How often should my pet have a wellness exam?

We recommend annual exams for healthy adult pets, and bi-annual exams for puppies, kittens, and senior pets (7+ years for dogs, 10+ for cats).

What vaccines does my pet need?

Core vaccines include Rabies and DHLPP for dogs, and Rabies and FVRCP for cats. Additional vaccines may be recommended based on lifestyle and risk factors.

Is microchipping painful?

Microchipping is quick and causes minimal discomfort—similar to a routine vaccine. No anesthesia is required.

Do you offer payment plans?

We accept CareCredit and offer flexible payment options. Ask our team for details.

What does a wellness exam include?

A thorough physical exam covering eyes, ears, teeth, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, joints, and weight. We also review nutrition, behavior, and parasite prevention.

Does my pet need heartworm prevention year-round in Florida?

Yes! Florida's warm, humid climate supports mosquitoes year-round, so heartworm prevention should never be skipped. We recommend monthly prevention for all dogs and cats.

When should I bring my new puppy or kitten for their first visit?

We recommend scheduling a first visit within a few days of bringing your new pet home, or at 6-8 weeks of age for their first vaccine series.

At what age is a pet considered senior?

Dogs are generally considered senior around age 7 (earlier for large breeds), and cats around age 10. Senior pets benefit from twice-yearly exams to catch age-related issues early.

Why does my pet need parasite prevention?

Florida's climate is ideal for fleas, ticks, and heartworm-carrying mosquitoes year-round. Monthly prevention protects your pet from these parasites and the diseases they carry.

What should I feed my pet?

Nutritional needs vary by age, breed, size, and health status. We provide personalized nutrition counseling at every wellness visit to help you choose the best diet for your pet.

How do I know if my pet is a healthy weight?

We assess your pet's body condition score at every visit. We'll show you what to look for at home and recommend dietary adjustments if needed to maintain an ideal weight.

Can you see both dogs and cats?

Yes! We provide comprehensive wellness care for both dogs and cats of all ages, from puppies and kittens through their senior years.

When should I spay or neuter my pet?

We typically recommend spaying/neutering between 6-9 months of age, but timing can vary by breed and health. We'll help you decide the best time.

Yes! We use modern anesthesia protocols and continuously monitor heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure throughout the procedure.

How long is recovery?

Most pets recover within 10-14 days. We provide pain medication and detailed instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Do you perform ACL/orthopedic surgeries?

Yes! We perform ACL (cruciate ligament) repairs and other advanced orthopedic surgeries in-house with our visiting orthopedic specialist. This saves you money compared to specialty hospitals while keeping your pet in a familiar, less stressful environment.

What surgical procedures do you perform?

We perform spay/neuter, mass removals, wound repairs, bladder stone removal, gastropexy, foreign body removal, soft tissue surgeries, and advanced orthopedic procedures like ACL repairs.

Does my pet need to fast before surgery?

Yes. No food after midnight the night before surgery. Water can be offered until morning. This reduces the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.

What pre-surgical testing is required?

We require pre-anesthetic bloodwork to check organ function and blood cell counts. This helps us identify hidden health issues and choose the safest anesthesia protocol.

How will my pet's pain be managed after surgery?

We use a multimodal pain management approach that begins before surgery and continues through recovery, including injectable and oral pain medications and anti-inflammatories as needed.

Will my pet need to stay overnight?

Most routine surgeries (spay/neuter, mass removals) are outpatient—your pet goes home the same day. More complex procedures like ACL surgery may require an overnight stay.

How much does spay/neuter surgery cost?

Costs vary by pet size, age, and health. The price includes pre-surgical exam, anesthesia, surgery, pain medication, and follow-up care. Call (727) 327-5141 for a personalized estimate.

When can my pet eat after surgery?

We typically recommend offering water 2-3 hours after coming home, followed by a small meal that evening. Full portions can resume the next day if your pet is alert and interested.

Do you offer payment plans for surgery?

We accept CareCredit and other financing options. We also provide detailed cost estimates before any procedure so there are no surprises.

Why does my pet need anesthesia for dental cleaning?

Anesthesia allows us to safely clean below the gumline, take X-rays, and perform a thorough exam without causing fear or pain.

How often does my pet need dental cleanings?

It varies by pet, but most benefit from annual or bi-annual cleanings. Regular at-home brushing can extend the time between cleanings.

Can I brush my pet's teeth at home?

Absolutely! We'll show you how and recommend pet-safe toothpaste. Daily brushing is the best way to prevent dental disease.

