Frequently Asked Questions

How safe is my pet’s procedure?

You should feel assured and comfortable that any time your pet undergoes a procedure at Alford Avenue Veterinary Hospital they are receiving the best of care from a top rated staff that uses the latest sterile techniques and very best post operative care.

How often should my pet have an exam and bloodwork?

For healthy adult pets, we recommend yearly appointments to be vaccinated and checked from head to toe for any illness or injury. Younger animals and senior animals may require more frequent visits depending on any issues they may have.

Why does my pet need a dental procedure?

Keeping your pet’s teeth and mouth clean and free of infection is essential in keeping more serious illnesses away. Alford Avenue Veterinary Hospital recommends cleaning your pet’s teeth regularly and having checkups at their regular exam.

How important is nutrition to my pet?

Proper nutrition is needed to keep your pet at a high quality of life. Correct food choices, proper portions and adequate exercise are all essential to keeping your animal companion’s health at optimal levels.

How long should I wait if I notice a change of behavior in my pet?

Changes of behavior and habits in our pets is an indication that something is wrong. This may be a painful injury or acute illness. If you notice your pet demonstrating abnormal behavior you should contact Alford Avenue Veterinary Hospital for a visit with the veterinarian.

What should I do if I notice visible parasites on my animal?

If you see fleas, ticks, or worms on your animal or in their feces, you should immediately isolate them from other pets and young children. Contacting Alford Avenue Veterinary Hospital is your next step. Most parasites can be treated easily and quickly by our staff.

At what age should I have my pet spayed or neutered?

Alford Avenue Veterinary Hospital does not do sterilization procedures on animals until they are at least 6 months of age. This is done to allow physical maturity to be reached by the animal and to promote optimal healing potential.

What if my pet has an after-hours problem?

Not all emergency situations happen during normal business hours. Alford Avenue Veterinary Hospital refers our clients to Emergency & Specialty Animal Medical Center in Birmingham. Their number is 205-967-7389.

What are heartworms and how can I prevent my pet from getting them?

Heartworms are a parasite that is passed from infected animals to healthy animals via mosquitoes. They are most prevalent in hot humid areas of the United States. Prevention is the best treatment for heartworms and Alford Avenue Veterinary Hospital encourages all their clients to take heartworm preventative medicines.

When is pain management recommended for my pet?

Pain can be treated whether your pet is in acute pain or suffers from chronic pain. Anytime behaviors, eating habits or movement is impeded by pain, our staff recommends seeking help for pain management.

What financing options do you offer? Is payment expected at time of visit?

Alford Avenue Veterinary Hospital strives to offer the latest techniques and knowledge in treating all manner of sickness and injury in animals. In order to do this, we require payment at time of service. AAVH accepts all major credit cards, personal checks and cash. If you find that financing is needed (such as when surgery is scheduled) AAVH works with Care Credit to offer low interest financing options. You can view their website at www.carecredit.com