Frequently Asked Question About Animal Veterinarian
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Our veterinarian and staff have compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions at Brookhurst Animal Medical Center. Please contact us if you have another question that is not listed here and we would be happy to answer!

What type of animals does the veterinarian at Brookhurst Animal see?

Our veterinarian treats all small animals and exotics. Small animals include dogs, cats, guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, mini pigs, rabbits, and the like. Exotics are animals like snakes, turtles, birds, amphibians, etc.

How often should I take my pet to the vet for a wellness visit?

Like humans, pets should be taken in for a pet wellness exam twice a year one they have reached adulthood. Before then, you may want to take your animal in for more frequent visits to make sure he or she is healthy and properly vaccinated. Younger animals are still developing their immune systems, so they need more careful monitoring. Likewise, older animals may need to see the vet more often because of illnesses that come naturally with age.

How can I get a copy of my pet’s medical records?

You can request a copy of your pet’s medical records at the front desk of Brookhurst Animal Medical Center. If you have visited other veterinary clinics, our office will not have access to those records. We request that new patients bring any previous medical records from other vets before a checkup. That way, we have a better understanding of your pet’s medical history.

Will the vet euthanize my pet?

Veterinarians can “put down” animals in their old age if they are in pain. Often, pet parents may need to put down their animals if their animals are diagnosed with terminal illnesses that result in decreased quality of life. Whether or not euthanasia is right for a pet is up to the owner and veterinarian.

This procedure is mainly reserved as a last resort for pets who are older, experiencing chronic pain, and have little chance of recovery. If you believe it is the best choice for your pet, our veterinarian can give you a consultation and make an appointment to put the animal down.

The vet will give your pet two shots. One is a sedative, so the pet can fall asleep, making the procedure painless. The second is a shot that will slow down the heart rate for a gentle passing. Pet owners can also request a cremation and urn.

Will the vet take a payment plan?

We try to accommodate our patients and pet owners as best as possible because our priority is the animal’s health. Call us and we will try to work out a payment plan for you and your pet.

Does the vet remove ticks? Can the vet treat fleas? Mites?

Yes, the vet can remove ticks. Sometimes, it can be difficult for owners to identify ticks and properly remove them, so they don’t cause more pain or damage to the pet. An experienced veterinarian can cleanly extract the tick and test if it carries any harmful viruses afterward. The vet can also help with the healing process and prescribe medicine afterward if needed.

Unlike ticks, fleas and mites cannot be removed manually. The vet can prescribe medication and give advice on how to get rid of and prevent them. Make sure to be careful when transporting the animal to the vet, so no other pets (or people) are infected.

Will my vet judge me?

Our veterinarian will not judge you! Regardless of the circumstances, our first priority is to treat animals.

What vaccinations do puppies need? Kittens? Exotics?

Recommended vaccinations for puppies depend on their age. Between 6 – 8 weeks, puppies can receive their vaccinations for distemper, measles, and parainfluenza. At 10 – 12 weeks, owners can get their puppies DHPP shots and the rabies vaccine a few weeks later. Dogs should also get tested for heartworm at around 7 months and given prevention medication.

Kittens can get vaccinated for rabies, distemper, and feline leukemia starting around 8 weeks of age. There are many different vaccinations you can give your pets, but it’s they are optional. Your veterinarian will tell you what your pet needs and what your pet is at risk of.

Most exotic animals do not need vaccinations because they typically live in isolation or only in the companionship of any other exotic animals you might own. However, it is important to get checkups regularly to prevent any health problems.

Should I neuter/spay my pet?

For dogs, cats, rabbits, and rats, getting neutered or spayed can actually help them lead longer, healthier lives. It can also help with behavior problems and keep them from being aggressive or wandering away. The veterinarian can neuter or spay your pet and prescribe medication for pain relief.

My animal is having surgery tomorrow.  Can it have food and water?
We don’t recommend feeding your pet before surgery if sedatives are to be used. Water should also be limited. Anesthesia can cause animals to vomit and when their muscles are relaxed from the drug, the vomit can go down the wrong pipe, causing major problems later on.

Since not all procedures require anesthesia, ask the vet for instructions before taking your pet in for the operation.

When can I pick my pet up following their surgery?

This depends on the surgery. Your pet could be alert and ready to go home right away for minor surgeries. For major operations, your animal may need to stay overnight. We encourage pet owners to bring toys or blankets from home that will comfort their animals if they stay overnight. It can be scary spending a night in a strange place after a procedure.

Do you board animals at your clinic?

Yes, at Brookhurst Animal Medical Center, we can keep your animals for an overnight stay after an operation. We do not board animals that aren’t patients, but there are plenty of other places nearby that take care of pets overnight that we would be happy to recommend.

How do I know when my pet needs a teeth cleaning?

Pets with teeth should have a dental checkup at least once a year, but if you notice the following symptoms, you may want to go in for an additional cleaning:

  • Unusually bad breath
  • Discolored, rotten, or broken teeth
  • Swollen gums
  • Loose gums
  • Unusual chewing or drooling
  • Abnormal eating habits
  • Tartar buildup
  • Bleeding in the mouth

Dr. Carlos Lopez

Signature

VETERINARY SERVICES WE PROVIDE

At Brookhurst Animal Medical Center, your family’s well-being is our top priority.


FAQ

SURGERY

Dr. Lopez is the go-to for complex surgeries for all animals–emergency centers around Orange County even refer their patients to him.


FAQ

WELLNESS EXAMS

Check-ups are vital in ensuring your pets well-being.


FAQ

EMERGENCY CARE

State of the art equipment and an experienced staff to give you the best care. Schedule an appointment


FAQ

BOARDING

Pet hotel for short vacations and extended stays!



FAQ

MICROCHIPPING

Every once in a while, pets lose their way. Microchipping makes the journey home that much safer.


FAQ

VACCINATIONS

Vaccinated pets are happy and healthy pets.


Anaheim pet grooming services

GROOMING

The VIP treatment consists of a bath, a blowdry, a haircut, and a nail-clipping.


Orange County pet dental care

DENTAL CARE

Dental care is crucial in preventative care. Dr. Lopez provides teeth cleaning as well as more complex care.



CONTACT DETAILS

(714) 776-7387
(714 ) 563-1505

ADDRESS

1301 S Brookhurst St,
Anaheim, CA 92804

BUSINESS HOURS

By Appointment Only

Mon 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tue 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Wed 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Thu Closed
Fri 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sat 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sun* 10:00 am – 5:00 pm EMERGENCY PLEASE CALL FIRST TO 714-776-7387  NO WALK-INS AT THE MOMENT

CONTACT

1301 S Brookhurst St
Anaheim, CA 92804
714-776-7387

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