FAQs
There is no question too big or too small for our veterinary team. Below are some answers to our most common questions.
You have questions, and we have answers.
At West Ballantyne Animal Hospital, we’re committed to providing you with the very best pet care available. Part of that responsibility means making sure our clients fully understand the nature of the work we do and the treatments that we use to help your cherished pet. At our animal clinic, we encourage you to ask as many questions as you need to make informed decisions about the pet care we provide. To that end, our veterinarian Tom Linfante, DVM, has taken the time to address some of his most frequently asked questions right here on our website. The questions range from general inquiries about the programs and policies associated with our Charlotte area animal clinic to specific questions related to the health of your pet. If you don’t see an answer to your question below, contact us today. The pet care experts at West Ballantyne Animal Hospital are waiting to hear from you!
Why should I choose West Ballantyne Animal Hospital for my pet’s care?
Experienced, collaborative veterinary care
Our doctors bring complementary experience and perspectives to patient care. With decades of small-animal clinical experience, current medical knowledge, and regular collaboration on cases, our team provides thoughtful and well-rounded veterinary recommendations.
Personal, individualized recommendations
We do not believe veterinary care should be one-size-fits-all. We consider your pet’s age, lifestyle, medical history, temperament, and your goals when developing a treatment plan.
Clear communication and trusted relationships
We take time to explain our findings, answer your questions, and help you understand the available options. We want you to feel comfortable and involved in decisions about your pet’s care.
Modern medicine in a locally owned hospital
As an independently owned veterinary hospital, our decisions are guided by the needs of our patients and their families. We provide preventive care, dentistry, surgery, diagnostic testing, and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions using modern veterinary technology.
Most importantly, we want your pet to be known and cared for by a veterinary team you can trust throughout every stage of life.
Is West Ballantyne Animal Hospital accepting new clients?
We are most definitely accepting new clients and patients and can not wait to add more members to our furry family!
Please click here to submit information for New Client Registration or to schedule an appointment online.
What is your hospital’s pet prescription policy?
We have partnered with My Vet Store Online. This pharmacy provides you with a trusted source for prescriptions, diets, and pet supplies. Most orders ship free and offer discounts if you use the auto ship option. You get the ease of shopping online with the convenience of home delivery. Our online store offers the security of using an accredited pharmacy and the satisfaction of keeping your dollars in your local community! Our online store is also very competitively priced ensuring that we are protecting your pet as well as protecting your budget!
You can access our online pharmacy from our website by clicking the “Shop with Us” button or through the PetDesk app by clicking the “Online Pharmacy” button on the provider’s tab.
As of January 1, 2022, West Ballantyne Animal Hospital will no longer be working with any outside online pharmacies. We are no longer recommending these pharmacies due to numerous medication, communication and quality concerns. If you still wish to use an outside online pharmacy, we will be happy to write a prescription that you can pick up at the hospital and mail directly to the pharmacy of your choice.
What is your patient admission policy?
All pets admitted to the hospital for surgery, dentistry, boarding, or bathing must be up-to-date with their annual preventative care exams and vaccinations. If another hospital provided this service, proof of vaccination would be requested at the time of booking. If you do not have the vaccination certificate, we will be happy to call the clinic where the service was provided on your behalf. This policy is vital for the safety and well-being of both your own pet and others in the hospital.
What is your cancellation/late arrival policy?
Please notify us if you are unable to keep your appointment. We do accept same-day cancellations. We can not guarantee an appointment with the doctor if you are 15 minutes or later than your scheduled appointment. However, we will do our best to find you another mutually convenient appointment time.
What is your payment policy?
We accept cash, all major credit cards (including Visa and MasterCard), and debit cards as payment forms for services. We also accept CareCredit. Payment for services rendered is due after each appointment or when the pet is discharged from the hospital.
If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, please call our office to talk with one of our staff members – we are happy to help!
How do I know if my pet is in pain?
It can sometimes be difficult to tell. If you suspect your dog or cat may be hurting or is just not acting right, call us to set up an examination for your pet. Some signs of pain are more obvious, such as limping, but some signs are more subtle and can include not eating, a change in behavior or normal habits, being more tired, and having less energy. Of course, these symptoms can also be caused by many problems, so early observation and action are essential.
