BRIGHTMAN PET CLINIC FAQS

There is no question too big or too small for our veterinary team. Below are some answers to our most common questions.

We proudly serve the pets of Shalimar, FL, and beyond.

At Brightman Pet Clinic, we get a ton of interesting questions from pet parents. Below are some common FAQs that might help answer any questions or concerns. Please feel free to call us at 850-651-4738 for any other concerns you might have about your pet.

DO I NEED TO HAVE AN APPOINTMENT?

Appointments are preferred, and have priority over walk-ins. Emergencies are seen on a priority basis.

WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?

We accept cash, personal checks, Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, and Discover. We also take CareCredit.

CAN I MAKE PAYMENTS?

We take CareCredit as a payment option, and monthly payments can be made through them.

AT WHAT AGE CAN I HAVE MY PET SPAYED OR NEUTERED?

We recommend spaying or neutering be done between 4 and 6 months of age. However, every animal is different, so ask the veterinarian what may be best for your pet. Your pet is always given a thorough exam prior to surgery to help determine whether your pet is healthy enough to undergo the surgical procedure.

IS PRE-ANESTHETIC BLOOD WORK NECESSARY?

Pre-anesthetic bloodwork helps evaluate liver and kidney function as well as screening for anemia and blood sugar status. These are key components for dealing with anesthesia safely. While not always essential, bloodwork gives us the opportunity to recognize and deal with increased anesthesia risks that may not be realized on a physical exam.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO BEFORE BRINGING MY PET IN FOR AN APPOINTMENT?

If you are a new client, please allow a few extra minutes before your appointment to fill out some necessary paperwork. To save time, you may fill out the New Client form and bring it with you. If your appointment is for surgery, please withhold food after midnight on the night before the appointment. Water need not be withheld. Drop-off times begin at 8:00 am.

DO I NEED TO HAVE MY PET’S TEETH CLEANED?

Like people, pets need to have their teeth cleaned on a regular basis. Imagine what your teeth would look like if you didn’t brush them for years! Most importantly, the buildup of plaque and tartar can lead to more serious diseases involving organs such as the heart and kidneys.

DOES MY PET HAVE TO BE VACCINATED?

Florida law requires all dogs, cats, and ferrets over 3 months of age to be vaccinated for rabies. Our hospital policy requires pets staying in the hospital to be fully vaccinated. This includes vaccination for the other common contagious diseases. If your pet has been vaccinated elsewhere, we will call to verify their vaccination status.

ARE THERE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH VACCINATION?

All medical procedures carry some risk and vaccination is no exception. Fortunately, the risks are minimal. Risks can be minimized by carefully selecting vaccines based on a pet’s individual needs.

WHY CAN’T I JUST PURCHASE MY PET’S MEDICATIONS ONLINE?

You can. But there are some reasons for concern.

Sometimes, the medications come from a questionable source.
The products sold to you may be expired or may expire soon after purchase.
Most importantly, most manufacturers refuse to guarantee their product when not purchased through a veterinarian.

These and other concerns should raise red flags to pet owners about the products (and their sources) they are using on their pets.

ARE THERE CERTAIN COMMON FOOD ITEMS THAT I SHOULD AVOID FEEDING MY PET?

Yes! Onions, grapes, chocolate, and mushrooms are some of the more common food items to avoid feeding your pet. Though not food, other ingestion toxicities we frequently see are Sago palm toxicity (highly poisonous) and oleander. A more detailed listing of common toxins in pets can be found by visiting aspca.org.