Veterinary FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no question too big or too small for our veterinary team. We have answers to some of our most common questions.

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Veterinary FAQs

If we did not address your question, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help!

Do you provide dental care?

Yes, at East Longmeadow Animal Hospital we offer dental care for your cat or dog. We offer dental cleanings as well as the management of periodontal disease.

How often should I bring my pet in?
We recommend that just like a person would have a yearly exam. If your pet suffers from a chronic illness or disease, it may be required that they have more frequent veterinary visits.
My cat is an indoor cat, does s/he still need vaccinations?
Yes, your cat still requires some basic vaccinations even though they do not go outdoors.
What brand of food do you recommend?

Here at ELAH we carry and recommend the full lines of prescription pet foods including Hill’s, Purina, and Royal Canin.

Are grain-free diets bad for my pets?

Recently, the FDA launched an investigation into a potential link between diets (mostly grain-free) and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy. Click here to read the article in full.

When should I spay/neuter my kitten or puppy?

Dogs: Typically dogs are neutered around six to nine months of age. If you have an adult dog, they can still be neutered. For canines, spay and neuter recommendations vary based on breed and size of the pet. Your vet will provide you with recommendations based on the individual patient during an exam.

Cats: Kittens can be spayed or neutered as young as six months old. It is recommended that you spay or neuter your cat before they are five months old.

How often does my pet need a rabies shot?
Rabies vaccine is required by Mass. state law. We recommend cats receive rabies annually and canines every three years after their first initial rabies vaccines.
What age to vaccinate my kitten or puppy?

Kittens and puppies require vaccinations between 6-8 weeks, then 12 weeks and 16 weeks. After that, your kitten and puppy should receive annual check-ups to receive routine care and vaccinations.

What is euthanasia?
Euthanasia is an injection of an anesthetic overdose into a vein of your pet which causes them to pass away quickly and painlessly.
Is euthanasia right for my pet?

Euthanasia is an option considered for a pet when recovery or a comfortable existence is highly unlikely.

If you are considering euthanasia for your pet, please schedule an appointment so our staff can evaluate your pet and provide you with the medical treatment options available.

What vaccinations should my pet receive?

The following are the common vaccinations your pet will receive from the time they are a puppy or kitten and when they are an adult animal.

Core Vaccines:

  • Rabies (Canines and Felines)
  • Canine Parvovirus (Canines only)
  • Canine Hepatitis (Canines only)
  • Feline Calicivirus (Felines only)
  • Feline Rhitnotracheitis (Felines only)

Lifestyle Vaccines:

  • Lepto
  • Bordetella
  • Influenza
Where do I take my pet in an emergency?

In case of an emergency, immediately call the Animal Hospital. If it is after hours and we are not open, please contact the following:

VCA Veterinary Specialists of CT
993 N Main St,
West Hartford, CT 06117
860-236-3273
Visit Website →

Pieper Veterinary Emergency & Specialty
730 Randolph Rd,
Middletown, CT 06457
860-347-8387
Visit Website →

What type of pets do you provide care for?

We provide veterinary services to both cats and dogs.

Emergency?