When is the best time to spay or neuter my pet?
The general time frame to spay or neuter your cat or dog is approximately 6 – 8 months old. There are varying breed recommendations or health reasons that the doctor may advise otherwise on an individual basis. However, the procedure can be done at most ages. It is important that female dogs and cats get spayed before their first heat cycle. Learn more here.
How many months should my pet be on heartworm prevention medication?
Heartworm disease is a serious disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes and leads to congestive heart failure and death if left untreated. We recommend all dogs be given year-round heartworm prevention, regardless of lifestyle.
A simple blood test is needed to check your dog for heartworm disease on an annual basis. Heartworm prevention is given on a monthly basis by a chewable tablet or topical application. Depending on the specific product you and your veterinarian choose, heartworm prevention medication can prevent other parasite infestations, including internal parasites (intestinal parasites) and external parasites (fleas and ticks).
Why does my pet need a dental cleaning, and how often should this be done?
The teeth and mouth are one of the first things our veterinarian checks during your pet’s physical exam. We may notice that your pet has some tartar buildup or lesions on the teeth or mouth. A dental cleaning includes:
- A complete mouth examination
- Digital X-rays of every tooth in the mouth
- Tooth root planning
- Tooth scaling
- Polishing to treat and maintain your dog and cat’s healthy teeth and gums
As your pet ages, advanced dental care may be required. Your pet’s teeth must be checked regularly, and cleanings should be performed regularly to keep the mouth healthy. Learn more here.
Do I need to brush my pet’s teeth at home?
Yes. Proper dental care at home is highly recommended to help maintain the oral health of your dog and cat. Home dental care for your pet should start early, even before their adult teeth come in. It is best if owners brush their dog’s and cat’s teeth frequently. In order to be effective, the teeth need to be brushed multiple times a week. Although tooth brushing is the best method of preventing plaque, calculus, and bacterial build-up, there are many dental home care options. Other oral home care options such as dental formulated foods, rinses, water additives, and dental treats should be considered.
COVID-19
As COVID-19 threatens our community, West Ballantyne Animal Hospital remains committed to the health and safety of our patients, clients and staff. We continue to adjust to the guidelines and best practices set forth by the CDC, the American Veterinary Medical Association and our state and local governments to follow all recommended protocols. We are continuing to operate during this difficult time to provide the veterinary medical and surgical care your pet needs.
The WBAH staff is proud to announce that all team members have completed their COVID-19 vaccine series. As of May 24, 2021, we have returned to in-person exams for pets requiring a doctor’s visit. Two masked adults may accompany pet(s) into the hospital for doctor’s visits only. We are continuing curbside service for medication pick-up, surgery and bath drop-offs, technician visits and for those clients wishing to continue curbside service for their pet’s doctor’s visit.
Procedure
When you arrive, park in designated, numbered spaces and call (980) 938-8136 to check in. For medication pick up, patient drop-offs, technician visits please remain in your car and a team member will escort your pet into the building or bring medication out to your car.
For Doctor’s Visits:
- A technician will call you to discuss your pet’s history and concerns and associated anticipated treatment plan costs.
- A technician will bring a leash to come outside and collect your pet. Once our leash is secure, you may take yours off and keep it while the technician escorts your pet in to the building.
- When the doctor is ready to perform your pet’s physical exam you have 2 options:
- 1. In person visit: We are currently allowing two family members into the hospital per doctor’s visit to accompany pets. Please wait in your car until a team member is ready to escort you into the building.
- Mask, hand sanitizing and temperature check are required to enter the lobby.
- Social distancing will be practiced, please keep a 6-foot distance between yourself and all staff members.
- 2. Phone Call Summaries: The doctor will perform your pets’ physical exam and call once the exam is completed to discuss recommendations and treatment plans.
- 1. In person visit: We are currently allowing two family members into the hospital per doctor’s visit to accompany pets. Please wait in your car until a team member is ready to escort you into the building.
This protocol is designed to allow us to continue caring for your pets while reducing the risk of transmission of the virus and to protect the health of our clients and staff. We thank you for trusting us to be your partner in providing the best care for your family pet. These are truly unprecedented times, but we will get through it all together. If you have any questions or concerns, please call or text us at (980) 938-8136 or email us at wbah@westbah.com