Frequently asked questions

Absolutely! Covid restrictions are no longer in effect. We let you decide if you would like to come inside the building or stay in your car during your pet’s exam. If you do come in with your pet, there may be times we need to take them back to our treatment area. For example, blood draws, catheter placements, x-rays, and CT scans are some of the procedures that will take place in our hospital area rather than in the room with the owner.

Yes, all our doctors have training in small mammal exotics, birds, and reptiles. We also see wildlife exotics such as raccoons and skunks, although proof of a valid, legal permit must be on file before making an appointment for these types of pets.

It is important to establish medical care for your pet from the very beginning. Schedule a “Wellness Exam” with your veterinarian to check for pre-existing conditions, prescribe any illness preventions, and get information about what your pet might need in the future.

We accept cash, check, credit/debit, as well as Care Credit and Scratch Pay. Payment plans are only available in extenuating circumstances and must be arranged by management. Payment is due at the time of service. See Payment Options for details.

Pet insurance plans reimburse owners after claims are submitted and approved by an insurance adjuster. Payment to the Animal Hospital is due at the time of service. We are happy to provide you with detailed exam reports and invoices from all your visits to submit to your insurance company.

Healthy pets should visit their veterinarian at least once a year. Pets with chronic conditions, senior pets, or pets healing from injury or illness will need to visit the vet more frequently, as directed by your veterinarian.

Please call our office, and one of our Customer Care Representatives will create an account for you and your pets. We ask that you email, or have your previous clinic email, any previous records for your pet so we can attach them to your file before your visit. Our doctors will review the history of your pet prior to their first appointment with us.

We are also happy to see your pet for emergent situations if your vet is not available. Let our staff know where you would like records for your pet’s visit with us to be sent. This way, your primary veterinarian is aware of recent health concerns/treatments.

Missed Appointments

We know your time is valuable, and ours is too. When you book your appointment, you are holding a space on our calendar that is no longer available to our other patients. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment for any reason, please call us as soon as you know so that we may offer that appointment time to another patient. We ask that you call us to cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours before your appointment.

A cancellation is considered late when the appointment is cancelled less than 24 hours before the appointed time. A no-show is when a patient misses an appointment without cancelling. In either case, we will charge the patient a missed appointment fee of $25, which must be paid before scheduling your next visit. A patient with three no-shows will no longer be able to schedule appointments.

How to Cancel Your Appointment

If you need to cancel your appointment, please call us at (616) 696-1212 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Someone will be available to cancel and reschedule your appointment.

Yes. We are always accepting new patients, especially for Emergencies. Please call our office to be triaged by a Customer Care Representative who can give you your options for getting your pet in to see one of our doctors as soon as possible.

Although you can often get in to see one of our doctors within 24 hours, we ask that you call us ahead of time. Even if your pet is experiencing an emergency, we can often give you critical medical directions over the phone, and be prepared to treat whatever injury/illness your pet has sustained when you arrive at the clinic.

This varies for each species and should be discussed with your doctor at your pet’s first health check. Dogs, especially, vary as to when they should be spayed/neutered depending on their breed and weight.

We do offer boarding services for all sizes of dogs and cats, as well as all exotics. Dogs must be up to date on the following vaccines: DHLPC, Rabies, Bordetella, and Canine Flu. Cats must have a negative FELV/FIV test on file and be up to date on the FVRCP vaccine. These records must be on file prior to booking your reservation. Please call our office to book your pet’s stay with us. Space is limited and is first come, first serve. Learn more about our Inn & Spa.

Call, email, or stop in our clinic anytime and we would be happy to provide you with records for all your pet’s exams with us.

We currently have a part-time groomer. Her schedule is most often booked out months in advance with re-occurring clients. Please call our office for availability. Check our website often for updates on grooming services and availability.

Although flea/tick prevention seems more of a concern in warmer months, our veterinarians suggest year-round prevention is the key to preventing flea/tick-borne illnesses. Many preventions that we carry also protect against other parasites, too.

Best practices for locating owners or animals

If you have found an animal, there are some steps you can follow to help you find the owner.

