Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of our most frequently asked questions.
If you have a question and don't see it answred here, please contact us.
We will answer your question and then post it here for others to see.
 What do we do if our pet has an emergency after you've closed
When should my pet be spayed or neutered?
What should I look for when I bring home my rescue puppy or kitten?
Is CHOCOLATE really dangerous to my pet?
Why are cat vaccines necessary?
Why are dog vaccines necessary
Does my pet really need pre-surgical blood work?
How does Frontline Work?
What is the PET LEMON LAW
If Rabies is every 3 years, do a still need a certificate ?
WHAT IS THE SPOT PROGRAM?
EUTHANASIA INFORMATION, MANY TIMES A DIFFICULT DECISION
FELINE RABIES VACCINE, A RISK?
 What do we do if our pet has an emergency after you've closed
Royal Palm Veterinary Hospital offers 24 hour, 7 days a week emergency care for all our patients by our own doctors. Just call our hospital number 954-344-5466 and follow the instructions.
When should my pet be spayed or neutered?
For a normal, healthy pet, it’s best to spay or neuter when they are sexually mature i.e between 5 and 6 months It is recommended that a dog be spayed prior to their first heat. Research has shown that this reduces the chances of mammary cancer by almost 100%
Micropchip your pet at the same time and receive 10% off the microchip price!
What should I look for when I bring home my rescue puppy or kitten?
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW PET!
Your rescue pet has most probably come from a shelter or unknown housing therefore has the
possibility of harboring an illnesses that has not yet surfaced. Because the signs for many of
the illnesses can also represent signs of normal transition, it is imperative that you schedule a
recheck appointment and alert our doctors with any of the following SIGNS & SYMTOMS :
* VOMITING
* DIARRHEA
* BLOOD OR MUCUS IN STOOL
* NOT EATING FOR A 6-12 HOUR PERIOD
* COUGHING AND/ OR SNEEZING
* DISCHARGE FROM NOSE OR EYES
* LETHARGY ( NOT PLAYFUL, SEEM WEAK, SLUGISH, LOOK DEPRESSED)
* FLAKING, HAIR LOSS OR SCABS ON SKIN
* EXCESSIVE SCRATCHING
Thank you for opening your heart and homes to our special pets. Please stay in close contact with us during the transitional period and feel free to call with any questions.
Dr. Andrew M. Weiss & Dr. Sonja R. Friedbauer
Is CHOCOLATE really dangerous to my pet?
Chocolate poisoning is caused by excessive intake of the methylxanthine alkaloids ( primarily theobromine and caffeine) in chocolate, coffee, tea and some over the counter stimulants. The poisoning affects the brain and muscles. Your dog accidentally ingesting chocolate goodies on Halloween, or anytime is a genuine concern. The methylxanthine alkaloids cause constriction of the blood vessels, rapid and weak heartbeat, and stimulation of the nervous system. The highest concentrations of these drugs are found in baking chocolate, followed by semi-sweet chocolate, milk chocolate, and then hot chocolate. CONSIDER THESE TOXIC DOSES FOR A 20 LB DOG….. ¨ 3 to 4 ounces of baking chocolate ¨ 6-9 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate ¨ 20-30 ounces of milk chocolate Note these signs: HYPER EXCITABILITY HYPER IRRIABILITY INCREASED HEART RATE RESTLESSNESS INCREASED URINATION MUSCLE TREMORS VOMITING DIARRHEA Death can result in as little as 12-36 hours. ACTION: Call immediately and bring your pet to your veterinarian or nearest pet emergency hospital as soon as possible. If you are not able to go immediately, a phone call is vital. Immediate treatment by a veterinarian is criticial for the well-being of your pet. Remember… a phone call could save a life !
Why are cat vaccines necessary?
Many serious infectious diseases of cats can be controlled by vaccination. With over 20 million pet cats in the U.S., your cat is quite likely to come in contact with an infectious disease at one time or another. Even indoor cats can be exposed to viral diseases carried in the air, in dust, or on clothing. Vaccination is inexpensive protection against costly treatment, or even the premature death of your cat! Feline Panleukopenia,: Respiratory/ Diarrhea *** Often Fatal Known as “cat distemper” is a highly contagious and often fatal disease in young cats. It is easily transmitted from cat to cat. Signs include depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Feline Respiratory Rhinotraceitis: Severe Respiratory/ Pneumonia They are all highly contagious and are widespread. High death rates occur in young cats and “old” cats. Signs of these diseases include sneezing, fever, nasal discharges, runny nose, coughing, Conjunctivitis (eyelid infections), mouth ulcers, and general depression. These diseases include: Rhinotracheitis and Calici Virus.. Feline Leukemia: Cancer *** Fatal Unknown 20 years ago, but is now considered to be the leading cause of death in cats. It is a cancer-causing virus that often suppresses the ability to fight other infections. Kittens can be born with the virus. Cats can have the leukemia virus for years before showing signs of the disease. Feline Leukemia is not transmissible to humans or dogs. There is no successful treatment once signs develop! Rabies: *** Often Fatal A fatal viral infection of the nervous system that attacks all warm-blooded animals, including humans. Cats have outnumbered dogs in reported cases since 1981. Rabies is a public health hazard and personal risk to you. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Even indoor cats may be infected through contact with a carrier in a basement, garage, or attic. There is no cure! Vaccination is very important for your safety, as well as the safety of your pet. VACCINATION IS THE BEST PROTECTION WE CAN OFFER OUR PETS !
