ANIMAL CARE

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Medical and Surgical Services

  • Preventative Medicine for Cats and Dogs
    • Wellness Care
    • Geriatric Medicine and Senior Wellness Care
    • Juvenile Care, New Kittens & Puppies
  • Surgery
    • Spay
    • Neuter
    • Mass Removals
    • Lacerations and Wound Repair
    • Minor Orthopedic Procedures including ACL repair
    • Abdominal Surgeries
      • Gastric and Intestinal Surgeries
      • Cystotomies
      • Splenectomies
    • Dental Care
      • Scaling and Polishing
      • Extractions
      • Laser Therapy
    • Diagnostics
      • X-Ray / Radiographs
      • Ultrasonography / Echocardiography
      • In House and Reference Laboratory Services
      • Blood Pressure Monitoring
      • Electrocardiography / EKG
      • Video Otoscopy
    • Prescription Diets and Nutrition Counseling
    • In House Pharmacy
    • Behavioral Counseling
    • Pain Management
    • End of Life Counseling

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to schedule an appointment to have the doctor see my pet?

Patients are seen by appointment, you can call the office to schedule a visit.

What animals do you treat?

At Animal Care, Dr. Cooke & Dr. Carlson see cats and dogs.

What do I do if I have an emergency?

Emergencies are our priority and will receive our attention first. If you have an emergency you should first call the office to make sure the doctor is available and to prepare us for your arrival.

If the office is closed during your emergency, you can still receive assistance from us. Call Bulger Veterinary Hospital at 978-725-5544 This hospital is open 24 hours.

I think my pet ate poison, what should I do?

In a situation like this, you should first call the office and we will give you assistance according to your situation. If our office is closed, please call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. Please be advised this helpline has a per incident fee.

Why do I have to fast my pet before surgery?

Following the doctor’s fasting instructions prior to surgery is important. If your animal does eat before anesthesia the likelihood of vomiting during the procedure is increased. This is a danger to your pet because they could choke on the vomit.
Fasting your pet before surgery also provides better blood work results. Often times if may be difficult to fast your pet because of other pets in the household or because of their begging behavior about meals, but it is a necessary step.

Can my pet have their medication if they are supposed to be fasted?

In most situations medications should not be administered to your pet prior to surgery. However each case is different and you should ask the doctor what the fasting instructions are for your pet.

Do you have payment plans?

Payment is expected at the time services are performed. However, we will gladly provide an estimate of cost.

Is it important to vaccinate?

Yes! Vaccinations are your pet’s first line of defense. Widespread use of vaccines prevents death and disease in millions of animals. Dr. Carlson will council you as to what are the necessary vaccines for your pet according to their lifestyle and exposure.

How can I get rid of the smell after my pet has been sprayed by a skunk?

If you find your pet immediately afterwards and the spray is still wet apply a liberal amount of talcum powder to the area. Allow the powder to soak up the wetness, then wipe away with a towel.

You can also give a bath by creating this mixture:

  • 1 quart hydrogen peroxide
  • ¼ cup baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon dawn dish soap

Use the mixture fresh, do not store in a sealed bottle because the mixture creates bubbles and the pressure will cause the container to explode.

Work the mixture into the fur well, avoiding the eyes. Let stand for 5 minutes then rinse very well. Do not rinse the mixture into your pet’s eyes.

I found an injured wild animal, what should I do with it?

If an animal is injured you can call a wild animal rehabilitator. Names and numbers of local Wildlife Rehabilitation officers can be found on this website.

Why are the Senior Wellness Exams important?

Senior Wellness Exams are one of the most important things to do for your older pets because it is an advanced examination that includes blood work; it allows the doctor to assess the internal functions of your pet. By being proactive about your pet’s health we can determine what health factors should be monitored or addressed and therefore increase the life of your pet. The three most important steps you can take to maintain your senior pet’s quality of life are proper nutrition, maintain good dental health and senior wellness monitoring.

Get In Touch

(978) 356-2342

info@ipswichvet.com

Visit Us!

261 Topsfield Rd
Ipswich, Ma 01938
Monday 8:00 a.m – 6:00 p.m
Tuesday 8:00 a.m – 6:00 p.m
Wednesday 8:00 a.m – 6:00 p.m
Thursday 8:00 a.m – 6:00 p.m
Friday 8:00 a.m – 6:00 p.m
Saturday 8:00 a.m – 12:00 p.m
Sunday 6:00 p.m – 7:00 p.m – Boarding Only / Drop-off Only

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