1. If it has a collar, check for a name tag with contact information, or a smart license. If it has a smart license, you can scan the QR code with your phone’s camera or call the number on the back to get the contact information.
2. Keep the animal in the area for at least three hours. Leave it outside (weather permitting) in case someone is looking for it.
3. Take it for a walk in the area where you found it. Watch for anyone looking for the animal.
4. Take it to a veterinarian office or animal shelter to scan it for a microchip.
5. Check social media sites related to your location to see if anyone has reported a lost pet. If they have not, take a photo of the animal and post the details of when and where you found it.
6. Good Facebook sites to check and post on in our area include: Cedar Springs Community Strong, Cedar Springs Informed, Sand Lake Informed, Kent County Lost and Found Pets, For the Love of Louie *Michigan Lost Pet Lookers*.
7. Include any social media sites or Nextdoor groups associated with your neighborhood or neighborhood association.
8. Check with the Kent County Animal Shelter to see if anyone has reported the missing pet. (616) 632-7300. They also ask that you register the pet as found at PetcoLoveLost.org. You can also check there for lost pets.
9. If you still have not found the owner, Under Michigan law, you must contact the Sheriff (or in our case Kent County Animal Shelter or Animal Control) within 48 hours of finding an animal and make an appointment to take the animal in.
   1. They will do a stray hold for a limited period and then put the animal up for adoption if the owner has not come forward.
   2. If you feel you would like to foster the pet during the stray hold and possibly adopt it, they will often work with you on fostering the animal during that time, and then help you adopt it legally. However, they must do an intake. Just calling does not satisfy the requirement for a stray hold. Following the correct procedure to adopt the animal protects you legally if the owner later comes forward.

If you have lost an animal, follow the steps under #5. You can also put up flyers or posters in areas where people are likely to see them.

It is very similar. In dogs and cats, the ligament is called the cranial cruciate ligament, or CCL, and it does the same job of keeping the knee stable. Unlike many human injuries, dog tears often come from gradual weakening of the ligament rather than a single accident.

Your veterinarian examines the knee for pain, swelling, and abnormal movement, sometimes with light sedation. Radiographs show the joint and any arthritis, and our in-house CT scan is available for more complex cases. To book an exam, call (616) 696-1212.

The cost depends on your pet’s size, the repair technique, imaging, and aftercare. After an exam, we give you a written estimate before any surgery. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept CareCredit and Scratchpay, and if you have pet insurance we provide the records and invoices you need to file your claim.

Recovery usually takes several weeks to a few months of gradually increasing activity. Your pet will need leash walks only, no jumping or running, and regular rechecks. We give you a clear plan for each stage so you know exactly what is safe.

Yes, some pets go on to injure the other knee, especially if the ligaments weakened over time. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight and following the recovery plan closely can help. If you notice new limping on the other leg, call (616) 696-1212.

Common signs include paw licking, scratching, recurring ear infections, red skin, and symptoms that get worse in certain seasons. Because other conditions cause similar signs, an exam and simple tests are the best way to know. Call (616) 696-1212 to schedule a visit.

Food allergies are best diagnosed with an elimination diet trial, where your pet eats a carefully chosen diet and nothing else for several weeks. Allergy testing is mainly used for environmental allergies such as pollens, molds, and dust mites. Your veterinarian will recommend the right approach for your pet.

Most allergies are lifelong, but they can usually be managed so your pet stays comfortable. A combination of avoiding triggers, medications, skin care, and allergen-specific treatment helps many pets do well. We’ll adjust the plan as needed over time.

Some anti-itch medications can affect allergy test results. Please don’t stop any medication on your own; call (616) 696-1212 and our team will tell you what, if anything, needs to change before your pet’s appointment.

The cost depends on the type of testing and the exams and treatment your pet needs. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay, and we provide the records you need for a pet insurance claim.

Yes. Many lumps are harmless fatty masses, but some cancers look and feel the same. A quick exam and needle sample can often tell us what a lump is. Call (616) 696-1212 to schedule a visit if you find something new.

It depends on the type of tumor, its size, and whether it has spread. Some tumors are cured by complete removal, while others need further monitoring or treatment. The biopsy report after surgery helps us give you the clearest picture.

A biopsy is a tissue sample examined by a pathologist. It tells us the exact type of tumor and whether it was completely removed. That information guides any next steps in your pet’s care.

Cost depends on the size and location of the tumor, the testing needed, the biopsy, and the hospital stay. We provide a written estimate before surgery. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. CareCredit and Scratchpay are available.

Age alone is not a reason to avoid surgery. We look at your pet’s overall health, bloodwork, and imaging to judge anesthesia risk. Your veterinarian will talk honestly with you about benefits and risks so you can decide what is right. Call (616) 696-1212 with any questions.

