Have a question? You’re not alone. Below, we cover many of the things pet parents ask us most.
Yes. Gentle Care Animal Hospital welcomes new dogs and cats from Forest, Bedford County, Lynchburg, and surrounding communities. New clients can also take advantage of our $75 off first exam offer, making it easier to get started with trusted veterinary care for your pet.
Our veterinarians provide medical care for dogs and cats of all ages, from young puppies and kittens to senior pets who may need extra monitoring and support. Whether your pet needs routine wellness care, treatment for an illness, or surgical services, our team is here to help.
You can apply online through CareCredit’s website, or our team can help guide you through the application process during your visit.
CareCredit may be used at participating veterinary hospitals for many types of care, including preventive visits, diagnostic testing, surgical procedures, and medical treatments.
No. CareCredit is also accepted by many human healthcare providers, including dental, vision, and medical practices.
No. Pawlicy Advisor is completely free for pet owners.
Most pet insurance plans reimburse you after veterinary services are paid for and a claim is submitted, though coverage details can vary depending on the provider.
Many pet owners find that enrolling earlier in their pet’s life offers the greatest coverage options and helps avoid exclusions for pre-existing conditions.
Most adult pets should have a wellness exam once a year. Puppies, kittens, and senior pets may need visits more often because their health can change quickly. Your veterinarian will recommend a schedule based on your pet’s age and medical history.
Your veterinarian performs a nose-to-tail physical exam and reviews your pet’s overall health, lifestyle, and history. Vaccinations, parasite prevention, and screening tests may also be recommended. It’s also a great time to discuss nutrition, behavior, or any concerns you’ve noticed.
Yes. Many health problems develop gradually and may not show obvious symptoms early on. Routine exams help veterinarians detect subtle changes before they become more serious issues.
Absolutely. Indoor pets can still develop dental disease, parasites, weight problems, and other health conditions. Regular checkups help ensure they stay healthy throughout their lives.
Bring any previous veterinary records if available and make a note of questions or changes you’ve noticed. Dogs should arrive on a leash, and cats should be transported in a secure carrier for safety.
Surgery is recommended when it offers the most effective way to resolve a medical issue. This may include removing abnormal growths, correcting structural problems, or addressing internal disease.
Modern veterinary anesthesia is carefully controlled and monitored throughout the procedure. Your pet’s vital signs are tracked continuously while trained staff remain present during the entire surgery. These safeguards help maintain stability and safety during the operation.
Recovery time depends on the procedure performed. Many pets feel noticeably better within a few days, though complete healing may take several weeks. Activity restrictions and medication instructions are provided to help pets recover comfortably at home.
Laser surgery seals small blood vessels as it cuts, which can reduce bleeding during the procedure. It may also decrease swelling and irritation in surrounding tissues. Because of this, pets typically experience less post-operative discomfort compared to traditional surgical methods.
Managing pain is a priority in veterinary surgery. Pets receive pain medication during and after the procedure to keep them comfortable. Most pets rest quietly after surgery and gradually return to normal activity as healing progresses.
Most dogs and cats benefit from professional dental cleanings every year, though some pets may need them more frequently depending on their dental health and breed. Regular exams help determine the right schedule.
Common signs include persistent bad breath, drooling, bleeding gums, pawing at the mouth, difficulty chewing, or dropping food while eating. Some pets also develop swollen gums or visible tartar buildup on their teeth.
Yes. Anesthesia allows veterinarians to thoroughly clean beneath the gumline where bacteria accumulate while also keeping pets comfortable and still during the procedure. It also allows for dental X-rays and careful examination of each tooth.
Many dental problems develop below the gumline where they cannot be seen during a routine exam. Dental X-rays allow veterinarians to evaluate tooth roots, detect infections, and identify bone loss around the teeth.
Yes. Advanced periodontal disease allows bacteria from the mouth to enter the bloodstream, which can impact major organs including the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Boarding at a veterinary hospital provides an added level of safety. If a pet develops a health concern during their stay, veterinary professionals are already on-site and can respond quickly. Medical records are also readily available if treatment becomes necessary.
To help protect the health of all pets staying in our facility, we recommend dogs be up to date on DHPP, Bordetella, and Rabies vaccines, along with a recent negative fecal test. Cats should be current on FVRCP and Rabies, and have a negative fecal test within the past year.
Dogs are typically leash-walked four to five times each day in our fenced outdoor area. These walks provide both bathroom breaks and opportunities for fresh air and exercise during their stay.
No. Cats stay in a separate area away from the dog kennel to maintain a quieter and more relaxed environment. This helps reduce stress and allows feline guests to settle in comfortably.
Yes. Many pet owners schedule grooming services during their pet’s boarding stay so they can return home clean and refreshed. If you would like grooming or a bath for your pet, simply request the service when booking your reservation.
The ideal grooming schedule depends on your pet’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Many dogs benefit from grooming every four to eight weeks, while cats may need occasional brushing or coat care depending on their fur length.
Yes. Even short-haired pets shed hair and accumulate dirt and oils in their coats. Bathing and brushing help remove loose hair and keep the skin clean and healthy.
Overgrown nails can affect the way pets walk and may cause discomfort over time. Regular nail trims help maintain proper paw health and prevent nails from cracking or breaking.
Yes. Groomers often notice changes in the skin or coat during grooming appointments. Issues such as irritation, parasites, or unusual lumps can sometimes be detected early during routine grooming.
Many pet owners schedule grooming during their pet’s boarding visit so their companion returns home clean and refreshed. If you’d like grooming during boarding, simply request the service when making your reservation.
New clients save $75 on their first exam.
Use code NC75
* Valid for new clients only. Not valid with any other offers. Must mention NC75 at time of booking.
