Cainhoy Veterinary Hospital

Question 1

Are you taking new patients?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our doors are open to new patients! We look forward to welcoming you and your pet into our family.

Question 2

What's the best way to schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can book online or call us at 843-886-1624.

Question 3

Can my pet see the same Veterinarian and/or Veterinary Technician each visit?

Accepted Answer

If you have a preferred Doctor and/or technician we will try our best to accommodate your request. Simply request a preference at your time of scheduling or ask our staff to place a note on your chart. Exceptions may apply during emergencies, vacations, or availability issues.

Question 4

Why do you check my pet's weight every time?

Accepted Answer

Weight helps us monitor trends over time. Rapid gain or loss can indicate health issues. Weight also determines proper dosage of medication and anesthesia.

Question 5

Does my pet need to be on a leash/in a carrier during visits?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All animals must always be on a locked leash or in a carrier. Once in the exam room, staff will let you know when it is safe to release your pet.

Question 6

Do you serve pets in Huger, Mount Pleasant, Wando, and North Charleston?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The clinic is at 710 Hopewell Drive, Suite 102, Charleston, SC 29492. Call 843-971-6200 or book online.

Question 7

What does the first exam include?

Accepted Answer

A thorough physical assessment, review of medical history, discussion of nutrition, behavior, and daily routines, plus recommendations for vaccines, lab work, or parasite prevention.

Question 8

What kinds of veterinary services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Wellness exams, vaccinations, diagnostic testing, digital radiography, dental care, soft tissue and orthopedic surgery, senior pet care, and urgent care during business hours.

Question 9

What can I expect during my pet's first visit?

Accepted Answer

A full physical exam, vaccination review, diet and lifestyle discussion, preventive care guidance, and diagnostic testing if needed.

Question 10

Do you offer spays/neuters?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for both dogs and cats, performed with high safety standards and post-operative care.

Question 11

Where is your clinic located?

Accepted Answer

710 Hopewell Drive, Suite 102, Charleston, South Carolina 29492.

Question 12

Why are annual wellness exams important?

Accepted Answer

They allow early detection of disease, vaccination updates, and support for nutrition, behavior, and long-term wellness.

Question 13

Are parasite preventives safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when used according to veterinarian recommendations. They protect against heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites.

Question 14

What diagnostic tests do you offer?

Accepted Answer

In-house bloodwork, chemistry panels, digital X-rays, and ultrasound imaging.

Question 15

How quickly can I get diagnostic results?

Accepted Answer

In-house tests are completed the same day. External lab tests typically return within 24–72 hours.

Question 16

How often should senior pets see the vet?

Accepted Answer

At least twice a year to monitor age-related changes and manage chronic conditions.

Question 17

What is included in a senior wellness exam?

Accepted Answer

Physical exam, bloodwork, weight and nutrition assessment, dental evaluation, mobility and joint screening, and preventive care discussion.

Question 18

Do you perform surgeries?

Accepted Answer

Yes, including spay/neuter, soft tissue surgeries, and select orthopedic procedures.

Question 19

What types of surgeries do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Spay/neuter, soft-tissue surgeries, and selected orthopedic surgeries such as cruciate ligament repair.

Question 20

How many vet visits do puppies and kittens need?

Accepted Answer

Every 3–4 weeks from 6–8 weeks of age until 16 weeks of age.

Question 21

Are wellness plans available for puppies and kittens?

Accepted Answer

Yes, including vaccinations, parasite screening, developmental assessments, and nutrition and behavior guidance.

Question 22

Do you provide professional dental cleanings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, including dental exams, digital radiographs, and cleaning under anesthesia.

Question 23

I just got a new pet, what do I do next?

Accepted Answer

Schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Bring any paperwork from a shelter or breeder. We'll do a full exam, administer vaccines, and answer your questions.

Question 24

Should I get a microchip for my pet?

Accepted Answer

Yes, strongly recommended. A grain-of-rice-sized chip is inserted between the shoulder blades and registered with HomeAgain so lost pets can be reunited with owners.

Question 25

How much exercise does my pet need?

Accepted Answer

Adult dogs need 30 minutes to 2 hours of activity per day. Puppies need about 5 minutes per month of age, twice daily. Spread exercise throughout the day and avoid strenuous activity for puppies.

Question 26

Why is a series of puppy/kitten shots necessary?

Accepted Answer

Maternal antibodies decrease over time, so vaccines fill that gap. First shots are given at 6–8 weeks, repeated every 3–4 weeks until 16–18 weeks. Adults need boosters, not the full series again.

Question 27

My pet feels better but I still have medication left. Do I keep giving it?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Stopping early can cause relapse or prolong illness. Always finish the full prescribed course.

Question 28

Why test for heartworm if my dog takes a monthly preventative?

Accepted Answer

Prevention doesn't treat existing infections. Giving it to a heartworm-positive dog can be fatal. Annual testing confirms the prevention is working.

Question 29

Do pets get stressed when traveling?

Accepted Answer

Yes. To help: provide food and water, make carriers comfortable, keep pets in the cabin on planes. Calming medications can be prescribed for anxious pets. Travel health certificates are available for out-of-state or international travel.

Question 30

My pet had surgery. What should I watch for with the incision?

Accepted Answer

The incision should look clean and slightly pinkish-red. Contact us immediately if you notice excessive swelling, redness, foul smell, discharge, excessive bleeding, bleeding lasting more than 24 hours, or warmth at the site.

Question 31

Can you recommend medications over the phone?

Accepted Answer

No. A proper exam and tests are required before any medication can be prescribed.

Question 32

What can trigger pet allergies?

Accepted Answer

Common triggers include fleas, pollen, dust mites, grass, household chemicals, and food ingredients like eggs, corn, wheat, soy, or dairy. Signs include itching, rashes, sores, and gastrointestinal issues.

Question 33

Are dental issues common in pets?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats over age two have some form of periodontal disease. Prevention includes quality food, regular cleanings, daily tooth brushing, dental chews, and vet-approved toys.

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