Murrayville Veterinary Clinic’s Jennifer West D.V.M examines Copper recently as the dog continues to recover from a broken leg. Big Boy the cat gets a routine examination recently. West recommends regular check-ups for pets. Photos by Scott Rogers. weight and other factors,” she says. “Rabies vaccinations are required annually, plus there are other vaccines your pets should keep current. We can also help you and your pet adapt to life-stage changes.” West explains that bringing your pet in for regular check-ups can also help with early detection of issues. “We may pick up on clues that you may not notice because you are with your pet all the time,” she says. “For instance, a significant weight loss or weight gain over time can indicate health issues that need to be addressed.” Veterinary practices regularly treat dogs and cats, but some see other animals as well, such as horses. Services can include preventive health care, wellness pet examinations, vaccines, parasite prevention and treatment, dentistry, nutrition and skin care, microchipping, boarding and grooming. They can also provide X-rays, blood testing and even the latest treatments for osteoarthritis in dogs. The office has a surgical facility for neutering and spaying, C-sections when needed, and to address trauma-induced injuries. “We also refer patients to trusted specialists or to the University of Georgia for care,” she says. Murrayville Veterinary Clinic provides after-hours care to stabilize injuries and coordinates with Animal Emergency of Gainesville when further emergency care is
needed. Preventive care and wellness is essential for pets, just like as with humans. “Regular exercise for any pet is important, whether it’s taking them for regular walks or playing with them,” West says. “As they age, they may not be as inclined to be active, but you can encourage them and help them stay healthy.” Periodic baths and grooming by a
of pet health care,” she says. “At Murrayville Veterinary Clinic, we offer a program called ‘Care Credit,’ an option that works like a credit card and allows payments over time.” She suggests that owners check with their veterinarians about such programs. Veterinarians have tough jobs. First, their patients can’t talk with them, so vets need to be somewhat intuitive and rely on their experience to diagnose issues. Technology and testing certainly helps. Second, veterinarians really have two patients to consider — the pets themselves and their owners. Owners, of course, are their pets’ key advocates and can provide essential information to maintain their pet’s overall health and wellness. “It’s important to have a good working relationship with your pet’s veterinarian, and to be able to address any pet-related issues candidly with them,” West says. “Your veterinarian should not only be able to care for your pet, but they should also be able to set your mind at ease yet be honest about your pet’s health and care. “We’d love it if every pet came into the office wagging their tails or purring,” Jennifer says. “Our goal is to provide you with the best care and a good experience with minimal stress for both you and your pet.”
“We may pick up on clues that you may not notice because you are with your pet all the time.” professional may be needed. “If your pet is not grooming herself regularly, this may indicate health problems, such as a skin condition or other ailment,” she says. “Talk with your veterinarian about dry skin, fur mats, excessive scratching or a lack of self-grooming. You can also help by brushing or combing your pet often to minimize skin discomfort and hair mats. As with human health care, technology has advanced. But with increased technology, costs have risen as well. In recent years, various forms of pet health insurance and payment options have become more available. “These policies can cover various aspects
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