Puppies and kittens should start preventive care around 8 weeks of age. This timing allows veterinarians to establish a health baseline, administer necessary vaccinations, and catch potential issues early. Starting preventive care at this age protects young animals during the vulnerable period when maternal antibodies fade, but their immune systems are still developing. At Pawtown…

Senior dogs and cats need blood work at least once a year, though pets over 10 years old often benefit from testing twice annually. Regular blood work catches age-related conditions early, when treatment is most effective and less costly. At Pawtown Veterinary Care, Drs. Erin Miller and Lauren Stayer recommend more frequent testing for Bend’s…

Your pet needs professional dental cleaning when you notice persistent bad breath, visible tartar buildup on teeth, red or swollen gums, difficulty eating, or unusual drooling. These signs indicate dental disease that home care alone can’t fix. At Pawtown Veterinary Care in Bend, Oregon, Drs. Erin Miller and Lauren Stayer see dental problems in dogs…

Your cat hides under the bed the moment you pull out the carrier, and the car ride transforms your calm companion into a yowling, stressed mess. First visits to new veterinary practices amplify this anxiety as your cat faces unfamiliar smells, sounds, and people in an environment that already triggers fear responses. Proper preparation reduces…