Your veterinarian checks your pet from head to tail, including the eyes, ears, mouth, teeth, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, coat, joints, and lymph nodes. We also talk about diet, exercise, behavior, and lifestyle, then recommend vaccines, prevention, and any testing your pet may need.

Healthy pets should be seen at least once a year. Senior pets, pets with chronic conditions, and pets healing from an injury or illness usually need more frequent visits. Your veterinarian will suggest the right schedule for your pet.

As soon as you can. A first wellness exam lets us check for pre-existing conditions, start the right preventives, and plan for your pet’s future needs. Call (616) 696-1212 to set up your new pet’s first visit.

Bring a list of your pet’s food, medications, and supplements, along with any changes you’ve noticed. If your pet is new to us, please email previous records ahead of time. Cats and small exotics should come in a secure carrier, and dogs on a leash.

Costs depend on your pet’s needs and whether testing or vaccines are added. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. Payment is due at the time of service, and we accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

Your pet is under general anesthesia during the procedure and also receives local nerve blocks. We send pets home with pain medication, and most feel better quickly once the painful tooth is gone.

A diseased or broken tooth can stay painful and infected even if your pet keeps eating. Leaving it can also damage the surrounding bone and neighboring teeth. Your veterinarian will always explain why a tooth needs to come out before it is removed.

Most pets go home the same day and are back to normal within a few days. Gums typically heal over the next couple of weeks. We usually recommend soft food for a short time. Questions during recovery? Call (616) 696-1212.

Yes. Dogs and cats adapt very well, even after multiple extractions. Once healed, most pets eat their regular food comfortably.

Cost depends on how many teeth are involved, their size and roots, and your pet’s overall dental needs. Because the full picture often isn’t clear until radiographs are taken under anesthesia, we’ll keep you informed during the procedure. Please call for an estimate at (616) 696-1212.

Much of each tooth is hidden below the gums, and many painful problems, such as infected roots or bone loss, can’t be seen from the outside. Dental radiographs let us find and treat those issues.

Yes. Digital dental radiography uses a low dose of radiation, less than traditional film. The anesthesia required is planned around your pet’s exam and bloodwork, and your pet is monitored throughout. Questions? Call (616) 696-1212.

A sensor must be placed inside your pet’s mouth and positioned for each tooth. Pets won’t hold still for this awake, and movement blurs the images. Anesthesia keeps your pet comfortable and lets us capture clear, complete images.

Absolutely. We’re happy to show you the images and explain what we found. They are also stored in your pet’s record so we can compare them at future visits.

Cost depends on whether radiographs are part of a cleaning or a focused evaluation and on any treatment needed. Please call for an estimate at (616) 696-1212. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

Often, yes. Pets hide dental pain well, and a fracture that exposes the pulp can lead to infection even when your pet keeps eating. Call (616) 696-1212 so we can take a look.

It depends on how deep the damage goes and whether the root and pulp are healthy. Digital dental radiographs taken under anesthesia show us the full picture. Your veterinarian will explain the options, including whether the tooth can be treated, should be removed, or may benefit from referral for advanced restorative care.

A complete look at a damaged tooth requires radiographs and close examination of every surface, which pets won’t tolerate awake. Anesthesia lets us work safely while your pet stays comfortable, with continuous monitoring throughout.

Avoid chews that are harder than teeth, such as bones, antlers, and hooves. Chews with some flexibility are generally safer. Ask our team for recommendations at your next visit.

Cost depends on the type of injury, the imaging needed, and the treatment chosen. Please call for an estimate at (616) 696-1212. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

Itching is most often caused by fleas or other parasites, skin infections, or allergies, and many pets have more than one at the same time. Our veterinarians use an exam and simple in-house tests to sort out the cause. Call (616) 696-1212 to schedule a visit.

Cytology means collecting cells from the skin or ears, often with tape or a swab, and looking at them under a microscope. It is quick, usually painless, and helps us identify bacteria, yeast, and inflammation so we can choose the right treatment. Dr. Judy Nauta has a particular interest in cytology.

Recurring ear infections are often a sign of an underlying issue, most commonly allergies. Treating the infection brings relief, but finding and managing the cause is what helps prevent the next one. We’ll talk with you about a long-term plan.