See more information on Feline Rabies in our FAQ section
Why are dog vaccines necessary
CANINE VACCINATIONS
Many of the serious diseases of dogs can be prevented by vaccination. With over 50 million pet dogs in the United States alone, your pet is bound to come in contact with an infectious disease at some time. Even if you always keep your pet indoors, your dog can be exposed to viruses carried in the air, in dust, or on clothing. Vaccination is inexpensive protection against costly treatment, or even premature death of your dog.
DISTEMPER: RESPRIATORY NEUOLOGICAL/ *** OFTEN FATAL
Distemper is one of the two most important diseases of dogs. It is very widespread, and nearly every dog will be exposed to distemper within the first year of life in our area. Signs include coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite, fever, and discharges from the eyes and/or nose. “Squinting” of the eyes and nasal discharge, is often the first sign observed. Once the virus enters the nervous system, convulsions, twitches, or partial paralysis become evident. It is spread through all body secretions and is highly contagious. It is usually fatal.
PARVOVIRUS: ENTERITIS/CARDIAC ***OFTEN FATAL
Since its devastating worldwide appearance in 1978, most dog owners have heard of parvo. It is transmitted through direct contact with an infected dog’s feces. A dog that recovers from the disease remains a “carrier” spreading the virus in its bowel movements for 1 3 months. Signs include vomiting, fever, depression, and diarrhea, which often will contain large amounts of blood. There is another form where the virus attacks the heart muscle causing a heart attack and death. The younger the pet, the GREATER the chance of death. The death rate is very high in dogs under 4 6 months of age.
Dogs remain susceptible to Parvovirus infection until two WEEKS AFTER THE LAST INJECTION in the vaccination series. This is the MOST SERIOUS and FATAL disease we see today.
CANINE HEPATITIS (CAV-2): RESPIATORY VIRUS/ PNEUMONIA
Canine hepatitis affects the dog’s liver. Spread through an infected dog’s urine, exposure can mean anything from a mild infection to death. Puppies are at the most risk with this disease. Vaccination has controlled this disease for several years, making it rarely seen by the veterinarian today.
BORDETELLA: RESPIATORY VIRUS/ COUGH/PNEUMONIA
Technically known as “tracheobronchitis,” it is an upper respiratory infection with the major sign being a persistent, dry, hacking cough. It often lasts several weeks and is HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS. It is caused by several viruses and bacteria, which are included in the vaccinations. The vaccines covers one strin of the virus. Pets who contract the virus still may need antibiotics to recover.
CORONAVIRUS: ENTERITIS
Corona virus is an intestinal infection of puppies less than 6 months of age resulting in diarrhea, vomiting, and depression. . Research shows it often co exists with “Parvo” at the same time in many dogs.
RABIES: NEUROLOGIC DISEASE *** OFTEN FATAL
Rabies is a FATAL INFECTION of the nervous system that attacks all warm blooded animals, including humans. Rabies has become synonymous with the image of a vicious dog. Rabies is a public health hazard and a personal risk to all pet owners. Many states require vaccination against rabies, and most veterinarians recommend vaccination for all dogs and cats, regardless of state law. Rabies can be transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Even dogs kept indoors can come in contact with a rabies carrier in a basement, garage, or attic. Because there is no cure for rabies, vaccination is your pet’s only protection
Vaccination is the best protection we can offer our pets !
Does my pet really need pre-surgical blood work?
Pre-Surgical blood work is optional on elective surgery for pets under 7 yrs of age but required for pets 5 yrs and older Pre-Surgical blood work can be considered a window to the organs in your pet’s body. These tests help assess organ function prior to the use of anesthesia. The liver and kidneys are important organs in metabolizing anesthesia as they process and rid the body of the different anesthetics used. As with any anesthetic procedure, there is always a risk but by adding pre-surgical blood work prior to the procedure helps to limit the risk. IV Catheter & Fluids is mandatory on all surgeries. Intravenous fluids help to maintain hydration, good kidney function throughout surgery and the IV catheter provides an open portal for the administration of emergency drugs if necessary.
How does Frontline Work?
- From the very first application, FRONTLINE kills 98–100% of existing fleas in less than 24 hours and continues to provide fast-acting, long-lasting flea and tick control.
Fipronil, the active ingredient in all FRONTLINE Brand Products, is stored under your pet's skin, in the oil glands, so FRONTLINE continuously reapplies to the skin and hair through the hair follicles making it waterproof.
