FAQ

Cold laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level laser light to reduce pain, inflammation, and promote healing. It is commonly used for arthritis, joint pain, hip dysplasia, wounds, post-surgical healing, muscle strains, ligament injuries, inflamed ears, hot spots, and more.

Yes, cold laser therapy is completely safe and has no known side effects when administered by a trained professional. Unlike medications such as NSAIDs, it does not cause gastrointestinal or organ-related complications.

The number of sessions varies depending on the condition being treated. Acute injuries may require a few sessions, while chronic conditions like arthritis may need ongoing treatments for long-term relief. Our veterinarian will create a customized treatment plan based on your pet’s needs.

No, the treatment is painless and does not require sedation. Most pets find the therapy relaxing and may even fall asleep during the session. The laser produces a gentle, warming sensation that many animals enjoy.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about how cold laser therapy can help your pet, contact Summit Animal Hospital at (515) 462-3711. Early treatment can improve your pet’s quality of life and mobility.

Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes and enhance your pet’s quality of life.

Preventative care includes bloodwork, urinalysis, abdominal ultrasound, and other diagnostic tests to detect potential health issues early.

Cold laser therapy reduces pain and inflammation, accelerates tissue repair, and promotes faster healing without side effects, making it a great option for managing chronic conditions like arthritis.

Most of our in-house lab tests provide results within 20 minutes, allowing for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Call Summit Animal Hospital at (515) 462-3711 to schedule an appointment for preventative care or to learn more about our services.

Pets may require surgery for various reasons, including removing foreign bodies, treating tumors, correcting congenital abnormalities, or addressing injuries. Our team will discuss the specific needs of your pet and the best surgical options available.

Surgery is generally safe for pets when performed by experienced veterinarians. We conduct thorough pre-surgical assessments to minimize risks and ensure your pet is a suitable candidate for anesthesia and surgery.

Your pet’s recovery will depend on the type of surgery performed. We provide detailed aftercare instructions, pain management, and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your pet’s healing process. Rest and restricted activity are often required during the recovery period.

Preparation includes following fasting instructions, ensuring your pet is in good health, and discussing any medications your pet is taking with our veterinary team. We will provide specific guidelines during the pre-surgical consultation.

To schedule a surgical consultation, contact Summit Animal Hospital at (515) 462-3711. Our team will arrange a convenient time to discuss your pet’s needs and the recommended surgical options.

Pet dental care is essential to prevent periodontal disease, tooth decay, and other dental issues that can lead to pain, infection, and systemic health problems.

Bad breath, difficulty eating, drooling, pawing at the mouth, or changes in behavior could indicate dental problems. If you notice any of these signs, schedule a dental check-up.

Yes, anesthesia is administered to ensure your pet is comfortable and still during the procedure. Our team carefully monitors your pet’s vital signs to ensure safety.

Regular brushing of your pet’s teeth, providing dental chews, and ensuring a balanced diet can help maintain dental health between professional cleanings.

Our facility offers a safe, comfortable, and caring environment for your pets, with personalized attention and daily exercise to keep them happy and healthy while you’re away.

Yes, we encourage you to bring along your pet’s favorite toys, blankets, and treats to make their stay more enjoyable and familiar.

Your pet will be taken outside for 5-10 minute walks at least twice daily, ensuring they get regular exercise and fresh air.

Owners can pick up their pets at 7:00am and 5:00pm on weekends for your convenience.

Absolutely! We welcome you to visit us during normal business hours for a tour of our boarding facility. We’d be happy to show you around and answer any questions you may have.

Orthopedic surgery can treat conditions such as cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries, fractures, and patellar luxation. It helps improve mobility and alleviate pain.

Our veterinary team, along with Dr. Teachout, will conduct a thorough assessment to determine if your pet is a suitable candidate for surgery. Factors considered include overall health, the severity of the condition, and expected outcomes.

Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and the individual pet. Generally, pets may require a few weeks to a few months for full recovery, with follow-up appointments to monitor progress.

Pain management is a top priority. We will provide pain relief options to ensure your pet’s comfort and prevention of infections during the recovery period.

Endoscopy is used to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal issues, remove foreign objects, and collect tissue biopsies without the need for surgery.

Yes, endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure with minimal risk, especially compared to traditional surgery. Our team takes all necessary precautions to ensure your pet’s safety.