It depends on the cause. Some infections improve within a couple of weeks, while allergy management and diet trials can take two months or more to show their full effect. Your veterinarian will tell you what to expect and when to schedule a recheck.

The cost depends on the exam, the tests your pet needs, and the medications prescribed. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay, and we provide the records you need to file a pet insurance claim.

Our in-house laboratory runs complete blood counts, chemistry panels, urinalysis, heartworm tests, and cytology. Your veterinarian will recommend the tests your pet needs.

Many results are ready in less than an hour, so your veterinarian can often go over them during the same visit. Some specialized tests may need to be sent to an outside lab and take longer.

Some tests are more accurate after a short fast. Our team will let you know when you schedule. If you’re not sure, call (616) 696-1212 before your pet’s appointment.

Many conditions, such as kidney disease, can develop quietly before a pet looks sick. Routine screening can find changes early and gives us baseline values to compare against as your pet ages.

The cost depends on which tests your pet needs. Your veterinarian will explain the options, and you can call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

Yes. Radiographs use a small amount of radiation, and digital radiology uses less than older film methods. Your veterinarian only recommends imaging when it will help diagnose or monitor your pet’s condition.

Many pets don’t. Pets who are in pain, anxious, or need very precise positioning may be given sedation so the images are clear and the experience is comfortable. Your veterinarian will discuss this with you beforehand.

Radiographs are taken in our hospital treatment area rather than the exam room, so you’ll wait briefly while our team takes the images. Your veterinarian will go over the results with you right after.

Digital images are ready within minutes, so your veterinarian can usually discuss findings during the same visit. If you have questions about your pet’s imaging, call (616) 696-1212.

The cost depends on how many views are needed and whether sedation is required. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

It is a pocket of blood that forms in the ear flap, usually after a pet shakes its head or scratches hard. The flap becomes puffy and soft. Surgery drains the blood and helps the ear heal flatter. Call (616) 696-1212 if you notice a swollen ear flap.

Most ear infections clear up with cleaning and medication. Surgery is considered when infections keep coming back, the canal has become narrowed or damaged, or there is a growth blocking the ear. Your veterinarian will explain the options.

It depends on the procedure. Hematoma repair and many growth removals do not affect hearing. More extensive canal surgery can reduce hearing, though many pets with severe ear disease already have reduced hearing before surgery. We discuss this with you in advance.

Cost depends on the type of procedure, testing and imaging, and aftercare. We provide an estimate before surgery. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

Keep the cone on to prevent scratching, give all medications as directed, and follow the cleaning or bandage instructions we provide. Keep recheck appointments so we can confirm healing and keep any allergy or infection under control.

No. An ECG is painless and non-invasive. Small clips or pads rest on the skin to pick up the heart’s electrical signal, and most pets lie calmly while a team member comforts them. Sedation is rarely needed.

The recording itself usually takes just a few minutes. Your total visit will be longer because it includes an exam and time to talk with your veterinarian. To schedule, call (616) 696-1212.

For senior pets, pets with a heart murmur, or pets with an irregular heartbeat, an ECG helps our team understand how the heart is working before anesthesia. That lets us tailor the anesthesia plan and monitoring to your pet.

An ECG measures the heart’s electrical activity and rhythm. An ultrasound shows the heart’s structure, size, and how well it is pumping. The two tests answer different questions, and your veterinarian may recommend both.

Cost depends on your pet’s needs and whether other tests are recommended. Please call for an estimate at (616) 696-1212. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

We ask that you call ahead whenever possible. Our team can give you directions over the phone and prepare for your pet before you arrive. Call (616) 696-1212 and we’ll let you know what to do next. Same-day emergency appointments are available whenever possible.

Urgent and emergency care is available seven days a week: Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 10 PM, and Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Pets who need to stay with us can be cared for in our in-house ICU, which has 24/7 nursing care.

Yes. We see emergency patients whether or not they are established with us. Let our team know who your primary veterinarian is and we’ll send them the records from your pet’s visit so they stay informed.

Emergency patients are seen in order of medical need, not arrival time. A pet with a life-threatening problem will be treated first. Every patient is checked on arrival, and our digital patient queue lets you follow your pet’s progress from the waiting room.

The cost depends on your pet’s condition and the tests or treatment needed. We’ll go over a treatment plan and estimate with you before we begin. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay. For questions, call (616) 696-1212.