FRONTLINE will remain waterproof and won’t rinse off – even through your cat’s self-grooming or your dog’s monthly bath or swim. In fact, FRONTLINE doesn't stop working for an entire month, giving your pet non-stop flea and tick control.
for more information and special savings click here
What is the PET LEMON LAW
Information Provided by The Florida Veterinary Medical Association
There are two kinds of sellers: Private and Pet Dealer. A "Pet Dealer" is defined as anyone who engages in the sale of more than two litters per year or more than 20 animals per year - whichever is greater.
Regardless of whether you purchase from a private person or a pet dealer, at the time of purchase:
* The dog or cat must be a least eight weeks of age;
* You must be given a completed copy of the Official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection. The Official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection must have been signed by a licensed veterinarian no more than 30 days before your purchase.
* The dog or cat must have been vaccinated, dewormed, and had certain tests prior to your purchase. These must have been administered by or under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinary (NOT a private or pet dealer) no more than 21 days before your purchase if your dog or cat is under four months. If your pet is over four months, they must be administered no more than one year before your purchase.
Your Pet must receive Vaccines and Dewormers
FOR A MORE DETAILS GO TO THE FLORIDA STATUTE 828.29 BY SELECTING HERE "PET LEMMON LAW"
If Rabies is every 3 years, do a still need a certificate ?
Yes, Broward County still requires your to purchase a certificate showing vaccine information. This can be purchased as a yearly or 3 year certificate.
WHAT IS THE SPOT PROGRAM?
For every kitten or puppy that finds a happy home, four others are unwanted, unloved and possibly neglected or abused. Don’t be part of the problem...be part of the solution! Spaying and neutering your pet not only helps reduce the number of unwanted pets, it provides long-term health benefits to your dog or cat.
The Spot Program is a discount spay and neuter program funded by Broward County. All Broward County residents within an approved income can qualify for a $10.00 spay or neuter, including a rabies vaccine if needed.For more information
Please CLICK HERE
EUTHANASIA INFORMATION, MANY TIMES A DIFFICULT DECISION
We are never quite prepared for the unexpected death or the decision of saying goodbye to our pet. Everyone secretly hopes for our pet's peaceful passing during its nights sleep but more than not we find that it becomes our responsible as loving caretakers to euthanize our pet. Preparing for euthanasia is a difficult process and requires you to make many decisions. Scheduling the appointment may be the most difficult decision of all. Our veterinarian and staff care about you and your pet and are prepared to guide you through your decision-making and offer you support along the way. The following Q & A may help with your thoughts.
The following are frequently asked questions:
HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN IT'S TIME? Knowing when it is time is a difficult question with no fast answer. Talking with your pet's veterinarian for reassurance and guidance is the best answer. Also lean on friends and family.
DO I NEED TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR THIS? Arranging an appointment is a good idea for first in the morning or last in the day. These times are not usually as busy but we will make every effort to accommodate you and make your appointment as painless and private as possible.
EUTHANASIA BE DONE AT MY HOUSE? For our established clients, home euthanasia is a service we can provide for you and your pet for an additional fee. Our doctor will come to your home, perform the euthanasia and bring your pet to the hospital for aftercare. Please understand due to appointments throughout the day scheduling may not be as convenient.
WILL EUTHANASIA HURT MY PET? We make the experience for your pet as peaceful and comfortable as possible. The only pain your pet may feel is a small prick of the needle, the rest is painless and fairly quick.
DO I HAVE TO STAY WITH MY PET? This decision is strictly personal. Either way you can be sure you pet will receive the same respectful treatment. It is required that you meet or speak with the doctor prior to the euthanasia.
WHAT ARE MY AFTERCARE OPTIONS? You have two options for cremation. The first is Private Cremation in which your pet is cremated individually and the remains placed in a container for you to pick up at our hospital. The second option is General Cremation in which your pet is cremated with a group of pets and no remains are returned to you. There is also an option for private burial.
IS THERE SUPPORT FOR PET LOSS? YES,
Humane Society of Broward County 954-266-6815 www.humanebroward.com
Hospice Care of Southeast Florida 954-467-7423 http://www.hospicecareflorida.org/
Pet Heaven Memorial Park 305-223-6515 http://www.pet-heaven.com/ or email: support@pet-heaven.com
The American Veterinary Medical Association also has a helpful site at: www.avma.org/care4pets.
Royal Palm Veterinary Hospital would be proud to place a loving tribute to your pet by placing a picture and special wording in our Memorial section of our website. To send the information please contact dee@royalpalmvet.com
Rainbow Bridge 
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
Author unknown...
FELINE RABIES VACCINE, A RISK?
Royal Palm Veterinary Hospital is interested only in the health and wellbeing of your pet. This is why we only use Merial Purevax Feline Rabies Vaccine for cats. This is the first and only rabies vaccine that removes the ingredient that is suspected of causing fibosarcomas ( a type of cancer) at the injection site in some cats.
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