What if my pet needs a tooth extraction?

Extractions relieve pain and prevent infection. We use local anesthesia and pain medication to keep your pet comfortable.

What happens during a dental cleaning?

Under anesthesia, we perform a full oral exam, take dental X-rays, use ultrasonic scaling to remove tartar above and below the gum line, polish the teeth, and treat any problems found.

How much does a dental cleaning cost?

Dental cleanings start at $350, which includes anesthesia, full-mouth X-rays, scaling, polishing, and recovery care. Extractions and additional treatments are priced separately.

What are dental X-rays and why are they important?

Digital dental X-rays reveal problems below the gum line—root abscesses, bone loss, fractured roots, and tumors. Without X-rays, up to 60% of dental problems would be missed.

How do I prepare my pet for dental day?

No food after midnight the night before (water is okay until morning). Bring your pet at the scheduled drop-off time and continue regular medications unless we advise otherwise.

What should I expect after the procedure?

Your pet may be groggy that evening. We provide pain medication and possibly antibiotics. Soft food is recommended for a few days. Most pets return to normal within 24-48 hours.

Do dental treats really work?

VOHC-approved dental treats can help reduce plaque and tartar, but they're not a substitute for brushing or professional cleanings. Think of them as a helpful supplement to dental care.

My pet won't let me brush their teeth. What can I do?

Start with just letting them taste the toothpaste as a treat. Gradually work up to touching their lips, then teeth. Dental wipes, water additives, and dental diets can also help.

What dental products do you recommend?

Look for the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal on products. We recommend specific dental diets, chews, and water additives. Avoid hard bones and antlers that can fracture teeth.

Why does my pet need bloodwork?

Bloodwork helps us see what's happening inside your pet's body—checking organ function, detecting disease, and guiding treatment decisions.

How long do results take?

Most in-house tests provide results within 15-30 minutes. Some specialized tests are sent to outside labs and take 1-3 days.

Is sedation required for X-rays?

Usually not! Most pets tolerate X-rays well. Sedation may be needed if your pet is in pain or too anxious to hold still.

Do you perform ultrasounds?

Yes! Ultrasound is a non-invasive way to examine internal organs and is especially useful for abdominal and cardiac concerns.

Does my pet need to fast before bloodwork?

For most routine bloodwork, fasting for 8-12 hours is recommended for the most accurate results. We'll provide specific instructions when you schedule your appointment.

What does a Complete Blood Count (CBC) check?

A CBC evaluates red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It can detect anemia, infection, inflammation, blood clotting issues, and some cancers.

What is a blood chemistry panel?

Chemistry panels measure substances in the blood that reflect organ function—liver enzymes, kidney values, blood sugar, proteins, and electrolytes.

What can X-rays detect?

X-rays show bones, joints, the chest (heart and lungs), and abdominal organs. They're useful for detecting fractures, arthritis, heart enlargement, tumors, and foreign objects.

How much does bloodwork cost?

Basic bloodwork panels start around $85-150 depending on the tests needed. Comprehensive panels for sick pets or pre-surgical screening may be more. We provide estimates before testing.

Digital X-rays typically range from $150-300 depending on how many views are needed. We'll discuss the recommended imaging and provide an estimate before proceeding.

Do you accept pet insurance?

Yes! We accept all major pet insurance providers. We provide detailed invoices that you can submit for reimbursement. Diagnostics are often covered under illness benefits.

When is urinalysis needed?

Urinalysis is used to detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, diabetes, and other conditions. We may recommend it for changes in urination habits or as part of a wellness screen.

What constitutes a pet emergency?

Difficulty breathing, seizures, severe bleeding, inability to urinate, ingestion of toxins, trauma, or sudden collapse are all emergencies. When in doubt, call us!

Do you offer 24/7 emergency care?

We provide same-day sick visits during business hours. For after-hours emergencies, we recommend VEG St. Petersburg at (727) 342-4334, which is open 24/7.

Should I call before bringing my pet?

Yes! Calling ahead allows us to prepare for your arrival and provide guidance on immediate care you can administer at home.

Same-Day Appointments

Urgent Care & Sick Visits

Pet not feeling well? We offer same-day sick visits during business hours. Call us—we'll fit you in so your pet gets the care they need today.

Urgent Care Hours

Mon–Fri: 7:30am–6pm | Sat: 8am–12pm

Call: (727) 327-5141

Same-Day Urgent Care

Triage & Stabilization

Pain Management

Skyway Animal Hospital staff providing compassionate care to a pet

Call Us First

Same-Day Visits Available

Is This an Emergency?