It is a hip surgery that removes the ball at the top of the thigh bone. Scar tissue forms a cushion in its place, and the muscles support the leg, creating a comfortable false joint. Call (616) 696-1212 if you would like to talk about whether it suits your pet.

FHO is often a good choice for cats and small to medium dogs with hip fractures, recurring dislocations, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, or painful hip arthritis. Larger dogs can have it too, though results can vary. Your veterinarian will discuss your pet’s individual situation.

Most pets return to comfortable walking, running, and playing once their muscles strengthen. Some may have a slight change in gait, but they are usually far more comfortable than before surgery.

Many pets start touching the leg down within days, and recovery continues over several weeks as muscles build. Early, gentle movement is important, and we give you a plan for each stage. If you have questions during recovery, call (616) 696-1212.

Cost depends on your pet’s size, imaging needs, the surgery itself, and aftercare. We provide an estimate before surgery, so please call for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

Keep your pet calm and as still as possible, support their body when you move them, and call us right away at (616) 696-1212. Do not try to set the bone or give human pain medicine, which can be dangerous for pets.

No. Some fractures heal well with a splint, cast, or strict rest. Others, especially breaks near joints or bones broken into several pieces, usually need surgery to hold them in place. Your veterinarian will explain the options for your pet’s specific injury.

Our urgent and emergency team is available seven days a week: Monday through Saturday 10 AM to 10 PM, and Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM. Critical cases are seen right away. Call (616) 696-1212 on your way so we can prepare.

Costs vary with the type of injury, the treatment needed, imaging, and hospital stay. We provide an estimate before treatment, so please call for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay, and we provide the records insurance companies need.

Healing time depends on the bone, the type of break, and your pet’s age. Young pets often heal faster than older ones. Most fractures need several weeks of restricted activity and follow-up radiographs to confirm healing. If anything changes during recovery, call (616) 696-1212.

No preventive works if a dose is missed, given late, or spit out. A yearly test confirms your dog’s prevention is working and that it’s safe to continue. It’s a quick blood test, often done during your pet’s wellness visit.

Yes. Cats are less commonly infected than dogs, but heartworm disease can be very serious for them, and there is no approved treatment for cats. Prevention is the best protection. Ask your veterinarian which option is right for your cat.

We run heartworm tests in our own in-house laboratory, and results are often ready in less than an hour. That means we can usually discuss them with you during the same visit.

Your veterinarian will recommend additional testing to understand how the infection is affecting your pet, then talk through a treatment plan. If you have questions about a positive result, call us at (616) 696-1212.

The cost depends on whether the test is part of a wellness visit and whether other services are included. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate.

Our veterinarians perform a range of soft tissue procedures inside the abdomen, including removing swallowed objects, removing bladder stones, exploratory surgery, spleen removal, and biopsies. If you are not sure whether your pet’s condition calls for surgery, call (616) 696-1212 and we can help you decide on next steps.

Watch for repeated vomiting, drooling, not eating, belly pain, or trouble passing stool. If you saw your pet swallow something, or you suspect it, call us right away at (616) 696-1212. Depending on the object and where it is, endoscopy may be an option instead of surgery.

Costs depend on the procedure, your pet’s size and health, the diagnostics needed, and how long they stay with us afterward. After an exam, we provide a written estimate. Please call for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

Many pets need at least a short stay so we can manage pain and watch their recovery. Pets who need more support stay in our in-house ICU, which has 24/7 nursing care. Your veterinarian will tell you what to expect for your pet’s specific procedure.

Plan for a quiet space, limited activity, and a cone or recovery suit to protect the incision. Give all medications as directed, offer the diet we recommend, and keep the recheck appointment. If you see swelling, discharge, vomiting, or your pet stops eating, call (616) 696-1212.

No. Most pets feel only a gentle warmth, and many relax during treatment. There are no needles or incisions, and sedation is usually not needed. Call (616) 696-1212 if you have questions about whether your pet is a good candidate.

It depends on the condition. A surgical incision or fresh injury may need only a few sessions, while chronic problems like arthritis often begin with several sessions close together and then move to maintenance visits. Your veterinarian will recommend a schedule and adjust it as your pet improves.

Sometimes it can reduce the need for medication, but please don’t change any medication without talking to us first. Laser therapy is usually one part of a broader plan that may also include medication, weight management, and exercise.

