Pet parents often have lots of questions when it comes to their companions’ care. At Magruder Tabb Animal Clinic, we’ve gathered answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you feel informed and confident in your pet’s healthcare.
Yes, we’re always excited to welcome new pets and families to our practice.
We’re conveniently located at 105 Ascot Drive in Yorktown, VA—easily accessible for families in Hampton, Poquoson, Yorkshire Downs, Bethel Mobile Home Village, and surrounding communities.
Apply online at carecredit.com or speak with our front desk team for in-clinic assistance.
No, it can be used for a wide range of human healthcare providers too.
Yes, CareCredit is available for both emergencies and planned procedures.
No, it’s a free comparison service that helps you shop smarter.
Typically, you’ll pay upfront and then request reimbursement. Some insurers offer direct payments.
The earlier you sign up, the more likely you’ll get the best coverage at lower rates.
Most adult pets should have a wellness exam once a year, but puppies, kittens, seniors, and pets with ongoing health conditions may need more frequent visits. We’ll recommend a schedule that’s right for your pet.
Yes. Even strictly indoor cats and dogs can be exposed to fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes through open windows, other animals, or pests that hitch a ride indoors. Prevention is always simpler than treatment.
Some vaccines last for several years, while others require annual boosters. Our team will explain exactly what your pet needs to stay protected, without over-vaccinating.
Absolutely. Preventive care is the best way to avoid serious illness, catch problems early, and manage chronic conditions before they impact your pet’s quality of life.
In most cases, you’ll need to withhold food and water the night before surgery. Our team will provide detailed instructions tailored to your pet.
While anesthesia always carries some risk, we minimize it through pre-anesthetic testing, individualized protocols, and continuous monitoring throughout the procedure.
For many surgeries, yes. Once your pet is stable, alert, and comfortable, we’ll review home care instructions with you before discharge.
Recovery depends on the type of surgery. Soft tissue procedures may take 10–14 days, while orthopedic surgeries can require several weeks. We’ll guide you through every step of the aftercare process.
Keep an eye out for swelling, bleeding, discharge, or changes in appetite, activity, or demeanor. If anything seems unusual, call us right away for guidance.
Most pets benefit from yearly dental cleanings, but some—especially small breeds or pets with crowded teeth—may need them more often.
Often, yes. While some odor is normal, persistent bad breath is usually a sign of infection, tartar buildup, or gum disease.
Anesthesia allows us to clean beneath the gumline safely, where most dental disease occurs. It also keeps your pet still, calm, and pain-free during the procedure.
We use local anesthesia and prescribe post-op pain relief. Most pets feel much more comfortable after diseased teeth are removed.
Yes. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and damage organs, which is why preventive dental care is so important for long-term health.
We provide overnight dog and cat boarding supervised by experienced veterinary staff.
No, only dogs in the same house may interact with each other.
Absolutely. Cats stay in private bungalow suites, and social cats can enjoy time in our sunroom or designated group areas.
Please bring proof of required vaccinations, your pet’s food (to prevent stomach upset), and any medications. Familiar blankets or toys are also welcome.
Yes. If you’d like your pet to have an exam, vaccinations, or other services during their stay, just let us know when scheduling.
We provide full-service grooming including haircuts, baths, nail trims, ear cleaning, medicated baths, and anal gland expression.
Yes, our groomers have experience with pets of all breeds, from small cats to giant-breed dogs.
All pets visiting our grooming salon must have current vaccines, such as Rabies, Distemper, and Bordetella (for dogs), along with a negative fecal exam within the past year.
Yes, grooming can be scheduled during your pet’s boarding stay for added convenience.
