Frequently Asked Questions
Where are you located?
Our address is 102 Dee Drive, Charleston, WV 25311 in the Hillcrest Office Park, located off the Greenbrier Exit 99.
Do I need an appointment for a spay/neuter surgery for MY pet?
Yes. We do require appointments for spay/neuter surgeries for owned animals. Please book online through our website.
Do I need an appointment for a stray/feral cat?
No. We accept walk-ins for TNR (trap/neuter/return) for stray/feral community cats Monday-Thursday. Visit the “Feral Fix” tab for more information.
Why do you “ear tip” feral/stray cats?
Feral/stray cats receive an “ear tip” which allows others in your community know that the cat has already been trapped and fixed. It is painless for the cat.
Do I need an appointment to bring my pet in for vaccines or other Preventative Care services?
No. We see patients for vaccines during our normal walk-in Wellness/Preventative Care hours, no appointment necessary. Check out our weekly calendar under “Hours of Operation.”
What if my pet needs a Health Exam with the Veterinarian?
Health Exams/Sick Visits require an appointment. Please call or send an email to info@fixemclinic.org to inquire about scheduling an Exam.
Can I bring my pet there if he/she is sick, has an ear, skin, bladder infection, needs bloodwork, etc.?
We can see patients for a variety of illnesses/infections, but you must schedule a Health Exam appointment. Please see the above. Note: We are NOT a full-service and therefore, we are not equipped to manage major illnesses/injuries that may required hospitalization.
Do you have an X-Ray machine?
No. We do not have an X-Ray machine or any other imaging onsite.
Do you perform dentals, teeth cleanings/extractions?
No. We do not perform any dental services at this time.
Do you do any other surgeries beside spay/neuter?
No. Because we are a high-volume spay/neuter clinic, we cannot do any other surgeries besides spay/neuter.
How old does my pet have to be in order to be fixed?
Dogs and cats can be safely fixed at 2 pounds and/or 10-12 weeks old. However, we suggest waiting until they are 12 weeks old so your pet can receive the Rabies vaccine at the same time.
How long do I have to wait after my dog/cat has puppies/kittens before she can get fixed?
Ideally, you should wait 2-3 weeks AFTER your dog/cat has fully weaned the puppies/kittens. Her body needs time to heal and to allow for the milk to dry up before surgery.
Am I able to fill a prescription without being a client?
No. We must establish a relationship with you and your pet before filling a prescription. From that point forward, we can refill your pet’s prescriptions for up to 12 months before they need to be seen again.
Do you have a licensed veterinarian on site?
Yes. Our clinic is accredited by the ASPCA and our Veterinarians are licensed in the State of West Virginia.
Do you declaw cats?
No. The practice of declawing cats is increasingly becoming less common in the U.S., due to the extensive amount of research proving that the act of declawing is severely inhumane — ultimately causing more risk of physical and behavioral problems to the feline. A variety of alternatives exist to manage natural scratching behavior and to prevent injury from cat scratches. Please contact us if you’re interested in learning more.
Do you intake/rehome strays?
No. We are not an animal shelter.
At what age does your clinic request pre-operative blood work (and what type?)
We recommended that any patient over 5 years old receives pre-operative blood work. If you wish to decline the blood work, we will require that a high-risk waiver form be signed prior to surgery.
My dog/cat had surgery last week, and now the incision is swollen, looks infected, etc. What should I do?
You may bring them in for a free recheck during our operating hours or you may send a picture of the incision to our email address — info@fixemclinic.org for our veterinarian to examine.
When do animals start coming into heat?
As early as 6 months (dogs), 4 months (cats).
For how long are animals in heat?
The whole heat cycle is 2-4 weeks and typically occurs 2-3 times per year. The active heat cycle lasts approximately 7 days and you may see a bloody discharge at this time.
For how long are they pregnant?
Approximately 63 days for dogs and 58-67 days for cats.