Laser therapy is used for dogs and cats, and in some cases for other species. Our veterinarians will examine your pet and let you know whether it is appropriate. Call (616) 696-1212 to ask about your pet.

The cost depends on the area being treated and the number of sessions your pet needs. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

It is a kneecap that slips out of its normal groove at the end of the thigh bone. It is most common in small breed dogs but can happen in any dog or cat. If you notice skipping or limping, call (616) 696-1212 to book an exam.

No. Mild, low-grade cases often do well with weight management, exercise, and monitoring. Surgery is usually recommended for higher grades or for pets with ongoing pain or limping. Your veterinarian will explain what fits your pet.

It can. Some kneecaps slip more often as the groove wears and the surrounding tissues stretch, and arthritis can develop. Regular rechecks help us track changes and adjust the plan.

Most pets need several weeks of restricted activity with short leash walks, followed by a gradual return to normal play. We give you a detailed home plan and rechecks along the way. Questions during recovery? Call (616) 696-1212.

Cost depends on whether one or both knees need repair, your pet’s size, imaging, and aftercare. We provide an estimate before surgery, so please call for an estimate. We accept CareCredit and Scratchpay, and we provide records and invoices for pet insurance claims.

We evaluate and treat a wide range of bone and joint problems, including torn cruciate ligaments, fractures and dislocations, kneecap dislocation, hip problems, and arthritis. Procedures we offer include ACL repair, fracture repair, FHO surgery, and kneecap dislocation repair. Call (616) 696-1212 to schedule an evaluation.

No. Many orthopedic problems improve with rest, pain medication, weight management, and laser therapy. Surgery is recommended when it offers the best chance of lasting comfort and function, such as for many ligament tears and fractures. Your veterinarian will explain all reasonable options.

X-rays are often enough, but some joints and fractures are easier to understand in three dimensions. Our in-house CT scanning gives that detailed view, which can help with planning surgery or diagnosing problems that don’t show clearly on X-rays.

Keep your pet calm and confined, avoid giving human pain medications, and call us right away at (616) 696-1212. Urgent and emergency care is available Monday through Saturday 10 AM to 10 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM.

Costs vary widely depending on whether your pet needs an exam and X-rays, CT, medication, or surgery. Please call for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay, and we provide the records and invoices you need for a pet insurance claim.

A PU is usually considered for male cats who block repeatedly despite catheterization, diet change, and medication, or whose urethra has been damaged or narrowed. Our veterinarians decide case by case after reviewing your cat’s history and test results. Call (616) 696-1212 to set up a consultation.

Yes. A cat who cannot urinate can become critically ill quickly as toxins and potassium build up in the blood. If your cat is straining with little or no urine, call us right away at (616) 696-1212. Urgent and emergency care is available Monday through Saturday 10 AM to 10 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM.

Your cat will spend time in our hospital after surgery so our team can monitor urination and comfort. At home, most cats need a cone, special litter, and medications for about two weeks while the site heals, followed by a recheck to remove sutures. Your veterinarian will give you instructions specific to your cat.

Often, yes. The surgery widens the urethra but does not change your cat’s tendency to form crystals or develop bladder inflammation. A urinary diet, more water intake, and regular checkups help protect his urinary tract long term. We’ll recommend a plan that fits your cat.

The cost depends on whether your cat needs emergency stabilization first, the diagnostics required, and the length of his hospital stay. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay, and we provide the records you need to file a pet insurance claim.

Most dogs and cats adapt very well after an amputation and return to walking, playing, and their normal routines. Your veterinarian will look at your pet’s weight, age, and the health of the remaining limbs and give you an honest picture of what to expect. Call (616) 696-1212 to set up a consultation.

Pain control is a major part of the plan. It begins before surgery, continues while your pet recovers in our hospital with 24/7 nursing care, and goes home with you as prescribed medication. Many pets are more comfortable soon after surgery than they were with the painful limb.

Most pets are up and moving within a day or two, and the incision usually heals in about two weeks. Building strength and confidence on three legs continues over the following weeks. We’ll schedule a recheck to remove sutures and check your pet’s progress.

Sometimes. Depending on the reason, options may include fracture repair, longer-term medical treatment, or pain management. Your veterinarian will explain every reasonable option and why amputation is or isn’t recommended for your pet. Call (616) 696-1212 with any questions.

The cost depends on your pet’s size, the diagnostics needed beforehand, and the length of the hospital stay. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay, and we provide the records and invoices you need for a pet insurance claim.

Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves rather than radiation, and it is painless and non-invasive. Most pets only need a small patch of fur clipped, and some anxious pets receive light sedation to keep them relaxed.

For an abdominal ultrasound, we often ask that your pet skip food for several hours beforehand, because a full stomach can make some organs harder to see. We’ll give you specific instructions when you book. Questions? Call us at (616) 696-1212.

Ultrasound is performed in our hospital treatment area, so your pet will go back with our team for the exam. Our staff stay with your pet the entire time, and your veterinarian will come talk with you about the findings afterward.

The cost depends on which areas are being examined, whether sedation is needed, and whether samples are collected for testing. Please call for an estimate at (616) 696-1212. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

X-rays are excellent for bones, the chest, and the overall size and shape of organs. Ultrasound shows the internal structure of soft tissues in real time. The two often work together, and our veterinarians will recommend the combination that gives the clearest answers for your pet.

It depends on your pet’s species, age, health, and lifestyle. Most dogs and cats need core vaccines such as rabies, and others are recommended based on where your pet goes and who they spend time with. Your veterinarian will walk you through the options at your pet’s visit.

Puppies and kittens start a vaccine series during their first months, with boosters a few weeks apart. Bring your new pet in as soon as possible after they come home so we can begin. Call (616) 696-1212 to schedule.

Most pets have no problems or are just a little tired or sore for a day. Rarely, a pet may have swelling of the face, hives, vomiting, or trouble breathing. If you see any of these signs, call us right away at (616) 696-1212.

To board with us, dogs need current DHLPC, rabies, Bordetella, and canine flu vaccines. Cats need a current FVRCP vaccine and a negative FeLV/FIV test on file. Records must be on file before you book your pet’s stay.

The cost depends on which vaccines your pet needs and whether other services are included in the visit. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

Twice-yearly exams are often recommended for senior pets, pets with chronic conditions, pets on long-term medications, and pets recovering from illness or injury. Your veterinarian will let you know if a semi-annual schedule is a good fit for your pet.

The exam itself is just as thorough. The difference is frequency. Seeing your pet every six months lets us compare findings and test results more often, so changes are noticed and managed sooner.

Not always. Testing depends on your pet’s age, health, and medications. Your veterinarian will explain what’s recommended and why. If you have questions before the visit, call (616) 696-1212.

Bring a list of your pet’s medications and supplements, any changes you’ve noticed since the last visit, and questions you’d like to ask. If your pet may need bloodwork, ask our team whether they should skip a meal beforehand.

The cost depends on the exam and any tests your pet needs. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

It varies by species, and for dogs it depends a great deal on breed and expected adult size. Our veterinarians will discuss the best timing at your pet’s first health check. To schedule, call (616) 696-1212.

These are among the most common surgeries we perform. Every patient receives a pre-surgical exam, and we usually recommend bloodwork beforehand. Your pet is monitored continuously during anesthesia and receives pain control as part of every surgical plan.

Most pets go home the same day. Plan on about two weeks of limited activity while the incision heals. Keep your pet from licking the incision, keep it dry, and call us if you see swelling, discharge, or opening.

Your pet’s personality will stay the same. Some hormone-driven behaviors, such as roaming, marking, and heat-related restlessness, often decrease. Because metabolism can shift after surgery, we’ll also talk with you about portion sizes to help prevent weight gain.

Cost depends on your pet’s species, size, age, and whether additional care is needed. Please call for an estimate at (616) 696-1212. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.

A thorough cleaning means scaling below the gum line, examining every tooth, and taking dental radiographs. Pets can’t hold still for that, and doing it awake would be stressful and incomplete. Anesthesia lets us work safely and gently while your pet feels nothing.

It varies with age, breed, and home care. Some pets need a cleaning every year, while others can go longer. We check your pet’s teeth at every exam and will recommend a schedule that fits. To book a dental exam, call (616) 696-1212.

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque and tartar. In its early stages it can often be reversed with a professional cleaning and good home care. If it isn’t treated, it can progress to periodontal disease, which causes permanent damage.

Most pets go home the same day after a teeth cleaning. We’ll let you know when your pet is awake and ready, and we’ll go over what we found and how to care for them at home.

Cost depends on your pet’s size, health, bloodwork, and whether any additional treatment is needed once we can examine every tooth. Please call for an estimate at (616) 696-1212. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.