Use this guide to help determine if your pet needs immediate care. When in doubt, always call us.

CALL IMMEDIATELY

Life-threatening emergencies

Seizures or collapse
Difficulty breathing or choking
Pale or blue gums
Suspected poisoning or toxin ingestion
Severe bleeding that won't stop
Trauma (hit by car, fall, attack)
Unable to urinate or straining
Heatstroke or severe hypothermia

Call Now: (727) 327-5141

URGENT - Same Day

Needs attention today

Eye injury or sudden vision changes
Limping or unable to bear weight
Vomiting or diarrhea (multiple episodes)
Fever or lethargy
Not eating for 24+ hours
Swelling or painful abdomen

Call for Same-Day Appointment

When in Doubt, Call

You know your pet best. If something seems wrong, trust your instincts and give us a call. We're always happy to help you assess the situation.

Same-Day Urgent Care

Emergency Services We Provide

During our business hours, we provide urgent care for sick and injured pets. No appointment needed for true emergencies—just call and come in.

Same-Day Sick Visits

Call us during business hours and we'll do our very best to fit you in. Calling ahead helps us prepare for your arrival.

Triage & Stabilization

Rapid assessment and stabilization of critical patients. Life-threatening cases are seen immediately.

Emergency Diagnostics

In-house bloodwork, X-rays, and ultrasound for rapid diagnosis when every minute counts.

Pain Management

Immediate pain relief and sedation for injured or distressed pets.

Wound Care & Suturing

Treatment of lacerations, bite wounds, and injuries requiring immediate attention.

Toxin Exposure Treatment

Decontamination and supportive care for pets who have ingested poisons or toxins.

After Hours Care

After-Hours Emergency Partner

For emergencies outside our business hours, we trust and refer to VEG St. Petersburg—a specialty and emergency animal hospital in St. Petersburg.

VEG St. Petersburg

9675 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702

Call for After-Hours Care

Additional Emergency Hospitals:

Tampa Bay Veterinary Specialists

1501A Belcher Road South, Largo, FL 33771

(727) 531-5752

VEG - Veterinary Emergency Group St. Petersburg

9675 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702

(727) 342-4334

Note: These emergency hospitals are independently owned and operated. We coordinate care with them when needed, but they handle their own billing and treatment decisions.

Poison Emergency

ASPCA Poison Control

If your pet has ingested something toxic, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately. They are available 24/7, 365 days a year.

(888) 426-4435

*A consultation fee may apply. Available 24/7/365.

Before You Call

Have ready: your pet's species, breed, age, weight, and the name/amount of substance ingested.

What to Expect During an Emergency Visit

We know emergencies are stressful. Here's what happens when you bring your pet in for urgent care.

Call Ahead (If Possible)

Call us at (727) 327-5141 as you're on your way. This lets us prepare and gives you guidance on immediate care.

Arrival & Triage

Upon arrival, a team member will assess your pet immediately. Critical cases are seen first—please understand if another pet goes before you.

Stabilization

We'll stabilize your pet with oxygen, IV fluids, pain medication, or other treatments as needed while we assess the situation.

Diagnostics

We'll run necessary tests (bloodwork, X-rays, ultrasound) to determine what's wrong. We'll keep you informed every step of the way.

Treatment & Updates

Once we have a diagnosis, we'll discuss treatment options and costs with you before proceeding with care.

Dr. Cartzendafner at the in-house lab providing rapid diagnostics for urgent cases

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Emergency Care FAQ

Common questions about emergency and urgent care at Skyway Animal Hospital.

Difficulty breathing, seizures, severe bleeding, inability to urinate, ingestion of toxins, trauma, sudden collapse, or any situation where your pet seems in severe distress. When in doubt, call us!

We provide urgent care during our business hours (Mon-Fri 7:30am-6pm, Sat 8am-12pm). For after-hours emergencies, we refer to VEG St. Petersburg at 9675 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702.

Yes, if possible! Calling ahead allows us to prepare for your arrival, give you guidance on immediate care, and ensure we have space. But in a life-threatening emergency, come straight in.

Call us at (727) 327-5141 during business hours. We'll do our very best to fit you in same-day when your pet needs us.

Don't Wait When Your Pet Needs Help

In an emergency, every minute counts. If your pet is showing signs of distress, call us immediately. We're here to help during business hours, and we'll guide you to the right care after hours.

Call Now: (727) 327-5141

Mon–Fri: 7:30am–6pm | Sat: 8am–12pm | After Hours: VEG St. Petersburg

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