The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the case. Most pets can go home the same day.

Your pet may experience mild discomfort or bloating, but this usually resolves quickly. Pain management and aftercare instructions will be provided.

Your pet will need to fast for a specific period before the procedure. Our team will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare your pet.

Pet euthanasia is a peaceful and painless process. A veterinarian will administer a sedative to relax your pet, followed by an injection that gently puts them to sleep.

Yes, you are welcome to be with your pet during the euthanasia process. We encourage you to be present if you feel comfortable, as it can provide comfort to both you and your pet.

If your pet is experiencing unmanageable pain, severe distress, or a significant decline in their quality of life, it may be time to consider euthanasia. Our veterinarians can help you make this difficult decision with compassion and care.

We offer individual and communal cremation services. Individual cremation allows you to receive your pet’s ashes in a memorial urn, while communal cremation provides a respectful group service.

Grieving the loss of a pet is a personal and individual process. We can provide resources and support to help you through this difficult time, including information on pet loss support groups.

An annual wellness visit includes a physical examination, vital signs check, dental assessment, vaccination updates, parasite screening, and discussions on diet and nutrition.

Senior pets should have bi-yearly vet visits to monitor their health more closely and address any age-related issues promptly.

Vaccinations protect your pet from various diseases, some of which can be fatal. They are essential for maintaining your pet’s overall health.

We offer topical treatments, oral medications, collars, and environmental control advice to prevent fleas and ticks.

Annual heartworm testing and monthly preventative medications are the best ways to prevent heartworm in your pet.

Vaccinations are the foundation for preventing disease in pets. Our vaccine protocols are tailored to each pet’s age, lifestyle, and health condition. We follow guidelines set by veterinary associations to ensure optimal protection against serious diseases. We will take into consideration many factors, including your pet’s overall health, age and lifestyle, to provide our specific vaccination recommendations for your pet.

Diarrhea can be caused by many factors, ranging from minor dietary indiscretions to serious health issues. Ensure your pet has access to clean water to prevent dehydration and contact us immediately if the diarrhea persists for more than a day, or is accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting or lethargy.

Flea and tick prevention is vital for your pet’s health. We recommend year-round preventative treatments, as fleas and ticks can be a problem at any time of year, especially in our region. Regular preventive treatments help avoid the diseases these parasites can carry.

Choosing the right diet for your pet depends on their specific nutritional needs, which vary by age, weight, health status, and activity level. We recommend high-quality commercial diets that are well-balanced and meet the nutritional standards established by veterinary nutritionists. Discuss with us whether a processed or raw diet might be suitable for your pet.

Allergies in pets can manifest as skin irritation, gastrointestinal upset, or respiratory distress. Identifying the cause of allergies can be challenging, but we use a combination of medical history, elimination diets, and allergy testing. Treatment may include dietary adjustments, medications, or environmental changes to manage symptoms.

Signs that indicate your pet might need a cardiology consultation include persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, fainting or collapsing, lethargy, and reduced ability to exercise. Other signs could include a rapid or irregular heartbeat and fluid buildup in the abdomen. If your primary veterinarian detects a heart murmur during a routine exam, they may also recommend further evaluation with a cardiology specialist.

To prepare your pet for a mobile cardiology consultation, ensure they are in a calm and comfortable environment at home. Provide a quiet space where the sonographer can perform the echocardiogram without distractions. It’s advisable to have your pet’s medical history and any relevant information about their symptoms readily available for review.

The duration of a mobile echocardiogram can vary depending on your pet’s condition but typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. After the imaging is completed, the results are securely sent to a board-certified cardiologist for analysis. You and your primary veterinarian can expect to receive a comprehensive report with findings and recommendations shortly thereafter.

If your pet is experiencing ongoing symptoms like lethargy, chronic vomiting, diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, changes in appetite, or difficulty breathing, an internal medicine consultation can help determine the cause and provide targeted treatment options.

In most cases, sedation is not necessary for ultrasounds or lab work. However, if a pet is particularly anxious or in pain, mild sedation may be recommended to ensure accurate results and reduce stress.

Your veterinarian may ask you to withhold food for several hours before the consultation for accurate testing, especially if an ultrasound or blood work is planned. Ensure you bring your pet’s medical history and list any current medications.