry out when they hurt. In fact, most suffer in silence. Watch for limping, hiding, sudden aggression, licking one spot over and over, or just seeming “off.” Cats often get quiet, and dogs might stop jumping up like they used to. It’s more effective to treat pain early than after months of discomfort. If you think something’s not right, trust your gut and bring them in. You know your pet better than anyone.

Chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, these aren’t just bad snacks, they’re downright dangerous. Even small amounts can trigger vomiting, seizures, or organ failure, depending on the pet. One that surprises people? Xylitol, it’s in sugar-free gum, candies, mints, and some peanut butters and can be deadly to dogs. We see too many emergencies that start with a “harmless” treat, so when in doubt, stick to vet-approved snacks only.

If your pet is healthy, clean, and parasite-free, yes, it’s usually fine. In fact, it can strengthen your bond and give both of you comfort. But keep in mind, pets can disrupt your sleep or trigger allergies, especially if you’re a light sleeper. Puppies and older dogs with bladder issues may not be ideal bedmates. It’s all about what works for your household, and we’re here to help you make that decision with your pet’s health in mind.

Absolutely. Every spring and fall, we see an uptick in itchy paws, sneezing, and red, irritated skin. While we might grab a tissue, pets often chew or lick until they break the skin. Allergies in pets often look like skin problems or ear infections, especially in dogs. The good news? With proper diagnosis and a tailored plan, like antihistamines, prescription food, or medicated baths, we can make allergy season a lot more bearable.

If your pet’s breath knocks you over, don’t ignore it, it’s usually a sign of gum disease. Add in red gums, yellow-brown tartar, or chewing on just one side, and you’ve likely got dental disease brewing. Over time, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and damage the heart, kidneys, or liver. We recommend professional cleanings and at-home brushing, even if it takes some training. Good dental care adds years to your pet’s life.

If you can’t feel your pet’s ribs without digging, that’s the first clue. Extra weight creeps up on pets, especially as they age or get fewer walks. You might notice them slowing down, panting more, or not playing like they used to. Obesity isn’t just a cosmetic issue, it can lead to joint damage, diabetes, and heart trouble. At Pet Health Harbour, we can show you how to build a feeding and exercise plan that gets your pet back on track, without crash diets.

It might look strange, but dogs eating grass isn’t always a red flag. Sometimes it’s from boredom. Other times, it’s their way of settling a mildly upset stomach. But if your dog’s grazing turns into vomiting, changes in appetite, or lethargy, we need to dig deeper. It could be nausea from a more serious issue like an infection, parasites, or pancreatitis. When in doubt, let your vet take a look, we’d rather catch something early than wait too long.

Ideally, adult pets should visit the vet at least once a year for a general health check-up. Puppies, kittens, and senior pets often need more frequent visits — every six months is a good rule of thumb for older pets. Younger pets will need to be seen by their regular veterinarian more frequently until their vaccinations are complete. Regular check-ups allow us to catch issues early, update vaccinations, and keep your pet’s overall health on track.

Some early signs to watch for include redness, excessive tearing, cloudiness, squinting, or your pet pawing at their eyes. Of these, persistent squinting should prompt you to seek immediate veterinary attention. You might also notice changes in how your pet navigates their environment. If you spot anything unusual, it’s important to schedule an exam — untreated eye issues can worsen quickly.

Prevention starts with regular use of veterinarian-approved flea and tick preventatives, maintaining a clean environment, and practicing good grooming habits. Also, feeding a balanced diet improves your pet’s skin and coat from the inside out. If your pet seems unusually itchy or develops hair loss, don’t wait — early intervention is key.

Senior pets need diets tailored to their changing metabolism and specific health needs. Look for foods labeled “senior” that are rich in high-quality protein, joint-support supplements like glucosamine, and antioxidants. Always check with your vet before switching foods, especially if your pet has underlying conditions like kidney disease or arthritis.

If you notice bad breath, yellow or brown tartar buildup, bleeding gums, or your pet is eating differently, it’s time for a dental exam. Just like in humans, dental disease can lead to bigger problems if left untreated, affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Annual dental check-ups are a smart way to keep your pet’s mouth — and whole body — healthy.

Chronic itching (also called pruritus) can be caused by allergies, infections, parasites, or even underlying medical conditions. The first step is a thorough veterinary exam to find the root cause. Resist the urge to guess or self-treat — we can recommend the right tests and treatments to bring your pet lasting relief without worsening the problem.

Managing diabetes requires a committed daily routine, but it’s absolutely possible. Key steps include giving insulin injections as prescribed, feeding a consistent, vet-recommended diet, and monitoring your pet’s blood sugar levels. Regular vet visits are critical to fine-tune treatment plans. With the right care, diabetic pets can live full and happy lives.

Absolutely. Brushing your pet’s coat regularly helps remove dirt and loose hair while keeping the skin healthy. Natural dental chews, gentle ear-cleaning solutions, and even homemade pet wipes with vet-approved ingredients can support hygiene. However, if you try anything new, it’s smart to run it by your vet first to make sure it’s truly safe for your pet.

Caring for a pet with a chronic condition like kidney disease, arthritis, or heart disease takes teamwork. Stick to prescribed medications and special diets, monitor any changes in behavior, and don’t skip regular vet appointments. Early detection of changes can make a big difference. Most importantly, offer lots of love, patience, and a comfortable environment.

For ear cleaning, use a vet-approved ear cleanser, then wipe the ear flap (pinna) and canal with cotton balls only— never insert cotton swabs deep into the ear canal. For teeth, use pet-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste (never human toothpaste). Start slow, reward often, and make it a positive experience. Regular home care combined with professional cleanings is the best defense against bigger health problems.